The annual Bayou Classic featuring Grambling State and Southern will not be held in New Orleans this year, according to Southern University athletic director Roman Banks.
Banks revealed the information Friday during a Southern University board of supervisors meeting held via Zoom and even indicated that the game might not be played in the Crescent City for two years due to issues related to COVID-19.
“There will be a Bayou Classic game, and we’re looking at possibly three places right now of having that game.” Banks said.
Locations being considered are Mumford Stadium on the Southern campus in Baton Rouge, Independence Stadium in Shreveport, and Tiger Stadium on LSU’s campus.
While indicating that Southern would be considered the “home team” for this year’s contest, Banks said because the classic game is “a combined effort” between both schools, it would require both institutions to agree on the venue.
The last time the Bayou Classic was played at a venue other than New Orleans was in 2005 when the city of Houston hosted the game due to the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.
