Power Failure Forces Delayed Start and Limited Conditions for SMU-FSU Clash
The game between No. 19 SMU and Florida State was delayed nearly two hours due to an electrical short at Doak Campbell Stadium. When play finally began, the stadium lacked full lighting, working scoreboards, and replay review capabilities. Officials confirmed that the game would proceed under these restricted circumstances.
The delay stemmed from an electrical short in the main transformer serving the west side tower, as noted on the stadium Jumbotron. While electricians worked, ACC commissioner Jim Phillips met with both schools' athletic directors on the field before moving indoors. During the wait, specialists warmed up, the band played, and fans entertained themselves with waves and beach balls.
The game finally kicked off at 9:15 p.m. ET, nearly two hours late. Official time was kept on the field, and the broadcast confirmed no replay review, no helmet communications, and partial lighting. Both teams had initially run onto the sidelines before being sent back to locker rooms.
This incident could affect player safety and competitive fairness, as limited lighting and absent helmet communications may hinder play-calling and situational awareness. It may also set a precedent for how conferences handle infrastructure failures, potentially prompting stricter venue standards. Fans and broadcasters could see altered game experiences, while officials might face scrutiny over decision-making under compromised conditions.