CORAL GABLES – Safety comes first.

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, all precautions must be taken to mitigate any adverse effects for the general public at large.

With that said, the Miami Hurricanes football program decided to officially end its 2021 season on Sunday (Dec. 26). They will not travel to El Paso, Texas for the Tony The Tiger Sun Bowl against the Washington State Cougars.

“We are extremely disappointed that our football team will be unable to participate in the 2021 Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl,” said Jennifer Strawley, who is the Miami Hurricanes deputy athletic director and chief operating officer. “But due to the number of COVID-19 cases impacting our roster we do not have enough student-athletes to safely compete, and the health and safety of our student-athletes will always be our top priority. This team worked hard all season to earn a bowl invitation and my heart goes out to our student-athletes, especially our seniors. I also want to thank Interim Head Coach Jess Simpson and our football staff for all of their efforts in preparation for this bowl game.”

Strawley had more to say about this outcome for Miami (7-5 final record).

“We regret the impact this has on the Washington State program and their postseason experience,” Strawley said. “I want to commend the Sun Bowl Association for their tireless work in helping us navigate this situation over the past several days. We are grateful for their support as an Atlantic Coast Conference bowl partner.”

Outgoing defensive end Zach McCloud has officially ended his six-year run with the Hurricanes. The Santaluces alum posted his parting thoughts on his Instagram account.

“Lots of growth between these two pictures,” McCloud said. “Wouldn’t trade my journey for anyone else’s. #Forevermiami.”

PHOTO CREDITS: Miami Hurricanes and Zach McCloud