Pitt, Virginia Tech players don't have to wear masks on field

The state of Pennsylvania and Gov. Tom Wolf have clarified an order that previously had members of the Virginia Tech Hokies and Pittsburgh Panthers believing they'd have to wear face coverings on the field during Saturday's game held at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh.

According to Andrea Adelson of ESPN, football players in the state are exempt from wearing masks or other face coverings while actively competing because such gear "would likely create a medical issue." 

In a statement shared by Adelson, Pitt explained: 

"To provide further clarity, Pitt football student-athletes will be outfitted with face coverings throughout the game. However, they will not be required to have the coverings pulled up while in the midst of play to prevent the impairment of breathing. Such usage of face coverings during competition would be in compliance with Section 3 of the Secretary of Health's Face Covering Order."

The state's order reads: 

"Section 3 of the Order provides an exception that allows an individual to remove their mask if wearing a face covering would either cause a medical condition, or exacerbate an existing one, including respiratory issues that impede breathing, a mental health condition or a disability."

Earlier in the day, both Pitt and Virginia Tech said they'd comply with the order and have players wear face coverings on the field and sidelines. The Penn State Nittany Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Philadelphia Eagles had all claimed their players were exempt from wearing coverings while in action. 

The NFL and NFL Players Association mandate that players, coaches, and other personnel wear face coverings inside locker rooms on game days at all times, including halftime. While league coaches must wear coverings on the sidelines, it's only recommended that players do so when they're not competing during a game.