The Hall of Fame induction ceremony at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium draws thousands of fans each year. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Ohio governor says Hall of Fame Game wouldn't happen today because of coronavirus

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 6/16/20

Tuesday afternoon presented the football community with the latest indication that the 2020 NFL season won't be business as usual amid the coronavirus pandemic.

During his daily COVID-19 update, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine spoke with reporters about the Aug. 6 Hall of Fame Game between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers in Canton, Ohio.

As The Athletic's Zac Jackson noted, DeWine explained that the game and Hall of Fame enshrinement are in doubt as of mid-June:

Governor DeWine said it's "highly unlikely" that crowds of around 20k would be allowed for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game and HOF Enshrinement ceremony in August.

"If the question was could that event occur today, the answer would be no. It would be extremely dangerous."
— Zac Jackson (@AkronJackson) June 16, 2020

"If the question was could that event occur today? The answer would be no," DeWine said. "It would be extremely dangerous."

Lt. Gov Husted said there are "ongoing conversations" with the Hall of Fame about contingency plans and all details re: HOF Weekend.
— Zac Jackson (@AkronJackson) June 16, 2020

As things currently stand, Muirfield Village Golf Club in Ohio is scheduled to welcome around 8,000 spectators next month for the Jack Nicklaus Memorial Tournament.

On Monday, Paul Hoynes of Cleveland.com told sports radio station 92.3 The Fan he believes the Cleveland Indians will host fans at Progressive Field this summer if MLB owners and the MLB Players Association can agree to terms for a 2020 pandemic-shortened season.

Texas, Florida and Alabama have already opened venues up to decreased capacities despite the virus outbreak.

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