AUBURN, Ala. – Auburn University football coach Bryan Harsin tested positive for COVID-19, the school announced Friday.
The positive result for the first-year coach came back Thursday, AL.com reported.
“As we have navigated through the pandemic, contingency plans have been in place should a situation like this arise,” Harsin, 44, said in a statement. “Just like in a game, teams that handle adversity and make necessary adjustments are those that are most successful.
“I have full confidence in our coaching staff and team. I know they will continue to prepare with the same intensity and focus that they have since camp started.”
Harsin is asymptomatic, according to a news release from the university. He will be replaced on the field by associate head coach Jeff Schmedding, who is also the Tigers inside linebackers coach, AL.com reported. Schmedding was Harsin’s defensive coordinator last season at Boise State University.
“I will continue to participate remotely in meetings and practice,” Harsin said in his statement.
Harsin has not stated publicly if he has been vaccinated for COVID-19, ESPN reported. A school spokesperson could not immediately confirm if others on the staff or team had to be quarantined as a result of Harsin’s positive test.
Auburn opens its 2021 season on Sept. 4 against Akron.
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