CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Cubs say they’re surprised that Illinois and Northwestern have decided to make drastic changes for Saturday’s game at Wrigley Field.
The two teams agreed Friday to run their offenses only toward the west end zone. There are concerns about player safety because the east end zone is too close to the padded brick wall in right field.
Cubs President Crane Kenney says the team was surprised by the Big Ten’s “last-minute” decision to change the rules. He says the field plans were given to the Big Ten eight months ago for approval — and last week a Big Ten official performed an onsite visit without raising any issues.
Kenney says the team has reached out to the Big Ten to discuss the issues.
The Illini (5-5, 3-4 Big Ten) need a win against Northwestern (7-3, 3-3) this week or next week against Fresno State to become eligible for a bowl game.
