The game between the Portland State Vikings and the South Dakota Coyotes has been canceled due to illness within the Portland State locker room. The Vikings announced the decision on Saturday morning, just hours before kickoff.
According to a statement from Portland State, multiple players developed a case of pertussis, also known as whooping cough. After discussions between team doctors on both sides, the two programs thought it was in the best interest of all involved to cancel the game.
"A case of pertussis (whooping cough) got into the Viking team two days ago. Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that affects the lungs. As a result, many team members have been exposed to the disease. The two programs and their team doctors have been in discussions regarding the situation. It was determined by Portland State that the game would not be played in the interest of the health of the student-athletes.
"It should be noted that no players on the Viking team are seriously ill at this time."
Portland State will make announcements on refunds later, since the game will not be made up. That also means the Vikings and Coyotes will play just 11 games in the 2024 season.
With this game canceled, Portland State will try to rest up and get healthy for its game against Boise State next weekend. The Broncos have issued a statement of their own, noting they will monitor the situation throughout the week.
"We are aware of Portland State's decision to cancel their game against South Dakota due to health and safety protocols," Boise State said in its statement. "We are in communication with Portland State's administration and will remain so as we continue to monitor the situation as it pertains to next Saturday's game. Our utmost priority and concern are for the health and safety of everyone involved."
South Dakota will get an unexpected weekend off before hosting Drake.
