BCS bowl games get new dates to accomodate NFL schedule

The BCS has announced its dates for this year's BCS and national title games, but those dates are contingent on when the NFL season begins.

Because the national championship in New Orleans, the Sugar Bowl, Fiesta Bowl and Orange Bowl are all played in NFL stadiums, the BCS has to be willing to move the game either before or after it's scheduled date.

Currently, the national championship is still set for Monday, Jan. 9. The Sugar will be played on Jan. 3, a Tuesday, the Orange Bowl on Jan. 4 and the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 5.

The Rose Bowl is slated for Jan. 2, and because it's not played in an NFL stadium, probably won't have to move.

"We made a careful decision to choose dates that will ensure a primetime showcase for our student-athletes while also being mindful of the potential for change in the NFL's schedule," BCS executive director Bill Hancock said. "At this point in time, we want to create certainty in a somewhat uncertain environment."

If the NFL plays its season as scheduled, the season will end on Jan. 1 with no Monday night game. However, if the season has to be pushed back a week or two, things could get interesting with the BCS, especially for the games in New Orleans. If the Saints-Falcons game is pushed back two weeks, it could affect the national championship.

The Rose Bowl moves from its traditional Jan. 1 date so the game wouldn't have to go up against NFL Sunday. The Rose Bowl will actually be played Monday afternoon.

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