A viral video showing incredibly crooked yardage markers on the Winston-Salem State football field has forced Athletic Director Eric Burns to issue a statement, admitting the field markings “fell short” of school standards. This isn’t just about sloppy paint, it’s a look into the heart of a team struggling at 0-6 overall and 0-4 in CIAA play.
The AD Steps Up
After the video started making rounds online, you just knew someone had to say something. And to his credit, Eric Burns stepped right up. He took responsibility directly, saying the field markings at their last home game absolutely “fell short of WSSU athletics’ standards.” That’s the kind of honesty you want from leadership. He wasn’t done there either, saying they’ve already “secured additional field preparation support and implemented new checks to ensure this is addressed before our next home game.” That’s huge. Ram Nation and these student-athletes deserve nothing less than the highest standard, and Burns made it clear they are “committed to meeting it every time.” That’s the promise, now we gotta see the follow-through.
A Tough Season Just Got a Whole Lot Weirder
This field mess came out right after a tough 21-0 loss to Bowie State last Saturday. The weather didn’t help, with much of North Carolina dealing with rain from the remnants of Hurricane Isaias. It’s been a rough go for the Rams, who are currently sitting at 0-6 overall and 0-4 in CIAA play. You also have to remember their home field, Bowman Gray Stadium, is unique. It’s got a quarter-mile race track around it, regularly used for auto racing. That’s a cool feature, sure, but it shouldn’t excuse basic field marking accuracy. It adds another layer to what’s already been a very challenging season.
Winston-Salem State plays their next home game soon, and after this whole situation, you know Ram Nation will be watching those yardage lines with a microscope. The AD has promised the “highest standard” and “new checks,” so let’s hope they deliver. This team needs a win, and maybe a perfectly straight sideline is where they can start building that confidence back.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply