Wednesday 6 September 2017 15:43, UK
The Miami Dolphins' clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has been rescheduled for Week 11 of the NFL season because of Hurricane Irma.
The NFL has decided to postpone the opening week game rather than move it to another day this week or to a neutral venue - both teams initially had bye weeks scheduled in week 11.
Hurricane Irma is currently wreaking havoc in the Caribbean and preparations are already underway to provide added protection in South Florida, which could be facing a direct hit on Sunday morning.
A number of evacuation orders are already in place and the NFL announced on Tuesday that no games would be played in the area on Sunday, leaving them with the need to reschedule or move the Dolphins' season-opener.
An NFL statement read: "Due to the potential impact of Hurricane Irma on South Florida, the Miami Dolphins home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, originally scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET at Hard Rock Stadium, will instead be played there in Week 11 on Sunday, November 19.
"Week 11 was previously an open date for both clubs.
"The NFL announced yesterday that in the interest of public safety in light of the continuing state of emergency, the league, in consultation with state and local officials as well as both clubs, would not play an NFL game in South Florida this week.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the impacted area."
