On November 3, the Big Ten Conference announced that it would begin scheduling football games on Friday nights beginning in 2017. Friday games had previously been avoided by the conference, mainly to honor the tradition of high school football being played on Fridays.

In response to the decision, a few of the states in the Big Ten's area released statements addressing the situation.

Nebraska School Activities Association

Michigan High School Athletic Association

Indiana High School Athletic Association

In addition, the University of Michigan, Penn State University and the University Wisconsin stated they were not interested in hosting Friday night games.