By Mark Bergin, WRAL senior multiplatform producer

NEW ORLEANS — The Sugar Bowl has been postponed until Thursday after an attack during New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans left at least 10 people dead and dozens of others injured.

The College Football Playoff quarterfinal game between Georgia and Notre Dame will be at 4 p.m. ET Thursday at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

“We want to make it clear, the Superdome and the surrounding area are safe, but I’ve always said that the safety of this entire city that is always paramount to me,” said Gov. Jeff Landry, R-Louisiana.

During a Wednesday afternoon news conference, a reporter asked Landry what gave him confidence that Thursday night will be safe.

“I’m going to be there,” Landry said.

Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley Hundley said the decision to postpone the game was made in the interest of public safety, a decision echoed by U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, D-Louisiana.

“Rest assured, the decision that was made to postpone the game was not done lightly,” Carter said. “It was done with one single thing in mind, public safety.”

University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert Dowd released a statement Wednesday morning about the attack.

“Our prayers are with the family members and loved ones of all those impacted by the terrible attack in New Orleans early this morning,” Dowd wrote. “We also pray for all those injured and extent our deepest gratitude ot the brave first responders who risked their lives to protect others.

“To be in solidarity with those who suffer is to exemplify the spirit of Notre Dame. Today, we are in solidarity with all those impacted by this tragedy.”

On Wednesday afternoon, University of Georgia President Jere Morehead also released a statement.

“I am deeply saddened by the devastating attack in New Orleans overnight, and I extend my sincere condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this terrible tragedy,” Morehead wrote. “At this point, we have learned that a University of Georgia student was critically injured in the attack and is receiving medical treatment.

“I have spoken to the student’s family and shared my concern, support and well wishes on behalf of the entire UGA community. I would like to express my gratitude to all the first responders who moved so quickly to help those affected by this senseless act of violence, as well as to the medical personnel who are caring for the injured.

“As we continue to hold the victims and their families in our thoughts and prayers, the University will do everything in its power to support those in our community who have been impacted by this unspeakable event.”

Notre Dame and Georgia were initially scheduled to kick off around 8:45 p.m. Wednesday. The winner will play Penn State on Jan. 9 in the Orange Bowl.

Source: wralsportsfan.com