College Gameday to be present at first Va. Tech game since tragedy.

College Gameday will make its season debut on September 1, live from Blacksburg, VA — the site of that day’s East Carolina/Virginia Tech game, and on April 16 of this year, the site of the worst mass shooting in the history of the United States.

ESPN executive VP of production Norby Williamson on the decision to showcase that game:

“Virginia Tech is a special place and the community is one of the most respectful and passionate we have visited. … Our coverage will be considerate of the emotional day facing the students, faculty, and people of Blacksburg and the country.”

East Carolina/Virginia Tech will air on ESPN immediately following Gameday, with Mike Tirico joined by Todd Blackledge and Bill Curry on the call.