The CDC on Monday announced a change its quarantine and isolation guidelines for those that tested positive for COVID-19. Under the new recommendations, those that tested positive can now leave isolation after 5 days instead of 10 provided they do not have symptoms. However, they are asked to wear a mask for 5 days while performing normal activities.

As AL.com’s Michael Casagrande notes, that opened the door for Alabama offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien to fly from Tuscaloosa to join the Crimson Tide on Tuesday, 6 days after testing positive for the virus and 3 days before the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl. O’Brien was still participating in team meetings via Zoom.

That said, the SEC never announced that it was updating its own guidelines to match what the CDC recommended, but did email the below statement to AL.com:

Our Medical Task Force was preparing updated policies prior to yesterday’s CDC announcement of reduced isolation times. We have followed CDC guidance throughout the pandemic and SEC policies have been adjusted consistent with the CDC. The SEC Medical Task Force continues to work with the Conference office and membership to refine policies to support healthy competition.

Kickoff between Alabama and Cincinnati is set for 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday on ESPN.