Playing field at Qualcomm Stadium is nearly submerged

Heavy rain in San Diego has left Qualcomm Stadium virtually under water for today's Poinsettia Bowl between Navy and San Diego State, but the kickoff time of 8:06 p.m. EST is not in jeopardy, according to bowl officials.

"The San Diego Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl will kick off as scheduled," executive director Bruce Binkowski said in a statement. "City of San Diego and bowl officials are working together to insure the field will be ready for play."

The weather has been uncommonly poor in Southern California for the past few days, with near torrential rain pelting the area since Monday. The storm finally moved out by Wednesday afternoon, but it left the field at Qualcomm almost submerged despite a tarp used to protect it.

The parking lots at Qualcomm are under water, prompting bowl officials to urge those driving to the game to arrive almost four hours before kickoff.

The sloppy track actually could be a boon for Navy (9-3), which has the daunting task of contending with an Aztecs offense filled with playmakers. Quarterback Ryan Lindley has considerable NFL potential, and both his wide receivers have 1,000 yards receiving. Running back Ronnie Hillman was named Mountain West Conference freshman of the year after amassing 1,034 yards and 14 touchdowns on 234 carries.

"The weather is what it is," Navy Coach Ken Niumatalolo said. "It's what we grew up playing in our back yards, and we had fun. It's a lot warmer here than on the East Coast, so we're excited regardless."