The Clarke County (Ga.) School District decided to cancel school on Friday — apparently too many teachers called in sick the day before the 'Cocktail Party' showdown at Jacksonville, Fla. between Georgia and Florida, the Athens Banner-Herald reported.

Although it's unknown why 137 teachers called in sick — more than twice the average — but the district was able to locate only 113 subs.

"I've heard parents say that it's ridiculous, but the reality of the situation is, if there are so many people in this system and this community that go to the game -- if that's a reality -- it's irresponsible [to have school on that day] if that really is our community," said Barrow Elementary School principal Tad MacMillan, according to the Athens Banner-Herald. "I think the school system is wise to factor that in when they plan the calendar."

In a game with national title race implications, the No. 5 Florida Gators (6-1, 4-1) and eighth-ranked Georgia Bulldogs (7-1, 4-1) will meet for the 65th consecutive year Saturday

The winner will control the SEC Eastern Division, have the inside track to the Dec. 6 championship game in Atlanta and stay in the national title hunt.

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