Kirby Smart saves Georgia athletics thousands in upset victory over Florida
The SEC implemented a rule to ensure player safety by issuing fines to programs that allow their fans to rush the field or court. This measure was designed to protect players from the dangers associated with fans rushing. Last year, Duke’s Kyle Filipowski was injured at Wake Forest when fans rushed the court, preventing all of the Blue Devils from leaving the floor safely.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey believed that threatening fines would discourage fans from rushing. Another perspective is that Sankey assumed SEC schools would enhance their security measures to prevent such incidents. However, schools like Vanderbilt did not get the memo, as they have rushed the field and court three times this sports year, resulting in fines totaling $500,000.
On Tuesday, the Georgia Bulldogs secured a much-needed victory over the visiting Florida Gators. Heading into the game, the Bulldogs were listed as one of the “next four out” in ESPN’s Joe Lunardi’s latest bracketology. Georgia knew that a significant win was crucial for keeping their NCAA Tournament hopes alive.
Before the clock ran out, Georgia football head coach Kirby Smart and athletic director Josh Brooks spoke to students, urging them to wait until the Florida players had completely exited the court to avoid a fine.
“Kirby Smart and UGA AD Josh Brooks both talked to Georgia students to not enter the floor until UF was completely off. That saved Georgia a massive fine there,” Rusty Mansell posted.
The victory provided Bulldog fans with much-needed excitement after a difficult stretch of four games. Head coach Mike White, coaching against his former team, likely drew extra motivation from the game.
Not only did Georgia avoid a hefty fine, but the savings can now be redirected into NIL funding. The Bulldogs finish the season with games against some of the lower placed conference teams, providing them with a strong opportunity to earn wins that could improve their NCAA Tournament resume.
