Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart shoved Mississippi State quarterback Michael Van Buren during the fourth quarter on Saturday. Smart, who appeared to be trying to get the attention of the officials or Georgia defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann.
The media asked Smart about the incident after the game.
“No. I think I was going after (Glenn) Schumann,” said Smart. “I was trying to get Schumann’s attention. We were trying to change personnel. I think it’s the play they came over to our sideline. And I’m trying to get Schumann’s attention. But, no, I don’t really remember it.”
Smart’s defense seems reasonable as he is always running around during games and is constantly trying to get the attention of his fellow coaches in a very loud environment.
However, some college football fans on social media think that Smart should face a suspension for his shove. If Smart were suspended, then he would miss next week’s game against No. 1 Texas.
“The timing sucks, but Kirby Smart should 100% be suspended for a week,” said one social media user.
“Still waiting on SEC officiating, Greg Sankey (SEC commissioner) to comment on Kirby Smart’s shoving an opposing player. This is a line that can’t be crossed,” said another social media user.
We don’t think Smart had any ill-will on his shove. The incident is certainly worth the SEC reviewing, but we don’t see much in it.
Here’s a video of Smart’s explanation along with the play in question.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBFDPwKOkTB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
No. 4 Georgia plays No. 1 Texas at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Oct. 19.