SEC Releases Statement on Controversial DPI Drop in Texas, Georgia Game

The SEC office discussed a strange reversal of defensive pass interference during Georgia’s 30-15 win over Texas on Saturday.

In the third quarter, Longhorns defender Jahdae Barron intercepted a pass thrown by Bulldogs quarterback Carson Beck and ran it to the Georgia 10-yard line. However, the play was called back as Barron was penalized for DPI.

Texas fans were not was satisfied with the call and began throwing debris such as bottles and cans onto the field. This resulted in the game being stopped to collect trash, giving officials an opportunity to inspect the flag. The referees then decided to overturn the penalty and the Longhorns scored their second touchdown of the game after receiving the ball.

Although Georgia fans and coach Kirby Smart were upset about what happened in that strange moment, the SEC mostly reiterated the fact that no debris should be thrown onto the field. It appears that Texas will likely be fined for the actions of its fans.

“Although the original evaluation and adjudication of the penalty was not properly conducted, it is unacceptable for debris to be thrown onto the field at any time,” the statement said. “Interruption of play due to debris thrown onto the field will be reviewed by the conference office in light of SEC athletic policies and procedures.”

Smart, in particular, was upset about what happened when DPI was overturned because pass interference was not verifiable. He said the Texas fans “tried to rob us” by throwing the debris onto the field to stop the game so the referees could discuss the penalty.

In the end, the Longhorns’ touchdown didn’t matter as Georgia scored another touchdown on its next drive, solidifying its 30-15 lead. The Bulldogs went 6-1, while the Longhorns suffered their first loss of the season and also had a 6-1 record.