SEC considers tougher stance for storming field, including losing future home games, per report
Losing a future home conference game is just one of the proposals on the table for SEC programs if their fans storm the field to celebrate their college football team’s win.
The SEC is in search of stronger deterrents to prevent fans on the field, and six-figure fines just aren’t getting it done.
According to a report by Pat Forde, a working group – which is led by Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne, Georgia AD Josh Brooks and Kentucky AD Mitch Barnhart – has been hammering away at the issue for several months.
A more drastic proposal would be a forfeiture of the game in which the field storm occurred, but, according to the report, is “unlikely” to gain much traction.
Currently, programs are hit with a $50,000 fine for the first incident, while the second offense calls for a $100,000 fine before each subsequent violation is $250,000.
Last season, Tennessee was fined for storming the field after upsetting Alabama, then LSU did the same after defeating the visiting Crimson Tide.
Per the report, any options for a revamped policy will likely go to the conference’s presidents and chancellors at SEC spring meetings on May 30 in Destin, Fla. Approved changes could be implemented for the 2023–24 athletic year.
Check out the full report.
Mark Heim is a sports reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim.