Other than LSU’s complete no-show against Alabama, the biggest surprise from this past Saturday was just how handily the Georgia Bulldogs lost to Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels.
It’s not shocking that the Dawgs lost. However, it was quite shocking that the Rebs controlled the game the way they did, en route to a commanding 28-10 victory in rainy Oxford.
One of the main storylines from the game had nothing to do with any actual play between the lines.
Of course, I’m referring to Georgia defensive back Jake Pope being caught “celebrating” on the field immediately following the loss.
In fairness, “celebrating” is a misleading term to use.
We all know that Pope wasn’t happy that Georgia lost. Having said that, fans were furious at the footage – and rightfully so.
Pope’s actions were a horrible look no matter how you slice it.
Addressing the bizarre situation, head coach Kirby Smart was blunt and even called Pope an “idiot.”
“What an idiot. Just stupid,” Smart said. “I didn’t see it until today. He’s embarrassed about it. That’s a childhood friend of his. Just not real smart. But to be honest with you, I don’t really have time to waste on that. My focus is on Tennessee.”
The incident comes at a pivotal time for Georgia, now facing a critical matchup against Tennessee.
Coming off their second loss of the season, the Bulldogs are scrambling to keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive.
With a third loss likely to eliminate them from contention, Georgia is under pressure to rebound, making every single game a must-win from here on out.
Pope broke his silence on the situation today as he posted a heartfelt explanation of the incident on X.
“I wanted to address the videos that have been put out after the Ole Miss game. First and foremost, I want to say sorry for the way it was taken out of perspective and has caused distractions/commotion for my teammates and coaches. This is not representative of who I am in any way.
“In no way, shape or form would I ever celebrate a loss in this program and anyone who knows me well knows that. My longtime family, friends had come up to me unexpectedly after the game as I was trying to get off the field to safety and were extremely excited to see me after the game. I was also surprised to see them as well and that’s why you saw the reaction that I gave via the video.
“They are also very close with my former teammate and longtime friend on the Ole Miss team which is why they have those jerseys on. (They have come to my games as well). I am Georgia thick and thin and have never loved a group of guys more than the guys I go to battle with day in and day out.
“Last, and once again, I’m sorry to my teammates, coaches, and fans all around about the way that video looked and I choose to move forward and get ready for a great rest of the season with my brothers. Go dawgs.”
Despite the incident and Smart’s harsh response, the Bulldogs remain focused on bouncing back.
As Georgia looks ahead, the college football world will be watching closely to see if the team can regain its footing after a disappointing showing against Ole Miss.
Currently ranked No. 11, Georgia must not only win out but also maintain a distraction-free focus if they hope to secure a place in the postseason.
What are your thoughts on the bizarre Pope situation???
