Georgia’s Smart: Incorrect in calling Pope an ‘idiot’

Nov 12, 2024, 09:17 PM ET

ATHENS, Ga.– Georgia coach Kirby Smart said Tuesday he went too far when he called backup safety Jake Pope an “idiot” for appearing to commemorate with Mississippi fans following the Bulldogs’ loss to the Rebels last weekend.Pope released an

apology Monday– and a clarification about what happened– after a video of him appearing to commemorate following the Bulldogs’ 28-10 loss at Ole Miss on the field with Rebels fans drew sharp criticism from Smart.When asked about

the video Monday, Smart stated: “What an idiot. I mean just stupid. I didn’t see it till today, however he’s embarrassed about it. He’s upset about it. “Editor’s Picks 2 Associated One day later, Smart stated he regretted his choice of words and complimented Pope for the way he explained the circumstance to his teammates. “I’ll state I should not have actually called the kid a moron and that was an error by me, but I appreciate Jake,”Smart said. “He’s an excellent kid. He works truly difficult. He’s a group player. I believe he understands it was an emotional mistake, and he informed the team that. So, I appreciate the method he managed it.”Pope stated in an explanation he posted on X he was shocked to see longtime family buddies from his hometown of Buford, Georgia, on the field. He said his good friends, including one wearing the jersey of Ole Miss offensive lineman Reece McIntyre, also from Buford,” were very thrilled to see me after the game. I was likewise amazed to see them as well. Which’s why you saw the reaction that I gave through the video.” In the video, a smiling Pope jumped up and down with his good friends. His actions looked particularly bad to Georgia fans since Pope was

surrounded by Ole Miss fans who rushed onto the field, making it look like if he were joining their celebration.Pope has actually played in 3 games this season after his transfer from Alabama.” I am Georgia through thick and thin and have actually never enjoyed a group of guys more than the guys I go to battle

with day in and day out,” Pope stated.” Lastly, and once again, I’m sorry to my colleagues, coaches and fans all around about the manner in which video looked. “The No. 12 Bulldogs host No. 7 Tennessee in what may be a CFP elimination game at Sanford Stadium on Saturday night (7:30 p.m. ET/ABC, ESPN+). Info from The Associated Press was utilized in this report

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