A controversial timeout call during a crucial game has sparked a heated debate, with some questioning the tactics of head coach Kirby Smart.
During the fourth quarter of the Georgia vs. Auburn game, Smart appeared to call a timeout, but then claimed he was merely clapping. This unusual strategy led to a unique interpretation by the officials, who ultimately decided to give Georgia its timeout back.
The incident occurred with just over 13 minutes left in the game, and the play clock was running low. Smart's actions on the sideline left many scratching their heads, including the hosts of the Triple Option Podcast, Urban Meyer, Rob Stone, and Mark Ingram.
"Kirby Smart was trying to convince everyone that his clapping was not a timeout call," Stone said. "But let's be real, the motions are quite different."
Ingram chimed in, calling Smart's behavior "crazy," but he wasn't upset with the officials' decision, despite it favoring Georgia over his alma mater, Alabama.
The play in question involved a potential false start by Georgia's left tackle. Smart suggested that the player might have been influenced by Auburn's simulated clap, adding an intriguing layer to the controversy.
"Weird things happen in that stadium," Ingram remarked. "Maybe it was all an illusion, a trick of the mind."
Stone, however, remained unconvinced about Smart's clapping defense. He praised Smart's persistence but questioned the validity of his argument.
"Kirby was out there, still clapping and putting on a show while the officials were confused," Stone said. "But was it really clapping, or was it a clever ploy?"
Smart later clarified that he wasn't calling a timeout but trying to draw attention to Auburn's alleged clap simulation. He insisted his offense would have snapped the ball on time, making the timeout unnecessary.
As the debate rages on, Smart remains focused on the upcoming top-10 matchup against Ole Miss. The game, set to kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET, will be broadcast nationally on ABC.
So, who's right? Was Smart's clapping a clever tactic or a desperate attempt? Join the discussion and let us know your thoughts!
