The Georgia Bulldogs have built a powerhouse football program under Kirby Smart, but their success on the field has been overshadowed by persistent off-the-field issues – particularly reckless driving incidents involving players.
From DUIs to speeding violations, and even fatal crashes, the trend has raised serious concerns.
Former Georgia star and college football analyst David Pollack recently addressed the ongoing problem on an episode of See Ball Get Ball, admitting that he has no clear solution.
However, he suggested that NIL money has played a major role in the dangerous behavior.
“There is no solution,” Pollack said. “From what I understand, I’ve heard a bunch of good stories now about how they’ll basically time themselves going around the loop [surrounding Athens], which is extremely dangerous.
“Not good. Not smart. But, you know, back in the day, we didn’t have these cars because we didn’t have this money. So, mo money mo problems, right?”
Pollack acknowledged that aside from the driving incidents, Georgia’s off-the-field record has been relatively clean.
However, he pointed out that the program has made numerous efforts to educate players about the dangers of reckless driving – with little effect.
“They haven’t had a lot of off-the-field stuff besides the driving,” Pollack continued. “And I can tell you this from talking to people at the school, plenty of speakers that have come in with lost loved ones. Plenty of cops that have come in. Plenty of people that have told stories.
“It’s not sinking in. I don’t understand it, but I do understand it because I understand being young, dumb, and invincible. I remember feeling untouchable.”
When asked what could be done to curb the problem, Pollack wasn’t optimistic about a clear fix but suggested financial penalties could make a difference.
“I just don’t think there’s anything you can do,” Pollack said. “Fine. Kick them off the team. Suspend them indefinitely. That’s the kind of stuff you can do. Listen, that takes a paycheck away, probably.
“Take some of that money away and that’s probably a start. But, otherwise, I promise you Kirby probably would have figured it out.”
Georgia has recently had to suspend wide receiver Nitro Tuggle and offensive lineman Marques Easley following their arrests related to vehicle offenses.
These incidents add to a troubling pattern, including the tragic 2023 crash that claimed the lives of Georgia offensive lineman Devon Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy.
With no clear answer in sight, the Bulldogs face mounting pressure to address the problem before more lives are put at risk.
What are your thoughts on the ongoing problems at Georgia? … What does Kirby need to do???
