SEC reportedly suspends referee over Georgia-Auburn game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Southeastern Conference has suspended referee Ken Williamson for the remainder of the 2025 season following multiple controversial officiating moments during Georgia’s 20-10 win over Auburn on Oct. 11, sources confirmed to ESPN on Thursday.
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Williamson, a veteran official who reportedly told league administrators before the season he planned to retire afterward, was the crew chief in the nationally televised matchup.
The SEC declined to comment in the situation. “The SEC does not comment on personnel matters,” a league spokesperson told ESPN.
The suspension follows two key calls that drew criticism. Late in the first half, Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold fumbled near the goal line on a third and goal sneak from one-yard out. Georgia’s Raylen Wilson forced the ball loose, and Kyron Jones recovered. Replay officials upheld the ruling of a fumble, ending Auburn’s drive with 1:23 before halftime.
Auburn cornerback Kayin Lee was ejected for targeting less than a minute later with 1:07 left. After review of a helmet-to-helmet hit call was confirmed.
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In the fourth quarter, Georgia coach Kirby Smart argued a potential timeout ruling after claiming Auburn’s defense mimicked the Bulldogs’ snap count by clapping. Officials ultimately did not charge Georgia with a timeout and the play clock was pushed up to 25 seconds.
Williamson was reportedly confronted at halftime by Auburn athletic director John Cohen and coach Hugh Freeze over the goal-line call.
Former NFL referee Terry McAulay told ESPN he believed the SEC’s decision was excessive, saying it “sets a dangerous precedent” and that lesser punishments could have been appropriate for Williamson.
