Following a game that included fans throwing trash on the field after a questionable call before finally storming the field after Ole Miss’ 55-49 win over LSU, the university has been fined a total of $175,000.
On Monday, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) announced a $100,000 penalty for fans storming the field, referencing a league policy that works to ensure the safety of student-athletes, coaches, and other on-field personnel.
Then on Thursday, the SEC imposed an additional fine of $75,000 for fans throwing debris on the field after the referees chose not to overturn a controversial touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
Ruled an LSU touchdown and the Ole Miss fans aren’t happy pic.twitter.com/2ZFbDuWGgY
— Mr Matthew CFB (@MrMatthew_CFB) October 1, 2023
“The disruption and delay of Saturday night’s game must never be part of any SEC event,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said. “These actions are consistent with the oversight assigned by the membership to the SEC office, including the financial penalty and mandate reviews.”
Both fines are expected to come from Ole Miss’ share of SEC revenue distribution.
The big win, which is being referred to by fans as Kiffin’s signature victory since taking over the program in 2019, and the subsequent celebration opens the door for larger penalties. If fans storm the field again during the current season, the next fine will be $250,000. A third offense would lead to a $500,000 penalty.
“As our program continues to experience big wins like Saturday, our fans should be more accustomed to these moments and avoid field-storming situations,” Ole Miss Athletic Director Keith Carter said. “We have the most passionate fans in college athletics, but we must reserve the playing field for our student-athletes and coaches.”
No 16 Ole Miss will be back in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium this Saturday when they take on the Arkansas Razorbacks. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. and can be watched on the SEC Network or listened to on participating SuperTalk Mississippi stations.
