Backup Safety Jake Pope Apologizes After Video Surfaces of Him Smiling with Opposing Fans
ATHENS, Ga. — Georgia Bulldogs’ head coach Kirby Smart had some choice words for backup safety Jake Pope after a video surfaced showing Pope smiling and jumping with fans on the field following Georgia’s 28-10 loss to Ole Miss. The video, which quickly spread online, appeared to show Pope celebrating with Rebels fans, a sight that didn’t sit well with Smart or many Georgia fans.
In response, Pope issued a public apology, explaining that the scene was misinterpreted. He stated that he had been surprised by old friends from his hometown of Buford, Georgia, who happened to be Ole Miss fans and were excited to see him. Pope clarified that his reaction in the video wasn’t celebratory but simply a greeting with people he hadn’t seen in a while.
Smart Calls Out Pope’s Behavior as “Not Real Smart”
When asked about the video, Smart didn’t mince words. “What an idiot,” he said, referring to Pope. “Just stupid. He’s embarrassed about it. He’s upset about it. That’s obviously a childhood friend of his that he grew up with there at Buford and he knows him, hadn’t seen him in forever, but just not real smart.”
Smart’s frustration is understandable. Following a disappointing loss that dropped Georgia to No. 11 in the AP Top 25 rankings, any appearance of celebrating—even unintentionally—was bound to draw criticism. The Bulldogs will face No. 6 Tennessee next, a high-stakes matchup for a team looking to regain its footing.
Pope’s Apology: “In No Way Would I Ever Celebrate a Loss”
In his apology, Pope tried to clear up any misconceptions surrounding the video. “First and foremost, I want to say sorry for the way it was taken out of perspective and has caused distractions/commotion for my teammates and coaches,” he said. “This is not representative of who I am in any way. And no way, shape or form would I ever celebrate a loss in this program.”
Pope transferred to Georgia from Alabama and has played sparingly this season. After the video went viral, he was quick to post his apology on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing his commitment to the team and regret for any misunderstanding.
He added, “I am Georgia through thick and thin and have never loved a group of guys more than the guys I go to battle with day in and day out.” He also explained that he was attempting to leave the field when he spotted his friends, who were cheering for Ole Miss, and simply reacted to seeing familiar faces.
Moving Forward: Smart Focuses on Tennessee, Not the Controversy
While Smart’s initial reaction was one of frustration, he later seemed ready to move past the incident. “To be honest with you, I don’t have time to waste energy on that,” he said. “You know what I’m saying? My focus is on Tennessee. I’m not worried about that.”
For Smart and the Bulldogs, the loss to Ole Miss has intensified their upcoming showdown with Tennessee. With the AP rankings in flux and the Bulldogs hoping to finish strong, Smart’s focus on the future rather than Pope’s momentary lapse in judgment might just be what the team needs to bounce back.
