SEC Ref Ken Williamson Suspended for Controversial Auburn-Georgia Game Calls

Atlanta, GA  — The Southeastern Conference has suspended veteran referee Ken Williamson for the remainder of the 2025 season due to controversial calls made during the Oct. 11 game between Auburn and Georgia, according to sources.

Williamson, who served as the crew chief in that game, reportedly informed SEC officials prior to the season that he would retire after this year. The SEC opted to take action following a review of several complaints about officiating during the matchup, with nine of eleven complaints validated by conference officials.

During the game, two primary plays drew significant criticism. In the second quarter, Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold attempted a sneak from the one-yard line. As he extended for the goal line, Georgia linebacker Raylen Wilson caused a fumble that was recovered by Georgia. Officials ruled it a fumble, prompting fierce debate, especially after multiple angles from the game broadcast suggested Arnold had crossed the plane for a touchdown.

After a lengthy review, the ruling stood, and Georgia capitalized with a field goal, reducing Auburn’s lead to 10-3 at halftime. Auburn’s head coach Hugh Freeze expressed frustration, stating, “I have no clue how that doesn’t break the plane, no clue,” in an interview during the halftime break.

Another contentious moment occurred late in the half when Georgia’s Kirby Smart gestured to the referees, arguing that Auburn’s players were mimicking Georgia’s signals. Smart claimed he was not calling for a timeout, yet officials initially stopped the clock.

After the game, Smart remarked, “Go lip-read, because I’m screaming, they’re clapping,” highlighting his belief that Auburn’s actions warranted a penalty.

Terry McAulay, a veteran official and rules analyst, criticized Williamson’s suspension, calling it “insane” and suggesting that such a severe punishment sets a dangerous precedent for officiating in college football.

Williamson’s long officiating career spanned over 41 years, including 21 years in the SEC and numerous major postseason assignments. His suspension follows a trend in the conference of addressing officiating controversies, notably after a series of high-profile games this season.

Williamson’s suspension marks a significant shift in the SEC’s approach to officiating accountability, particularly following the heightened scrutiny of officiating standards within the league.