Georgia is facing a situation where two of their key defensive players, safety Dan Jackson and nickel back Joenel Aguero, were disqualified for targeting during the second half of the Bulldogs’ 30-15 win over Texas. Both players were ejected following video reviews of the calls, which resulted in automatic first-half suspensions for their next game. However, there is a possibility of overturning these suspensions through the NCAA’s appeals process, introduced in 2022.
Coach Kirby Smart did not confirm whether the team has initiated the appeals process but refrained from commenting much on the situation. While Smart’s reluctance to discuss it suggests uncertainty about the process, there is reason to believe the disqualification of Aguero, in particular, might have been unjust.
The NCAA’s national coordinator of officials, Steve Shaw, oversees the appeals process. Shaw, who previously worked with the SEC, still resides in Birmingham, Alabama, and would be responsible for reviewing the case. If the appeal is successful, Jackson and Aguero could have their suspensions lifted for Georgia’s upcoming game.
It will be interesting to see if Georgia proceeds with the appeal and how Shaw might rule in this instance.
Georgia safety Dan Jackson was penalized for targeting after a helmet-to-helmet tackle on Texas receiver Matthew Golden late in the fourth quarter of the Bulldogs’ 30-15 victory. With 11:47 left and Georgia leading by two scores, the penalty gave Texas a first down, although they ultimately turned the ball over four plays later on a strip-sack by Mykel Williams.
In some cases, referees can penalize both offensive and defensive players if both contribute to the collision, and it seems this might have applied in Jackson’s case. Texas’ receiver appeared to lower his head, but Coach Kirby Smart emphasized that Georgia players are trained to avoid this type of contact altogether. He expressed concern about the risks of both offensive and defensive players ducking their heads during a play, calling it “very dangerous.”
Smart’s comments highlight the importance of player safety and the need for defenders to maintain proper form, even in fast-paced moments when offensive players instinctively protect themselves by lowering their heads. While Jackson’s disqualification was upheld by video review, the team may explore the NCAA’s appeals process, particularly if they believe the ruling could be overturned.
Late in Georgia’s win over Texas, Joenel Aguero was flagged for targeting after a high tackle on running back Quintrevion Wisner. Despite the form of Aguero’s tackle appearing legal, the penalty was confirmed after video review, giving Texas a first down. The Longhorns, however, lost two yards on the following possession and turned the ball over on downs, so the penalties did not have a significant impact on the game’s outcome.
The concern for Georgia lies in their upcoming matchup against Florida. Both Aguero and safety Dan Jackson, who were penalized for targeting, face automatic first-half suspensions unless overturned through an appeals process. Coach Kirby Smart acknowledged the difficulty of the calls, emphasizing the importance of player safety, but didn’t reveal much about the team’s approach to an appeal.
If Jackson and Aguero are unavailable for the first half against Florida, Georgia will likely turn to freshman KJ Bolden at strong safety and consider different options at Aguero’s “star” position, including JaCorey Thomas or Malaki Starks. Preparing for the Gators and their quarterback D.J. Lagway—known for his accurate deep ball—could be more challenging without two key defensive players. Smart emphasized the team’s depth, saying they will be ready regardless of the situation.
