The Southeastern Conference (SEC) is implementing stricter measures regarding players who simulate injuries during games. In a recent communication to coaches and athletic directors, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the need for teams to immediately cease any practices associated with falsifying injuries to gain timeouts. The letter outlining these changes was first reported by Yahoo Sports.

To enhance the enforcement of this policy, the SEC has modified an existing regulation, granting more authority to penalize coaches and teams for such infractions. Under the new rule, if the national coordinator for football officiating determines that it is “more likely than not” that an injury was faked, it will be deemed a feigned injury subject to disciplinary actions.

Sankey noted the importance of fair competition within the sport, stating that teams are expected to adhere to the established rules of the game. Previously, teams were responsible for submitting video evidence to the national coordinator for examination. Now, the SEC office has the power to initiate a video review when deemed necessary.

He further stressed that when defending against a fast-paced offense, teams should utilize their designated timeouts if play needs to be halted, or allow the game to proceed with existing defensive setups. On offense, teams must either call a timeout as the play clock winds down or accept a delay of game penalty. Sankey firmly stated that creating stoppages due to fabricated injuries is unacceptable and undermines the integrity of college football.

In cases where a feigned injury is suspected, a clearing is possible if there is medical evidence proving that a player genuinely needed to stop the game due to an injury. If no such evidence is provided, the SEC will impose a set fine structure that has already been established:

– For the first occurrence of a feigned injury, the head coach will face a public reprimand along with a $50,000 fine.

– The second infraction will result in another public reprimand and a $100,000 financial penalty for the head coach.

– A third infraction will lead to a similar reprimand and a suspension for the head coach for the next game.

– Additionally, if any other staff member is found to have encouraged or directed a player to feign an injury, they too will face the same consequences, which include public reprimands, fines, and suspensions.

– Furthermore, if a player is caught faking an injury, that athlete may also receive a public reprimand.

Sankey concluded his message with a clear directive to focus on playing football and to eliminate any antics related to fake injuries.