SEC Permanently Suspends Football Official Ken Williamson
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) has permanently suspended football official Ken Williamson following a review of officiating during the recent Auburn-Georgia game.
The decision, announced today, October 22, 2025, comes after scrutiny of a controversial call made during the fourth quarter of the October 19th contest between the Auburn Tigers and the Georgia Bulldogs. While the SEC has not released specific details of the review, the suspension effectively ends Williamson’s career officiating in the conference. Williamson also served as the head official for the highly contested 2019 College Football Playoff Semifinal between Ohio State and Clemson, a game remembered for several debated calls.
Former NFL referee Terry McAulay publicly commented on the suspension, stating the situation was handled with “scorched earth” tactics. The suspension impacts the availability of experienced officials as the college football season progresses, potentially influencing future game outcomes. Williamson’s crew was previously subject to review following that 2019 playoff game, as detailed by Eleven Warriors.
The SEC has not indicated whether it will name a replacement for Williamson or if further action will be taken regarding the officiating crew involved in the Auburn-Georgia game. The conference is expected to address the matter further during its regularly scheduled meetings; more information on SEC officiating standards can be found at the official SEC website.
