Coach Kirby Smart apologizes for calling player Jake Pope an 'idiot'

Kirby Smart regrets his choice of words about Jake Pope

Georgia Bulldogs Coach Kirby Smart now says he regrets his choice of words when talking about the recent incident involving backup safety Jake Pope and a viral video on social media.

ATHENS, Ga. – Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart expressed regret Monday over his comments about backup safety Jake Pope following a viral video seen by some as a celebration of Pope with Ole Miss fans after Georgia’s recent loss.

During a press conference, Smart said he regretted his choice of words and praised Pope for the way he clarified the situation with his teammates. In a statement on social media, Pope explained that he was just excited to see an old friend and that the video was misinterpreted.

“I shouldn’t have scolded the kid like that,” Smart said. “I appreciate the way he handled it.”

LAST: Georgia Bulldogs’ Kirby Smart calls player an ‘idiot’ after Ole Miss clip goes viral

Pope, who transferred from Alabama, played three games for the Bulldogs this season. Georgia, currently ranked No. 12, will face No. 7 Tennessee on Saturday night in a pivotal game at Sanford Stadium that could impact the College Football Playoff rankings.