South Carolina Fined $250,000 After Fans Rush Field Following Upset Win Over Texas A&M
(AP) — The South Carolina Gamecocks have been hit with a $250,000 fine from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) after fans stormed the field following their impressive 44-20 victory against the then No. 10 Texas A&M on Saturday night at Williams-Brice Stadium.
This marks the second violation for South Carolina under the SEC’s field access policy, which was revised in 2023. Earlier in the year, the university faced a $100,000 fine when the men’s basketball team triumphed over No. 6 Kentucky with a score of 79-62.
In accordance with SEC regulations, the latest fine will be paid to Texas A&M. The SEC established this policy to ensure that only players, coaches, officials, and designated support staff are allowed in the competition area, prioritizing the safety of all individuals present.
If South Carolina experiences another infraction, the fine will increase to $500,000.
As the game concluded, excited fans took to the field, making their way through the hedges separating the stands from the playing area to join their team in celebration.
This victory over Texas A&M is particularly notable for South Carolina, as it marks their first win against a top 10 opponent since they defeated both Tennessee and Clemson in the final weeks of the 2022 season.
