Earlier Wednesday, while attending a Texas A&M function taking place in a parking lot, like most Texas A&M functions, Jackie Sherrill took time out from socializing, nibbling on finger foods and scheming of some sorts to comment on the news that Georgia racked up a whopping FIVE NCAA violations as a result of then-Georgia recruit Ray Drew's commitment announcement.
"Not sure I've ever heard of that," Sherill said, "I mean, who hasn't gotten one or two violations on Signing Day or at one of these press conference things, which I don't quite understand, but five? No, that's a new thing for me. By the way, have you seen where the ribs are? I was told there would be ribs."
The violations stem from former Georgia stars Randall Godfrey and David Pollack not only attending Drew's announcement, but speaking during the ceremony, which means that Drew thought he deserved not one, but TWO introductory speakers. While some may salute his boldness and creativity (and indeed I do), the NCAA frowns on perceived representatives from a school showing up anywhere near a recruit before he sheds his recruit title and becomes a signee.
"I remember some years back we were after this kid from the Mississippi Delta, and he told us he'd let us know the morning of Signing Day whether or not he was coming to our school," Sherrill said between bites of sausage, "So the morning of, I sent our entire defense to his high school and they made his announcement for him. Our defensive captain, a linebacker, even signed the scholarship papers. I don't even think the kid was there. True story."
The violations reported by Georgia are of a secondary nature and not expected to bring about any significant punishment from the SEC or NCAA since the school was unaware of Drew's plan. More than anything, Georgia will use this as an example to show for former players and boosters that any contact with recruits is A TERRIBLE IDEA. LIKE, DON'T DO IT. EVER.
"You know, it's amazing what you can get away with if everyone makes a commitment to keep their mouths shut," Sherrill said, "Back then, we had a code, the kind Colombian drug dealers used. You didn't say anything because if you did, your friends and family would be considered in danger. It worked for years at a time. And in three different places.
"What's interesting is, we never could, wait, hang on. I just saw the ribs. Here, hold this while I go grab a plate."
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