Ex-NFL referee blasts SEC after longtime official Ken Williamson reportedly permanently benched

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A string of questionable calls by a Southeastern Conference (SEC) officiating crew led by Ken Williamson, including controversial ones in Georgia's comeback win over Auburn two weeks ago, reportedly prompted serious disciplinary action.

Yellowhammer News reported, citing sources, that Williamson has been "permanently suspended from officiating conference games." At least 11 complaints were logged against Williamson and his crew following the Auburn-Georgia game on Oct. 11.

"According to sources, nine of those complaints were validated by conference officials," the outlet reported.

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Referee Ken Williamson during the game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Tennessee Volunteers at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Oct. 22, 2011 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.   (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Auburn was leading late in the second quarter when Tigers quarterback Jackson Arnold fumbled the ball during a short yardage play near the goal line. After a video review, officials ruled Georgia recovered the ball before Arnold was able to score a touchdown.

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The controversial decision on the close call prevented Auburn from taking a commanding 17-0 lead. Instead, Georgia drove down the field and kicked a field goal to cut the deficit to seven points. The Bulldogs ultimately won 20-10.

Auburn Tigers quarterback Jackson Arnold (11) attempts a goal line push that was eventually a fumble and a turnover to Georgia as Auburn Tigers take on Georgia Bulldogs at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025.  (Jake Crandall/