By: Michael Spiers

TheSouthernSportsEdition.com news services

Georgia football has been marred by several off-field incidents involving its players in the last few weeks, continuing what has already been a difficult year of police interaction for Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs.

Among the latest, starting linebacker Smael Mondon and backup offensive tackle Bo Hughley were arrested on separate misdemeanor charges of reckless driving.

Hughley was arrested Tuesday, July 9^th and charged with reckless driving and failure to maintain lane. He posted a $26 bond and was released from custody. Mondon was arrested the following day, July 10^th on charges of racing on highways and reckless driving, similarly posting a $26 bond for his release.

The incidents involving Mondon and Hughley highlight ongoing issues within the program. Mondon was observed racing alongside freshman defensive back Demello Jones, driving at 75 mph in a 40 mph zone.

When stopped by police, Mondon denied knowing Jones, despite evidence to the contrary. Jones, who pulled over voluntarily, received a citation for racing. Mondon’s attempt to dissuade Jones from discussing the incident in their team group chat further complicated the situation.

These arrests add to a troubling pattern for the Georgia football program. Back in March of this year, teammate Trevor Etienne was arrested for driving under the influence.

Etienne ultimately pleaded no contest to reckless driving, and the more serious DUI charge was dismissed. All of this brings the number of traffic-related incidents involving Georgia football players to 24 in the last 18 months.

The year 2023 began with a fatal crash involving Devin Willock and recruiting staff member Chandler LeCroy, which resulted in misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing for former Georgia player Jalen Carter.

Three months later, Carter was selected ninth overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2023 NFL draft.

The frequency of these incidents has drawn significant attention and criticism. Head Coach Kirby Smart has acknowledged the issue, expressing disappointment and emphasizing the need for better behavior off the field. Despite efforts to address these problems, the arrests continue to cast a shadow over the program.

Further complicating matters, wide receiver Rodarius “Rara” Thomas was arrested on July 26^th and charged with multiple felonies, including family violence battery and second-degree cruelty to children.

This incident follows a previous arrest last year for false imprisonment and family violence, for which Thomas completed a pre-trial diversion program. Thomas has been suspended indefinitely from the team. His recent arrest underscores the ongoing legal troubles faced by Georgia football players.

The arrests of Mondon and Hughley, coupled with Thomas’ legal issues, reflect broader challenges within the program. Despite being one of the top teams in college football, Georgia has struggled to maintain discipline off the field. These incidents have the capacity to not only tarnish the program’s reputation but also raise concerns about the overall culture and management.

Coach Smart, during SEC Media Days, emphasized the importance of addressing these issues. He expressed disappointment in the outcomes of these incidents and reiterated the program’s commitment to fostering better behavior among players.

However, the recurring nature of these problems suggests that more significant changes may be necessary to ensure a safer and more disciplined environment.

The 2024 football season officially kicks off for Georgia in less than a month. The Bulldogs will host the Clemson Tigers on Saturday August 31^st at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

The Dogs will start the season at, or near, the number one spot in most national preseason rankings.