SEC changing method of fining for field/court storming

(iStock/Marat Musabirov, YHN)

Over the last several seasons, court and field stormings after upset victories have become a major topic of conversation in college sports.

The SEC came into the center of focus when it recently implemented an escalating fine system to help curb the practice. Although a timeless tradition, stormings have been criticized for putting players and coaches in dangerous situations.

Previously, the conference had fined schools $100,000 for the first offense, $250,000 for the second offense, and $500,000 for the third offense.

RELATED: Alabama AD Greg Byrne has a wild idea to eliminate field and court storming

Last week at the SEC Spring Meetings, Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey announced that all fines are now $500,000, and the sliding scale is being done away with:

Alabama brought in a fair amount of revenue itself last season after the field was stormed on them three times during losses. A chunk of the fine from stormings, according to league rules, goes to the losing opponent.

All three of Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Oklahoma fans rushed the field upon defeating the Crimson Tide.

By the sounds of it, there could be a whole lot more cash flowing through the league office when an upset loss happens now.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.