Stephen A. Smith blast’s ACC over FSU celebration fine

Brian Schaible

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Stephen A. Smith blast’s ACC over FSU celebration fine image

Stephen A. Smith rarely holds back when it comes to hot takes. His latest target was the Atlantic Coast Conference after it fined Florida State $50k for fans storming the field in the aftermath of the Seminoles’ stunning 31–17 victory over No. 8 Alabama.

While the ACC insists these fines are meant to protect players, coaches, and officials, Smith argued the punishment is both unrealistic and unfair.

In his view, there’s simply no way to prevent fans from pouring onto the field after a monumental upset. “I’m disgusted,” Smith said on First Take. “What are you going to do, put 67,000 police officers out there? Who the hell can afford that?” His frustration comes from the disconnect between conference policies and the reality of fan behavior. 

Smith noted that while universities are technically responsible for controlling their crowds, no amount of security presence can stop thousands of fans in full celebration mode. He described it as one of those “practical impossibilities” that administrators should recognize. 

The ACC’s fine is less severe than the SEC’s $100,000 minimum, but still represents a financial penalty for something schools can’t reasonably control. Not to mention, it's still one of college football’s most cherished traditions.

Ultimately, no injuries or incidents were reported from the Florida State-Alabama field storming. The league will likely stand by its rules but like it or not, it's part of the magic of college football.

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Brian Schaible

Brian Schaible is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He is an award-winning journalist with over 25 years of experience covering college and professional sports. Brian holds a master’s degree in journalism/public relations from Kent State University.