The college football broadcasting world got a jolt this week. The voice that has narrated some of the most iconic moments in Georgia Bulldogs history is being silenced — and it wasn't his call.
Scott Howard, who has been the play-by-play announcer for Georgia football on the Bulldog Radio Network since 2008, is out. The university announced Friday that Jeff Dantzler will take over the mic for the 2026 season. But the move left many wondering: Did Howard choose to walk away, or was he pushed?
Now we have the answer. And it's not pretty.
A Legend Says Goodbye — Unwillingly
Howard took to X to set the record straight. "Thank you to everyone for all the messages. Didn't know that many people had my number 😳. Just to clear up any confusion, respectfully, it was not my decision to step away from the football broadcast," he wrote.
That confirmation hit the Georgia fanbase like a sack on third down. Howard had been a staple in the booth since 1993, first as a color analyst alongside the legendary Larry Munson. When Munson hung up his headset in 2008, Howard seamlessly stepped into the play-by-play role. For over three decades, his voice was the soundtrack of autumn Saturdays in Athens.
The Bulldogs athletic department thanked Howard for "nearly four decades of work" and noted he would remain as the basketball announcer. But for football fans, the damage is done.
Fans React: 'Will No Longer Be Listening'
The reaction from the Bulldog faithful has been swift and emotional. One fan wrote, "You will be so missed! I have always loved listening to you! Even as far back with GMD! He's TEENY!! 😂 So many of us are absolutely 💔! Just don't get it! Will NOT be the same! I will no longer be listening to radio for Dawg games! DGD!"
Another shared, "Spent many hours driving Georgia backroads listening to your calls. Many core Georgia football memories have your voice narrating. Thanks for everything, Scott."
The sentiment is echoed across social media. "Really hate to hear this. You've always been one of my absolute favorite PBP announcers, even when I was hanging with you and the SID guys back in the mid-90's," one fan added.
Perhaps the most poignant tribute came from a listener who grew up with Munson: "I grew up listening to Larry. I didn't think anyone could come close. He's a hard act to follow but you did a heck of a good job, my friend. I so appreciated your knowledge and focus and the energy you brought to your calls. I've heard Jeff, and no offense to him, but he's no SH!"
What's Next for Georgia Football Radio?
The university has not commented on the reasoning behind the abrupt change. But the decision has reignited a broader conversation about loyalty and legacy in college sports. As the landscape shifts — with debates over playoff expansion and the future of the sport — some traditions are being left behind.
Howard's exit is a reminder that even the most beloved voices aren't safe from the business side of the game. For now, Georgia fans are left with memories and a bittersweet farewell to a man who made their Saturdays special.
As one fan put it: "You will be so missed."
