Dabo Swinney Isn't Taking COVID-19 Seriously and That's a Danger to Society

In times of crisis, we rely on our public figures to set a standard. From the ball field to the White House, it's important to use that voice for good, and think carefully before speaking out of turn.

These days, the South often relies on its football coaches as pseudo politicians, with the kind of power to sway millions in their favor. Clemson coach Dabo Swinney is the unofficial governor of South Carolina, and his statements over the past few days are putting citizens in danger.

Initially, Swinney's comments about the start of the 2020 college football season -- which he's confident will not be moved back or into stadiums without fans in attendance -- are hopeful. But when paired with Dabo's personal decisions, which include putting his family and others in harm's way, they're providing far more harm than good.

Swinney admitted to taking his family on a vacation to Florida -- a state particularly ravaged by COVID-19 thanks to inaction by those in charge -- in a private plane. It's unknown if they self-quarantined after the trip. In fact, he's even considering taking some time off for an Easter vacation.

What a man chooses to do with his family is typically a personal, private matter. We're not ones to judge. However, in the case of the coronavirus pandemic, travel patterns and a lack of safety can put others at risk. In Swinney's case, he's sure to interact with many fans who recognize him, and persuade others to replicate his poor decision-making.

That sort of impact is a danger to society.