Georgia’s Kirby Smart Discusses What He Misses Most in Modern College Football.
Kirby Smart, the esteemed head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs, has consistently positioned his team at the pinnacle of college football. Under his leadership, Georgia has secured multiple national championships and maintained a dominant presence in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). However, amidst this success, Smart has voiced concerns about the evolving landscape of college football, particularly regarding the challenges of roster depth and the shifting dynamics of player development.
The Erosion of Depth and Talent Development
In August 2024, Smart candidly addressed the diminishing depth within his team and the broader implications for the sport. He observed a trend where each year, fewer players are prepared to contribute at a high level, stating, “I feel like we have less depth than we’ve ever had, and that’s kind of a common theme talking to other coaches I talk to.” Smart attributed this decline to several factors, including changes in high school football practices and the impact of the transfer portal. He noted that high school programs face challenges in developing players due to intensified practice schedules, leading to a “trickle-up effect” that impacts college rosters.
Cultural Integrity Amidst External Challenges
Beyond roster concerns, Smart has emphasized the importance of maintaining Georgia’s football culture amidst external pressures. In a 2023 interview, he expressed confidence in the team’s internal environment, highlighting high player retention and staff continuity. He remarked, “We’re retaining our players, they enjoy being there. They love the competition.” This internal stability is crucial as the program navigates challenges such as the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies and the increasing prevalence of the transfer portal, which have transformed traditional recruiting and team-building practices.
The Allure of the NFL and Its Impact on College Coaching
The evolving demands of college coaching have also influenced career trajectories. Smart has observed a trend where seasoned coaches are transitioning to NFL roles or exiting the profession, seeking more balanced lifestyles. He expressed concern that the relentless nature of college football, intensified by NIL and transfer portal dynamics, is prompting valuable leaders to leave the collegiate ranks. Smart noted, “The best leaders and the best men to run it and be organized with it are leaving.”
Combating Complacency in Pursuit of Excellence
Amidst these challenges, Smart remains vigilant against complacency. He identifies it as the foremost threat to Georgia’s pursuit of continued excellence, especially with aspirations for a third consecutive national championship—a feat not achieved since Minnesota’s three-peat from 1934 to 1936. Smart emphasized the importance of focusing on daily improvement rather than fixating on past achievements, stating, “I care about complacency. If the focus is on that and the outcomes, I think the rest will take care of itself.”
Fan Engagement and Home-Field Advantage
Smart also underscores the role of fan engagement in creating a formidable home-field advantage. In October 2024, following a win against Auburn, he expressed disappointment in the subdued atmosphere at Sanford Stadium, despite a sellout crowd. He called for increased fan energy to truly make opponents feel the intensity of playing in Athens, asserting, “We need it to be tough on other teams to play here, but it’s not.”