Breaking; Kirby Smart Sends a Message to Georgia’s Upperclassmen

Competition is the foundation upon which great teams are established. Exceptional players elevating each other’s performance or getting left behind. In college football, Georgia excels at fostering this culture as well as any team in the league.

As we approach 2024, Georgia finds itself in a unique position. Previously, having “returning starters” was viewed as an indicator of team success but with the advent of the Transfer Portal era, it has become increasingly uncommon for teams to have numerous returning starters. However, this is not the case for The Bulldogs who boast just that – losing only three starters on both sides of the ball.

Is it not fantastic to have all that talent returning? Perhaps for others, but head coach Kirby Smart holds a contrary view. Merely having started in previous seasons does not guarantee job security this year.

Earlier this week, Smart inquired if taking snaps elevates one’s worth above that of others.

Competition at Georgia is an absolute guarantee. With the arrival of another top-rated recruiting class, which includes numerous five-star recruits, veterans won’t have it easy as they must battle to earn their snaps.

“As much as I appreciate the importance of experience in our league,” noted Smart, “it’s crucial to be cautious with older players. There is a risk that they may deteriorate and lose their edge which can ultimately result in younger players surpassing them. In fact, during my time here, it has happened annually where a skilled young player outperforms an established veteran due to being more determined and ambitious.”

It is possible for two things to be accurate simultaneously. Smart may use the media as a means of communication with his senior players, which he frequently does; however, this doesn’t detract from the sincerity behind his words. Last season, when Jamon Dumas-Johnson – an individual who had previously started at Georgia’s linebacker position twice – was injured; CJ Allen took over and secured that same role indefinitely. As a freshman during his first game in college football on-campus Malaki Starks surpassed many blue-chip recruits and commenced playing starters right away.

Although several players will be returning, there may still be a few unexpected changes from younger players. Nevertheless, we have a decent idea of what Georgia’s two-deep lineup may look like in their first game against Clemson.