Georgia head coach Kirby Smart is never one to mince words when discussing the state of his football team. Whether his Bulldogs are riding high after a dominant performance or struggling to meet his championship-level expectations, Smart is always brutally honest about what needs to improve.
Recently, the head coach made headlines after using the same word four times in succession to critique his team’s performance. While Georgia remains among the top programs in college football, Smart’s comments highlight the high standards he expects and the concerns he has about his squad moving forward.
So, what exactly did Smart say? And what does it tell us about the current state of Georgia football? Let’s break it down.
Smart’s Repeated Criticism: A Clear Message
During a press conference following Georgia’s latest spring practice, Kirby Smart didn’t hold back when discussing what he saw as the biggest issue with his team. When asked about the Bulldogs’ execution and mindset, Smart repeated a single word four times:
“Soft. Soft. Soft. Soft. That’s what I’m seeing, and that’s what needs to change.”
The statement sent shockwaves through Bulldog Nation. Georgia has been known for its physical, dominant style of play, particularly in the trenches. For Smart to call his team “soft” not once, not twice, but four times, speaks volumes about his frustration and expectations.
What Does “Soft” Mean to Smart?
When a coach like Kirby Smart—who has built a program centered on toughness—calls his team soft, it’s not just about physicality. Here’s what he likely meant:
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Lack of Physical Edge
- Georgia’s identity has always been built in the trenches. Smart’s comments suggest that he isn’t seeing the relentless, aggressive style that has defined Georgia football in recent years.
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Mental Weakness
- “Soft” doesn’t always refer to strength or hitting power. Smart may also be pointing out a lack of mental toughness, whether it’s players failing to push through adversity or not showing the intensity he demands.
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Complacency Setting In?
- After winning back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, and coming close again in 2023, some players might not have the same hunger as before. Smart has consistently warned about complacency, and this may be his way of shaking the team awake.
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Lack of Execution
- If players aren’t delivering on the field in practice, whether it’s missed assignments or lack of attention to detail, Smart isn’t afraid to call them out. His repeated criticism suggests he wants a higher level of execution from his team.
Why Smart’s Comments Matter
Kirby Smart isn’t just saying this for dramatic effect. He knows that in order for Georgia to maintain its dominance in the SEC and college football, the team must play with an edge at all times. His words serve several key purposes:
✔ Sending a Message to Players – Calling his team “soft” in public isn’t just about venting frustration—it’s about lighting a fire under his players and letting them know he’s not satisfied.
✔ Keeping Georgia Hungry – Smart knows how easy it is for a successful program to lose its edge. By making this statement early in spring ball, he’s ensuring that his team stays motivated.
✔ Preventing Sloppy Habits – If Georgia lets its intensity slip in practice, those bad habits can carry into the season. Smart is trying to correct course before it becomes a bigger problem.
How Will Georgia Respond?
The big question now is: How will Georgia’s players react?
Under Smart, the Bulldogs have historically responded well to challenges. In past seasons, when he’s made strong criticisms, the team has come out with renewed focus and intensity. This situation will be a major test of the leadership within the locker room.
Key Players Who Need to Step Up
To shake off Smart’s “soft” label, certain leaders on the team will need to set the tone:
✔ Carson Beck (QB) – As the likely starter for the second straight year, Beck needs to show command and toughnessin practice.
✔ Myles Graham (LB) – With Georgia’s linebacking corps featuring new faces, Graham must lead the defense with physicality.
✔ Amarius Mims (OL) – Georgia’s offensive line has been a powerhouse in recent years, but Smart’s comments suggest they need to play with more dominance.
✔ Jalon Walker (EDGE) – The Bulldogs’ pass rush was a strength last season, and Walker must ensure they don’t take a step back.
Final Thoughts: Smart Knows What It Takes
At the end of the day, Kirby Smart’s criticism should be seen as a challenge rather than a cause for panic.
Georgia has been the gold standard of toughness and discipline under his leadership. But Smart understands that success isn’t given—it’s earned every single day in practice, film study, and workouts.
If Georgia truly is “soft” in any way, expect Smart and his players to correct it quickly. Because when fall comes around, the Bulldogs will need to be at their best if they want to win another national title.
One thing’s for sure: When Kirby Smart calls out his team, they usually respond in a big way.