Kirby Smart: “At Georgia, If You Get the Best Players in This State, You Should Be Winning Championships”
In a program-defining statement that underscores the Georgia Bulldogs’ recruiting philosophy and on-field success, head coach Kirby Smart recently remarked, “At Georgia, if you get the best players in this state, you should be winning championships.” These words encapsulate the strategy that has transformed the Bulldogs into one of college football’s premier programs, built on the foundation of elite in-state talent.
Since taking the helm in 2016, Smart has leveraged Georgia’s rich high school football landscape to create a championship-winning powerhouse. By securing commitments from the state’s top prospects, Georgia has become a perennial contender in the SEC and a dominant force on the national stage.
The state of Georgia has long been recognized as one of the nation’s most fertile recruiting grounds. Producing elite high school players year after year, it’s no surprise that programs across the country routinely make Georgia a priority in their recruiting efforts. The state’s combination of high-level coaching, competitive high school programs, and athletic talent creates a pipeline of players ready to excel at the collegiate level.
Kirby Smart, a Georgia native himself, understands this dynamic better than most. As a former player for the Bulldogs, Smart has a deep appreciation for the talent that emerges from the Peach State. Upon becoming head coach, he made it a priority to lock down the borders and keep Georgia’s best players at home.
“When you look at the level of talent in this state, it’s incredible,” Smart said. “The high school programs here do an amazing job of preparing kids for the next level. If we can keep those kids in-state and develop them, the sky’s the limit.”
Smart’s philosophy is straightforward but effective: recruit the best players in Georgia and surround them with top talent from across the country. This strategy has resulted in historic recruiting classes that consistently rank among the best in the nation. By focusing on in-state talent, Smart has built a roster filled with players who not only possess elite skills but also understand the pride and tradition of representing their home state.
Under Smart, Georgia has signed numerous five-star recruits from within the state. Players like quarterback Jake Fromm, linebacker Nakobe Dean, and defensive lineman Jalen Carter have been pivotal to the Bulldogs’ success. These homegrown stars have helped lead Georgia to multiple SEC championships, College Football Playoff appearances, and back-to-back national titles in 2021 and 2022.
Smart’s ability to identify and secure commitments from in-state talent has also strengthened Georgia’s depth. The Bulldogs routinely rotate players in and out of games, ensuring fresh legs and a high level of competition at every position. This depth was on full display during their national championship runs, where injuries and challenges were met with seamless transitions.
Beyond talent, Smart has instilled a culture of accountability and hard work that resonates with Georgia’s players. By recruiting athletes who take pride in playing for their home state, Smart has fostered a sense of loyalty and commitment that permeates the program.
“Our guys understand what it means to play for Georgia,” Smart said. “They know they’re not just playing for themselves or their teammates; they’re playing for their families, their communities, and everyone who’s ever worn the G.”
While Georgia’s abundance of talent is a blessing, it also presents challenges. With so many elite players emerging from the state, competition for their commitments is fierce. Programs like Alabama, Clemson, and Ohio State have successfully recruited top Georgia prospects in recent years, highlighting the importance of Smart’s “lock the borders” strategy.
To maintain their dominance, Smart and his staff must continue to build strong relationships with high school coaches, players, and families. This involves more than just offering scholarships—it’s about creating an environment where athletes feel valued, supported, and set up for success both on and off the field.
Smart’s approach has yielded remarkable results. Since his arrival, Georgia has become a juggernaut, consistently competing at the highest levels of college football. The Bulldogs’ success is a testament to Smart’s recruiting prowess and his ability to develop talent once it arrives in Athens.
From dominating the SEC to winning national championships, Georgia has reaped the rewards of its commitment to in-state talent. The Bulldogs’ success has also had a ripple effect, inspiring the next generation of Georgia high school players to dream of wearing the red and black.
As Smart continues to build on Georgia’s success, his philosophy remains unchanged: secure the best players in the state and develop them into champions. With the state of Georgia continuing to produce elite talent, the Bulldogs are well-positioned to remain a powerhouse for years to come.
“For us, it’s simple,” Smart said. “If we take care of business in our own backyard, everything else falls into place. At Georgia, the standard is championships, and the path to those championships starts here, with the incredible talent in this state.”
For Georgia fans, Smart’s words are more than just a statement—they’re a promise. And if the past few years are any indication, it’s a promise he intends to keep.