Georgia opted out of Netflix’s SEC series. Kirby Smart on if Bulldogs would do it in future

Georgia Opted Out of Netflix’s SEC Series. Would Kirby Smart Change Course?

When Netflix announced its highly anticipated eight-part docuseries covering the 2024 SEC football season, one question lingered: would reigning national champion Georgia Bulldogs join the ride? Despite their storied season and prime role in the conference, Georgia—alongside powerhouse programs like Alabama, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Texas, and Missouri—chose to opt out. The decision, and whether head coach Kirby Smart would allow a change of heart in the future, was a focal point at this year’s SEC Media Days.

Netflix and production partner Box to Box Films aimed to “bring all the drama and pageantry of SEC football to a worldwide audience” Houston Chronicle. Yet, as reported, Georgia and several other top-tier schools declined participation .

Why Georgia Said No

Sources close to the program suggest that Georgia’s choice was strategic, not snobbish. Coach Smart and athletic director Greg Sankey reportedly wanted to preserve the team’s internal culture and competitive edge. Allowing cameras wide access could inadvertently expose strategic details, undermine internal dynamics, or create distractions during a grueling season Dawn of the Dawg.

Indeed, Kirby Smart, a coach known for his disciplined, detail-oriented approach, appeared to affirm that stance. While he avoided condemning media opportunities outright, he repeatedly emphasized the importance of relationships over transactions and maintaining control over the team narrative . At Media Days, Smart focused on roster development, discipline, and team energy—not media deals.

Smart’s View: Still Media-Savvy but Guarded

At SEC Media Days in Atlanta, Smart spoke candidly about his approach to exposure, yet made no commitment to future projects. While he praised the professionalism of journalists and the value of storytelling in college sports, he was firm about avoiding distractions that could impact performance Yahoo+15SI+15Reuters+15.

When asked directly about opting into future documentaries, Smart smiled but remained noncommittal: “We’ll see… My focus is on being here, preparing these players…”—a response that left fans guessing whether Netflix might get a second chance.

A Broader Cultural Reflection

Georgia’s decision fits a pattern. Many successful programs are increasingly protective of their insiders and playbooks. Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” reshaped Formula 1’s global image, but critics argued it also manufactured drama. SEC schools like Georgia appear cautious about similar framing of football—even with the promise of global exposure.

Kirby Smart’s leadership style also plays a role. As a former Alabama assistant under legendary coach Nick Saban, Smart carries a championship pedigree and a reputation for discipline, trust, and privacy. He’s young—just in his tenth season—and firmly in control of his program . That sense of authority suggests he’d only agree to a documentary if it aligned fully with team goals.

Future Participation: Conditions Apply

So, what would it take for Georgia to join in Season 2? Smart hinted at two conditions:

Total creative control: The series would need to reflect the team authentically—no sensationalism.
Strategic timing: Cameras in off-season or spring practice may be more acceptable than during the regular or postseason.

“There’s a time and place for everything,” he said, emphasizing preparation over publicity . It’s clear any future participation would require cooperation between Netflix, SEC leadership, and Georgia’s internal decision-makers.

Stay the Course—or Adapt?

For now, Georgia’s path remains steady: build on on-field success without media distractions. With a roster heavy on underclassmen—54 percent first- and second-year talent—and a hardline stance on team culture, Smart’s priorities are clear .

But the media landscape is changing fast. As more sports entities embrace behind-the-scenes access, pressure may mount—especially from NIL-driven players, fans, or sponsors seeking visibility.

Could Georgia eventually shift? Perhaps—with assurances around editorial integrity and timing that doesn’t compromise training. Whether Netflix or another platform secures that trust remains to be seen.

Final Whistle

By sitting out Netflix’s inaugural SEC series, Georgia made a statement: its cultural fabric and competitive edge are more valuable than global exposure. Coach Kirby Smart is mindful, strategic, and protective—ready to tell stories, but only on his own terms.

Whether a future docuseries features the Bulldogs may come down to alignment of values, creative partnership, and timing. For now, Georgia keeps its cards close, letting performance on the field speak louder than cameras ever could.