As the 2024 college football season approaches, Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart is setting a clear tone for his team’s expectations: Georgia isn’t aiming to be a “one-hit wonder.” Fresh off a successful season, Smart has been vocal about keeping the team’s focus sharp and their determination unwavering. His message to the Bulldogs is simple but powerful: building a legacy requires consistent excellence, not just a single memorable season.
Georgia’s recent achievements have elevated the program, bringing national attention and establishing the Bulldogs as a formidable force in college football. But for Smart, resting on past success isn’t an option. He acknowledges the challenge of maintaining that high level of performance season after season, especially given the pressure of being a top-ranked team. “The worst thing we could do is get complacent,” he said in a recent interview. “If we want to be respected as a truly great program, we have to prove ourselves every season, every game.”
One key to this mindset is fostering a culture of accountability and growth among the players. Smart has made it clear that everyone on the roster—from seasoned seniors to incoming freshmen—will have to show commitment and readiness to push their limits. To him, it’s about setting a standard that goes beyond individual talent, focusing instead on teamwork, discipline, and mental toughness. By emphasizing this culture, he aims to develop a team that not only wins but also improves with each game.
Smart’s strategy also involves embracing a “next man up” philosophy. With players leaving for the NFL and new talents joining the squad, continuity can be a challenge. But Smart sees this as an opportunity to cultivate depth and adaptability within the roster. “Every player has to be ready to step up when their number is called,” he insists. This approach has not only made Georgia resilient in the face of change but has also helped them stay competitive at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Smart is setting high expectations for the Bulldogs, aiming for another run at the championship and focusing on sustaining Georgia’s dominance. He’s quick to remind his team that consistency is what separates good programs from great ones. To him, the goal isn’t just about winning another title but establishing Georgia as a dynasty in college football. “If we want to leave a lasting legacy, we need to perform like champions every single season,” he said.
As the season opener draws near, the Bulldogs are rallying behind their coach’s vision. For Georgia, 2024 is more than just another season—it’s a chance to prove that they belong at the top and that their recent success is only the beginning of a larger legacy. Under Smart’s leadership, the Bulldogs are poised to make a statement, determined to show the college football world that they are here to stay.
