Kirby Smart anticipates a spirited return for Georgia football in 2024, fueled by a sense of unfinished business following their absence from the College Football Playoff last season. Throughout spring practice, Smart has observed a heightened level of determination among the Bulldogs, noting a distinct hunger that surpasses that of the previous two years when they clinched national titles.
During an appearance on The Paul Finebaum Show, Smart highlighted this disparity, emphasizing the team’s increased motivation stemming from their failure to secure a playoff berth last season. He views this added incentive as a valuable asset for the team as they strive to reclaim their position at the top of college football.
Reflecting on Georgia’s recent dominance, which saw them clinch back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, Smart acknowledged the disappointment of falling short in the previous season’s SEC Championship against Alabama. Despite entering the game undefeated and as favorites to secure a third consecutive national title, Georgia’s defeat resulted in a significant drop in the rankings, ultimately excluding them from the playoff picture.
Smart stressed that he has moved past dwelling on last season’s outcomes, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present and ensuring the team is adequately prepared for the challenges ahead. While he acknowledges the need to learn from past experiences, particularly regarding missed opportunities, Smart’s primary focus remains on guiding the team towards achieving their goals for the upcoming season.
He expressed pride in the team’s resilience, particularly in their performance in the bowl game, highlighting the inherent unpredictability of football and the need to constantly strive for improvement. While Georgia may reflect on missed opportunities, their current focus is squarely set on the future, with aspirations of returning to championship contention in the upcoming season.
