Kirby on G Day: I Want to Evaluate the Players

ATHENS - On the final practice before Georgia's annual G-Day, UGA coach Kirby Smart talks about what he expects from his team.

“I thought the guys had good focus. We were able to go over a couple of different opponents we have coming in next year to generate some interest. They like doing that. It kind of brings a spark to their eyes when you get to work on another opponent and not just each other. Then, we divided up the teams and had a good practice.” 

I am not sure what all we have surrounding the game, but not a lot for us. I want to evaluate the players. I think the more butterflies they have the less butterflies they will have the next time. I want it to be enjoyable and entertaining, but I want to put a good product on the field. 

There is no doubt - the QBs will be off limits. But we will be coming after punts trying to block them. Same thing with punt and punt return. We’ve got great competition and punter and punt return. I would love to see guys have pressure on them to catch and kick. 

Stetson will go live with both teams. He might be the only guy to go with both. 

There is no valuable a lesson than busting a coverage in that stadium and having to live with it. If you approach it like it is loose goose so will your team. 

We don’t have an identity yet. We didn’t have one this time last year, either. It was starting to take form. But we are not where we need to be. I want guys to put in more time. I think sometimes you are entitled to the success you have had in the past.

We’ve had ups and downs. I’ve never had a perfect spring. I’ve never had one where I was overly happy with. We have some serious depth concerns. We are going to have to address those with the current guys who are coming in. 

Make good decisions. Lead the huddle. Don’t turn the ball over. 

I am excited to see what Justin and Jake do. I think the receivers have been a little ahead of the DBs. If that continues there could be some points scored. 

Elijah hasn’t taken extra reps - that wouldn’t be fair to him. He’s done a good job. I think he’s gotten better with pickups and protections. He works really hard. He’s one of the guys who excites you with the way he works.

I think this is a tremendous opportunity. I know the gales family has been very appreciative of the Bulldog family. 

I think it is important for the early enrollees. These kids have not (had to prepare). What do they do pregame? Do they go rat trap (going and doing their own thing). There are some good players in the early enrollees. Getting to see them respond to some adversity is going to be important.