It seems like it only took Kirby Smart two years to get Georgia to the top of the SEC but the coach’s journey was much longer than that.

It started at Bainbridge High School and continued with his playing career at UGA and coaching jobs at Georgia, Valdosta State, Florida State, LSU, the Miami Dolphins and Alabama.

Watch the video above to see Smart’s path, including some low moments, many highlights, and a lot of drive and intensity.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Georgia Southern accepted a berth to the Birmingham Bowl, but it is still awaiting an opponent. According to reports, no one has accepted an invitation yet. (Sarah Peacock for the AJC)

Credit: Sarah Peacock

Featured

Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez