Kirby Smart details what SEC Championship, playing Alabama means

Kirby Smart has taken the Georgia Bulldogs to the top of the college football world. However, two things have eluded Smart — a national championship, and a victory over Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide.

As Saturday approaches, Smart has arguably his best shot at the latter. On the SEC Championship game Sunday teleconference, the Georgia coach detailed what the SEC Championship Game against Alabama means.

“Just excited, first and foremost, to be in this game,” started Smart. “I’ve always said it’s one of the greatest atmospheres in all of sports. It rivals against everything I’ve been a part of.

“From College World Series to National Championship games to anything and everything. Just the atmosphere is incredible. So many people in this region care so much about this game, and I think the SEC administrators have done a tremendous job keeping this game at the level it has for many years. I grew up watching this SEC Championship when it started in Birmingham. It’s grown .. it’s grown and grown and grown. It’s a large part of the Southeast footprint.”

Smart: ‘I know Alabama well.’

Continuing, Smart praised his Georgia squad, as well as their opponents. While he’s showing love now, the one thing on Smart’s mind is getting a victory over the Crimson Tide.

“Our guys have performed well, have done a good job this season, and you earn the right to have an opportunity to go out and play a team from the West,” stated Smart. “I know Alabama well. Really good football program. Coach has done a great job over there. We’ve got a lot of respect for their team and the way they play and the style of play.

“As we all know, we’ve had some matchups in the past and look forward to this one. It’s a great opportunity for our guys to go out and play a really, really good football team. So I’m excited for that. I know our players are really excited. Just ready to get back to work tomorrow.”

Kirby Smart and Georgia have taken care of business at every stop this season. From beginning the season against Dabo Swinney’s Clemson squad, to running the SEC gauntlet — the Bulldogs have come out on top every time.

Still, Smart has learned in the past that Alabama is a different demon. To reach the heights he plans for his Bulldogs, a victory Saturday would go a long way for Georgia.