Kirby Smart makes bold claim about linebacker, praises defense following win

Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart is fired up after his team’s win against rival Florida Gators. The top-ranked Bulldogs dominated Florida 34-7 behind their suffocating defense. One of the most exciting plays of the game was the pick-six by Georgia linebacker Nakobe Dean. Just before halftime, with the Gators down 17 and threatening, Dean picked off Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson and returned it 50 yards for the touchdown.

After the game, coach Smart, still amped up from the win, spoke on the big play from his junior linebacker. Jamie Erdahl of CBS sports got the headman started when he asked, “Do you love watching this defense play?”

“I have fun watching these guys practice. These guys go about their meetings and practice everyday so serious, taking notes, getting nuggets. Their coaches do an awesome job but these kids right here. They’re special,” said Smart.

Erdahl then directly asked, “What makes Nakobe Dean so special?”

“That he does it the right way every day. This guy leads by example. He does his part and that ball he caught over there, he’s got the best hands in America, baby. Love it,” Smart said.

Dean steps up big

Dean showed off his innate instincts, soft hands and impressive speed all on one play. With Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson looking to get some points for the Gators before the end of the half, Dean ensured the opposite would happen.

In what was a 3-0 game with Florida looking to get points just a couple minutes before the half, Georgia has blew the game open. It’s been a shocking turn of events, turnovers turning into touchdowns — leading to a 24-0 lead for the Bulldogs. Georgia scored 21 points in 2:16.

At halftime, the Florida locker room was dejected, while the Georgia locker room was partying. The Bulldogs defense propelled Georgia once again. The score remains 27-0 at the end of the third quarter. But the Bulldogs defense let up a little, allowing a touchdown run in the fourth quarter to Emory Jones. Georgia won convincingly 34-7 and moves to 8-0 on the season. Their next game will be next Saturday against the Missouri Tigers.