Kirby Smart: Nobody 'prepares harder' than Derion Kendrick

Derion Kendrick is a huge part of Georgia’s dominant defense this season. The defensive back’s performance earned him some praise from Kirby Smart after the Orange Bowl, too.

Kendrick had five tackles and two interceptions for the Bulldogs in their 34-11 win over Michigan Friday night. With the win, Georgia secured a national championship berth.

Smart had nothing but good things to say about Kendrick after the game and praised the senior for how much effort he puts in during the week.

“I’ll tell you something about this man right here, DK,” Smart said. “There is not a player on our team that prepares harder than he does. He comes to practice every day, gives great effort, takes notes in meetings. I’ve never been around a kid that is so attentive in meetings at the corner position. A lot of them just think I’ve got to go play man. He tunes in, and he’s a competitor. There’s never a walk through that he’s not focused and locked in.

“He set a great example for our other players. He came from a really good program, he came from where they play really good defense, he fit right in with our guys, and he’s been a tremendous leader. And I’m really proud of everything he’s gotten — a lot of the accolades and the things he deserves tonight in the form of interceptions. He hasn’t gotten those awards in the past, but he’s played really well.”

Kendrick transferred to Georgia this year after three seasons at Clemson. On the year, he has 38 tackles, three passes defended and four interceptions for a one of the best defenses in the country.

No. 3 Georgia rolls to Orange Bowl victory over No. 2 Michigan

Stetson Bennett threw for 313 yards on 20 for 30 passing and three touchdowns to lead Georgia to a 34-11 victory over Michigan Friday night. The Bulldogs defense stepped up, as well, holding the Wolverines’ staunch rushing attack to just 91 yards.

Running back James Cook was Georgia’s leading receiver, hauling in five catches for 112 yards and a touchdown. He also had six carries for 32 yards on the night.

The Bulldogs are now getting ready for a rematch with No. 1 Alabama in the national championship Jan. 10. The Crimson Tide cruised past Georgia 41-24 in the SEC Championship game last month, which adds to the intrigue of this year’s title game.

Georgia and Alabama kick off Jan. 10 in the College Football Playoff national championship.