The college football offseason often feels like a long stretch for fans, as the absence of games shifts the focus to debates and rankings. One hot topic is the ranking of head coaches, and Kirby Smart's position on that list sparks plenty of discussion.
Many argue that Smart should be at the top, given his impressive resume, but opinions vary. Notably, Josh Pate, a prominent voice in college football through his popular podcast, ranks Smart as the No. 2 coach, placing him behind Ohio State's Ryan Day.
Pate's ranking considers a blend of factors: recent on-field results, talent acquisition and development, organizational culture, and a touch of predictive analysis.
While being ranked second is a significant accolade, some fans question why Smart isn't number one. Ryan Day is a formidable coach, with a recent national title to his name.
However, Smart's two championships with Georgia and his consistent success in the SEC bolster his case. Day's recent struggles against Michigan and lack of a Big Ten title since 2020 contrast with Smart's dominance over his rivals and back-to-back SEC titles.
Pate’s perspective is shared by some, as other analysts have placed Smart even lower. Yet, with two national championships under his belt, many believe Smart has earned the top spot until someone else matches his achievements.