ABC NEWS HEADLINES: Georgia Football Fans Found New Coach They Want to Run Out of Town
Athens, GA – June 19, 2025
In a surprising twist of emotions coming out of Bulldog Nation, a new target has emerged for the ire of the Georgia football faithful—not a struggling quarterback or a misfiring coordinator, but a high-ranking coach many expected to be untouchable just a few seasons ago.
Kirby Smart, once considered the savior of Georgia football, a national championship-winning coach, and the man who lifted the Bulldogs to the pinnacle of college football, now finds himself at the center of a growing storm. And while it’s premature to suggest a full-scale rebellion, the undercurrent of frustration is gaining traction—and fast.
From Hero to Suspect
Just three years ago, Kirby Smart led Georgia to back-to-back national titles, cementing his legacy as one of the elite coaches in college football history. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs boasted top-ranked recruiting classes, a physically dominant defense, and a culture that rivaled Alabama’s dynasty. However, recent setbacks—both on and off the field—have fans questioning whether the throne has cracked.
Georgia’s 2024 campaign ended in disappointment, with the Bulldogs falling short of SEC Championship contention and missing the College Football Playoff altogether for the first time in years. The team dropped crucial games against Alabama and Tennessee, and for the first time in the Smart era, they appeared undisciplined, uninspired, and—perhaps most damning—outcoached.
Fan Backlash Boils Over
For a passionate fanbase accustomed to dominance, the regression has been hard to stomach. Twitter/X, message boards, and call-in shows have all lit up in recent weeks with criticism aimed at Smart and his staff. Chants of “What happened to Georgia Football?” have been heard even at spring practices, and a growing segment of fans are calling for sweeping changes.
The tipping point? Smart’s decision to retain controversial offensive coordinator Mike Bobo for another season, despite a noticeable drop in offensive production. Star quarterback Dillon Riola, the prized freshman expected to carry Georgia back to glory, appeared rattled and inconsistent down the stretch, prompting fans to question player development under the current staff.
One frustrated alumnus, speaking to ABC News outside Sanford Stadium, didn’t mince words:
“Kirby built something special, but now he’s sitting on his hands while the rest of the SEC adapts. We’re not watching a dynasty anymore—we’re watching it crumble.”
Recruiting Woes and Transfer Troubles
Adding to the tension are troubling signs on the recruiting trail. While Georgia still sits near the top in overall class rankings, several high-profile decommitments have raised eyebrows, and the Bulldogs have