ATHENS, Ga. - His hoarse voice gave it away that Georgia Coach Kirby Smart is already focused on the Rose Bowl.
Smart told reporters Monday at UGA’s Rose Bowl media briefing that he’s challenging his team in practice every day, as they prepare for the Jan. 1 College Football Championship semifinal against No. 2 Oklahoma
Smart admits intensity is the key for the team’s practices as he wants to make sure his team is not satisfied with only what they’ve accomplished so far.
Below are comments from Smart and Georgia players at Monday’s news conference.
Head Coach Kirby Smart
Opening comments …
On having the early signing period in the middle of bowl prep …
On if outside linebackers coach Kevin Sherrer will coach in the bowl game:
On Nick Chubb is one of the top 10 players in the nation and if he has had that conversation with him:
On how pleased he has been with Jake Fromm and Roquan Smith:
On the concern for Natrez Patrick:
On facing an odd front like Oklahoma’s:
On the impact of the seniors who decided to come back this season:
On freshman defensive back Latavious Brini:
On Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield’s ability to break out of pressure:
On challenging his team to accomplish more after winning the SEC Championship:
On the difference in styles of play between the Big-12 and SEC:
On the importance of the kicking game and field position against Oklahoma:
On meeting with the Oklahoma coaching staff:
On the dangers of the Oklahoma running game:
On balancing rushing the quarterback and keeping containment:
On the importance of Roquan Smith against Oklahoma:
On if he addresses Roquan Smith’s NFL future with him:
Senior OT #77 Isaiah Wynn
On receiving individual awards:
On the break in the last two weeks:
On preparing for a game in the College Football Playoff opposed to a regular bowl game:
Senior OLB #7 Lorenzo Carter
On differences in preparation for the Rose Bowl:
On connection with Oklahoma lineman Orlando Brown:
On the reality of the season:
Graduate NT #97 John Atkins
On recovering from injuries:
On the significance of playing in the Rose Bowl:
On teammate Roquan Smith:
Junior ILB #3 Roquan Smith
On playing in the Rose Bowl:
On stopping Oklahoma quarterback and Heisman winner Baker Mayfield:
On the reactions in his hometown of Montezuma, Georgia:
On Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield off the field:
On the recognition Smith has received this season, including the Butkus Award:
Senior RB #1 Sony Michel
On returning for his senior season:
On where the Georgia football program is headed:
On preparation for Oklahoma:
On looking ahead: