Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart has been ranked as the top coach in college football by CBS Sports, surpassing Ohio State’s Ryan Day and other elite coaches in the sport.
This recognition underscores Smart’s remarkable achievements and his ascent to the pinnacle of college football coaching.
Since taking over at Georgia in 2016, Smart has transformed the Bulldogs into a dominant force. Under his leadership, Georgia secured back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, and has consistently been a contender in the College Football Playoff. His overall record stands at an impressive 105–19, reflecting the program’s sustained excellence during his tenure.
Smart’s prowess isn’t limited to on-field success; his recruiting acumen has been instrumental in building Georgia’s powerhouse status. Over nine recruiting cycles from 2016 to 2024, Smart has outpaced even his mentor, Nick Saban, in several key metrics, including the number of five-star recruits and NFL draft selections.
In contrast, Ryan Day of Ohio State, while boasting a commendable 70–10 record and a recent national title, has faced challenges in key matchups, particularly against rival Michigan. Despite these hurdles, Day’s leadership has kept Ohio State in the national conversation, and his recent contract extension through 2031, with an annual salary of $12.5 million, reflects the university’s confidence in his direction.
Smart’s elevation to the top coaching spot by CBS Sports is a testament to his strategic vision, recruiting excellence, and the consistent performance of the Georgia Bulldogs. As the landscape of college football continues to evolve, Smart’s leadership positions Georgia to remain at the forefront of the sport.
