re: Nick Saban (2008-2014) vs Kirby Smart (2017-2023)

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Kirby got a UGA team that had gone 40-13 in the past 4 seasons and was already well stocked with talent in one of the top 3-4 richest HS talent states in the country

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that had to start a virginia transfer or a TFr at QB
that had to start a transfer at rhode island at LT
that had to start a guy that would be an NFL tackle at guard, because of zero depth or other options on the OL
that had its best player 10 months removed from obliterating just about every item in his knee
that went to overtime at home against GA Southern the year prior
That scored 0 TDs and single digit points at home against missouri the year prior
That scored a grand total of 2 TDs (combined) against really bad AU/GT teams
Whose best wide receiver was 5'8 160 pounds


Recent history has really warped people's minds as it relates to 2016 UGA. Much like Saban in 2007, that first year was more about kicking out the garbage, cutting the fat, dismissing the troublemakers, and creating a culture that would get leaders to buy into. That 2016 squad he inherited barely even resembled the one of justs 12 months later in 2017.

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but given the state of each program when they took over, hard to not to say Saban's is more impressive

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The gap between the Inherited programs was much closer than you are willing to admit.

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Saban got a Bama team that had gone 26-24 in the past 4 seasons and was about to get hit with a textbook scandal from the previous coach's watch

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And he’s done it at 2 schools, 90’s LSU was garbage. Saban rebuilt 2 programs, winning a national title within 4 years at both schools. Kirby could pass him, but right now, Saban is years ahead. It’s like the Patrick Mahomes over Tom Brady debate, sure Mahomes can pass his legacy and stats, but right now, he’s nowhere near.