re: Was it Smart and his staff or did the pieces fall into place?

Fair question, and probably a little of both.

The "great coaching" would be more about bringing some energy and toughness post CMR- not like SOS's arrival at UF where he literally changed the way football is played in the SEC.

But Kirby did inherit some really talented dudes who also were total team guys. Last years SR class was not only crazy talented, but legit good kids. That was probably a bit lucky....although one could argue coaching had something to do with that as well.