Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart was obviously elated after his team’s overtime win against Texas in the SEC Championship Game Saturday, but he showed some bitterness, too.
Smart called out SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey during an interview with ESPN’s Laura Rutledge after Georgia’s 22-19 victory.
Rutledge pointed out Georgia had earned a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff, and asked him what that meant to the team.
“It means rest for a team that Greg Sankey and his staff sent on the road all! … year! … long!” Smart yelled, as the Georgia fans at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium roared in approval.
“We get to take a little bit of a break and get ready for the College Football Playoff. This teams needs some rest mentally … ”
Making the situation even more surreal, ESPN’s camera panned over to Sankey, who was standing only a couple of feet away.
This is incredible.
As Kirby absolutely rips Greg Sankey for Georgia’s schedule, the cameraman pans over to Sankey’s priceless reaction 😂
Give that cameraman the Emmy pic.twitter.com/FA9ihBezDv
— Adam Spencer (@AdamSpencer4) December 8, 2024
As far as Smart’s point, the Bulldogs did play some tough games on the road, visiting No. 4 Alabama, No. 1 Texas and No. 16 Ole Miss. But here’s a news flash: Every SEC team’s home and away schedule is always tough in the powerhouse conference.
Still, what a deft move by Smart to throw that jab with Sankey standing just a few feet away.
[Adam Spencer]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.