Why Kirby Smart is the Highest-Paid Coach in College Football: A Heated Debate Among Fans
The world of college football is no stranger to intense debates, but one topic currently igniting heated arguments among fans is why Kirby Smart is the highest-paid coach in the sport. Some fans argue he deserves every penny, while others claim the massive contract is excessive. Regardless of which side you’re on, there’s no denying that Smart has earned his place at the top.
The Money Behind the Madness
Kirby Smart’s record-breaking contract didn’t happen overnight. Georgia’s head coach inked a 10-year, $112.5 million deal in 2022, making him the highest-paid coach in college football history. That deal only got bigger over time, reflecting Georgia’s dominant run. But is it justified? Let’s dive into the key reasons why Smart commands such a hefty paycheck—and why some fans are still furious about it.
1. Back-to-Back National Championships
The most obvious reason Smart’s salary skyrocketed is his unprecedented success on the field. Georgia had been a powerhouse before, but Smart took them to the next level, leading the Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022. Winning one title is tough; winning two in a row is legendary.
For Georgia fans, this alone is enough to justify his record-breaking contract. The Bulldogs went 41-1 over two seasons, an unheard-of level of dominance. With results like that, Georgia had no choice but to keep him locked in long-term.
2. Recruiting Mastermind
College football success isn’t just about coaching—it’s about recruiting. Smart has built one of the best recruiting operations in the nation, consistently landing top-three recruiting classes. His ability to attract elite talent ensures Georgia stays on top for years.
For a program like Georgia, keeping a coach who can recruit at an elite level is critical. Losing Smart could mean losing the ability to reload with five-star players every season.
3. SEC Dominance in a Cutthroat Conference
The SEC is the toughest conference in college football, and Smart has made Georgia the king of the hill. Competing against the likes of Alabama, LSU, and Tennessee every year isn’t easy, yet Smart has kept Georgia at the top.
SEC football is a billion-dollar industry, and Smart’s leadership keeps Georgia among the elite. When you’re winning in the SEC, money flows in from ticket sales, TV contracts, and sponsorships. Georgia isn’t just paying Smart for past success—they’re investing in continued dominance.
The Counterarguments: Is He Overpaid?
Despite his success, not everyone agrees that Smart should be the highest-paid coach. Critics argue:
“It’s the players, not the coach!” Some fans believe Georgia’s success is more about raw talent than Smart’s coaching.
“College coaches shouldn’t make this much!” Many argue it’s outrageous for a college coach to make over $11 million per year while players (until recently with NIL deals) earned nothing.
“Nick Saban is still the GOAT!” Some Alabama fans believe Nick Saban should still be the highest-paid coach, considering his seven national titles.
Final Verdict: Worth Every Penny?
Love him or hate him, Kirby Smart has earned his payday. In a sport where winning is everything, Georgia is paying for results—and Smart is delivering. While the debate rages on, one thing is certain: as long as Georgia keeps winning, Smart’s contract will continue to look like a bargain.
