In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the world of college football, Kirby Smart, the head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs, has reportedly accepted a massive, record-breaking contract to take over as the new head coach at Brigham Young University (BYU), replacing Kalani Sitake. This unexpected decision has left fans and analysts alike questioning the future of both programs and the motivations behind Smart’s move.
Smart, who has been at the helm of Georgia’s football program since 2016, has led the Bulldogs to tremendous success. Under his leadership, Georgia has claimed national championships in 2021 and 2022, securing the school’s place among college football’s elite programs. Known for his strong recruiting skills, defensive prowess, and ability to develop talent, Smart transformed Georgia into a powerhouse in the SEC and beyond. His departure marks a significant shift in the college football landscape, as the Bulldogs will now have to replace one of the most successful coaches in recent memory.
At BYU, Smart will be replacing Kalani Sitake, who has been with the Cougars since 2016. Sitake helped guide BYU through its transition from an independent program to a member of the Big 12 Conference, which they joined in 2023. Under Sitake’s leadership, BYU enjoyed success, including a notable 10-2 regular season in 2024 and a Big 12 championship. However, despite these accomplishments, BYU made the bold decision to part ways with Sitake in favor of the more high-profile Smart. It’s clear that the university is aiming to elevate its program even further by bringing in a coach with a proven track record at the highest levels of college football.
Smart’s new contract at BYU is said to be the most lucrative in the history of the school. While the specifics of the deal have not been fully disclosed, it’s expected to include significant financial incentives, ensuring that Smart has the resources to recruit top-tier talent and compete in the increasingly competitive Big 12 Conference. This move also signifies BYU’s desire to be a serious contender in college football, as they look to challenge established powerhouses and consistently perform at a high level.
The decision to bring Smart on board has drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Some view it as a brilliant move, as BYU secures one of the most successful coaches in the game, someone who can take the program to new heights. However, others are skeptical about the timing of the move and the potential impact it could have on the team’s culture. Sitake, who had cultivated a strong sense of unity and identity within the program, leaves big shoes to fill, and Smart will need to navigate the transition carefully.
For Georgia, Smart’s departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. The Bulldogs are known for their high expectations and elite recruiting, meaning the next coach will have to be ready to maintain the program’s top-tier status. As for Smart, the challenge at BYU will be different, as he shifts from coaching in the powerhouse SEC to a school trying to establish itself among college football’s elite.
Ultimately, Smart’s move to BYU marks one of the most surprising and significant coaching changes in recent college football history. The implications of this shift will be felt for years to come, both for Georgia and for BYU, as each program navigates this new chapter in their respective histories.
