After Georgia’s significant victory over Tennessee on Saturday night, Kirby Smart delivered a strong message to the College Football Playoff Selection Committee.
Entering the game, Georgia was ranked No. 12 in the latest playoff standings. Despite the playoff expansion to 12 teams this year, their ranking would have kept the Bulldogs out of contention. Boise State, at No. 13, would have secured a playoff spot as the top-ranked Group of 5 conference champion had the rankings been finalized.
With a 31-17 win against Tennessee at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia improved its chances of making the playoff. Following the game, Smart expressed his frustration about Georgia being on the playoff bubble. He stated, “I really don’t know what they look for anymore” and suggested that anyone on the committee should experience the challenges of playing in the SEC.
Smart also praised Tennessee, who, despite a loss that brought their record to 8-2, still has a shot at the playoffs. He emphasized the uniqueness of the SEC during his postgame remarks, indicating that the committee’s decisions often overlook the realities of the competition.
Smart’s comments highlighted that expanding the College Football Playoff to 12 teams will still pose challenges for the committee. While the top five ranked conference champions will receive automatic bids, there will inevitably be tough decisions to make regarding the other spots.
