Kirby Smart send a potential message ahead of Tennessee Volunteers versus UTE clash

Kirby Smart send a potential message ahead of Tennessee Volunteers versus UTE clash

As Georgia’s head coach, Kirby Smart knows the importance of focus and discipline, especially when facing teams with different levels of talent. Ahead of the Tennessee Volunteers’ upcoming clash with the UTEP Miners, Smart would likely send a message emphasizing the need for attention to detail, respect for the opponent, and a commitment to execution.

“Guys, I want to remind you about the mindset you need to have heading into this game against UTEP. On paper, Tennessee is clearly the more talented team, but this game is about more than just who has the better athletes. It’s about showing up every Saturday with the right attitude, executing the plan, and respecting the opponent. Every team in college football is capable of surprising you, and UTEP is no different.”

“Remember, UTEP might not have the same kind of national profile as Tennessee, but they’re going to come out with a chip on their shoulder. They’ve got players who have put in the work, who are hungry to prove themselves, and they know this is their opportunity to make a statement. As a team, you can’t overlook that. When you take the field, you’re not just playing against a name or a logo—you’re playing against guys who are doing everything they can to win.”

“That means we can’t afford to make the same mistakes we might have gotten away with in previous games. Turnovers, missed tackles, lack of discipline—all of those things can be the difference between a blowout and a close game. Tennessee’s offense has the firepower to put up points, but we’ve got to make sure we’re executing on both sides of the ball. I expect our defense to stay sharp, and our offense needs to stay balanced, not taking unnecessary risks or trying to do too much.”

“One of the things I always emphasize to my team is the importance of playing to your standard, not your opponent’s. It doesn’t matter if you’re facing a Power Five contender or a Group of Five team. If we go out there and play the way we’re capable of playing—physical, fast, and smart—then the result will take care of itself. But we can’t afford to get complacent. We have to come out with a sense of urgency from the opening whistle.”

“In the end, this game is a great opportunity for Tennessee to build on what they’ve been doing well. Their offense has been rolling this season, and this is a chance to continue to develop that rhythm. They’ve got to continue to take care of the ball, protect their quarterback, and establish the run game early to set up those big passing plays downfield. If they can do that, they’ll be in good shape.”

“To sum it up: Stay focused. Don’t take anything for granted. Respect your opponent, execute the plan, and bring your best effort every snap. We’ve seen what happens when teams let their guard down, and that’s not something we’re going to allow. Play to your standard, and we’ll walk away with a victory.”