Are Georgia football fans not appreciating this past season enough?Are Georgia football fans not appreciating this past season enough?
In the aftermath of Georgia’s 31-13 victory over Auburn on October 5, 2024, head coach Kirby Smart expressed his disappointment with the home crowd’s lack of energy and enthusiasm. Despite the announced sellout crowd of 93,033 at Sanford Stadium, Smart felt that the fans did not provide the level of support needed to create a formidable home-field advantage.
“To be honest, I’m probably disappointed in our fans for the first time,” Smart remarked during a post-game interview. “I thought there was a lack of really affecting the game crowd-noise wise, passion, and energy.”
Smart’s comments highlight a growing concern about fan engagement, especially considering Georgia’s impressive 27-game home winning streak, the longest among FBS teams. He emphasized the importance of a lively crowd in making it challenging for opposing teams to play in Athens. “We need it to be tough on other teams to play here. But it’s not. It’s not the same as it’s been in the past. It’s got to be energetic. It’s got to be,” Smart added.
The coach’s critique was not solely about the lack of noise but also about the overall atmosphere. He noted that some fans left the game early, which can dampen the team’s morale. “I want our fan base to appreciate what we have and give their all and be unbelievable with crowd noise and make energy at home games,” Smart stated.
In response to questions about his comments, Smart clarified that his intention was not to create a divide between the team and its supporters. “We’re a team. We’re a unit, and I think it’s OK to say how you feel and try to pull the family together and pull in the right direction,” he explained.
Players, however, seemed less affected by the crowd’s energy. Left guard Dylan Fairchild mentioned, “I mean, I was locked into the game. I’m fully focused on what I have to do.” Outside linebacker Chaz Chambliss added, “When I’m on the field, I’m not really big into all the juice and all that. I just want to focus on my assignment and getting communication across the field.”
Smart’s remarks come at a time when other SEC teams have experienced significant home-field advantages. For instance, Vanderbilt’s stunning 40-35 upset over No. 1 Alabama was marked by a raucous home crowd that played a pivotal role in the victory.
As Georgia prepares to host Mississippi State in their next SEC matchup, Smart’s message to the fans is clear: their energy and enthusiasm are crucial components of the team’s success. He hopes that by addressing this issue, the Bulldog faithful will rise to the occasion, creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams and providing unwavering support for their own.
In the competitive landscape of college football, the synergy between a team and its supporters can often make the difference between victory and defeat. Smart’s candid feedback serves as a reminder of the vital role fans play in the game, urging them to bring their passion and energy to every home contest.
