Kirby Smart Prepares Georgia for Texas with Help from Billy Napier

Athens, Georgia — The No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs will host the No. 10 Texas Longhorns on Saturday night in a crucial Week 12 college football matchup. Ahead of the game, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has sought guidance from former Florida coach Billy Napier, who was spotted at a recent Bulldogs practice.

During the SEC coaches teleconference on Wednesday, Smart confirmed that Napier visited the Dawgs’ practice on Tuesday. This side note is especially intriguing as Napier’s Florida team defeated Texas 29-21 earlier this season in what was the Gators’ standout win.

Napier has been out of a coaching position since being let go after the Gators’ loss to Georgia earlier this month. Smart explained the nature of his relationship with Napier, referencing their shared history as assistant coaches under Nick Saban. “Coaches have a brotherhood and a fraternity,” Smart said. “He’s been a friend for a long time, so he dropped by, yeah, but that was really it.”

Florida’s win over Texas came in a game where the Gators executed a stellar offensive game plan despite Texas’ defense being known for its fortitude. With the help of Napier’s insights, Smart hopes to replicate Florida’s success. The Georgia coaching staff was given access to valuable strategic information by someone who has firsthand experience with the Longhorns.

Since that loss to Florida, Texas has rebounded with four consecutive wins, but their earlier struggles in road games raise questions about their ability to perform under pressure. Georgia, on the other hand, has been finding its rhythm and looks prepared for the match.

The matchup will take place in Athens at 6:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, promising to have significant implications for the College Football Playoff picture. As both teams’ coaches express respect for one another, the strategic insights Napier offers could play a crucial role in the game’s outcome.