### Kirby Smart Praises Nick Saban’s New Role on College GameDay

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart won't have to face Nick Saban on the football field this Saturday. Instead, the former Alabama coach has transitioned to a new challenge: television commentary. This development delights Smart, who holds great respect for his former mentor.

Though he would relish another chance to compete against Saban, Smart is focused on the immediate task ahead—facing Kalen DeBoer's Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Saban, however, remains a significant presence in the world of college football through his role on ESPN's College GameDay.

Smart expressed his happiness for Saban, who now gets to spend more time with his family while continuing to impact the sport. "He's extremely thorough and enjoys what he does," Smart commented. "I'm thrilled that he gets an opportunity to do what he wants to do and being with who he wants to be with, with his family and enjoy that. I'm really happy he's still part of college football because he makes college football better."

Saban's transition to television has earned him praise from multiple quarters. Host Rece Davis lauded Saban's commitment and thoroughness on Paul Finebaum's show. "He's been phenomenal, Paul. The thing that I'm not surprised by, but very impressed by, is the level of his engagement," Davis stated. "He's in our meetings during the week, and we'll talk to him aside from the meetings. He's all in, constantly learning, always wanting to be great and be perfect."

Such dedication is why Saban’s move to broadcasting has been seamless. Despite his impressive résumé, which includes seven championship rings, Saban has maintained a humble approach. "Not one time has he come across in such a way that he's like, 'Hey, look at my seven championship rings and everybody listen to me,'" Davis added.

Meanwhile, Smart's immediate concern is navigating his team through a tough game against Alabama’s high-caliber players, particularly quarterback Jalen Milroe, a top contender for the 2024 Heisman Trophy. Reflecting on Milroe’s formidable skills, Smart noted, "Yeah, if you can simulate this guy, then he would be in the transfer portal somewhere... there is no simulation. I think that's the problem."

Milroe's performance in the 2023 SEC Championship Game is still fresh in Smart’s mind. Milroe completed 13-of-23 passes for 192 yards and two touchdowns, with zero interceptions. "He can go as fast backward as he can go forward," Smart said of Milroe. "When you see him in person on the field, he's very thick and very hard to tackle, but yet has a bazooka for an arm, so there is no simulation."

Smart’s focus remains steadfast on the challenges ahead, appreciating the legacy and continued influence of Nick Saban in the sphere of college football.