Georgia's Kirby Smart has made a bold decision to favor high school recruiting over the transfer portal, despite the success of other programs that have embraced the latter. In my opinion, this strategy is a testament to Smart's commitment to a long-term vision for the program, and it's fascinating to see how it plays out. While the Bulldogs have taken some transfers, they have largely passed on the big names, choosing instead to retain their own recruits. This approach is particularly interesting given the recent trend of programs embracing the transfer portal to quickly fix issues after poor seasons or to capitalize on coaching changes. What makes this strategy even more intriguing is the fact that Georgia has a young roster, with an average age of 19.81. This seems counterintuitive in a college football world where experience is often valued. However, Smart's philosophy is clear: he believes in the high school model and is willing to invest in his own recruits, even if it means missing out on some big names. The Bulldogs have retained 26 of 27 members of their 2025 recruiting class, which ranked second nationally, and have also kept the majority of their 2024 class. This strategy is not without its risks, as evidenced by the fact that Georgia's 2026 class currently ranks 12th nationally, and the Bulldogs have missed on some five-star targets. However, Smart's commitment to his philosophy is unwavering, and he believes that his approach will ultimately pay off. In my view, this strategy is a reflection of Smart's leadership style, which is characterized by a long-term vision and a commitment to building a sustainable program. While it may not always result in immediate success, it is a strategy that is worth watching, as it could have significant implications for the future of college football recruiting.
