At the recent SEC media days, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart was asked a direct question: why the Bulldogs are not scheduled to play Tennessee this fall.
A Streak That Defines a Rivalry
Smart’s Bulldogs have posted nine straight victories over the Vols since he took over in 2016, a run that includes a dramatic win in his first season thanks to a Hail Mary pass. The all‑time series favors Georgia heavily, but the Vols have never been written off.
Respect for the Opponent
Smart has repeatedly praised Tennessee coach Josh Heupel and his staff, acknowledging the challenge they present and the progress the program has made under Heupel’s guidance.
The New Scheduling Reality
The SEC’s shift to a nine‑game conference schedule has reshaped the traditional rotation of opponents. Each school now holds three permanent rivals while the remaining six rotate on a four‑year cycle, meaning Tennessee will sit out this season against Florida but is slated to meet both Florida and Georgia again in 2027.
Tradition Remains Central
Heupel has emphasized that rivalry games are the lifeblood of college football, noting that the pageantry and traditions surrounding matchups like Georgia‑Tennessee are what make the sport unique. Smart’s comments echo that sentiment, reinforcing the importance of preserving these historic contests.