In Georgia’s dominant 34-3 victory over the Clemson Tigers last Saturday, 13 true freshmen saw action on the field—a noteworthy statistic from the outside looking in. However, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has reservations about relying too heavily on young players, acknowledging that while playing freshmen can be beneficial in today’s transfer portal era, it comes with significant risks.
“They’re having to play out of necessity,” Smart explained. “With more transient rosters, we’re in a position where we need them, but they’re not fully ready—physically, mentally, or in terms of their disposition. In our league, the SEC, if you’re relying on a lot of freshmen, you’re in trouble because they’re not physically developed yet. That doesn’t mean one can’t step up, but you don’t want to be out there playing with a lot of freshmen.”
Smart also mentioned that the decision to play freshmen will depend on the opponent and the game situation. While he may occasionally put more young players on the field, it’s not a strategy he’s eager to rely on regularly.
When asked if any of the 13 freshmen displayed “toughness” in the game, Smart was quick to temper expectations. “I don’t know. I didn’t see it. A couple of freshmen went in and got knocked off the ball,” he said. “K.J. Bolden, for example, had some nice tackles and plays, but he didn’t really need to show toughness. Nate Frazier made some good cuts, but again, it wasn’t about toughness.”
Ultimately, Smart is committed to playing his best players, even if they are freshmen. However, he offered some sage advice for true freshmen across the country who are eager to make an early impact in college football.
“So many freshmen are caught up in whether they’re going to play or travel each week,” Smart noted. “They’re constantly questioning if they made the right decision, thinking about where they might go if things don’t work out. My advice is to stay focused on where you are, put in the work, and you’ll come out on top in the end.”
13 Georgia Freshmen Who Played vs. Clemson
Here are the 13 true freshmen who took the field in Georgia’s win over Clemson:
– S KJ Bolden
– RB Chauncey Bowens
– OT Daniel Calhoun
– ILB Chris Cole
– RB Nate Frazier
– TE Colton Heinrich
– OT Jahzare Jackson
– OLB Quintavius Johnson
– DL Joseph Jonah-Ajonye
– TE Jaden Reddell
– CB Ellis Robinson IV
– ILB Justin Williams
– TE Jordan Thomas
As the season progresses, these freshmen may continue to play crucial roles, but Smart’s focus remains on ensuring they are developed and prepared for the physical demands of the SEC.
