The connection between Georgia quarterback Carson Beck and fifth-year senior wide receiver Arian Smith continues to strengthen, a development that has been years in the making. On Saturday, as the Bulldogs cruised to a 48-3 victory over Tennessee Tech, Smith showcased his growing chemistry with Beck, leading all receivers with four catches for 76 yards, including a 50-yard touchdown that extended Georgia’s lead to 31-0 in the third quarter.
Smith’s performance is a testament to how far he’s come, especially considering the injuries that have plagued his career. Over the years, Smith has dealt with multiple setbacks, but he’s finally starting to find his groove on the field.
When asked what has changed for him mentally this year, Smith emphasized his newfound “composure.”
“My composure,” Smith said. “Being able to move on when things don’t go my way. It’s very frustrating at times. But Coach always tells me, ‘If things don’t go your way, just move on. Process over outcome.’ So even if I do something really well but don’t get the ball, I can’t get mad. I just keep moving.”
Arian Smith on what’s changed mentally for him this year: pic.twitter.com/SNLc9rLveX
— Kramer (@KramerNFL) September 7, 2024
Through the first two games of the season, Smith has totaled five receptions for 56 yards and one touchdown, averaging 11.2 yards per catch. While he’s still working to fully return to top form, the improvement in his game hasn’t gone unnoticed—especially by head coach Kirby Smart.
“Arian’s been great,” Smart said. “He works really hard. I’ve told you guys before, he’s probably the one player I’ve seen in my nine years who’s made the biggest transformation. Coming from a small school down in Polk County, he just got better and better each year. He’s been through significant injuries—three, four surgeries—and now he’s so much more mature. He’s patient, he knows how to work, and his maturation process has been great for our program.”
Smith’s growth will be put to the test when Georgia faces its first SEC opponent of the season next Saturday against the Kentucky Wildcats. For Smith, the game offers another opportunity to prove how much he has developed, both physically and mentally, after enduring such a challenging journey.
As the Bulldogs gear up for SEC play, Smith’s evolving mindset and his chemistry with Beck could be key factors in Georgia’s continued success this season.