Five Former Kirby Smart Assistants Lead Successful College Football Programs

Five former assistants of Georgia head coach Kirby Smart are now head coaches themselves in FBS football, showcasing the strength of Smart's coaching tree. Notable among them is Sam Pittman, who revitalized Arkansas football after a tough period, and Shane Beamer, recognized as SEC Coach of the Year in 2024 with multiple top-25 finishes. The article highlights their achievements and upcoming challenges, such as Pittman's Arkansas facing Memphis and Beamer's South Carolina team continuing its competitive presence. Meanwhile, Syracuse prepares for a tough matchup against Clemson, with concerns over Clemson's struggling offense but hopes pinned on improved quarterback play and wide receiver performance. Additionally, USC's football program under Lincoln Riley is gaining national praise for its balanced offensive attack and strong quarterback play by Jayden Maiava, positioning the Trojans as a rising power in college football. These narratives illustrate ongoing shifts and competitions shaping the 2025 college football season across prominent programs.