Coach Smart had a lot to say after his team’s second scrimmage of Fall Camp. Specifically on the topics of Arik Gilbert, the progression of the freshmen, the backup quarterback situation and how the team is preparing for Oregon. 

Formerly known as the best tight end recruit in his graduating class and one of the best to ever play the position at the high school level, third-year Arik Gilbert came to Athens with a good bit of hype behind him. He sat out last season but has earned high praise after an impressive G-Day outing. That performance has fans curious about his progression this offseason. When asked, Coach Smart said, “Arik’s doing a good job.” He’s earned valuable reps in practice, especially with Bowers and Washington being spotty due to injury. Smart was pleased to tell that Gilbert can also see time in special teams play.

The Dawgs reeled in the number 3 recruiting class in 2022, so the attention on this season’s freshman class is there. Coach Smart expects around 50% of them to see the field saying, “…probably half of them will have to play a role… Some of them may start.” 

Coach Smart informed reporters that it’s not just the freshmen who will be new to the field. There are rising sophomores and juniors who will finally be given the chance to contribute, not just the newly attained freshmen. 

In terms of the backup quarterback situation/ battle, it didn’t sound like there was a solidified second-string quarterback. “They’re different- they’re two different guys. They each possess different parts of what Stetson does well.” The coaching staff has been trying to assess the guys as “ones” who they can play behind the first-string o-line and throw to first-string receivers. It didn’t seem to be anything too urgent. Both guys play well. According to Coach Smart, “They’re really good quarterbacks.”

Lastly, regarding Oregon and the team’s preparation for that game, Smart told reporters, “We don’t touch it just yet… We have a lot of things to look at….” It was said that coaches will begin preparation soon, and the players will follow suit.

After a second scrimmage, the team sounds better than last week, with room to improve. With Smart’s reputation, the team should be up to speed by the season opener.