Kirby Smart as a head coach holds the mindset that every game is a big game and he puts in the same practice and preparation no matter what the talent level of the opponent may be. Smart is doing the same for the Bulldogs upcoming opponent, the Nicholls State Colonels.
 
 

Kirby did mention however that one way he likes to look into games against FCS schools is through the eyes of the members of the FCS school itself. He says a game like this gives members of that school the chance to play football at a venue that they may normally not get a chance to play in, so for that reason, Smart says playing FCS school it’s not something he can say he loves or doesn’t love.
 
 
Coach Smart also mentions that he was nervous that the team might overlook the Colonels after their huge win against the Tar Heels, but his nerves on this issue have been calmed some. The main reason those nerves have been calmed is because of the way the team is practicing and preparing in the lead up to this game.
 

I was real nervous about that, but so far, pretty good. They’ve really worked hard Monday and we hit them pretty hard Monday with some facts, information, and some thoughts. We hit them again today, and they’ve answered the bell. So that’s why I said at the beginning I think they’re excited about the home opener and they’re focused on getting better, which is our ultimate goal.

 
 
Although Nicholls State is not the most glamorous opponent, the players and coaches are doing their due diligence in preparation for the Bulldogs home opener.