Georgia’s Kirby Smart Nears Historic 100th Win as Offensive Line Shifts Stir Fan Outrage

As the 2025 season charges forward, Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart stands at the edge of history — and under a white-hot spotlight. One win away from reaching 100 career victories, Smart is poised to become the second-fastest coach in college football history to hit the milestone. Yet, this moment of potential triumph is clouded by turmoil within the trenches.

In Athens, the Bulldogs’ faithful are buzzing — and not entirely in celebration. A recent shuffle on Georgia’s offensive line has sparked a wave of confusion, criticism, and backlash from the fanbase. The heart of the discontent? Senior lineman Xavier Truss being replaced in the starting lineup by sophomore Monroe Freeling, a move many see as controversial and poorly timed.

Kirby Smart, already a national championship-winning coach and the architect of one of the sport’s most formidable programs, is on the cusp of joining elite company. With 99 wins under his belt in just nine seasons, Smart is closing in on the 100-win club faster than nearly any coach before him — trailing only former Oklahoma legend Barry Switzer, who reached the milestone in 108 games. Smart, currently at 114 games coached, could clinch it in just 115 if the Bulldogs secure a victory in their next outing.

This landmark isn’t just about numbers. It symbolizes the dominance Georgia has exerted under Smart — an era defined by defensive superiority, relentless recruiting, and consistent postseason appearances. The Bulldogs have become a fixture in the College Football Playoff conversation, winning back-to-back national titles in 2021 and 2022 and appearing in a third in 2023.

Heading into Week 3, Smart made waves when he announced Monroe Freeling, a redshirt freshman, would take over the starting left tackle spot, sending veteran Xavier Truss to the bench. The decision came after inconsistent showings from the offensive line and a desire from the coaching staff to inject “urgency and energy” into the group.

Freeling, a former five-star recruit, certainly boasts promise — athletic, agile, and known for his high ceiling. But to many Georgia fans, swapping a seasoned lineman for a relatively untested sophomore just weeks into the season felt like a gamble — especially with an SEC gauntlet looming.

Social media erupted with reactions, with fans questioning the move’s timing, potential locker room consequences, and what it signaled about Smart’s trust in veterans. Some former players even weighed in, calling the benching of Truss “disrespectful” to someone who had paid his dues and been a reliable contributor.

The debate has polarized the fanbase. Some support Smart’s willingness to evolve and reward competition. Others see it as unnecessary tinkering — a possible distraction for a team with national title ambitions.

Such meritocratic rhetoric has long been a hallmark of Smart’s coaching philosophy. He’s built Georgia into a perennial powerhouse by instilling a culture of relentless competition — no role is ever guaranteed.

Despite the internal shake-ups, Georgia remains undefeated heading into its next matchup — one that could see Smart etch his name into college football lore with his 100th win. But the road ahead is daunting. A tough SEC slate awaits, with Tennessee, Ole Miss, and Florida all presenting major tests.

If Georgia can regain its offensive rhythm and keep its defense stout, Smart may not just hit win No. 100 — he could position the Bulldogs for another title run. And if that happens, few will remember the Freeling vs. Truss debate. Winning has a way of silencing even the loudest critics.

All eyes now turn to the Bulldogs’ upcoming game, where history hangs in the balance. Will Smart reach the century mark and quiet the unrest with a statement win? Or will offensive uncertainty continue to fuel doubt among a fanbase that has grown accustomed to excellence?