This weekend’s Georgia vs. Kentucky game has an intriguing storyline. Two former Georgia Bulldogs, quarterback Brock Vandagriff and linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson, now suit up for the Wildcats after being part of Georgia’s roster just last year. In a Wednesday SportsCenter appearance, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart reflected on Vandagriff’s decision to enter the transfer portal.
“It was very light-hearted. He understood. He had already told us that if Carson [Beck] came back, he’d likely look to play somewhere else,” said Smart. “He was very professional about it.”
Vandagriff stayed with Georgia longer than most in his position might have. A 2021 recruit, he spent two seasons behind Stetson Bennett, then remained on the roster even after Carson Beck was named the starter. Once Beck confirmed he was returning, Vandagriff made the choice to transfer, seeking playing time elsewhere with two years of eligibility remaining.
“I didn’t want it to be hard for him,” Smart continued. “When he sat in my office, I told him I loved him and that he had done a tremendous job. He thanked us for everything, said how much better he’d become, but knew it was time to go and play.”
Vandagriff, who graduated from Georgia, left on good terms and still holds a deep affection for the Bulldogs. Having played high school football near campus, he never started for Georgia but contributed to the program’s success. Smart credited him for leaving the team in a better place than when he arrived.
“He was emotional because he loves Georgia,” Smart added. “He graduated, won two national championships, and helped make Georgia better.”
Though Vandagriff will now face off against his former teammates in a different uniform, it’s clear there’s still mutual respect, making Saturday’s game all the more compelling.
