Okay, let's look at this for a second.
When Richt took over the program the three seasons preceding had UGA with records of 8-4, 8-4, and 9-3.
When Smart took over the the program the three seasons preceding had UGA with records of 8-5, 10-3, and 10-3.
First off, a quick question. Which coach took over the program in better shape? 28 vs 25 wins. Richt, playing in an era where we had Spurrier in the east as well as a good Tennessee program. Kirby, on the other hand, with little to no competition in the East. Wouldn't you agree?
Now, we when look at their first three years in the program.
RICHT
2001: 8-4
2002: 13-1 (SEC #1)
2003: 11-3 (SEC #2)
2004: 5-1
SMART
2016: 8-5
2017: 13-2 (SEC #1)
2018: 11-3 (SEC #2)
2019: 5-1