Creator: Todd Kirkland | Credit: Getty Images

Just a short year ago, Kirby Smart was being praised for his revitalizing of the Georgia Football program. A school that hadn’t won a National Championship in 40+ years had won back-to-back titles. But now? It seems as if we hear more about the off the field drama than the actual accomplishments on the field for the Bulldogs.

Much like Saul Goodman from the timeless “Breaking Bad” universe, Smart is protecting his clients (players) at all costs even if their actions may be unethical. During the beginning seasons of “Better Call Saul”, ‘Jimmy’ falsifies the documents of his brother to help his girlfriend’s legal career. His brother seeks to destroy Goodman’s career from the top down, similar to how the media and fanbases call for action against Smart’s program right now.

Despite warning signs from within his life about protecting his criminal clients, or in Kirby’s case his players, he continues to do so until his ultimate downfall. Saul is forced to live a new life, away from everything he loves, from everything he has built. The millions don’t matter when your reputation is ruined, and you can’t show your face in the light of day.

If Kirby is to right the wrongs of his past and move forward with his program, he must take control. Players cannot be allowed to get away with the unethical parts of their lives. Just three days ago, WR Rara Thomas was arrested and suspended following his charge with cruelty to children. The response to the situation by Smart was the right one as he immediately suspended Thomas. This is a step in the right direction as too many of the current and former Bulldogs have not been held accountable for their actions.

There is an obvious culture issue.

The Sad Reality

The sad reality of the situation is the lack of accountability from the Georgia football program. If Smart is not careful, his desire to protect his players will lead to his personal downfall. His reputation will be tarnished. He will be forced out of “The House that Kirby Built.” All of his titles and aspirations will be for nothing and but a distant memory.

This is Athens, not Albuquerque.