Kirby Smart and Ryan Day highlight Year 6 success for coaches

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 31, 2026, 9:11 AM

Last updated Jul 31, 2026

Kirby Smart and Ryan Day highlight Year 6 success for coaches
Summary

Coaches Kirby Smart and Ryan Day experienced significant success in Year 6 at Georgia and Ohio State, respectively, culminating in national championships. This trend raises discussions about the importance of patience for program development in college football. Other coaches entering their sixth seasons include Steve Sarkisian at Texas, who is expected to compete for a title, and Josh Heupel at Tennessee, who is not currently viewed as a contender. Meanwhile, Shane Beamer at South Carolina faces pressure after a disappointing season, while Clark Lea at Vanderbilt shows promise with a strong roster and playoff contention last season.

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By the Numbers
  • Smart and Day's championships occurred in their sixth seasons.
  • Sarkisian is poised for potential title contention with Texas.
  • Heupel's tenure at Tennessee sees consistent winning seasons.
  • Beamer's job security is in question after a 4-8 season.
  • Lea's Vanderbilt shows improvement with playoff aspirations.
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  • 9:11 AMYahoo SportsKirby Smart, Ryan Day and the curious power of college football's Year 6
What they're saying
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If six is indeed the magic number, come on down and join the winner's circle, Steve Sarkisian.

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