Jul 20, 2022; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart talks to the media during SEC Media Days at the College Football Hall of Fame. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Georgia HC Kirby Smart defends QB Stetson Bennett at SEC Media Days

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 7/20/22

If there was a common theme for Georgia during SEC Media Days this week, it's that quarterback Stetson Bennett gets no respect.

Head coach Kirby Smart said as much about the national championship-winning signal-caller when he addressed the press on Wednesday.

"Stetson's one of the least-respected good players there is in this country," Smart said while at the podium for the Media Days festivities. "People just keep doubting him, and that's fine with me."

"Stetson's one of the least respected good players there is in this country...people just keep doubting him and that's fine with me." - Kirby Smart on Georgia QB Stetson Bennett #SECMD22 pic.twitter.com/cgY8tGmoQw
— The Next Round (@NextRoundLive) July 20, 2022

It's hard to imagine Bennett not getting enough respect after the stellar 2021 season he had. The former walk-on started every game for the Bulldogs, throwing for 2,862 yards with 29 touchdowns and a 64.5 percent completion rate. He also rushed for 259 yards and a touchdown.

But apparently, Smart isn't the only person who thinks Bennett isn't getting his due. Former Georgia tight end and retired NFLer Benjamin Watson told SEC Network he also doesn't think Bennett is recognized as much as he should be.

.@BenjaminSWatson says put some respect on Stetson Bennett's name @GeorgiaFootball

"When is or will Stetson Bennett ever get the respect he deserves as an SEC quarterback?" pic.twitter.com/CnMG73gIEW
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) July 20, 2022

Bennett responded when Smart's comments were relayed back to him, saying he knows he has his coach's respect and is just focusing on being a good football player.

On Kirby Smart calling Stetson Bennett one of the "the least respected good players" in the country, he asked to hear the question 3 times.

"I just wanted to hear the compliment," Bennett says, laughing.

"That's super nice. I appreciate it. My worry is just about being good." pic.twitter.com/9ADstxw5IR
— Sarah K. Spencer (@sarah_k_spence) July 20, 2022

UGA defeated top-ranked Alabama 33-18 at Lucas Oil Stadium last January to win the program's first championship in 41 years. They are currently ranked No. 1 in the AP poll ahead of next season.

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