Kirby Smart proud of fans, proud of his team, ready for a four quarter showdown.

Kirby Smart met the press this afternoon following Georgia’s solid thumping of Arkansas State with good things to say about the mental makeup of his team and the big hearts of their fans. He also had some interesting things to say about:

• D’Andre Swift’s importance to the team not just as a runner, but as a leader. It’s not surprising to hear that the level-headed, mature Swift is taking his duties seriously.

• George Pickens’ exploits. Coach Smart continues to dampen praise for Pickens, who has in fact made some fantastic catches but remains an inconsistent blocker and route runner. It’s pretty clear Kirby doesn’t want the freshman to read his own press clippings, which is understandable given that the real college football hasn’t begun to be played yet.

• Some injury news on Tyler Simmons and Tyson Campbell. It sounds like the thinking is that Simmons could have played the rest of the game if needed. That’s good news given that the physical veteran will be needed next week against Notre Dame. I like the young guys, but they haven’t yet seen a defense as big and physical as the Fighting Irish.