Smart , the former defensive coordinator at Alabama , was hired shortly after Georgia fired longtime coach Mark Richt .
Was n't able to take over right away , staying with the Alabama   through Alabama 's victory in the national championship game .
Smart , the former defensive coordinator at Alabama , was hired shortly after Georgia fired longtime coach Mark Richt but was n't able to take over right away , staying with the Crimson Tide through their victory in the national championship game .