A national championship existed for both Richt and Smart. Kirby managed to get to his and Richt did not. The margin of separation isn't great for their first 3 years, but Kirby is marginally better due to his recruiting and championship appearance. Kirby played 7 ranked teams in 2017 with 4 of those being against top 10 opponents, while Richt played 6 ranked teams in 2002 with 1 top 10 opponent. No matter how you cut it Smart's 2017 year was better. Both coaches had a great first 3 years, but Kirby took his team further than any Richt team by making the National Championship. If you can show me a Richt team that was closer to winning a natty, I'll admit I'm wrong. If not, then you should do the same.