Georgia has been without DT Trenton Thompson and LB Roquan Smith this spring, which has hampered the progression of the defense.

However, second-year head coach Kirby Smart is not exactly thrilled with what he’s seeing from everyone else on that side of the ball thus far.

According to OnlineAthens.com, Smart sounded off on the lack of improvement from the defense so far through the spring practice session:

“This defense has not taken on its true identity yet,” Smart said. “I don’t think they’re sensitive to criticism because they get criticized at practice. I can assure you of that, but we’re not playing where we need to be. The offense is playing more physical than us. I call it like I see it. They can watch the tape. They know.”

Smart continued, saying the defensive line has been especially disappointing. He did note, however, that it’s tough to tell how physical players are when they’re also trying their best not to injure their teammates:

“I don’t know if we’re playing softer up front or we’re more physical on the offensive line,” Smart said. “I don’t know which one that is because it’s hard to tell when you go against yourself all the time.”

The Bulldogs still have a couple of weeks to right the ship before their spring game, which is scheduled for April 22.

But, if Smart doesn’t start seeing more improvement soon, it sounds like the defense could be in for a long day that Saturday.