Kirby Smart is off to assume his dream job as head coach at Georgia, and he had a few things to say before leaving for Athens.

Smart, an assistant under coach Nick Saban during his entire tenure in Tuscaloosa, is a former Georgia defensive back and has always been interested in coaching his alma mater.

“It’s an honor and privilege to return home to the University of Georgia and my home state,” Smart said in a release. “I’m deeply appreciative of the faith President Morehead, Greg McGarity, and the Athletic Board Executive Committee have demonstrated in asking me to lead one of the truly great college football programs in the country. I also want to thank Coach Saban. I have been fortunate to spend 11 seasons with him as my mentor and have learned a tremendous amount from him as a coach and teacher.

“I’m honored and excited for the opportunity at Georgia and promise high energy, effort every day, and hard work every minute on the part of all our coaches, staff and student-athletes.”

The exact terms of the contract were not released.

According to multiple Crimson Tide players, Smart is expected to stay with Alabama through the playoffs.