The triple option is probably the least favorite offensive attack among defensive coordinators.

Scheming to stop it a notoriously headache-inducing, and this week that task falls to Kirby Smart and the rest of Georgia’s defensive staff as they prepare to face Georgia Tech. During the SEC Coaches Teleconference on Wednesday, Smart discussed how much time the Bulldogs spend gameplanning for coach Paul Johnson’s triple option in the offseason, months before they’ll see it in a live game.

Smart touched on a few other subjects during the teleconference, and you can check out his responses below. No. 5 Georgia (10-1) hosts the Yellow Jackets (7-4) in their annual rivalry game at noon ET on Saturday.

On Georgia Tech’s offense:

  • They have two QBs that are rushing it. It’s pretty obvious they think of these guys as rushers. They get them on the perimeter.

Thoughts on LSU DC Dave Aranda:

  • Great coordinator, always has been. He brings more variety of the 3-4 defense to the SEC. There have been many copycats of his system since he came to the league.

What did LSU do to you that worked so well?

  • I honestly don’t know. I’m focused on Tech.

How much time in the offseason do you prep for GT?

  • Quite a bit. We visit other places (that run the option) to give our players a feel for it, our scout team a chance to see it in action, and we spend two or three days in camp preparing for it.

On the leadership of this team:

  • Some guys have larger roles off the field, and vice versa. They have done a good job from distinguishing themselves from last year. Many of the leaders on this team are younger players.

Monty Rice’s status?

  • Doubtful, doesn’t look good.

On OL Ben Cleveland’s status:

  • He has practiced every day, looking good there.