CJ Stroud, Kirby Smart recall Georgia’s recruitment of QB out of high school

CJ Stroud is gearing up for the biggest game of his Ohio State career. But, if things had gone slightly differently, he could be on the other side of Friday’s Peach Bowl matchup.

Ahead of the game against Georgia, Stroud recalled being recruited by Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs out of high school. A 4-star member of the 2020 recruiting class, Stroud’s final commitment came down to Ohio State and Georgia.

Stroud said on Tuesday he had a great recruitment with the Bulldogs and believes there is mutual respect from both parties. However, Stroud admits he is glad he became a Buckeye.

C.J. Stroud being recruited by UGA: “I had a great recruitment with Georgia… They were respectful. I enjoyed my time there. I have respect for them, and I think they have respect for me.”

He said OSU finished first and UGA second. “It was close, but I’m glad where I went.”

— Chase Brown (@chaseabrown__) December 27, 2022

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During Monday’s press availability, Smart also recalled his recruitment of Stroud. The head coach of the Bulldogs recalled being impressed by Stroud’s mother and said the QB has a very level disposition.

Smart went on to say he’s impressed with how Stroud has matured personally and praised the QB as a complete player in Ohio State’s system.

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart on what he remembers from recruiting C.J. Stroud a few years ago pic.twitter.com/UWzgk2dC99

— Griffin Strom (@GriffinStrom3) December 26, 2022

We’ll see who comes out on top Saturday, but Stroud has a chance to burn one of the top programs that recruited him out of high school.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.