2025 has unfortunately begun on a very sombre note. An abhorrent tragedy has struck New Orleans, with aftershocks reverberating across to the CFB realm. A vehicle ran over an unassuming, celebratory crowd of people in the early hours of January 1st on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter.  At least 15 fatalities have been reported, with a horde of others injured and/or critical. This is being investigated as an act of terror. Amidst safety concerns and unequivocally more important affairs taking precedence, The Sugar Bowl was postponed a day. Concurrently, Kirby Smart and his family are further distressed by circumstances pertaining to his father, Sonny Smart.

Georgia and Notre Dame are bestowed an opportunity to alleviate some pain and sorrow off NOLA and dissipate stress through some football. Kirby Smart will himself fall in that category after Sonny had to be rushed to the hospital after a hard fall in front of his New Orleans hotel. As an elder statesman of the sport as well as a revered figure across the country, Shannon Sharpe offered words of solace in the backwash of the attack.

Unc Shannon took to his Nightcap platform to speak directly to the people affected. “I know sometimes it’s really hard for you to try to wrap your mind around some things that are so senseless,” he said. Shannon proceeded to offer some advice to NOLA natives. “I would encourage you to be very vigilant but not be afraid. Go about your normal life. Because that’s what terrorist cowards try to do. They try to put you in fear for your normal everyday activities.” He proceeded to speak about how things like this are often transcendent to anything controllable.

“I can only imagine receiving the news that some people received…I do, sincerely in all my heart, believe there is a higher power and a higher being. Everything is not meant for us here to understand. But I do believe sunshine follows rain,” he said.

Some very profound words indeed. In a more tangible bit of inspiration, Shannon reminded New Orleans of the adversity it’s overcome in the past. “I know you’re mourning. I know you’re hurting. But just know, you’re strong. Think about what you’ve already overcome from Katrina and a lot of other things that have happened in that city. You’re built for this. We’re built for this, and like all things, we’ll get through this.”

The last bit can very easily translate over to Kirby Smart’s predicament. As if leading his troops into the Sugar Bowl wasn’t enough of a burden. His duress has exponentially increased because of the 2 horrible circumstances that have transpired. In the wake of the news about Sonny Smart, fans took to social media to permeate power to the Smart clan.

The CFB sphere sends love to Kirby Smart and his father ahead of the Sugar Bowl

Responding to a post on X relaying the news about Sonny Smart, one person wrote, “Coach Sonny and his wife have made many hard choices and had to make sacrifices in order to make the very best for all their children and family. I believe it’s all a good husband and father can be measured by! Hope for & except a speedy recovery to this minor setback.” Sonny is a former coach himself and probably the biggest reason CFB has one of its best in Kirby Smart. He’s almost omnipresent at Georgia games.

“Prayers to our good Lord to heal Mr. Smart and for him to feel better!” wrote another person. One fan put the flurry of unfortunate circumstances into perspective. “Prayers for Sonny, family and Kirby. You’re right, between the Sugar Bowl, Transfer Portal, and recruiting. Now he’s got to worry about his Dad.  Praying for him as well.” The entire Georgia team was under stringent lockdown after news of the attack surfaced.

One fan perhaps encapsulated the consensus feeling best. “This has been an awful start to 2025 all around.  Get well soon, Sonny Smart. Stay safe, everyone in NOLA. And Go Dawgs.” The last 3 words are resounding. In moments of adversity, sports have the power to bring solace to the masses.

Let’s hope the city of New Orleans can find some respite with the Sugar Bowl while keeping the overarching context front and center.