Kirby Smart is amped for annual Cocktail Party matchup against Florida

Rivalries are one of the best things about college football. Whether the two teams facing off against each other are even on paper or if one appears to be significantly better than the other, you never truly know what is going to happen.

This year's edition of the Cocktail Party falls more into the latter category as Georgia football is No. 2 in the country and Florida is a measly 4-3. But with Florida showing signs of improvement the last few weeks, that has just increased the excitement level for this game.

Kirby Smart shares in the excitement for this game, which is something he discussed in a recent press conference.

"Yeah, our guys are excited about the opportunity to go play in Jacksonville," Smart said via uga.rivals.com. "Always a very tough game, physical game. And it's unique obviously because of the 50-50 stands and always a different experience. It’s a great atmosphere for college football when you look at the two teams tailgating and having so many people. But it'll be an extremely tough test. I feel like Florida's been playing as good as any team in the SEC right now the last few weeks.”

Kirby Smart looking forward to unique atmosphere in Jacksonville

One of the better parts of this game is that it is always played at a neutral site in Jacksonville. It is one of the few times each season that Georgia gets to play in front of a neutral crowd, which is something they shouldn't take for granted.

It's clear that Georgia's expectations are to win an SEC and National Championship every season. And in order to do either, they have to win games in front of a neutral crowd. And while Georgia fans are rowdy and can impact the game even at a neutral location, it doesn't compare to the level of disruption they bring at Sanford Stadium. So this game is always a great test to see how Georgia does in an environment that will mirror future postseason games.

Moving past all of that however, it is clear that Smart and his team are extremely excited to face Florida this weekend. Teams always appear more excited to get back on the field after their bye week, so it is very obvious to say that both teams will be more than excited for this game considering both teams are coming off a bye and immediately entering a rivalry game.