Next Man Up... But Who's Next???
The Georgia-Kentucky game this past weekend was a bit of a offensive snoozefest. But not everyone got out of the game unscathed. Numerous defensive dawgs were helped off the field due to various of injuries. Leading the list of injured dawgs is Preseason All-American Safety Richard LeCounte, who was actually in an traffic incident after returning from Lexington Saturday early evening.
LeCounte reportedly suffered riob and shoulder injuries along with a concussion. LeCounte is certainly out this weekend and possibly out a few weeks. Others who suffered injuries during the game, Julian Rochester (Knee/ACL), Jordan Davis (Elbow), Quay walker (Shoulder), and Lewis Cine (Ankle). Walker and Cine are said to be "fine", but the others are day-to-day or out (Rochester). A reminder WR George Pickens and RB Kenny McIntosh both missed the game in Lexington due to injuries...
So the questions begs to be asked, who's the next man up? Well, Coach Kirby Smart's relentless recruiting will be tested this weekend in a big way against the Florida Offense, who is averaging 40+ ppg. The following players will be asked to step up in a big way against the Florida gators and quite possibly the remainder of the season:
Next Man Up (Defense):
*Malik Herring - Herring is already a lynch pin on the defensive line for the Dawgs. Herring was a big backfield disruptor last season against the Gators and will be asked to probably play more inside than he's accustomed to.
Jalen Carter (DT)- Carter's talents can not be denied. From suiting up as a true freshman against SEC competition to getting time on offense in goal line situations. Carter, who spurned the Gators during recruiting will now be asked to wreck havoc in the gators backfield.
Devonte Wyatt (DT)- With Rochester mostly playing running downs, Wyatt will need to man some time on both passing and running downs. Wyatt is an unsung hero on the defensive line and will have the chance to have his name heard a lot on Saturday.
Christopher Smith (S): Smith has been playing a good bit in backup roles during the 2020 season. With LeCounte likely out, Smith (Junior) will look to fill that void and have the task of stopping TE Kyle Pitts.
Mark Webb (DB): Webb may be the dawgs most versatile dawg with his size and speed. Look for Webb to draw the assignment of Pitts when put out in the slot or in passing downs as Webb hsa the size to take on the All-American Tight End.
Others who could see increased Playing Time:
*LB Channing Tindall
*DL Warren Brinson