In the first of our series examining Georgia's nine early enrollees, we'll start right at the top and focus on quarterback Justin Fields.
Fields was the top target for the Bulldogs' Class of 2018, and Kirby Smart shocked many by convincing the five-star performer to sign with the Red and Black.
The former Harrison High standout chose Georgia over a bevy of top programs, including Florida State and Auburn after originally de-committing from Penn State.
What is Georgia getting in Fields?
The Dawgs are getting two things: No. 1, a fine young man. No. 2, arguably the best quarterback from the entire class of 2018. At 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, Fields was coveted by basically every top program in the country before settling on the Bulldogs, despite the presence of Jacob Eason and Jake Fromm. As we witnessed in high school, Fields can do it all. Not only is he blessed with a talented right arm, but his ability as a runner is an aspect Georgia hasn't had a lot of in recent history. Fields will bring a different aspect to the Bulldog offense that was one of the best in the SEC last fall.
Rivals Southeast Regional Analyst Chad Simmons: “Obviously, he’s physically fit to play early and what he has is what the college game is going to—that's athleticism, a true dual-threat potential, the ability to run the ball and force a defense to scheme against his legs. When you have that as a weapon, it’s just an extra attribute to go with that strong arm."
What to expect:
A competitor: Yes, Jake Fromm is the starter after his wonderful freshman season, but Fields will be expected to come in and compete for the starting job. At the very worse, Fields will be Georgia's top backup at quarterback with the transfer of Jacob Eason to Washington, so he'll be expected to get ready just as soon as humanly possible. Look for Fields to adapt quickly before his debut at G-Day set for April 21 at Sanford Stadium.
Playing time prediction:
There's every reason to expect Fields to get at least some playing time his freshman year. No, we're not talking about a two-quarterback system, but perhaps some designed plays where the nimble Fields can take advantage of his running ability. Of course, Smart may—barring an injury to Fromm—decide to take his chances and shoot for a redshirt, although that seems the least likely avenue. We see him replacing the running backs in the Wild Dawg situations offensive coordinator Jim Chaney likes to run. Fields said as much in the past:
