Opinion: Spitballing on the Dawgs ahead of Saturday's game

Just a few random thoughts as I get ready to head south for what, if my math is right, is the 21st Georgia-Florida game I’ll have witnessed in person.

Where has the time gone?

Anyway, allow me to spitball on all things Bulldog for just a little bit.

…This is a huge game for Kirby Smart. He and his assistant coaches have had two weeks to prepare for this one, and I’m extremely interested in seeing what kind of adjustments and changes have been made. This game is going to tell us a lot. If Georgia can rise to the occasion, there’s hope for the rest of the year. If not … I don’t even want to go there.

…The players seem ready, but I thought the same last year, as well, and we all remember what happened.

…On paper, this is a scary game for Jacob Eason. Florida has the best secondary in the SEC and one of the best in the country, and I’m just not sure how much success he’s going to have throwing the ball on the perimeter. That said, I can see Isaiah McKenzie having a huge game in the slot as well as Isaac Nauta putting up some big numbers at tight end.

…Yes, I’ve been scratching my head when it comes to the Bulldog offense. I’ll preface this by saying I’m certainly no coach. I know Smart wants to play a smash-mouth style of football, but it makes no sense why you don’t try spreading out the offense a bit more than is being done now until you get the pieces in place that will allow you to play that way.

…Play Solomon Kindley.

…Regardless of what happens the rest of the year, I don’t think Georgia’s future is as bleak as some think, especially on defense, where Maurice Smith is the only senior currently starting. I love Georgia’s young defensive line, and Natrez Patrick and Roquan Smith next season, imo, are going to be the best pair of inside backers in the SEC. The Dawgs need some more help at outside linebacker and in the secondary, but those needs should be filled with the upcoming signing class. I can’t wait to see what Richard LeCounte brings next year.

…Don’t be surprised if Davin Bellamy turns pro after this year.

…Just a guess, but I expect both Nick Chubb and Sony Michel to turn pro after this year. If so, don’t worry. D’Andre Swift and Toneil Carter I believe will be more than adequate replacements and, along with Brian Herrien and Elijah Holyfield, Georgia’s running attack will be just fine next fall.

…Fret not about Eason. The experience he’s getting now is going to pay HUGE dividends next year. He’s got to get more help at wide receiver, but again, look for that to be addressed with the upcoming signing class.