Video review: G-Day in the trenches
Let's focus in on the action in the trenches for Georgia's spring game. Here are 10 video clips emphasizing the offensive line, the receiver blocking, and the defensive rush.
Isaiah Wilson versus Tae Crowder is a mismatch on anything other than a speed rush from the linebacker. Notice below how Wilson easily dismisses Crowder from impacting the play in the pocket.
On short yardage plays, offensive linemen simply need to open a spot. Solomon Kindley tries to chip and climb from his left guard position. This play happens so quickly that it can be difficult to correctly space the block, which is as much of a lunge. The result of Kindley not making contact with inside linebacker Monty Rice. Ben Cleveland also has a hard time getting to the speedy Nakobe Dean. Wilson on the other hand lays a defensive lineman flat on his back.
The play below displays the need of dynamic and smart running backs. The offensive line does not open a particular lane, but it still keeps D'Andre Swift away from contact. Charlie Woerner's fight is especially impressive, as is Trey Hill's. (Also watch Tyler Simmons, No. 87, at the top of the screen.)
Kearis Jackson, No. 10, is competing for playing time. His ability to block in space can separate him from the pack of receivers vying for the third spot. He does a great job of identifying the correct spot to engage in the block and turn his shoulders accordingly.
Conversely, Jackson fails to beat Mark Webb to the line of scrimmage on the video below. This becomes a busted play because Jackson is unable to ward off the blitzing defender. Jackson must become more consistent to ensure regular playing time.
An Achilles heel for Georgia's defense in 2018 was the inability to make a play when in the correct position. Jermaine Johnson (11) misses a tackling opportunity versus D'Andre Swift on this play after Woerner misses his block. Also notice how Isaiah Wilson and Ben Cleveland turn their shoulders parallel to the sideline. They are driving but stop and Tyler Clark (52) recovers to make the tackle.
When in doubt, Georgia runs behind Andrew Thomas (71). The likely 2020 first-round NFL draft pick will most often defeat his man and potentially help with another. Brian Herrien has a nice shuttle step to maximize his vision and hit the hole.
A successful blitzing scheme tests the decision-making of an offensive lineman. By the time Ben Cleveland engages in a block on the play below, Nakobe Dean is already at the quarterback, due to the missed block by Brian Herrien. In a perfect world, Cleveland is able to chip the rusher to allow Herrien and extra split second to engage in the block.
Herrien did pick up a block against the rush later in the game. Notice how Charlie Woerner's block forced the defender to take a slight roundabout path to the quarterback. That slight angle adjustment made for an easier block from the running back.
Isaiah Wilson has immensely improved his mobility since arriving in Athens. Linemen will get off balance in the SEC. It is a part of the game when battling other talented players. Wilson does everything he can to extend the protection while still staying in front of his defender. These extra milliseconds can be the difference in a sack and a first down.
