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Player arrested for DUI
Five of Top Defensive Back Out against Clemson
Looks like trouble in paradise.
Five of Top Defensive Back Out against Clemson
Looks like trouble in paradise.
Georgia news
- Thread starter dawgball
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Other updates
Other updates
Offensive line article
Coaches like guards are lighter but faster
By MARK SCHLABACH
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Less could mean more for Georgia's interior offensive line this season.
New guards Josh Brock and Bartley Miller are considerably lighter than last year's starters -- Kevin Breedlove and Alex Jackson, who both weighed well over 300 pounds. But Bulldogs offensive line coach Neil Callaway says Brock and Miller fit the style of offense he likes to play.
"They're big enough," Callaway said. "I thought we might have been too big at guard last year. They're a little more athletic and can do some pulling. I feel good about them as long as they're healthy and able to play."
Brock, 6 feet 3 and 285 pounds, played in every game and made three starts as a freshman last season. The former Cartersville High star replaces Jackson at split guard after missing all of spring practice while recovering from a sprained left ankle.
Miller, 6-4 and 302 pounds, also played tight guard a lot as a freshman, but he missed all of spring practice after undergoing shoulder surgery. Miller was one of the nation's most recruited offensive linemen as a senior at the Marist School in Atlanta.
"I like [the guards]," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "They can really pull and hit on the run. Some guys just struggle with that. Some guys are bigger and are more inside guys. I don't know how well they'll hold up to bull rushes and things like that, but I think they're going to do well."
Miller said he enjoys pulling and not just staying inside, but admits Brock is a better player on the run.
"Coach Callaway recruited us because we can run and we're quicker," Miller said. "We're running some stuff where we're getting out in the open field and taking on linebackers one-on-one. We're spreading the field a little bit more."
Sophomore Russ Tanner replaces departed senior Ian Knight at center, and freshman Nick Jones is Tanner's backup. The backup guards -- walk-on Ryan Schnetzer from Newnan High and freshman Fernando Velasco from Jefferson County High -- have never played in a college game, either. Callaway says freshman tackle Ken Shackleford from Villa Rica High also could play this season.
"There's nobody in front of us anymore," Brock said. "It's either us or the people behind us. We think we can get the job done."
DEPTH CHART
Split tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
72 Daniel Inman 6-7 319 RFr. A nasty player with loads of potential
79 Ken Shackleford 6-5 306 Fr. He passed sophomore Roland for backup job
Split guard
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
60 Josh Brock 6-3 285 Soph. Brock played a lot as a freshman and runs well
52 Ryan Schnetzer 6-3 302 Soph. Freshmen have been unable to unseat walk-on
Center
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
50 Russ Tanner 6-4 296 Soph. Tanner needs to stay healthy and play tougher
70 Nick Jones 6-3 272 Fr. Coaches call him most polished of freshmen
Tight guard
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
73 Bartley Miller 6-4 302 Soph. A tough player who plays through shoulder pain
67 Reggie Weeks 6-4 292 Soph. Has fully recovered from serious knee injury
Tight tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
74 Max Jean-Gilles 6-4 339 Soph. The most talented lineman, struggles with heat
75 Fernando Velasco 6-4 319 Fr. "Bubba" can play guard or tackle
Other updates
Offensive line article
Coaches like guards are lighter but faster
By MARK SCHLABACH
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Less could mean more for Georgia's interior offensive line this season.
New guards Josh Brock and Bartley Miller are considerably lighter than last year's starters -- Kevin Breedlove and Alex Jackson, who both weighed well over 300 pounds. But Bulldogs offensive line coach Neil Callaway says Brock and Miller fit the style of offense he likes to play.
"They're big enough," Callaway said. "I thought we might have been too big at guard last year. They're a little more athletic and can do some pulling. I feel good about them as long as they're healthy and able to play."
Brock, 6 feet 3 and 285 pounds, played in every game and made three starts as a freshman last season. The former Cartersville High star replaces Jackson at split guard after missing all of spring practice while recovering from a sprained left ankle.
Miller, 6-4 and 302 pounds, also played tight guard a lot as a freshman, but he missed all of spring practice after undergoing shoulder surgery. Miller was one of the nation's most recruited offensive linemen as a senior at the Marist School in Atlanta.
"I like [the guards]," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "They can really pull and hit on the run. Some guys just struggle with that. Some guys are bigger and are more inside guys. I don't know how well they'll hold up to bull rushes and things like that, but I think they're going to do well."
Miller said he enjoys pulling and not just staying inside, but admits Brock is a better player on the run.
"Coach Callaway recruited us because we can run and we're quicker," Miller said. "We're running some stuff where we're getting out in the open field and taking on linebackers one-on-one. We're spreading the field a little bit more."
Sophomore Russ Tanner replaces departed senior Ian Knight at center, and freshman Nick Jones is Tanner's backup. The backup guards -- walk-on Ryan Schnetzer from Newnan High and freshman Fernando Velasco from Jefferson County High -- have never played in a college game, either. Callaway says freshman tackle Ken Shackleford from Villa Rica High also could play this season.
"There's nobody in front of us anymore," Brock said. "It's either us or the people behind us. We think we can get the job done."
DEPTH CHART
Split tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
72 Daniel Inman 6-7 319 RFr. A nasty player with loads of potential
79 Ken Shackleford 6-5 306 Fr. He passed sophomore Roland for backup job
Split guard
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
60 Josh Brock 6-3 285 Soph. Brock played a lot as a freshman and runs well
52 Ryan Schnetzer 6-3 302 Soph. Freshmen have been unable to unseat walk-on
Center
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
50 Russ Tanner 6-4 296 Soph. Tanner needs to stay healthy and play tougher
70 Nick Jones 6-3 272 Fr. Coaches call him most polished of freshmen
Tight guard
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
73 Bartley Miller 6-4 302 Soph. A tough player who plays through shoulder pain
67 Reggie Weeks 6-4 292 Soph. Has fully recovered from serious knee injury
Tight tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
74 Max Jean-Gilles 6-4 339 Soph. The most talented lineman, struggles with heat
75 Fernando Velasco 6-4 319 Fr. "Bubba" can play guard or tackle
Very good stuff. What amazes me is that Clemson lost last year by a FG in Athens and the Bulldogs were a very good team last year winning a BCS bowl. Now they are minus all these people plus some very solid seniors and now playing on the road. I think these pts. look very juicy to say the least. Your thoughts?
HORNS
HORNS
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Well, there is a reason why I am trying to only post news articles or other news that I hear elsewhere. I have a hard time differentiating between thoughts from the head and heart!
I don't feel that Clemson offers much. I would rank them right around Kentucky minus UK's QB. Even with the injuries, I feel that Georgia would beat Kentucky by a field goal.
My take is that I feel the line will probably be driven down to a playable number for the Bulldogs. As of right now, I don't think there is a good side.
I will try and post news on Clemson sometime.
I don't feel that Clemson offers much. I would rank them right around Kentucky minus UK's QB. Even with the injuries, I feel that Georgia would beat Kentucky by a field goal.
My take is that I feel the line will probably be driven down to a playable number for the Bulldogs. As of right now, I don't think there is a good side.
I will try and post news on Clemson sometime.
Clemson's special teams lost last year's UGA game. Clemson fans still suspect that Kopp was a double agent. Fortunately, Kopp is gone, and the new punter is supposed to be able to catch perfect snaps. Rodney Allison's replacement is now coaching punt and kick coverage (can't be worse than Allison's units). The bad news is Bowden's inept brother-in-law is now coaching punt protection.
At the line of scrimmage Clemson outplayed UGA last year, or at least held their own. The overall talent differential between the two teams is minimal. Clemson's inconsistent -- and sometimes dreadful -- performances after last year's opener are attributable to a season-ending injury to their best OL and a coaching staff that can't coach special teams, can't motivate the players, and can't keep them from quitting in the face of adversity. The coaching staff is often oblivious to the obvious. Despite Clemson's extremely talented QB and receivers, I do not have confidence that Bowden, Scott, and O'Cain will exploit the obvious problem the Dawgs have in this matchup.
At the line of scrimmage Clemson outplayed UGA last year, or at least held their own. The overall talent differential between the two teams is minimal. Clemson's inconsistent -- and sometimes dreadful -- performances after last year's opener are attributable to a season-ending injury to their best OL and a coaching staff that can't coach special teams, can't motivate the players, and can't keep them from quitting in the face of adversity. The coaching staff is often oblivious to the obvious. Despite Clemson's extremely talented QB and receivers, I do not have confidence that Bowden, Scott, and O'Cain will exploit the obvious problem the Dawgs have in this matchup.
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WR starts practice
WR starts practice
Roscoe Crosby
Crosby Reports for Practice
Tigers complete two-a-day workouts
Aug. 18, 2003
Clemson, SC - Clemson Wide receiver Roscoe Crosby reported to practice on Monday afternoon. It was his first practice for the Tiger football team since a spring practice in March of 2002. A starter in four games in 2001, he was a first-team USA Today All-American out of high school.
The Tigers worked twice on Monday ,the final day of two-a-day practices for the Tigers, who are preparing for an August 30 season opener against a top 10 (USA Today) Georgia team. Crosby did not practice in the morning as he was working on getting his academic schedule, taking a physical and getting fitted for his equipment, but worked out in shorts and a helmet in the afternoon.
The red-shirt sophomore from Buffalo, SC and Union High School must go through the NCAAs five day acclimatization period. He will not be able to put on full pads until the end of the week.
Head coach Tommy Bowden was pleased to have Crosby back on the football field. "He looked great in shorts and a helmet," Bowden quipped after practice. "He can't go against anyone else yet, but we are glad to have him with us. His mind is in the right place, we just don't know yet what he will be able to do because he has not been on the football field in a long time. He certainly has great potential, we saw what he could do as a first-year freshmen when he set some Clemson records.
Bowden was pleased with what he saw physically. "He reported in under 200 pounds. I think he played at over 200 two years ago, so he looks to be in good shape. I thought he might come in at 210 and it would take him a while to get to his proper weight, but he looks to be at a good weight."
Crosby was excited to be back on the field. "It feels great to be back, to be a part of a team again," said Crosby after practice. "I just want to go out and work hard and help this team any way I can. We already have some great receivers on this team, I just want to come in and compete and do what I can. I feel great, we will just have to see when I can get on the field and help the team. I felt accepted by my teammates."
Crosby was impressed with his teammates and commented on preseason All-America defensive back Justin Miller, who will defend him in practice. "I watched Clemson play last year and I was very impressed with Justin Miller. He is an outstanding cornerback who will be physical. He will make me a better player."
Crosby is also confident he can work with quarterback Charlie Whitehurst. "We worked a lot together two years ago because I was on the same team (second) when I first started. He is a terrific passer. I am looking forward to working with Charlie."
Bowden was pleased with the team's overall performance on a hot day. The Tigers will practice once on Tuesday afternoon. Clemson starts regular semester classes on Wednesday. The Tigers will hold an afternoon stadium scrimmage.
The Tigers suffered just one injury in the morning practice. Starting linebacker LeRoy Hill suffered a sprained ankle that is not serious. He was at practice running in a yellow jersey in the afternoon.
This will definitely improve Clemson's passing game. Has there been a positive occurrence for UGA in the last two weeks.
WR starts practice
Roscoe Crosby
Crosby Reports for Practice
Tigers complete two-a-day workouts
Aug. 18, 2003
Clemson, SC - Clemson Wide receiver Roscoe Crosby reported to practice on Monday afternoon. It was his first practice for the Tiger football team since a spring practice in March of 2002. A starter in four games in 2001, he was a first-team USA Today All-American out of high school.
The Tigers worked twice on Monday ,the final day of two-a-day practices for the Tigers, who are preparing for an August 30 season opener against a top 10 (USA Today) Georgia team. Crosby did not practice in the morning as he was working on getting his academic schedule, taking a physical and getting fitted for his equipment, but worked out in shorts and a helmet in the afternoon.
The red-shirt sophomore from Buffalo, SC and Union High School must go through the NCAAs five day acclimatization period. He will not be able to put on full pads until the end of the week.
Head coach Tommy Bowden was pleased to have Crosby back on the football field. "He looked great in shorts and a helmet," Bowden quipped after practice. "He can't go against anyone else yet, but we are glad to have him with us. His mind is in the right place, we just don't know yet what he will be able to do because he has not been on the football field in a long time. He certainly has great potential, we saw what he could do as a first-year freshmen when he set some Clemson records.
Bowden was pleased with what he saw physically. "He reported in under 200 pounds. I think he played at over 200 two years ago, so he looks to be in good shape. I thought he might come in at 210 and it would take him a while to get to his proper weight, but he looks to be at a good weight."
Crosby was excited to be back on the field. "It feels great to be back, to be a part of a team again," said Crosby after practice. "I just want to go out and work hard and help this team any way I can. We already have some great receivers on this team, I just want to come in and compete and do what I can. I feel great, we will just have to see when I can get on the field and help the team. I felt accepted by my teammates."
Crosby was impressed with his teammates and commented on preseason All-America defensive back Justin Miller, who will defend him in practice. "I watched Clemson play last year and I was very impressed with Justin Miller. He is an outstanding cornerback who will be physical. He will make me a better player."
Crosby is also confident he can work with quarterback Charlie Whitehurst. "We worked a lot together two years ago because I was on the same team (second) when I first started. He is a terrific passer. I am looking forward to working with Charlie."
Bowden was pleased with the team's overall performance on a hot day. The Tigers will practice once on Tuesday afternoon. Clemson starts regular semester classes on Wednesday. The Tigers will hold an afternoon stadium scrimmage.
The Tigers suffered just one injury in the morning practice. Starting linebacker LeRoy Hill suffered a sprained ankle that is not serious. He was at practice running in a yellow jersey in the afternoon.
This will definitely improve Clemson's passing game. Has there been a positive occurrence for UGA in the last two weeks.
Dawgball, keep checking here:
http://216.36.226.6/vip.htm
im constantly updating media sources all week , have about 260 more to go....
make sure too refresh the page for the latest version though...and keep refreshing cause sometimes in hangs in cyberspace.
http://216.36.226.6/vip.htm
im constantly updating media sources all week , have about 260 more to go....
make sure too refresh the page for the latest version though...and keep refreshing cause sometimes in hangs in cyberspace.
Thompson out with dislocated ankle
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Associated Press
ATHENS, Ga. -- Georgia defensive end Will Thompson, who had two sacks in the Sugar Bowl, is out for the season after undergoing surgery for a dislocated left ankle Wednesday.
Thompson, a 6-foot-3, 240-pound junior, was hurt Tuesday in practice when he tried to cut back during a running play.
Initially, it was thought that he would miss only four to six weeks. However, doctors found a broken fibula and ligament damage, requiring him to undergo surgery. Thompson will need four to six months to recover.
"He's a great example of how we want everyone to play,'' coach Mark Richt said. "Anytime you lose a guy like Will, you lose depth and a tremendous amount of experience and production.''
Thompson, who had 59 tackles and six sacks last season, is expected to make a full recovery and probably will be granted a medical redshirt, giving him two more years of eligibility.
The (No. 9 ESPN/USA Today, No. 11 AP) Bulldogs, who open the season Aug. 30 at Clemson, likely lost another player to a season-ending injury in Wednesday's practice. Receiver Cedric Haywood, a redshirt freshman who was vying for time at receiver and as a kick returner, apparently tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a kickoff drill.
The loss of Haywood hurts a position that already will be short-handed for the season opener. Mario Raley and Bryan McClendon were suspended for the first two games after being caught with marijuana in a campus dorm room.
Defensively, the Bulldogs are all banged up, too. Thompson is the third starter to go down in practice, joining safety Kentrell Curry (stress fracture in right leg) and tackle Ken Veal (ankle).
Curry could miss the first three games, while Veal is unlikely to play in the opener.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Associated Press
ATHENS, Ga. -- Georgia defensive end Will Thompson, who had two sacks in the Sugar Bowl, is out for the season after undergoing surgery for a dislocated left ankle Wednesday.
Thompson, a 6-foot-3, 240-pound junior, was hurt Tuesday in practice when he tried to cut back during a running play.
Initially, it was thought that he would miss only four to six weeks. However, doctors found a broken fibula and ligament damage, requiring him to undergo surgery. Thompson will need four to six months to recover.
"He's a great example of how we want everyone to play,'' coach Mark Richt said. "Anytime you lose a guy like Will, you lose depth and a tremendous amount of experience and production.''
Thompson, who had 59 tackles and six sacks last season, is expected to make a full recovery and probably will be granted a medical redshirt, giving him two more years of eligibility.
The (No. 9 ESPN/USA Today, No. 11 AP) Bulldogs, who open the season Aug. 30 at Clemson, likely lost another player to a season-ending injury in Wednesday's practice. Receiver Cedric Haywood, a redshirt freshman who was vying for time at receiver and as a kick returner, apparently tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a kickoff drill.
The loss of Haywood hurts a position that already will be short-handed for the season opener. Mario Raley and Bryan McClendon were suspended for the first two games after being caught with marijuana in a campus dorm room.
Defensively, the Bulldogs are all banged up, too. Thompson is the third starter to go down in practice, joining safety Kentrell Curry (stress fracture in right leg) and tackle Ken Veal (ankle).
Curry could miss the first three games, while Veal is unlikely to play in the opener.
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Getting ready to post a similar article ND. Thanks!
Linebacker and Depth Chart story
Special-teamer gets his turn at linebacker
By CHIP TOWERS
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Losing all three starting linebackers off last year's SEC championship team was already an issue for the 2003 Bulldogs. Then an injury in the secondary forced a position change and robbed Georgia of yet another talented linebacker.
But if the Bulldogs have grave concerns about the position heading in the Clemson game, they certainly aren't showing it.
"In my case, it's the break I've been waiting for," said Arnold Harrison, a fourth-year junior from Augusta. "I'm the elder statesman around here. I'm the oldest linebacker and probably the most seasoned in the program. I've been a backup the last three years. Now it's my turn."
Harrison, 6 feet 3 and 222 pounds, will start at strongside linebacker as a result of the attrition. He was originally listed No. 2 behind sophomore Thomas Davis. But injuries to Georgia's top two strong safeties forced coaches to move Davis back to the secondary, where he played much of last season.
That thrust Harrison into the spotlight, where Boss Bailey thrived last season.
"It's not that big of a deal," Harrison said. "I come out to practice every day expecting to be the starter. I expect to play regardless. The only difference now is they're going to call my name before the game."
Harrison appeared in nine games as a backup last season, recording 19 tackles and a sack. But he played on four of Georgia's six special-teams units -- punt, punt return, kickoff and kickoff return -- and is considered the Bulldogs' best special teams player.
One of the byproducts of Harrison starting is he has been relieved of his responsibilities on special teams, and "that's probably going to hurt us," coach Mark Richt said.
Harrison hopes to convince the coaches he has the conditioning to do both. If he had his preference, he'd be allowed to play on at least the punt team.
"We call it the pride team," Harrison said. "A blocked punt or a long return can change a game. I love having a part in that."
Harrison is the most outspoken of a young, brash linebacking corps that is eager to get its shot. Sophomore Odell Thurman returns from a brief stint at Georgia Military to take over at middle linebacker. And Tony Taylor, who played in all 14 games last year as a true freshman, succeeds Chris Clemons at weakside linebacker.
As a group, the linebackers share Harrison's personality.
"Boss and Tony [Gilbert] were kind of the quiet, serious types who led by example on the field," said defensive coordinator Brian Van Gorder. "These guys are a little more excitable."
DEPTH CHART
Weakside linebacker
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
43 Tony Taylor 6-1 223 Soph. Could have started even if Chris Clemons hadn't left
53 Derrick White 6-2 232 Soph. May be asked to help out at rush end, too
Middle linebacker
33 Odell Thurman 6-1 233 Soph. Could be All-SEC if he stays healthy
36 Des Williams 6-1 241 Fr. A lot like Tony Gilbert -- not very fast but makes tackles
Strongside linebacker
46 Arnold Harrison 6-3 222 Jr. He'll start until Thomas Davis returns from safety
42 Danny Verdun Wheeler 6-2 233 Fr. Probably most talented of rookie linebackers
Linebacker and Depth Chart story
Special-teamer gets his turn at linebacker
By CHIP TOWERS
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Losing all three starting linebackers off last year's SEC championship team was already an issue for the 2003 Bulldogs. Then an injury in the secondary forced a position change and robbed Georgia of yet another talented linebacker.
But if the Bulldogs have grave concerns about the position heading in the Clemson game, they certainly aren't showing it.
"In my case, it's the break I've been waiting for," said Arnold Harrison, a fourth-year junior from Augusta. "I'm the elder statesman around here. I'm the oldest linebacker and probably the most seasoned in the program. I've been a backup the last three years. Now it's my turn."
Harrison, 6 feet 3 and 222 pounds, will start at strongside linebacker as a result of the attrition. He was originally listed No. 2 behind sophomore Thomas Davis. But injuries to Georgia's top two strong safeties forced coaches to move Davis back to the secondary, where he played much of last season.
That thrust Harrison into the spotlight, where Boss Bailey thrived last season.
"It's not that big of a deal," Harrison said. "I come out to practice every day expecting to be the starter. I expect to play regardless. The only difference now is they're going to call my name before the game."
Harrison appeared in nine games as a backup last season, recording 19 tackles and a sack. But he played on four of Georgia's six special-teams units -- punt, punt return, kickoff and kickoff return -- and is considered the Bulldogs' best special teams player.
One of the byproducts of Harrison starting is he has been relieved of his responsibilities on special teams, and "that's probably going to hurt us," coach Mark Richt said.
Harrison hopes to convince the coaches he has the conditioning to do both. If he had his preference, he'd be allowed to play on at least the punt team.
"We call it the pride team," Harrison said. "A blocked punt or a long return can change a game. I love having a part in that."
Harrison is the most outspoken of a young, brash linebacking corps that is eager to get its shot. Sophomore Odell Thurman returns from a brief stint at Georgia Military to take over at middle linebacker. And Tony Taylor, who played in all 14 games last year as a true freshman, succeeds Chris Clemons at weakside linebacker.
As a group, the linebackers share Harrison's personality.
"Boss and Tony [Gilbert] were kind of the quiet, serious types who led by example on the field," said defensive coordinator Brian Van Gorder. "These guys are a little more excitable."
DEPTH CHART
Weakside linebacker
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
43 Tony Taylor 6-1 223 Soph. Could have started even if Chris Clemons hadn't left
53 Derrick White 6-2 232 Soph. May be asked to help out at rush end, too
Middle linebacker
33 Odell Thurman 6-1 233 Soph. Could be All-SEC if he stays healthy
36 Des Williams 6-1 241 Fr. A lot like Tony Gilbert -- not very fast but makes tackles
Strongside linebacker
46 Arnold Harrison 6-3 222 Jr. He'll start until Thomas Davis returns from safety
42 Danny Verdun Wheeler 6-2 233 Fr. Probably most talented of rookie linebackers
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Defensive Line Update
Defensive Line Update
Defensive line and depth chart
Dogs lose defensive end to ankle injury
By MARK SCHLABACH
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Georgia lost its third defensive starter for the Aug. 30 opener at Clemson when defensive end Will Thompson dislocated his right ankle in practice on Tuesday.
Thompson, from Warner Robins, is expected to miss at least six weeks, Bulldogs defensive coordinator Brian Van Gorder said. Thompson was injured midway through practice and was carted off the field. The results of X-rays weren't immediately available.
"It's part of the game," Van Gorder said. "One of the things we've really prided ourselves on at Georgia is we practice tough and at a high tempo. Sometimes you get [injuries]. They just seem to be coming in bunches now."
The Bulldogs also will be without starting safety Kentrell Curry (fractured leg) and defensive tackle Ken Veal (sprained ankle) in the Clemson game. Safety Greg Blue, who was slated to replace Curry, will miss six to eight weeks after tearing the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee last week. Three other defensive backs -- backup cornerbacks Tim Jennings and B.J. Fields and safety DeMario Minter -- are suspended from playing in the Clemson game.
Georgia coach Mark Richt said his team has responded as well as expected to the personnel losses.
"If you had been in some of our team meetings in the middle of camp last year, you would have thought the world was ending," Richt said. "We had seniors calling meetings, guys wanting to quit, guys saying we were too tough on them. The guys were down. But they were tougher mentally because of it, and I think these guys will be, too."
Richt better hope so. His defensive line appears as depleted as his team's secondary. Thompson had a career-high six sacks and 65 tackles last season, and was expected to play better this year after adding weight in the offseason. Junior Robert Geathers, the nephew of former Falcons pass rusher Jumpy Geathers, steps into a starting role, along with David Pollack, the 2002 SEC Player of the Year.
Georgia has only two other healthy defensive ends -- redshirt freshmen Quentin Moses and Marcus Jackson. Redshirt freshman Marquis "Mudcat" Elmore will miss four to six weeks with a sprained ankle, and redshirt freshman Preston Pannell hasn't fully recovered from surgeries on both shoulders. The coaching staff plans to redshirt rookie end Richard Cook of Washington-Wilkes High School, Van Gorder said.
"We have to get by with four [ends] right now," Van Gorder said. "That's not the ideal situation, but I don't see anybody else that we can play around with too much."
The injury news on Georgia's interior defensive line isn't much better. Besides Veal, backups Gerald Anderson (ankle) and Dale Dixson (concussion) could miss the Clemson game, defensive tackles coach Rodney Garner said. Sophomore Darrell Holmes is still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. Garner had moved Jackson inside on Tuesday, but he'll probably have to move back to end after Thompson's injury.
"We're just mixing and matching, trying to find a way to get it done," Garner said.
DEPTH CHART
Rush end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
47 David Pollack 6-3 279 Jr. More needed from All-American with injuries to others
94 Quentin Moses 6-5 249 RFr. Part-time basketball player needs to contribute
Defensive tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
51 Ray Gant 6-2 278 RFr. Injury to senior Ken Veal thrust him into starting role
98 Darrius Swain 6-2 304 Soph. Coaches have been unhappy with his work ethic
Defensive tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
97 Kedric Golston 6-4 295 Soph. More mobility after rod was removed from leg
54 Dale Dixson 6-2 280 RFr. Playing well until slowed by concussion
Buck end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
90 Robert Geathers 6-3 268 Jr. Without Will Thompson, Geathers needs to play well
44 Marcus Jackson 6-2 261 RFr. Norcross High graduate will play end and inside
Defensive Line Update
Defensive line and depth chart
Dogs lose defensive end to ankle injury
By MARK SCHLABACH
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Georgia lost its third defensive starter for the Aug. 30 opener at Clemson when defensive end Will Thompson dislocated his right ankle in practice on Tuesday.
Thompson, from Warner Robins, is expected to miss at least six weeks, Bulldogs defensive coordinator Brian Van Gorder said. Thompson was injured midway through practice and was carted off the field. The results of X-rays weren't immediately available.
"It's part of the game," Van Gorder said. "One of the things we've really prided ourselves on at Georgia is we practice tough and at a high tempo. Sometimes you get [injuries]. They just seem to be coming in bunches now."
The Bulldogs also will be without starting safety Kentrell Curry (fractured leg) and defensive tackle Ken Veal (sprained ankle) in the Clemson game. Safety Greg Blue, who was slated to replace Curry, will miss six to eight weeks after tearing the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee last week. Three other defensive backs -- backup cornerbacks Tim Jennings and B.J. Fields and safety DeMario Minter -- are suspended from playing in the Clemson game.
Georgia coach Mark Richt said his team has responded as well as expected to the personnel losses.
"If you had been in some of our team meetings in the middle of camp last year, you would have thought the world was ending," Richt said. "We had seniors calling meetings, guys wanting to quit, guys saying we were too tough on them. The guys were down. But they were tougher mentally because of it, and I think these guys will be, too."
Richt better hope so. His defensive line appears as depleted as his team's secondary. Thompson had a career-high six sacks and 65 tackles last season, and was expected to play better this year after adding weight in the offseason. Junior Robert Geathers, the nephew of former Falcons pass rusher Jumpy Geathers, steps into a starting role, along with David Pollack, the 2002 SEC Player of the Year.
Georgia has only two other healthy defensive ends -- redshirt freshmen Quentin Moses and Marcus Jackson. Redshirt freshman Marquis "Mudcat" Elmore will miss four to six weeks with a sprained ankle, and redshirt freshman Preston Pannell hasn't fully recovered from surgeries on both shoulders. The coaching staff plans to redshirt rookie end Richard Cook of Washington-Wilkes High School, Van Gorder said.
"We have to get by with four [ends] right now," Van Gorder said. "That's not the ideal situation, but I don't see anybody else that we can play around with too much."
The injury news on Georgia's interior defensive line isn't much better. Besides Veal, backups Gerald Anderson (ankle) and Dale Dixson (concussion) could miss the Clemson game, defensive tackles coach Rodney Garner said. Sophomore Darrell Holmes is still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. Garner had moved Jackson inside on Tuesday, but he'll probably have to move back to end after Thompson's injury.
"We're just mixing and matching, trying to find a way to get it done," Garner said.
DEPTH CHART
Rush end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
47 David Pollack 6-3 279 Jr. More needed from All-American with injuries to others
94 Quentin Moses 6-5 249 RFr. Part-time basketball player needs to contribute
Defensive tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
51 Ray Gant 6-2 278 RFr. Injury to senior Ken Veal thrust him into starting role
98 Darrius Swain 6-2 304 Soph. Coaches have been unhappy with his work ethic
Defensive tackle
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
97 Kedric Golston 6-4 295 Soph. More mobility after rod was removed from leg
54 Dale Dixson 6-2 280 RFr. Playing well until slowed by concussion
Buck end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
90 Robert Geathers 6-3 268 Jr. Without Will Thompson, Geathers needs to play well
44 Marcus Jackson 6-2 261 RFr. Norcross High graduate will play end and inside
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Receivers Update
Receivers Update
Receivers and Depth Chart
Athens -- Georgia football coach Mark Richt calls Reggie Brown his team's most physically gifted receiver. Bulldogs receivers coach John Eason, who coached seven All-America receivers at Florida State, says Brown has all the tools needed to become a great pass catcher.
Those are the type of compliments Brown has been getting ever since he left Carrollton High School in 1998, when he was hailed as the best high school receiver in the nation. Four years later, though, Georgia football fans are still waiting for Brown to live up to those expectations.
"Reggie has all the necessary tools," Eason said. "It's just a matter of confidence and Reggie believing in himself."
Brown, 6 feet 1 and 195 pounds, says he isn't worried about his shortcomings in the past. He was academically ineligible to play in 1999, after failing an English course in the second semester of his senior year at Carrollton. Brown played in 10 games in 2000 and caught only 13 passes, and then tore a knee ligament in the third game of 2001.
Last season, Brown seemed on the verge of breaking out. Georgia's coaches praised his work ethic in the offseason, and he had six catches in the first three games. Brown blocked a punt against Tennessee, and then had five catches in the Bulldogs' 52-24 win at Kentucky. But after he fumbled after a catch in a 20-13 loss to Florida, Brown seemed to lose his confidence and didn't have a catch in the next two games. He finished last season with 23 catches for 296 yards and two touchdowns.
"Reggie's too hard on himself," Eason said. "You're trying to keep him on an even keel and keep him motivated."
Brown has plenty of motivation this year. Terrence Edwards, the school's all-time leading receiver, graduated and left a big void in the passing game. Brown and seniors Michael Johnson and Damien Gary figure to become more frequent targets for quarterbacks David Greene and D.J. Shockley this season.
"I know Reggie's doing better than he was a year ago," Richt said. "He's much more consistent. That's what makes a good player a great player. He's always had the speed. He's always been able to catch it. Now, it doesn't even cross my mind that he's going to drop the ball. I just know he's going to make the play."
Brown says he's only looking toward his future.
"I don't want to think about the past," Brown said. "I can't dwell on what's happened in the past. I can't have regrets in my life. You can't live your life like that. You've got to let it go."
Georgia fans just want Brown to go forward.
DEPTH CHART
Split end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
25 Michael Johnson 6-3 220 Sr. Hero of last year's Auburn win must play big role
1 Reggie Brown 6-1 195 Jr. Team's most talented receiver could have big year
86 Cedric Haywood 6-1 183 RFr. Macon native has been a big surprise
Flanker
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
82 Fred Gibson 6-4 196 Jr. Gibson added weight to become a better blocker
18 Damien Gary 5-10 178 Sr. Gary has fully recovered from leg injury
36 Bryan McClendon 5-11 172 Soph. McClendon and Mario Raley will play a lot
Tight end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
89 Ben Watson 6-3 255 Sr. Top-rated tight end in early NFL draft grades
84 Robert Brannon 6-4 245 Sr. Moved to linebacker and then back to tight end
87 Martrez Milner 6-4 255 Soph. Former West Hall High star is tight end of future
Receivers Update
Receivers and Depth Chart
Athens -- Georgia football coach Mark Richt calls Reggie Brown his team's most physically gifted receiver. Bulldogs receivers coach John Eason, who coached seven All-America receivers at Florida State, says Brown has all the tools needed to become a great pass catcher.
Those are the type of compliments Brown has been getting ever since he left Carrollton High School in 1998, when he was hailed as the best high school receiver in the nation. Four years later, though, Georgia football fans are still waiting for Brown to live up to those expectations.
"Reggie has all the necessary tools," Eason said. "It's just a matter of confidence and Reggie believing in himself."
Brown, 6 feet 1 and 195 pounds, says he isn't worried about his shortcomings in the past. He was academically ineligible to play in 1999, after failing an English course in the second semester of his senior year at Carrollton. Brown played in 10 games in 2000 and caught only 13 passes, and then tore a knee ligament in the third game of 2001.
Last season, Brown seemed on the verge of breaking out. Georgia's coaches praised his work ethic in the offseason, and he had six catches in the first three games. Brown blocked a punt against Tennessee, and then had five catches in the Bulldogs' 52-24 win at Kentucky. But after he fumbled after a catch in a 20-13 loss to Florida, Brown seemed to lose his confidence and didn't have a catch in the next two games. He finished last season with 23 catches for 296 yards and two touchdowns.
"Reggie's too hard on himself," Eason said. "You're trying to keep him on an even keel and keep him motivated."
Brown has plenty of motivation this year. Terrence Edwards, the school's all-time leading receiver, graduated and left a big void in the passing game. Brown and seniors Michael Johnson and Damien Gary figure to become more frequent targets for quarterbacks David Greene and D.J. Shockley this season.
"I know Reggie's doing better than he was a year ago," Richt said. "He's much more consistent. That's what makes a good player a great player. He's always had the speed. He's always been able to catch it. Now, it doesn't even cross my mind that he's going to drop the ball. I just know he's going to make the play."
Brown says he's only looking toward his future.
"I don't want to think about the past," Brown said. "I can't dwell on what's happened in the past. I can't have regrets in my life. You can't live your life like that. You've got to let it go."
Georgia fans just want Brown to go forward.
DEPTH CHART
Split end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
25 Michael Johnson 6-3 220 Sr. Hero of last year's Auburn win must play big role
1 Reggie Brown 6-1 195 Jr. Team's most talented receiver could have big year
86 Cedric Haywood 6-1 183 RFr. Macon native has been a big surprise
Flanker
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
82 Fred Gibson 6-4 196 Jr. Gibson added weight to become a better blocker
18 Damien Gary 5-10 178 Sr. Gary has fully recovered from leg injury
36 Bryan McClendon 5-11 172 Soph. McClendon and Mario Raley will play a lot
Tight end
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
89 Ben Watson 6-3 255 Sr. Top-rated tight end in early NFL draft grades
84 Robert Brannon 6-4 245 Sr. Moved to linebacker and then back to tight end
87 Martrez Milner 6-4 255 Soph. Former West Hall High star is tight end of future
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Running Backs Update--this is our weak point, IMO
Running Backs Update--this is our weak point, IMO
RBs and Depth Chart
Athens -- Georgia running back Tony Milton knows he isn't Musa Smith.
"Musa's tall. I'm a little shorter," Milton said. "Musa's heavy. I'm a little lighter."
But if Milton comes anywhere near Smith's production from a year ago, Georgia's coaches will be more than satisfied. Milton, a sophomore from Tallahassee, faces the unenviable task this season of replacing Smith, who last season became Georgia's first 1,000-yard rusher in 10 years.
"Milton's more of a slasher," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "I think you'd have to say Musa's faster. But they're both tough runners. I've got a lot of confidence in Milton."
After Smith bolted for the NFL draft a year early, Milton inherited the starting tailback job. Georgia fans got a brief look at what Milton could do last season. His 25-yard run in the fourth quarter sealed the Bulldogs' 18-13 victory over No. 9 Tennessee. And, after Smith hurt his thumb against Vanderbilt, Milton got his first start against Kentucky, rushing for a career-high 78 yards on 18 carries in Georgia's 52-24 win.
Milton, 5 feet 10 and 200 pounds, finished last season with 314 yards on 82 rushes, averaging a modest 3.8 yards per carry.
Richt hopes Milton is as durable as Smith was last season. Milton says he was bothered by a stress fracture in his leg and bruised ribs for much of last season. Before that, shoulder surgery and a hamstring injury prevented him from contributing sooner.
"He's had a good camp," Richt said. "He's looked as healthy as he has since he's been here. I think he feels that way, too. He's a little quicker than normal."
Georgia certainly needs Milton to stay healthy. Of the Bulldogs' top three backup tailbacks - freshman Kregg Lumpkin, redshirt freshman Michael Cooper and junior Ronnie Powell - only Powell has run the ball in a college game. He carried 11 times for 28 yards last season. Sophomore Tyson Browning ran 23 times for 111 yards and one touchdown last year, but he's suspended for the first three games.
Milton won't be the only new starter in the backfield. Junior Jeremy Thomas, who played in seven games last season, replaces departed senior J.T. Wall, who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Thomas carried four times for four yards last season.
Milton hasn't been asked to carry the load since 1998, when he was a senior at North Florida Christian School. He rushed for more than 5,000 yards and 77 touchdowns in high school, but he was out of football for more than two years after failing to qualify academically. Now, he's almost back to where he always thought he'd be.
"It's every kid's dream to be the running back at a big college," Milton said. "I'm almost there, but I'm not there yet."
Depth chart
Running back
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
9 Tony Milton 5-10 200 Soph. Has shown flashes of production, but must become a 20-carry guy.
5 Michael Cooper 5-11 223 RFr. Has a lot of talent, but endurance is a concern.
28 Kregg Lumpkin 6-1 200 Fr. Talented freshman slowed by hamstring injury.
Fullback
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment 41 Jeremy Thomas 5-11 249 Jr. Most Improved running back award during spring practice.
35 Chris Hickman 5-11 248 RFr. Former Cobb County athlete of the year.
Running Backs Update--this is our weak point, IMO
RBs and Depth Chart
Athens -- Georgia running back Tony Milton knows he isn't Musa Smith.
"Musa's tall. I'm a little shorter," Milton said. "Musa's heavy. I'm a little lighter."
But if Milton comes anywhere near Smith's production from a year ago, Georgia's coaches will be more than satisfied. Milton, a sophomore from Tallahassee, faces the unenviable task this season of replacing Smith, who last season became Georgia's first 1,000-yard rusher in 10 years.
"Milton's more of a slasher," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "I think you'd have to say Musa's faster. But they're both tough runners. I've got a lot of confidence in Milton."
After Smith bolted for the NFL draft a year early, Milton inherited the starting tailback job. Georgia fans got a brief look at what Milton could do last season. His 25-yard run in the fourth quarter sealed the Bulldogs' 18-13 victory over No. 9 Tennessee. And, after Smith hurt his thumb against Vanderbilt, Milton got his first start against Kentucky, rushing for a career-high 78 yards on 18 carries in Georgia's 52-24 win.
Milton, 5 feet 10 and 200 pounds, finished last season with 314 yards on 82 rushes, averaging a modest 3.8 yards per carry.
Richt hopes Milton is as durable as Smith was last season. Milton says he was bothered by a stress fracture in his leg and bruised ribs for much of last season. Before that, shoulder surgery and a hamstring injury prevented him from contributing sooner.
"He's had a good camp," Richt said. "He's looked as healthy as he has since he's been here. I think he feels that way, too. He's a little quicker than normal."
Georgia certainly needs Milton to stay healthy. Of the Bulldogs' top three backup tailbacks - freshman Kregg Lumpkin, redshirt freshman Michael Cooper and junior Ronnie Powell - only Powell has run the ball in a college game. He carried 11 times for 28 yards last season. Sophomore Tyson Browning ran 23 times for 111 yards and one touchdown last year, but he's suspended for the first three games.
Milton won't be the only new starter in the backfield. Junior Jeremy Thomas, who played in seven games last season, replaces departed senior J.T. Wall, who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Thomas carried four times for four yards last season.
Milton hasn't been asked to carry the load since 1998, when he was a senior at North Florida Christian School. He rushed for more than 5,000 yards and 77 touchdowns in high school, but he was out of football for more than two years after failing to qualify academically. Now, he's almost back to where he always thought he'd be.
"It's every kid's dream to be the running back at a big college," Milton said. "I'm almost there, but I'm not there yet."
Depth chart
Running back
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
9 Tony Milton 5-10 200 Soph. Has shown flashes of production, but must become a 20-carry guy.
5 Michael Cooper 5-11 223 RFr. Has a lot of talent, but endurance is a concern.
28 Kregg Lumpkin 6-1 200 Fr. Talented freshman slowed by hamstring injury.
Fullback
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment 41 Jeremy Thomas 5-11 249 Jr. Most Improved running back award during spring practice.
35 Chris Hickman 5-11 248 RFr. Former Cobb County athlete of the year.
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And finally our strong suit--QBs
And finally our strong suit--QBs
QB story
Athens -- Joe Tereshinski III is the forgotten man in Georgia's crowded quarterback picture. Forgotten, that is, by everyone but those who see and work with him every day.
"Joe has come a long way," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "The thing I see in him that will make him a great player is how tough he is. He's got courage and he stands up there in [the pocket] and just dares somebody to hit him."
A lot of that courage has to do with Tereshinski's physique. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound redshirt freshman is built as much like a linebacker or tight end as he is a quarterback and shares that on-field mentality. And while not as fast as No. 2 quarterback D.J. Shockley or as big as starter David Greene (6-3, 230), he's almost like a combination of the two, running a 4.7-second 40-yard dash and benching 355 pounds, tops among the signal callers.
Such physical characteristics were part of the coaching staff's reasoning in enlisting Tereshinski on special teams. He will be the up-back on the No. 1 punting team and is a backup long snapper.
"He's still a quarterback, but he's such a good athlete, we needed to find a way to get him on the field," quarterbacks coach Mike Bobo said. "He's big and he's strong. That's why he's on special teams."
Tereshinski's presence on special teams should not be interpreted as a precursor to an eventual position change, his coaches stressed. In fact, they're hopeful he'll be able to take some snaps at quarterback this season.
"I'm just trying to be versatile," Tereshinski said. "But I want to play quarterback. It's in my heart. I feel like I'm a natural leader and I can fill a role there. It's something I've grown up doing."
Said Bobo: "He's in a good situation right now. He's good enough to play, but in a position where he can continue to get better. We try to get him some reps in practice, and hopefully he'll get some snaps some games."
Tereshinski is a third-generation Bulldog from Athens. His father, video and strength and conditioning coordinator Joe Tereshinski Jr., was the starting center on the Bulldogs' 1976 SEC championship team. His grandfather, Joe Sr., played on their 1942 and 1946 championship teams.
But signing with Georgia was not an automatic for Tereshinski. He seriously considered offers to play at Auburn and Stanford and, an exceptional student, almost accepted admission to Harvard.
"When I got that call, it stopped me in my tracks," he said of the Ivy League invitation. "I thought about it a couple of days. But I knew I wanted to play football and I knew I wanted to play at Georgia."
If the Bulldogs' quarterback situation holds to form, it could be Tereshinski's senior season before he takes over as full-time starter. It would take an injury to either Greene or Shockley, or one of them leaving early for the NFL, for Tereshinski to have a clear shot before then. To that, Tereshinski says, "I'm patient."
Says his father: "He knows he has a future at quarterback and there'll be opportunities down the road. He's the No. 3 quarterback. [Richt and Bobo] know he's two plays from being the starter and one play from being in the rotation. He'll be ready when they need him."
And finally our strong suit--QBs
QB story
Athens -- Joe Tereshinski III is the forgotten man in Georgia's crowded quarterback picture. Forgotten, that is, by everyone but those who see and work with him every day.
"Joe has come a long way," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "The thing I see in him that will make him a great player is how tough he is. He's got courage and he stands up there in [the pocket] and just dares somebody to hit him."
A lot of that courage has to do with Tereshinski's physique. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound redshirt freshman is built as much like a linebacker or tight end as he is a quarterback and shares that on-field mentality. And while not as fast as No. 2 quarterback D.J. Shockley or as big as starter David Greene (6-3, 230), he's almost like a combination of the two, running a 4.7-second 40-yard dash and benching 355 pounds, tops among the signal callers.
Such physical characteristics were part of the coaching staff's reasoning in enlisting Tereshinski on special teams. He will be the up-back on the No. 1 punting team and is a backup long snapper.
"He's still a quarterback, but he's such a good athlete, we needed to find a way to get him on the field," quarterbacks coach Mike Bobo said. "He's big and he's strong. That's why he's on special teams."
Tereshinski's presence on special teams should not be interpreted as a precursor to an eventual position change, his coaches stressed. In fact, they're hopeful he'll be able to take some snaps at quarterback this season.
"I'm just trying to be versatile," Tereshinski said. "But I want to play quarterback. It's in my heart. I feel like I'm a natural leader and I can fill a role there. It's something I've grown up doing."
Said Bobo: "He's in a good situation right now. He's good enough to play, but in a position where he can continue to get better. We try to get him some reps in practice, and hopefully he'll get some snaps some games."
Tereshinski is a third-generation Bulldog from Athens. His father, video and strength and conditioning coordinator Joe Tereshinski Jr., was the starting center on the Bulldogs' 1976 SEC championship team. His grandfather, Joe Sr., played on their 1942 and 1946 championship teams.
But signing with Georgia was not an automatic for Tereshinski. He seriously considered offers to play at Auburn and Stanford and, an exceptional student, almost accepted admission to Harvard.
"When I got that call, it stopped me in my tracks," he said of the Ivy League invitation. "I thought about it a couple of days. But I knew I wanted to play football and I knew I wanted to play at Georgia."
If the Bulldogs' quarterback situation holds to form, it could be Tereshinski's senior season before he takes over as full-time starter. It would take an injury to either Greene or Shockley, or one of them leaving early for the NFL, for Tereshinski to have a clear shot before then. To that, Tereshinski says, "I'm patient."
Says his father: "He knows he has a future at quarterback and there'll be opportunities down the road. He's the No. 3 quarterback. [Richt and Bobo] know he's two plays from being the starter and one play from being in the rotation. He'll be ready when they need him."
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Defensive Backs
Defensive Backs
DBs and depth chart
Defensive backs key for Dogs early on
By MARK SCHLABACH
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Defensive backs often have been called a football team's last line of defense. For Georgia cornerbacks Bruce Thornton and Decory Bryant, they're beginning to feel like they're all that's left.
In the past week, Georgia lost starting strong safety Kentrell Curry and backup Greg Blue to injuries. Curry probably will miss at least the first two games with a fractured right fibula; Blue is out longer than that with torn knee ligaments. Although starting free safety Sean Jones returns, the Bulldogs had to move outside linebacker Thomas Davis back to strong safety to replace Curry and Blue.
At least Bryant's and Thornton's presence in the secondary gives coach Mark Richt some solace.
"They're good players and they're good leaders," Richt said.
The senior cornerbacks will have to do a lot of leading in the first two games -- at Clemson on Aug. 30 and against Middle Tennessee State at home on Sept. 6. In addition to Blue and Curry, the Bulldogs will be missing backup cornerbacks Tim Jennings and safety DeMario Minter, who are suspended for the first two games. Cornerback B.J. Fields is suspended for the first game.
"I just feel like we've got to step up and help lead this defense," Bryant said. "People are getting injured, but the people backing them up are going to have to be prepared. We'll get the job done."
Georgia's coaching staff didn't always know if Thornton could do the job. The former LaGrange High School star played running back as a redshirt freshman in 2000, rushing for 230 yards and three touchdowns. He moved to cornerback before the Oahu Bowl later that season, and then got a baptism by fire as a sophomore.
Thornton was beaten for the game-winning touchdown in the final two minutes of a 14-9 loss to South Carolina, his second game at the position, and struggled with his confidence the rest of the 2001 season. Eventually, he lost his starting job to Bryant.
But last season, with a year of experience in the secondary, Thornton blossomed into a solid cover man. He was third on the team with seven pass breakups and had two interceptions, including one he returned 71 yards for a touchdown in the Bulldogs' 26-13 win over Florida State in the Sugar Bowl.
"It was like learning from your mistakes," Thornton said. "It was trial and error. Now, I understand the position and what it takes to be good. I'm just learning and trying to get better and better."
Secondary coach Willie Martinez said he now knows he can count on Thornton.
"He had a couple of plays where he was in great position but didn't make the plays," Martinez said. "Now, he's making those plays."
If both players stay healthy, they could become NFL draft prospects.
"They've been in a lot of wars for us," Martinez said. "We know what they can do and what they should do."
DEPTH CHART
Cornerback
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
22 Decory Bryant 5-11 191 Sr. Emerged as one of the SEC's best cover men
15 Kenny Bailey 5-11 197 Sr. The last of Folkston's Bailey clan for a while
Cornerback
7 Bruce Thornton 5-11 194 Sr. Silenced most of his critics last season
26 Mike Gilliam 5-7 183 Fr. Converted RB battling rookie Thomas Flowers
Rover
10 Thomas Davis 6-1 228 Soph. Will start until Kentrell Curry and Greg Blue return
39 Olaolu Sanni-Osomo 6-1 212 RFr. Can't wait for Larry Munson to pronounce this name
Free safety
6 Sean Jones 6-2 212 Jr. Has knack for making big plays
24 Tre Battle 5-11 173 Fr. Walk-on from Collins Hill plays until DeMario Minter returns
Defensive Backs
DBs and depth chart
Defensive backs key for Dogs early on
By MARK SCHLABACH
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Staff Writer
Athens -- Defensive backs often have been called a football team's last line of defense. For Georgia cornerbacks Bruce Thornton and Decory Bryant, they're beginning to feel like they're all that's left.
In the past week, Georgia lost starting strong safety Kentrell Curry and backup Greg Blue to injuries. Curry probably will miss at least the first two games with a fractured right fibula; Blue is out longer than that with torn knee ligaments. Although starting free safety Sean Jones returns, the Bulldogs had to move outside linebacker Thomas Davis back to strong safety to replace Curry and Blue.
At least Bryant's and Thornton's presence in the secondary gives coach Mark Richt some solace.
"They're good players and they're good leaders," Richt said.
The senior cornerbacks will have to do a lot of leading in the first two games -- at Clemson on Aug. 30 and against Middle Tennessee State at home on Sept. 6. In addition to Blue and Curry, the Bulldogs will be missing backup cornerbacks Tim Jennings and safety DeMario Minter, who are suspended for the first two games. Cornerback B.J. Fields is suspended for the first game.
"I just feel like we've got to step up and help lead this defense," Bryant said. "People are getting injured, but the people backing them up are going to have to be prepared. We'll get the job done."
Georgia's coaching staff didn't always know if Thornton could do the job. The former LaGrange High School star played running back as a redshirt freshman in 2000, rushing for 230 yards and three touchdowns. He moved to cornerback before the Oahu Bowl later that season, and then got a baptism by fire as a sophomore.
Thornton was beaten for the game-winning touchdown in the final two minutes of a 14-9 loss to South Carolina, his second game at the position, and struggled with his confidence the rest of the 2001 season. Eventually, he lost his starting job to Bryant.
But last season, with a year of experience in the secondary, Thornton blossomed into a solid cover man. He was third on the team with seven pass breakups and had two interceptions, including one he returned 71 yards for a touchdown in the Bulldogs' 26-13 win over Florida State in the Sugar Bowl.
"It was like learning from your mistakes," Thornton said. "It was trial and error. Now, I understand the position and what it takes to be good. I'm just learning and trying to get better and better."
Secondary coach Willie Martinez said he now knows he can count on Thornton.
"He had a couple of plays where he was in great position but didn't make the plays," Martinez said. "Now, he's making those plays."
If both players stay healthy, they could become NFL draft prospects.
"They've been in a lot of wars for us," Martinez said. "We know what they can do and what they should do."
DEPTH CHART
Cornerback
No. Name Ht. Wt. Class Comment
22 Decory Bryant 5-11 191 Sr. Emerged as one of the SEC's best cover men
15 Kenny Bailey 5-11 197 Sr. The last of Folkston's Bailey clan for a while
Cornerback
7 Bruce Thornton 5-11 194 Sr. Silenced most of his critics last season
26 Mike Gilliam 5-7 183 Fr. Converted RB battling rookie Thomas Flowers
Rover
10 Thomas Davis 6-1 228 Soph. Will start until Kentrell Curry and Greg Blue return
39 Olaolu Sanni-Osomo 6-1 212 RFr. Can't wait for Larry Munson to pronounce this name
Free safety
6 Sean Jones 6-2 212 Jr. Has knack for making big plays
24 Tre Battle 5-11 173 Fr. Walk-on from Collins Hill plays until DeMario Minter returns
