Georgia finished SEC play with a perfect 8-0 record for the first time ever. Now, it is time to grade the Dawg Bones categories so far this season.
OFFENSE – It has not always been smooth for Georgia’s offense but they are still handling opponents. They are only seventh in the SEC in yards but jump up to second in the conference in the points per game category, averaging over 38 per game. Over the past two weeks, the Bulldogs have combined for nearly 1,000 yards of offense. They have weapons at all positions and it seems like the offensive line is still getting better. GRADE: A-
DEFENSE – This is a historically good defense with handfuls of guys that will go on to play in the NFL. They are ranked second-best in the nation in total defense and have been absolutely outstanding at stopping the run this year. Tennessee opened the game by driving on the Bulldogs and scoring, but after that Georgia found a way to shut down the Volunteers. They have only allowed 69 points through 10 games – that is incredible. There is not really a weakness on defense either; Georgia has gotten solid play from each position on defense. GRADE: A+
SPECIAL TEAMS – If you listen to Kirby Smart and Georgia players talk about special teams, you will know how seriously they take it. Georgia has not returned a kick or punt for a touchdown this year but they have been solid in coverage. They have also blocked two punts, one resulted in a safety and the other in a touchdown. Jake Camarda has been one of the best punters in the country. Placekicker Jack Podlesny has shaken off an inconsistent start and has now made 16 of his 20 field goal attempts this season. The Bulldogs’ special teams unit has been good, but there is room to improve. GRADE: B+
COACHING – Kirby Smart proved early in his Georgia tenure that he is an elite recruiter. What he has proved this year is that he is an elite talent-developer and coach as well. Smart has surrounded himself with coaches that fit what he wants to do at Georgia both on the field and culturally. Defensive coordinator Dan Lanning and offensive coordinator Todd Monken will be head coaching candidates because of the job they have done this season. GRADE: A
OVERALL – There is a reason that this team is the unanimous No. 1 team in college football and the only undefeated Power 5 team left. Led by a dominant defense and an efficient offense, this is probably the best team Kirby Smart has ever had in Athens. The competition will get a lot tougher in the next few weeks when the SEC Championship rolls around so it is important that the Dawgs do not get complacent. At this point, it is national title or bust for a team and a school that has waited a long time to call themselves national champions again. GRADE: A