Offensive Player

Nate Frazier, Jr.- The expectations for the No. 1 running back coming out of Mater Dei High School in 2023 were realized Saturday as the Bulldogs featured Frazier in the backfield. Boy, did Frazier deliver in typical UGA tailback fashion. Nate had a total offensive output of 107 yards both on the ground and in the air. 83 yards on 11 carries complemented by 24 yards in the air. Nate is a true threat both on the ground and as a receiver. He has a ways to go to fulfill his expectations, but his work ethic and ability to be coached by an unbelievable offensive staff gives Nate a great opportunity to be a great tailback.

Defensive Player

Jalon Walker- The junior linebacker out of North Carolina set a personal best six tackles versus the Clemson Tigers in the AFLAC Kickoff Game. Walker is just as impressive off the field as he is on the field and that is the reason he is considered a leader on our defense. Jalon had three solo tackles and three assists, which were complemented by 1.5 sacks and 1.5 tackles for a loss. Clemson had to run the ball in order to be competitive with the Bulldogs and the Bulldogs defense, led by Jalon Walker, delivered a great defensive performance, limiting the Clemson Tigers to just 17 yards in the second quarter. That left a mark on those Tigers. It also made the statement the Bulldogs are here to play and Clemson found out the hard way. Jalon let them know that with his actions, not words.

Special Team Player

Payton Woodring – The sophomore kicker picked up where he left off in 2023 with a perfect performance against the Clemson Tigers. Payton provided all of the Bulldogs scoring in the first half with two clutch field goals. The second field goal was the longest field goal for the Bulldogs since Rodrigo Blankenship’s 55-yard Rose Bowl bomb. Payton‘s bomb had a different color attached to it as it exploded the orange Tiger world. Payton has become an offensive weapon for the Bulldogs and he will play a huge role in the success of the 2024 Georgia Bulldogs.

Unsung Hero of the Game

 Arian Smith – As we start this season, there are a few questionable positions for the Bulldogs. With the loss of Brock Bowers and Ladd McConkey, the Bulldogs need to find a go-to receiver and I think the Dawgs accomplished that with Arian Smith. The senior wide receiver from Bradley, Florida made the most of his opportunities against the Tigers. When we needed to gain yards, we targeted Arian five times, and he delivered with five receptions for 56 yards. Arian did not stop there as he turned in an aggressive downfield blocking performance that complements the ground attack. For that, Arian Smith is my Unsung hero for the AFLAC Kickoff Game.