Like last year, the Georgia defensive line is transitioning having lost a key players to the draft in Jalen Carter, Nolan Smith, and Robert Beal (Jordan Davis, Devonte Wyatt, and Quay Walker the year prior). Now as we wait to see the next guys step up, Coach Smart tells us that it’s the veteran d-lineman setting the standard for the new guys coming in and that team is finding a lot of value in that.

“Yeah, that’s what they do. They set the standard,” Smart’s response when asked on the impact of having guys like Zion Logue, Tramel Walthour, and Nazir Stackhouse.

The defensive lineman room is very top and bottom heavy in terms of age. There’s plenty of vets and young bucks, but not a lot in between. There are literally no true juniors on the defensive line. It’s just seniors and underclassmen, so it’s vital that the older guys set the standard Kirby preaches about. 

But whatever it is they got going on, fifth-year senior Zion Logue is convinced that it’s impressive saying that the first, second, and third teams on the d-line could “go to any school in the country and play.” And that’s credit to Tray Scott, who actually got his start at UT Martin coaching defensive line.

There’ll be plenty of names finally getting a chance in the spotlight, and a couple of guys emerging into their own this season. Logue alongside the aforementioned Tramel Walthour and Nazir Stackhouse are some seniors to keep an eye on. And at the younger end of the spectrum (not including Preseason All-SEC Mykel Williams) are Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (RS Sophomore), Christian Miller (RS Sophomore), Jah Jarrett (Freshman).

There’s plenty of unproven talent in that room. All of them are just waiting for an opportunity. Luckily enough there should be plenty of being heavily favored playing against UT Martin this Saturday. Expect some BIG things from the big guys in the trenches come game day.