Stetson Bennett (QB, #13)
For Georgia to have success, Stetson Bennett will need to regain his confidence after a tough outing against Alabama. Many might blame him for the loss because of his three interceptions against the Crimson Tide, but the loss doesn’t fall solely on him. Hopefully the bye week gave Bennett time to work on things and improve. Against the Crimson Tide, he had some shining moments, especially that 82-yard touchdown pass to James Cook. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken should dial more plays that cater to Bennett’s mobility to get him out of the pocket. If Bennett can’t get the job done, then look for either D’wan Mathis or JT Daniels to get the call. Daniels has been cleared to play and has been running the scout team offense for the past few weeks.
Kendall Milton (RB, #22)
Georgia freshman running back Kendall Milton definitely deserves more carries, especially against a weak Kentucky defense. Through the first four games, the California native has racked up 134 yards on 21 carries (6.4 ypc). He’s second on the team in rushing and has Georgia’s longest run of the season for a 24-yard gain, which came against Alabama. His carries have increased as the season has progressed. Milton is a very versatile back and displays explosive speed when given the opportunity. He’s a workhorse and has the stability to play more downs.
Jermaine Burton (WR, #7)
As the season progresses, freshman wide receiver Jermaine Burton has become more of a weapon in Georgia’s offense. Burton has started the first four games of his collegiate career and has made some impressive plays so far. Against Tennessee, Burton had the team’s longest rush on a 43-yard reverse where he displayed his true speed. At 6-0, 195-pound, Burton is a little undersized, but that doesn’t stop him from being able to get open. Even though he’s run some routes this season, Burton is still learning to get adjusted to the next level. He had an impressive performance against Alabama despite the dropped touchdown pass. Georgia matches up against Kentucky’s defenders well, and this is a great chance for Burton to have a breakout game.
Monty Rice (ILB, #32)
Georgia senior inside linebacker Monty Rice is one of the best at his position in the country. Through his first four games, Rice leads the team in tackles with 21. His individual performance against Tennessee was his most impressive to date. In that game, he led the team with eight tackles and had a strip-sack on Vols’ quarterback Jarrett Guarantano, after which he picked up the fumble and scored. Rice is one of the leaders on this defense alongside fellow senior Richard LeCounte. The Huntsville, Alabama native was named to the preseason watch list for the Butkus Award as well as the All-SEC Second Team. Look for Rice to be a key of Georgia’s defense in trying to stop Kentucky running back Kovisoey Smoke.
Adam Anderson (OLB, #19)
Georgia junior outside linebacker Adam Anderson is one of the team’s most efficient pass rushers. Anderson has played extensively in every game this season and has been a dominant force in the defense’s pass rush. Through the first three games, Anderson ranked second on the team with nine quarterback pressures. Kentucky has one of the best offensive lines in the SEC, but that shouldn’t stop Anderson from being able to get into the backfield. Anderson doesn’t receive a ton of snaps because Georgia’s defense is so deep, but he makes them count while he’s on the field. Throughout his career at UGA, he’s been mostly used on third downs and for plays when pressure is desired.
Quay Walker (ILB, #25)
Alongside Anderson, Walker has been part of the silent majority of the Georgia defense that’s been dominating opponent’s backfields. The 6-0, 240-pound inside linebacker has been a key part of Georgia’s defense against the run this season. He’s also not receiving enough credit for his accomplishments, so he’s definitely a player to watch throughout the rest of the year. Flying under the radar, the Cordele, Georgia native had three quarterback pressures against Auburn. He also had five tackles against Tennessee and helped the defense hold the Vols to just -1 rushing yards. As mentioned before, the Bulldogs’ defense has a lot of depth, but Walker finds his way onto the field in special situations.