When Nick Chubb and Sony Michel made the decision to return for their senior campaign as Bulldogs, Georgia was assured of some preseason notice. The last publication to jump on the bandwagon is Bleacher Report with a number one ranking.
The backs: This isn’t simply a two-man show, but Nick Chubb and Sony Michel are two of the nation’s best runners. Together, they’ve accumulated 5,835 yards in three years. Georgia also has Brian Herrien, Elijah Holyfield and 4-star D’Andre Swift in reserve.
The breakdown: Chubb deserves the plurality of carries, and the Bulldogs will be happy to oblige. However, they needn’t overwork the senior. Michel should receive double-digit touches per game, and Herrien proved his merit last season. Holyfield might have a small role, though Swift is probably a year away from notable contributions.
Why they’re here: Two years ago, Chubb was a leading contender for the Heisman Trophy before an injury derailed his pursuit. Michel, a steady backup throughout his career, stepped in and crested the 1,000-yard mark. And then when he missed time in 2016, Herrien averaged 6.8 yards over a five-game sample. When one player goes down, Georgia has a star ready to take over.