When asked about Vanderbilt’s quarterback situation Bulldogs’ senior defensive back J.R. Reed (20) seemed confident that the defense will adjust properly to whoever the Commodores start.
“Once we figure out who their quarterback we’ll move forward,” said Reed at Monday’s press interviews. “We really don’t know yet about the two different quarterbacks, but we’re going to prepare for them like last year.”
Reed’s teammates have added during press conferences that they are ready to see him line-up against another opponent other than a Georgia wide receiver. And this year’s opening matchup is odd for the Bulldogs because they rarely ever open up on the road, and especially against an SEC opponent.
“I actually love opening up against a conference opponent on the road,” Reed said. “You know it’s SEC, it’s here and it is right in your face. So you have to attack it, and let the other (younger) guys know that the season is here and it’s time to go.”
Reed also added that he thinks the defense is ready, and when asked about pressure he said: “pressure is privilege.” He thinks that it’s just going to be another game. Reed also mentioned that the coaches have been preaching a lot about havoc rate and that he expects it to happen. One freshman that has been causing havoc during fall camp is freshman ILB Nakobe Dean, and Reed commented on his abilities.
“Nakobe is just so fast,” Reed said. “That’s his biggest strength is that he is so fast. He is a smart kid as a freshman and has learned the defense really for his year. That’s what really makes a difference about him.”
Vanderbilt returns tight end Jared Pinkney, who caught 50 passes for 744 receiving yards and hauled in 7 touchdowns last season. Pinkney was voted First Team All-SEC during this preseason, and it will be a huge test for the Bulldogs’ defense to shut him down.
They also return wide receiver Kalija Lipscomb, who was a deep threat for the Commodores last year. Lipscomb finished his 2018 campaign with over 900 yards receiving.
It will be a true test for the Bulldogs’ defense if they can shut down the Commodores receiving arsenal. Last year, Deandre Baker shutdown Pinkney, but this year could be a different story. It will be a true early test for the Bulldogs’ talented secondary.
“The expectations are really high. We have a lot of depth, and competition brings out the best in all of us. A lot of guys can play, and a lot of freshmen can play early, and a lot of guys that have been here will play. So I think everyone is playing at their highest level.”
The bar is set high for Kirby Smart’s team as they travel to Nashville this weekend. The Georgia Bulldogs take on the Vanderbilt Commodores on August 31st, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. EST.
Here is the interview from J.R. Reed: