Georgia moved inside as the team continues preparations for Texas. The intensity was up today and both the coaches and players seem ready to head to New Orleans. Here are my observations from Friday’s practice.
Offense Report
— Justin Fields was out there practicing like normal with the team. The quarterbacks worked on a footwork drill and did their usual throwing drills.
— No James Cook still. This absence is likely an injury. However, that running back group looked in shape to me. Both Elijah Holyfield and D’Andre Swift looked healthy and ready to tote the rock. Dell McGee had the backs work with the chute, so they’ll stay low and protect the ball.
— Jim Chaney told his group today, “Got work to do today guys! 3rd downs and red zone.” Then the group proceeded to work through their usual blocking drills. Isaac Nauta looked impressive and was one of the only ones that made the bag pop. No Luke Ford as expected, but he is still supposed to travel to New Orleans with the team.
— Clay Webb, in my opinion, doesn’t look like a freshman. Yes, he needs some work in the weight room, but as impressive as this strength staff is, it won’t take Webb long. He still has No. 60 on and was rotating with Lamont Gaillard and Trey Hill when I watched the offensive line.
Defense Report
— Still no Jordan Davis at practice, but that is expected if he is hurt.
— Head coach Kirby Smart worked directly with the secondary during the periods we were out there. In fact, he broke up the secondary into two groups, one with him and one with grad assistant, Bacarri Rambo.
— Both Smart and Rambo had the defensive backs work on high point balls. Before that, they worked on wrapping up on tackles. Otis Reese rocked his opponent’s world when it was his turn to go. When those pads hit, it gave me chills. Reese is one I’m really excited to see grow this offseason.
— Divaad Wilson wore No. 5 today instead of his usual 16.
— DL coach Tray Scott worked his group through various formations that they might see against Texas.
— One thing I noticed about the defense is how hands-on every single coach is with their positions. Glenn Schumann and Dan Lanning both physically showed their players what they wanted out of each drill. Scott and Smart as well. I like seeing the coaches go out there and be that passionate about their coaching. It’s impressive to watch and makes it much more fun to watch and understand.