Offensive Player
Ladd McConkey – Ladd McConkey works harder than Juan Valdez’ donkey. Ladd not only attacked Mississippi State by the air, but his fleet feet and smooth moves helped Georgia jump to a 7-0 lead after his 70-yard sprint to open the game. Not only did Ladd attack the Bulldogs on the ground, but his five receptions for 71 yards brought his average per touch against Mississippi State to a cool 23.5. With is two TDs in Starkville, plus his sure hands on punt returns, Ladd certainly is in talks for the Bulldogs’ offensive MVP of this year. Now the fun begins … let’s ride Ladd McConkey UGA‘s super donkey to the championship.
Defensive Player
Jalen Carter – To have Jalen back at this time in the season is invaluable. The senior from ApopKa,Florida stands 6-3, 300-pound and he truly is an athlete on the field. Maybe for the first time this season he was full strength against Mississippi State and his athletic ability shined. Seven tackles with two solos a sack and 1.5 tackle for loss and one hurry, pretty much explains why he will be one of the top three picks in the NFL draft. His presence on the front line enables our linebackers to scrape untouched and make tackle after tackle because Jalen demands a double team every play. When Jalen is on, our linebackers are on, and our secondary can do what they do the best… Cover! Jalen is our “go” switch for the defense and will need to be on “go” from here on out.Special team Player
Needs Improvement – In Greek mythology even the nastiest most powerful gods have a weak spot. Georgia has two weak spots and the special team is stepping up and becoming just as big a concern as turnovers. Consistency executing special team play is as important as your offenses scheme and defensive scheme. On Saturday versus Mississippi State, Georgia’s special team cost field position and points with Mississippi State’s 63-yard punt return for a touchdown. Our defenders must have better control of their body and protect their alleys in order to accomplish the goal of limiting the return yards. It’s a defensive play and it needs to improve. And those near-errant snaps on FGs effect timing which effects scoring. Gotta tighten-up guys!