Rodrigo Blankenship, the kicker for the Dawgs, had an impressive game against the Kentucky Wildcats. He went 4/4 on field goals and kicked the game winner for the Dawgs. He has become an overnight celebrity with the Bulldog Nation. They have labeled him “Wild Thing” along with a few other nicknames. The kicker even has his personal hashtag, #RespecttheSpecs.

All the eyes of Bulldog Nation are on this redshirt freshman walk-on at the moment, and the question is whether or not he has kicked his way into earning a scholarship. Head Coach Kirby Smart was short and to the point when it came to answering the question on Blankenship. He told the media that decisions on scholarships don’t come up until the end of the season and that the last 24 hours have been all work and no play.

He also mentioned how recruiting is going to play a part in the decision on Blankenship receiving a scholarship. The Bulldogs are currently pursuing a few specialists. Smart also mentioned the special teams unit is one of Georgia’s weaker areas and that’s where the team has to improve on.

The staff will look at how Blankenship finishes this season before deciding if the walk-on kicker is awarded a scholarship.

“He’s certainly done a great job and has gained a lot of confidence. Which I am fired up about,” Coach Smart said.