Kevin Butler, former University of Georgia legendary kicker and a member of the Georgia radio broadcast team, will each week during the 2016 football season select his offensive, defensive and special teams players of the week for Bulldawg Illustrated. Here are Butler’s selections and reasons why for the Bulldogs’ 35-21 win over Louisiana-Lafayette Saturday.
Compiled By Murray Poole
OFFENSE
Junior tailback Nick Chubb, who had his fourth 100-yard plus rushing game of the season by running for 108 yards on 16, carries including a 1-yard touchdown. Chubb also had a career-long 49-yard touchdown reception from Jacob Eason.
“It’s been a long season and even longer season for Nick coming off a tough injury last year” said Butler. “Saturday Nick looked to be in the best shape he has been since the North Carolina game. Nick’s performance came both by land and air totaling 157 yards and two TD’s. The offensive line took advantage of the back jersey excitement and capitalized early. Nick is a leader by example and with the performance Saturday, we need to start wondering if Nick will be back next year or off to the next level”
DEFENSE
Junior inside linebacker Reggie Carter, who totaled six tackles and had a forced fumble for the Georgia defense, which held the Ragin’ Cajuns to one touchdown for three quarters before UL-Lafayette scored twice in the fourth quarter on the Bulldog backups.
“Reggie is a true football player at the deepest position on the team” said Butler. “UGA’s linebacking core is strong and Reggie is an example of what great depth is all about. With Natrez Patrick out Reggie has filled the gap like a pro. Four tackles, two assists and a forced fumble clearly was the leader on defense on a day when the defense had three interceptions and three fourth down stops. When we talk about depth, Reggie is what we mean!”
SPECIAL TEAMS
Junior punt returner/wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie, who raced 55 yards for a touchdown on the Bulldogs’ first play from scrimmage and then returned a Cajun punt 82 yards for another touchdown. He also had two catches for 32 yards to total 164 all-purpose yards on the day. McKenzie set a school record with his fifth career punt return for a touchdown and moved into a three-way tie in the SEC all-time. He also now has six total returns for touchdowns (5 PRs, 1 KOR), which is a school record and is tied for third in the SEC.
“Isaiah is one explosive player!” said Butler. “His first play burst for 55 yards set the tone for the offense Saturday. If that wasn’t enough to get your attention, he lit up LL with an electrifying punt return for 82 yards to cap off our first 14 points. His total of 164 yards was the biggest impact on the victory over LL. Isaiah is a special player and he is the Special Teams Player of the Week.”