Offensive Player
Offensive Line Switch – Georgia’s offense turned the tide when the Bulldogs made a big move on the offensive line. Give O-Line Coach Matt Luke and Coach Smart a lot of credit for not standing pat. Jamaree Salyer, the team’s best and most versatile lineman, moved from left tackle to right guard. Broderick Jones, a big-time recruit and emerging sophomore star, took over at left tackle. Both played great, the whole line did a tremendous job. We will miss Jamaree greatly next year for his talent, ability to play all over the line, and leadership. It was also awesome to see the other senior, big Justin Shafer get lathered up. The switch up on the O-Line got the Dawgs going and helped deliver the national championship!
Defensive Player
Kelee Ringo – The redshirt freshman not only made the play of the game, but he also made one that will go down as the MOST EMOTIONAL PLAY IN GEORGIA HISTORY. Kelee has grown up quickly and his winning attitude is as contagious as covid. Fighting back from a first-year injury, Ringo has proven his worth to the Bulldog program, and when he faced his biggest challenge in Alabama, Kelee dominated. Kelee had six solo tackles, a pass deflection, and the most electrifying 79-yard interception for a TD that delivered the knockout punch to the big bully Bama. Like I said sitting next to my partner Jeff ”NATTY” Dantzler, to win championships, your players have to make plays and Kelee Ringo did just that for Bulldogs of all generations.
Special Teams Player
Jake Camarda – I will miss this young man, but I won’t miss seeing him, as he will be kicking in the NFL for a long time. Jake continued to be a factor in the National Championship game, penning Bama deep in their territory. I can’t remember a UGA punter being such a factor for the defense as Jake … wait oops! … my son, Drew! Jake kicked his way in front of Drew’s career average with a final performance against Bama of five punts for a 44.6 yd avg, with a long of 55 yards and two downed inside the 20-yard line. That game average vaulted Jake into first in UGA history for career average. Congrats on a wonderful career and you will have a RING to go with that average … and that’s not average at all!