Georgia is coming off arguably its best performance of the season, as the Dawgs tormented a top-25 Tennessee team in their own backyard. The Bulldogs, once again, were dominant offensively, even with key players such as Ladd McConkey and Rara Thomas playing limited snaps due to injury.
A significant part of the Dawgs’ offensive success this past Saturday can be credited to sophomore Dillon Bell. The Texas native has been a Swiss army knife for the Georgia team, playing a crucial role at running back due to early-season injuries but subsequently moving back to his true position of wide receiver. The talented playmaker has also featured in every game on special teams, returning multiple kickoffs this year.
Bell’s versatility and patience speak volumes and epitomize what Coach Kirby Smart wants in a Georgia football player. Bell could have been disappointed in his limited receiving role early in the season and unwilling to switch positions, but he did so in the team’s best interest. When the time came for his number to be called, Bell not only answered but did so in the most deserving fashion, finishing his day in Knoxville with five catches for 90 yards, along with both a receiving touchdown and a passing touchdown.
Looking forward to this upcoming weekend, the Bulldogs face yet another challenge with in-state rival Georgia Tech. When asked about “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate,” Bell told the media, “It’s like a championship game.” While the little brothers up in Atlanta may not make this an eye-popping matchup on rivalry weekend, Bell and the Bulldogs certainly understand the magnitude of the rivalry and the significance of being state champions.
For Bell, it certainly appears his number will be featured heavily yet again. With Ladd McConkey and Rara Thomas still dealing with lingering injuries, the all-purpose offensive threat should be heavily featured in Mike Bobo’s offense. Whether it’s passing, rushing, receiving, or returning, keep your eye out for number 86 Saturday night in Atlanta.