Georgia Bulldogs: Freshmen aid 33-24 win over UNC

The Georgia Bulldogs successfully defeated the North Carolina Tar Heels 33-24 in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game on Saturday, largely due to the work of two true freshmen: Jacob Eason and Brian Harrien.

The Georgia Bulldogs overcame a tough matchup against the North Carolina Tar Heels. Nick Chubb made a monumental comeback, as expected, aiding the Bulldogs with two touchdowns. However, it was true freshmen Jacob Eason and Brian Herrien, among others, who helped make a big difference in this game.

Jacob Eason

Though starting quarterback Greyson Lambert started and ended the game, it was the work of five-star freshman Jacob Eason that made a game changing difference in between. Under Lambert, who was sacked three times, the Bulldogs were unable to put up any points.

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Then first year head coach made the switch to Eason, and the game’s momentum took a turn for the best. As expected, he did make typical freshman mistakes, but his ability to throw the ball down the field more than compensated for those minuscule mistakes. The highlight of his night came in the form of a 51-yard pass to junior Isaiah McKenzie. Eason finished with a total of eight completions on 12 attempts, 131 yards, and his first collegiate touchdown.

Brian Herrien

In addition to Eason, Brian Herrien, a three-star recruit, No. 19 running back, and No. 402 overall recruit for the 2016 class, increased  the Georgia Bulldogs lead with a 19-yard touchdown. He finished the game with a total of 59 rushing yards on seven carries.

Herrien has struggled academically, which initially delayed him receiving an offer from UGA. His decision was delayed three months after National Signing Day as a result of his grades. A straight “A” semester and an ACT score of 18 eventually sealed the deal for Herrien with the Bulldogs. Since then, he’s come a long way both on and off the field. 

VIA Marc Weiszer of DogBytes Online: 

"“I’ll tell you what, tears almost came to my eyes when that kid had that touchdown run because a lot of y’all know how far he came,” coach Kirby Smart said. “He’s sitting in his second semester, he’s got to make four or five A’s to even be eligible.”"

Next: Bulldogs vs. Tar Heels: A look at the matchup

Next up, the Georgia Bulldogs take on the Nicholls State Colonels at home at Sanford Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 12PM EST. Catch the game on SEC Network.