Concerns for Georgia Football
Short Yardage Runs
Converting short yardage runs has become a major issue for the Georgia Bulldogs. For the third consecutive week the Dawgs gave failed to score on a goal to go situation from inside the five yard line.
This week on the first drive of the game, UGA had a first down and goal from the two yard line. Elijah Holyfield was stopped for a two yard loss. Next Justin Fields was stopped for a four yard loss. Then Jake Fromm threw incomplete looking for tight end Isaac Nauta forcing the Dawgs to settle for three.
The problem struck again on the Georgia Bulldogs’ second drive. This time it was a first and goal to go from the four yard line. D’Andre Swift took the ball down to the one on first down. However a false start penalty sabotaged the drive and the Dawgs once again settled for three.
It’s mind-boggling that Georgia is struggling on short yardage situations. Typically fitness teams have this problem. UGA tho prides themselves on physicality, has one of the Nation’s biggest offensive lines and wears opponents down almost every game. It’s amazing they are allowing so much penetration near the goal line.
The Dawgs would be wise to use a fullback in these short yardage running situations. Tight end Luke Ford is a good blocker and could make a great fullback for the Dawgs in these scenarios. He also adds the ability to catch the ball on play action passes.
Dispatching a big package, is also an option UGA should work on in practice. Similar to the elephant package Alabama runs, UGA could put extra offensive and even defensive linemen on the field, using their heaviest guys to try to clear the way. Using Justin Fields more in these situations should also help.
Penalties
The Georgia Bulldogs committed 12 penalties for 85 yards. That’s far too many flags and is certain to draw the ire of head coach Kirby Smart.
Cornerback Tyson Campbell was called for a pass interference penalty on Auburn’s second quarter field goal drive. Deandre Baker was called for an unnecessary roughness penalty on Auburn first quarter touchdown drive.
Game Notes
Quarterback Justin Fields played several snaps in the game. Unfortunately he often went backwards, losing 12 yards on five carries. The encouraging thing is, he completed both of his passing attempts for 20 yards. Field also had a key third down conversion on the ground.
Defensive backs Deandre Baker, Tyrique McGhee and Eric Stokes all had pass breakups in the game, as did linebacker D’Andre Walker.
Mecole Hardman had a 41 yard kick return.
Jake Fromm threw a third quarter interception on a play that started from the Auburn 24 yard line that took away at least three points from Georgia.
Next
The Georgia Bulldogs will host the UMass Minutemen Saturday at 4PM EST. UMass comes into the contest with a 4-7 record. UGA will be a heavy favorite.
What stood out for you in the Dawgs win against Auburn? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below. Stay with us, as Atl All Day will have continued news and reaction on the Georgia Bulldogs and all of your favorite Atlanta area sports teams.
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