Monday Superlatives

We’re a day late, but that’s not going to stop us from recognizing the best and brightest from Georgia’s 28-14 victory over South Carolina in this, the Sunday Monday Superlatives.

Offensive MVP: The offensive line. Georgia ran for 326 yards, rarely getting stuffed up front, converting six of twelve third downs, and grinding out a whopping eleven minute advantage in time of possession despite running more no-huddle than they have this season. It was a solid effort up front, including a season low one sack, and even fewer penalties than we’ve seen so far this season. Maybe it was a turning point. Maybe it was facing an overmatched opponent. I suspect it was a little of both, but it was definitely refreshing. Honorable mention: The tailback rotation. Chubb, Michel, and Herrien all took advantage of the holes the OL opened, and ran tough even when there wasn’t a ton of daylight.

Defensive MVP: Roquan Smith. Smith’s 11 tackles and two forced fumbles were a standout performance on a day when junior Reggie Carter dressed but did not play after being ill and missing practice for most of the week.

Play of the day: It’s tempting to go with Terry Godwin’s scoop and score touchdown on the onside kick late in thew game that put this one away. But I have to go with Jacob Eason’s 6 yard fourth quarter scoring strike to Isaiah McKenzie. The play gave Georgia much-needed breathing room. It was also the most significant pass play on a day when Jacob Eason threw for the fewest yards by a Bulldog starter since 1990.

Low blow: Jacob Eason’s third quarter interception. With the Bulldogs up 14-0 and facing second and goal at the South Carolina 14, the pick off a tipped ball was a solid momentum killer. The Gamecock offense, comatose for most of the day, suddenly sprang to life with a 90 yard scoring drive and the Bulldogs found themselves in a dog fight which they ultimately won, but which could have been a walkover.

Until later . . .
Go ‘Dawgs!!!