Could this day get any better? If you're Kirby Smart, not likely.
Georgia just picked up a commitment from Stockbridge defensive end Brenton Cox, the #2 defensive end in the nation and #5 player in the state of Georgia according to 247Sports. Cox picked the Bulldogs over Alabama, having only recently decommitted from the Ohio State Buckeyes.
The 6'5, 245 pound Cox looked for a long time to be ticketed to leave the state, committing to Urban Meyer all the way back in April. But Georgia never gave up on him and turned the pressure up this fall. Cox quietly made some visits to Athens, though it was clear that he was also seriously considering the Crimson Tide. However, Jeremy Pruitt's departure for Knoxville and the Bulldogs' incredible defensive season appear to have been enough to convince Cox that his best bet was to stay home.
What does Georgia get in Cox? A relentless pass rusher who also has the potential to grow into an every down anchor on the edge. While he might not be quite as long a player, I'd compare him favorably to Lorenzo Carter. Cox plays with a high motor, and will only improve with college coaching and strength and conditioning. He could easily end up playing in the 265 pound range, sliding back to Carter's strongside linebacker spot or playing a 3-4 or nickel defensive end, especially on passing downs.
While there's obviously a long way t go until all the classes are finalized, Cox's commitment combined with some Ohio State misses have now moved Georgia into the #1 slot in the Rivals recruiting rankings. Cox is the sixth five star recruit under the 247Sports rankings to pick the 'Dawgs. Alabama, Auburn, and LSU have combined for zero. Not that anyone is counting.
Is Georgia done with the Signing Day pyrotechnics? Who knows? But for now, it is undeniably great to be a Georgia Bulldog.