MVDs: Most Valuable ‘Dawgs.

When the Georgia Bulldogs win 49-7 you can bet somebody made some plays. But which Bulldogs made the plays that truly paved the pay for victory against Middle Tennessee State? Who were today’s MVDs: Most Valuable ‘Dawgs?

Offense: Elijah Holyfield. I can't tell you how tempted I was to go with Ben Cleveland here for covering up that fumble deep in Georgia territory. But Holyfield’s 8 carries for 100 yards were a welcome result for a guy who’s labored hard in the shadow of Nick Chubb, Sony Michel, and D’Andre Swift.

When Kirby Smart talks about Holyfield (and Brian Herrien) you can hear the pride. He’s a guy who comes to work every day and handles business. The competition for carries remains fierce in the Bulldog backfield, and D’Andre Swift remains the clear starter at tailback. But I for one was pleased to see this ‘Dawg have his day.

Defense: Deandre Baker. I hate to keep calling his name, but let's put it this way: Georgia had one interception on the day. Baker made it. Georgia forced one fumble on the day. Baker got credit for that, too. And Georgia had two tackles for loss all day. One went to Azeez Olujari late. But the other was by, you guessed it, Deandre Baker. Add in MTSU’s steadfast refusal to throw in his direction, and Baker essentially took away a third of the field all day.

Special teams: Mecole Hardman. Mecole’s 70 yard punt return was a triumph of execution by the entire unit. But it doesn't happen if Hardman isn't such an other-worldly athlete. I don't think it will be the last one he takes back this season, either.

Until later...

Go ‘Dawgs!!!