Athens — Jeff Owens is known as a bruising defensive tackle that clogs up the middle for Georgia's defense and occasionally collapses the middle of the opponent's offensive line. He's also one of the team's most outspoken and outgoing characters.

Last Friday, Owens went down in excruciating pain on the last play of Georgia's scrimmage at Sanford Stadium. His injury is common to those that make their living on the lines - a dislocated shoulder. It could have been a devastating blow for what's expected to be one of the Bulldogs' best defenses in years.

But Wednesday, Owens was running around the field with his right arm in a sling and a big smile on his face, cajoling and cutting up with his teammates. He said Georgia fans can relax because both he and their Dogs are going to be fine.

Following is a brief conversation with the big tackle.

Q: How's your shoulder?

A: It's fine. It was a dislocation. It popped out and they just had to pop it back in. I won't have to have surgery. No torn ligaments or muscles. We're just going to let it heal on its own.

Q: How are you dealing with it?

A: I was bummed at first because it happened on the last play of the scrimmage but I'm OK now. I'm in high spirits now.

Q: Your position can be tough on the shoulders, can't it?

A: Terrible. D-line is tough. But the game of football is a tough sport. Every time we step on that field we know it's a risk. But it's a sport we love to do and that's why we do it.

Q: There are some incredible expectations for the team this season. How are you guys dealing with that?

A: I love it. This is my senior season. I think we're pressure-free because we know we just have to take it one day at a time, one play at a time. We can't predict the future; we can't control destiny.

Q: You're from just outside Ft. Lauderdale. Have you allowed yourself to think about the prospect of playing for the national championship not far from home?

A: Everybody dreams about that. When you are in middle school and elementary school, you always pretend you're playing for the national championship or in the Super Bowl. It would be a tremendous honor just to have that opportunity. That's what we're working and fighting for right now.