Injuries were to blame for the absence of some key Georgia players from the Florida game.
Georgia coach Kirby Smart cleared up the confusion regarding defensive linemen Michael Barnette and David Marshall, defensive back Tyrique McGhee and inside linebacker Channing Tindall after the Bulldogs’ practice Tuesday. Barnett and Marshall made the trip to Jacksonville, while McGhee and Tindall did not. All four regulars for the Bulldogs.
Turns out, they’re all dealing with injuries.
McGhee, a senior who has played in a lot of games for the Bulldogs, is still dealing with a foot fracture that previously required surgery. “It tweaked on him during the off week,” Smart said. “We’re having to be really careful with him.”
Georgia is also picking its spots with Marshall, a senior who had a Lizfranc fracture surgically repaired last fall.
As for Barnett and Tindall, Smart just cited “nagging injury” and “banged up,” respectively. Florida was the first game each has missed. They’re both regulars in the defensive rotation, with the senior Barnett starting two games at noseguard.
Indications are that Barnett and Marshall will be back for the Saturday’s game against Missouri, while McGhee and Tindall remain doubtful.
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