It is becoming a repetitive refrain, but Georgia is going to be in some serious trouble against Clemson if it doesn’t get some healthy bodies in its defensive backfield soon.
The storyline again on Monday was who wasn’t on the practice field for the Bulldogs. Freshman Tray Matthews, at one time considered a sure-fire starter at free safety, was out again. It’s assumed he’s sidelined with the same shoulder and hamstring issues that have sidelined him for virtually the entire preseason camp. But that won’t be known until (and unless) UGA releases an injury report after practice. It did not following Friday’s practice, the last open to media observation.
Meanwhile, junior Corey Moore, slated to start at the other safety position, also was not present during the early portion of practice. He’s been out for two weeks with a knee sprain. Also, safety Shaquille Fluker (back sprain) and cornerback Sheldon Dawson (knee) were able to practice but were doing so under the safety of non-contact, green jerseys. Not coincidentally, freshman safety Quincy Mauger, freshmen cornerbacks Brendan Langley and Shaq Wiggins and walkon Lucas Redd were getting a lot of attention from defensive assistants on Monday.
Several wideouts were practicing under caution during the full-contact practice as well, including Chris Conley (shoulder), Rhett McGowan (ankle) and Reggie Davis (knee). All-star flanker Malcolm Mitchell was not on the field, though the reason for his absence is unknown.
There was, however, a Chris Mayes spotting. The junior college transfer was dressed out but wearing a green jersey and standing on the side as his fellow defensive linemen went through drills.
UGA football lettermen were attending the practice. Among them was new Kennesaw State coach Brian Bohannon, who was chatting with coach Mark Richt in the middle of the practice fields.
Check back this evening for details on these and other matters.
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