Georgia’s Davis could return, LeCounte still ‘doubtful’

Georgia defensive lineman Jordan Davis (99) during the Bulldogs' game with Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2020. (Photo by Skylar Lien)

Georgia defensive lineman Jordan Davis (99) during the Bulldogs' game with Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2020. (Photo by Skylar Lien)

ATHENS -- Jordan Davis, Georgia’s 6-foot-6, 330-pound noseguard, may be able to return for Saturday’s game against South Carolina.

“Jordan has a chance and that is promising,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said Monday. “We are hopeful to get him back and get him back out there going.”

Davis has been out with an elbow injury suffered in the first half of the Kentucky game Oct. 31.

Georgia lost safety Richard LeCounte later that night in a motorcycle accident. As a result, the Bulldogs have been without two of their most dynamic defensive players.

“Jordan is closer than Richard,” Smart said. “Richard is not able to get out there and practice yet. I don’t honestly know with Richard. I’ll find out more today. I know he is trying his best to get back and come back as soon as he can. I would say that he is probably doubtful for this game.”

The fact that LeCounte is even considering a return this season is a bonus. The senior from Riceboro was hospitalized for three days after his accident and considered a sought-after NFL prospect. But he tweeted last week that he absolutely intends to return this season, adding “that hunger inside of me (has) only grown bigger.”

LeCounte remains fifth on the team in tackles with 26 and tied for the team lead with three interceptions. Junior Christopher Smith has started in his place.

Davis is a run-plugging force in the middle of the defense. He had 12 tackles in five games.

Freshman Jalen Carter has taken the majority of snaps in Davis’ absence. He has 8 stops, including two for losses.