Wednesday Practice

FOOTBALL

The Dawgs held a two-hour practice in jerseys (none of which were sold), shoulder pads, helmets and shorts today as they continue preparations for their Southeastern Conference opener against South Carolina.

The Dawgs learned today that junior All-SEC flanker A.J. Green will not be available against the Gamecocks after the NCAA announced he must miss four games as a condition of becoming eligible to play again due to violation of NCAA agent benefits rules. Georgia is appealing the NCAA decision. Green sat out the season opener against Louisiana last Saturday.

Coach Mark Richt was asked several questions about Green in his regular post-practice session with the media.

"We're aware of what's going on with A.J., and what's most important for this team is to focus on the game," said Richt. "We have a big game this weekend, and we're going to play whoever is eligible to play. I told the team and then said now we need to focus on this game and who is playing, and then we went to practice. There wasn't any discussion. I don't think it changed their demeanor. We're still going to run our system and have guys make plays. When A.J. is in there, those plays look different because of his abilities."

When asked how Green felt when he got the news, Richt said, "he's hurt, he's sad, and he's sorry for what happened."

Green will continue to practice with the team, however, he will not be able to travel until there is a decision on the appeal. Richt said there is "no chance" Georgia will hear anything about it this week, and he's hopeful it will be by next week.

In reference to Wednesday's workout, Richt said it was good but not a great day overall as they get set to go on the road and face 24th-ranked South Carolina (1-0, 0-0 SEC).