Wednesday Practice Report

FOOTBALL

The Dawgs conducted a two-hour practice Wednesday in preparation for their upcoming game with Coastal Carolina.

Coach Mark Richt said the team showed better execution and “more juice” compared to Tuesday. Richt confirmed that the Dawgs were getting 6-1, 220-pound junior strong safety Shawn Williams some work at inside linebacker. The Dawgs have been hit with a couple of key injuries to starters at that position this season. Sophomore Alec Ogletree will be out for at least a month and junior Christian Robinson likely will miss a few weeks as both have foot injuries. Also, senior tight end Aron White has missed practice the last two days due to a right knee sprain.

When talked turned to the versatile senior defensive back/kickoff returner Brandon Boykin, Richt said he has certainly made a difference on offense, defense and special teams. Boykin leads the Southeastern Conference and ranks sixth nationally in all-purpose yards at 194.0 yards/game. He is the highest ranked defensive player in that category. Also, Boykin had an 80-yard touchdown run against fifth-ranked Boise State in the season opener.

“Brandon is helping us a lot; you want guys like that who can play and practice every snap, they’re valuable,” said Richt. “We waited too long to use him on offense in his career. You may even see him run the ball between the tackles before the season is over. That may not be wise with his role on defense and special teams but he could do it. He has enough skills to play tailback or receiver.”

Richt praised the improved play of Kwame Geathers and John Jenkins, Georgia’s two nose tackles.

“They are getting better each day, and we’ve had both of them in there a couple times and you’ll probably see more of that,” said Richt. “John is down in the 335-range, he’s moving well and his stamina is up.”

The Dawgs own a 41-7 record against non-conference teams under Richt. This will be the first meeting with the Chanticleers (2-0). Coastal Carolina has opened the season with wins over Furman and Catwaba.