Tennessee football: Five key Georgia Bulldogs to watch for against Vols

For all the talk of the Georgia Bulldogs’ defense this year, the offense has been extremely efficient as well. Its 6.89 yards per play leads the SEC and is No. 8 in the nation. That side of the ball will definitely be a factor when Tennessee football hosts Kirby Smart and the No. 1 ranked program in the nation Saturday.

However, don’t kid yourself. The historically great defense has earned its accolades. The key in this game is whether or not UT’s high-powered offense can be the first to put up a significant amount of points on that defense.

As a result, our post looking at the most important UGA players for Tennessee football to focus on will mostly be on the defensive side of the ball. There’s just no way we can ignore what the Dawgs are doing there. If the Vols are going to have a shot at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., these are the five most important Bulldogs they’ll have to somehow neutralize.

6’0″ 190 pounds

Speaking of overshadowing, Georgia’s elite front seven has overshadowed the secondary’s great play. Christopher Smith had two interceptions, including a pick-six, before getting hurt. He should be full-go now. Lewis Cline is a Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist with an interception, six pass deflections and a tackle for a loss.

Those are just the safeties. Their playmaking is due to elite cornerback play. Nickel Latavious Brini has six pass deflections to go with two and a half tackles for a loss. Ameer Speed has been lockdown on his end. However, Derion Kendrick has been the top performer.

The Clemson Tigers transfer stepped in at right cornerback this year and hasn’t allowed a touchdown. People hardly ever throw his way. Up until last week, he was targeted just 23 times all year, and he still has an interception and two pass deflections. Tennessee football’s receivers will have to beat him on a couple plays to get their offense going. That will be tough.