Sporting News has released its list of the top-25 teams in college football. Georgia football came in at No. 5 on the list.
Expectations for the Bulldogs continue to grow as we get closer to kickoff versus Clemson in Charlotte. A large reason for that is quarterback J.T. Daniels, who went undefeated as the starter last season while putting up big numbers. Daniels threw for 1,231 yards (67.3%) and 10 touchdowns with only two interceptions in just four games.
Many of the Bulldogs top offensive weapons joined Daniels in California for some offseason workouts, which should add some continuity to the offense that is still new to some. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken is entering his second year after a bumpy first season. Players didn’t benefit from spring football and summer training in 2020 but things are back to normal this year and Dawgs will have every opportunity to get through reps.
On defense, the secondary is scrambling to replace NFL draftees Eric Stokes, Tyson Campbell, Richard LeCounte and Mark Webb. Cornerback D.J. Daniel signed with the Jaguars as an undrafted free agent and defensive back Tyrique Stevenson transferred to Miami.
Georgia did add safety Tykee Smith and cornerback Brandon Surge via the transfer portal there may be some growing pains early as the back end learns to play together. In contrast, UGA’s front seven is as nasty as ever. Defensive tackles Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter and Devonte Wyatt return along with edge rushers Nolan Smith and Adam Anderson. Add Nakobe Dean and Channing Tindall at the linebacker spots and the Dawgs look to have one of the best defensive fronts in the country.
But which teams made Sporting News’ list ahead of the talented Bulldogs? Check out the top-5 below…
5. Georgia
Georgia quarterback JT Daniels (18) leads the team onto the field before the start of the Georgia G-Day Spring football game in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, April 17, 2021. (Photo/Joshua L. Jones, Athens Banner-Herald)
News Joshua L Jones
4. Oklahoma
Oct 19, 2019; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Lee Morris (84) catches a touchdown pass past West Virginia Mountaineers safety Tykee Smith (23) during the third quarter at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
3. Ohio State
Dec 28, 2019; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Chris Olave (17) catches a pass for a touchdown against Clemson Tigers safety Nolan Turner (24) during the fourth quarter in the 2019 Fiesta Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
2. Clemson
Oct 31, 2020; Clemson, South Carolina, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei (5) returns the ball to a referee after a 30-yard run for a touchdown against the Boston College Eagles during the third quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Josh Morgan-USA TODAY Sports
1. Alabama
Apr 21, 2018; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama head coach Nick Saban prior to the A-day game at Bryant Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Check out the full list here.
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