As had been long rumored and recently reported, Georgia Bulldogs RB Caleb King will not play for the team this season due to his academic performance, the school confirmed Friday afternoon. In a statement, coach Mark Richt said:

It's unfortunate Caleb will not be with us this season. We wish him the best in whatever he decides to do; however, we have to move forward and this will provide more opportunities for others to step up.    

Think back to that "missing man" formation Richt set up for Isaiah Crowell, back when the back was just a recruit and not the Dream Team's crown jewel. Seems pretty prophetic now, right? This isn't as huge of a loss as some are going to make it out to be. King, like Washaun Ealey, never really lived up to his potential, and his frequent off-field escapades caused more than his share of headaches.

The primary concerns for the 2011 Georgia Bulldogs remain the same as they did yesterday. The main difference is that Crowell will be backed by less-experienced players. That's not ideal, but it's not a tragedy.

Props to the Leather Helmet Blog for being the first to publish a story on the matter almost two months ago.