Todd Gurley Earns Second SEC Freshman Of The Week Award

Georgia Bulldogs running back Todd Gurley has earned his second SEC Freshman of the Week award of the season. On Saturday against the Vanderbilt Commodores, Gurley ran for 130 yards with two touchdowns.

On the season, he leads the SEC in rushing yards (406), scoring (42 points) and all-purpose yards (657). At his current pace, Gurley would eclipse 1,200 yards by the end of the season.

After Saturday's game, Gurley told Seth Emerson of The Telegraph that he was amazed at what he had accomplished in his first four games, but also that he has a long way to go this season:

"Just me being a freshman, to have that amount of yards I have now, which is a blessing for me, that's just crazy," Gurley said after Saturday's game. "And I just keep trying to work hard. And hopefully I get those yards."

For more on the Bulldogs be sure to check out Dawg Sports. Tennessee Vols news and info can be found over at Rocky Top Talk, and all your college football coverage is available at SB Nation's college football page and Team Speed Kills.

Georgia 48, Vanderbilt 3: Playing Well Is The Best Revenge

After a chaotic, high-tension game between the Dawgs and 'Dores in 2011, cooler heads prevailed for the Dawgs both on the field and on the sideline. It's no coincidence that the result was one of Georgia's most dominating SEC games ever.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Malcolm Mitchell Happy With Growing Responsibility

Malcolm Mitchell is one of those players that can do a lot of different things on the football field. That's how he ended up being switched from a Georgia Bulldogs' wide receiver last season to cornerback this season, after being the No. 2 receiver who hauled in 45 receptions for 665 yards.

On Saturday in the Dawgs' blowout win against Vanderbilt, Mitchell was in his first game at cornerback, but played like he'd been there before. He had five total tackles, had a run on a reverse for 16 yards, brought in a reception for six and had a 22-yard punt return to set up the Bulldogs in Commodores territory on their opening drive, which led to a touchdown.

Mitchell seemed happy with his performance, saying it felt good to be able to do so much for the team.

"He really has been a guy who has sacrificed for the team," Richt said, via Dog Bytes. "I think his idea of playing both ways was doing what he's been doing on offense, and helping on defense. I don't think his idea was necessarily to be a full-time defensive football player."

For more on Georgia football, visit Dawg Sports and SB Nation Atlanta. Team Speed Kills is your source news and analysis around the SEC For all your college football news, check out SB Nation's NCAA football hub.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Marlon Brown Likes Playing In His Home State

Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Marlon Brown had a big game against Vanderbilt on Saturday, but then again, who didn't? It was special for Brown, though, being a Memphis-native and playing in front of a hometown crowd.

Brown led the team in receiving yards against Vanderbilt for the second straight season, this time with 114 total yards. In 2011, he had a career-high 121 yards in the close game in Nashville

"Both (Vanderbilt and Tennesee) recruited me," Brown said to The Telegraph after Georgia's 48-3 win Saturday. "I wanted to go to Tennessee when I was younger, but things change when you get older. I love playing against my hometown team. It felt really good."

For more on Georgia football, visit Dawg Sports and SB Nation Atlanta. Team Speed Kills is your source news and analysis around the SEC For all your college football news, check out SB Nation's NCAA football hub.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Todd Grantham and James Franklin's Handshake Causes Little Drama This Year

After the Georgia Bulldogs' tense 33-28 win over the Vanderbilt Commodores in 2011, UGA defensive coordinator Todd Grantham got into an altercation with Vanderbilt head coach James Franklin which was in the headlines for weeks. The 2012 version of the game contained much less drama, both on the field and off it. According to The Telegraph (Macon, GA), Grantham didn't have much to say about this year's post game handshake.

"We were just gonna go out there and have a group hug and then everybody was gonna go their way and move on. They coach them hard, they play hard, they're working to try to be competitive. So we're all competitive. We shook hands and moved on and it's over with."

Grantham also refused to say that the altercation gave Georgia any extra motivation for the game:

"I'm really just proud for the players. Because thay maintained their focus and did what was the right thing in playing the game. We're getting ready to play an excellent Tennessee team that's got a bunch of NFL players. They play an NFL system."

For more on Georgia football, visit Dawg Sports. For all your college football news, check out SB Nation's NCAA football hub.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Aaron Murray's Hot Start Nothing New

Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Aaron Murray came out of the gate hot against Vanderbilt, completing his first 12 passes on the way to the Dawgs' 48-3 win. According to Jonathan Branch of DogBytesOnline.com, head coach Mark Richt thinks the key to Murray's success is his preparation:

"Aaron prepares like no one we’ve had," Georgia head coach Mark Richt said. "We’ve had guys that work hard. All our guys work hard in preparing. Aaron really takes it to another level in how he prepares for the game, and because of that, we have a high comfort level to let him check out of any play."

Running back Ken Malcome said that Georgia's offense is tough to stop because of its balance:

"You can stop our passing one day, but you can’t stop the run," Malcome said. "You can stop the run, but you can’t stop the passing."

Murray is averaging 273 yards per game through four games, and has 10 touchdowns and only two interceptions over that span.

For more on Georgia football, visit Dawg Sports. For all your college football news, check out SB Nation's NCAA football hub.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Todd Gurley, Keith Marshall Becoming One-Two Punch For The Dawgs

Coming into the season, running back was maybe the biggest question mark on the Georgia Bulldogs roster. Now after Todd Gurley and Keith Marshall have combined for over 200 rushing yards for the second straight week, it's starting to look like a strength.

According to Roger Clarkson from DogBytesOnline.com, Gurley and Marshall's teammates and coaches have believed in them the whole time:

"I’m not surprised at all," Georgia offensive coordinator Mike Bobo said. "They’re the two guys, along with Ken (Malcome) that we’re going with. They’re smart kids. They know what we’re doing offensively and they’ve got talent. Basically, all we have to do is get them to the secondary and the line’s doing a great job of that. Aaron (Murray) is doing a great job of checking to the right play call."

The backs are quick to trace their success to the Georgia offensive line and offensive staff:

"That’s just a good job from the line and the receivers and the playcalling from the coaches," Gurley said. "It’s just a blessing to be able to get the ball and see those big holes so we can get some big runs."

Gurley and Marshall could be in for another big game next weekend, as the Dawgs take on the Tennessee Volunteers and their 77th ranked rushing defense.

For more on Georgia football, visit Dawg Sports. For all your college football news, check out SB Nation's NCAA football hub.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Richt Pleased With Bulldogs, Lack of Drama

After thrashing Vanderbilt on Saturday night in Athens, Georgia Head Coach Mark Richt was understandably pleased with his team's performance.

The Bulldogs leapt out to a 27-3 first half lead en route to an easy 48-3 win - marking the first time in school history that Georgia has scored more than 40 points in four consecutive games - but after a nail-biter last year in Nashville, Richt said he was happy that this game was a little less dramatic.

"I think our guys really wanted this one bad. They didn’t feel very good about how things went a year ago. They know that we very easily could have lost that game, and all that 10 wins in a row and all that SEC Eastern Division championship and all that kind of stuff would have been down the drain.

Our special teams were embarrassed the way they played [last year]. … And if [punter Drew] Butler doesn’t … make a tackle [after a late blocked punt], it would have been really a catastrophe. I don’t think anybody liked it. I didn’t like it; our coaches didn’t like it; our players didn’t like it. We wanted to prove we’re better than that."

The Bulldogs now welcome Tennessee to Athens next Saturday.

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, check out DawgSports.com.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Bulldogs' Defense Buckles Down

The complaint about the Georgia Bulldogs to this point—and they've been so good, the complaints have been scant—is that they take a little while to get into games.

That certainly was not the case Saturday against the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Georgia had allowed a combined 40 points in the first half of its first three games against Buffalo, Missouri and Florida International. The total Saturday against Vanderbilt: three.

The only three points allowed for the whole game, in fact, were those three points scored just before halftime on a 29-yard Vanderbilt field goal.

Georgia only allowed the Commodores 136 yards of total offense in the first half.

According to Chris Starrs of DogBytesOnline.com, Georgia defensive coordinator Todd Grantham was pleased:

"We just executed and did what we had to do," added defensive coordinator Todd Grantham. "The guys understood the gameplan, guys played (well) and we honed in on what we were going to do, and I thought the guys did a really good job."

After a dominant first half, the Bulldogs didn't let up. Vanderbilt only finished with 337 yards of total offense, which was down from the Commodores' average of 399.7 yards per game entering play Saturday.

For more on Georgia football, visit Dawg Sports. For all your college football news, check out SB Nation's NCAA football hub.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Bulldogs Relatively Healthy After Win

The Georgia Bulldogs left a 48-3 win Saturday over the Vanderbilt Commodores relatively unscathed.

The only cause for possible concern moving forward would be defensive end Arby Jones, who suffered a leg injury in the third quarter and had to be helped off the field. He did not return to the game, but Georgia head coach Mark Richt didn't seem too concerned.

According to Chip Towers of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Richt said this of Jones' injury:

"The only thing I can say is we don't think it's a super-serious thing," said Richt, declining to discuss any other details.

Safety Shawn Williams left the field during pre-game warmups with an apparent leg or ankle injury, Towers said, but returned and started the game. He also had to be helped off the field at one point during the first quarter, but he returned from that too.

Williams finished with four tackles and 1 1/2 tackles for loss.

Left guard Dallas Lee started Saturday against Vanderbilt after suffering a sprained ankle in the Bulldogs' win over Florida International on Sept. 15. Lee played the whole game until starters were lifted in the fourth quarter.

For more on Georgia football, visit Dawg Sports. For all your college football news, check out SB Nation's NCAA football hub.

College Football Rankings, Week 5: Georgia No. 5 In Week 5 AP Poll

The Georgia Bulldogs held steady at No. 5 in the Week 5 AP poll.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia 2012: Bulldogs Rushing Attack Destroys Commodores

The Georgia Bulldogs improved to 4-0 on Saturday night by crushing SEC East foe Vanderbilt, 48-3. The Dawgs had little trouble taking care of the Commodores, and improved to 2-0 in the division heading into their matchup with Tennessee at Sanford Stadium next week. The offense appears to be firing on all cylinders after punishing Vandy.

The Bulldogs set the tone right away, scoring on their first two possessions. SB Nation Georgia blog, Dawg Sports, was impressed with how Aaron Murray "flawlessly executed" the opening drive to quickly dampen the spirits of the Vandy defense. Murray was solid all evening, but Dawg Sports writes that the running game afforded him the luxury to pick apart the Vandy D. The Bulldogs simply manhandled the Commodores on the ground, freeing up Murray to do what he wanted as the defense keyed on the run.

Dawg Sports addressed the exciting prospect of having an offensive line and a stable of rushers who can break the will of opposing defenses:

In fairness, some of Murray's hot start can be traced to the fact that the Vanderbilt defense was trying anything and everything to stop the Bulldog running attack. This was the first time all season, including games against the lowly Buffalo Bulls and the friggin' Florida Atlantic Owls that the Bulldog offensive line has taken its stance and simply bulldozed an opponent. There will come games later in this season, perhaps as early as next week, when we'll need to line up and just convert 3rd and 3's with a power running game.

The Bulldogs rushed 47 times for a whopping 302 yards. Freshman Todd Gurley led all backs with 130 yards on 16 carries. Both he and Keith Marshall averaged more than eight yards per rush. Dawg Sports also talked about what the gaudy numbers might mean:

On the game the Classic City Canines ran the ball 47 times, as well they should have. Vanderbilt gave them no reason to do anything else. For the first time since at least 2007 it looks like a Mike Bobo-coordinated offense may be able to just line up and run the hell over people when they want to. I cannot express how happy that makes me.

Georgia will next welcome the Tennessee Volunteers to Athens next week. The Vols struggled with MAC doormat Akron on Saturday night, and also gave up 4.4 yards per carry against the lowly Zips. They were gashed by the Florida ground game the week prior, so Georgia's rush offense could be in for another big day next week.

For more on the Georgia football, check out Dawg Sports. For more on Vanderbilt, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Don't forget to check out our SEC blog, Team Speed Kills, as well.

Georgia Vs. Vanderbilt Final Score: Bulldogs Steamroll Commodores, 48-3

Running back Todd Gurley rushed for 130 yards and two touchdowns Saturday to help the No. 5-ranked Georgia Bulldogs steamroll the Vanderbilt Commodores, 48-3, in a Southeast Conference showdown at Sanford Stadium. The victory helped keep Georgia's record unblemished at 4-0 (2-0 SEC), while the Commodores dropped to 1-3 (0-2).

Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray completed 18 of 24 passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Keith Marshall compiled 82 yards and two touchdowns.

The Bulldogs began the game with 27 unanswered points and carried a 27-3 lead into the halftime. Georgia cemented its win with three third-quarter touchdowns that capped the game's scoring.

The third-quarter scores helped the Bulldogs cover the 15-point spread, while the Commodores lone field goal, which came with 20 seconds to go in the first half, helped cover the over-under (50 points).

Next week, the Bulldogs will host the Tennessee Volunteers (3:30 p.m.), while Vanderbilt will have a bye.

For more on this game, visit the SB Nation blogs Dawg Sports and Anchor of Gold. Make sure to follow @SBNationCFB for all your college football needs.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia Update: Dawgs Up Big After Three Quarters, 48-3

The Georgia Bulldogs picked up right where they left off in the third quarter against the Vanderbilt Commodores, scoring two touchdowns to push their lead to 48-3.

Marlon Brown had a big quarter for the Bulldogs, catching a six-yard touchdown pass from Aaron Murray, then catching a 58-yard pass from Murray to set up the Dawgs' second touchdown in less than three minutes.

With less than a minute to go in the quarter, Todd Gurley broke several tackles on his way to a 29-yard touchdown run, his second of the game.

The Vanderbilt offense has yet to capitalize on anything Georgia has given them. The Commodores were finally able to put a drive together towards the end of the third quarter, but the 46-yard attempt went wide left.

For more on the Georgia football, check out Dawg Sports. For more on Vanderbilt, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Don't forget to check out our SEC blog, Team Speed Kills, as well.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia Score: Bulldogs Lead 27-3 At Halftime

The Georgia Bulldogs have been able to do basically whatever they want so far against the Vanderbilt Commodores, and lead 27-3 at halftime. Aaron Murray is 12-of-13 for 137 yards and a touchdown, and has another touchdown on the ground. Keith Marshall and Todd Gurley combined for 126 yards in the first half, and each of them have a touchdown to their credit. Tavarres King leads Georgia with 58 yards receiving and a touchdown.

The Dawgs defense kept the Vanderbilt offense under wraps until the last drive of the half. The Commodores were finally able to break through with 20 seconds left, when Carey Spear hit a 30-yard field goal to get Vandy on the board. That's pretty much the only bright spot though, considering four of Vanderbilt's six first half drives haven't gone farther than 12 yards.

For more on the Georgia football, check out Dawg Sports. For more on Vanderbilt, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Don't forget to check out our SEC blog, Team Speed Kills, as well.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia Score: Bulldogs Lead 13-0 After First Quarter

The Georgia Bulldogs are off to a good start against the Vanderbilt Commodores, and lead, 7-0, through one quarter. The Dawgs opened the game by forcing Vanderbilt into a three-and-out, then took the lead less than five minutes into the game on a four-yard Todd Gurley touchdown run.

On the next drive, Georgia defensive back Branden Smith intercepted a deep pass from Jordan Rodgers, but the turnover did not stand because Smith was interfering with the receiver. After getting the ball back on a punt, the Georgia offense stalled, but were bailed out by a very questionable roughing the punter call against Vanderbilt. Two players later, Keith Marshall broke free down the middle for a 52-yard touchdown run to make it 13-0. The extra point was no good.

Aaron Murray has yet to throw an incompletion, and is 5-of-5 for 47 yards in the first quarter.

For more on Georgia football, head over to Dawg Sports. For the Vanderbilt perspective, check out Anchor Of Gold.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Bulldogs' LB Alec Ogletree, FS Bacarri Rambo Won't Return Until Next Week

Following rumors that Georgia fans might see linebacker Alec Ogletree and free safety Bacarri Rambo on the field Saturday for the first time this season, it has been confirmed that their suspension will last one more game, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution's Chip Towers.

It was thought that they might be eligible to play in the second half of the Vanderbilt game with Georgia's Student-Athlete conduct code requiring a suspension of 30 percent of the 12-game football season for a second violation of the drug policy (3.6 games when you do that math). Instead, after further analysis of the handbook by Towers, it was discovered that the number of games is rounded up, making it four games rather than 3.6.

In the good news department, a tweet from Ogletree's twin brother Alexander on Wednesday hints that the Bulldogs will have the services of their star defenders for next week's game home game against Tennessee:

All I got to say when next Monday come Me, @b_easy_uga9 and @brambo18 are on a mission! #realtalk

— Alexander Ogletree (@Non_Stop_Grind) September 20, 2012

Ogletree and Rambo are on the field but not dressed for the fourth consecutive week. Alexander Ogletree has been dressed for all four games of the season but has yet to see any game action so far.

For more Georgia Bulldog news, head on over to Dawg Sports.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia 2012: TV Schedule, Game Time, Spread And More

Georgia and Vanderbilt meet Saturday after a wild finish to last year's game, a 33-28 Bulldogs win.

Richard Samuel Disappointed With Current Role

Richard Samuel's time on the Georgia football team has been frustrating, according to a piece by Seth Emerson of The Telegraph.

After excelling on offense and defense in high school, Samuel entered Georgia as a five-star recruit.

In his first year, Samuel served as a backup to running back Knowshon Moreno. But even after Moreno left, Samuel was never able to get a consistent starting position.

In 2010, he tried to make it as a linebacker, but never played a down on defense. This year, he has put on weight to play fullback, and is unlikely to get any time at tailback.

Looking back on his career, Samuel was asked whether he has regrets:

"Not so much regrets. Just frustrated that it didn't go the way I expected or didn't go the way I would like it to go,"

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports. For more information on the SEC check out Team Speed Kills. For more news and information on college football, check out SB Nation's NCAA Football hub page.

College Football Week 4 Picks: Florida State vs Clemson, K-State vs Oklahoma Top Saturday's Bill (via sbnation)

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: John Theus Staying At RT For Now

Georgia Bulldogs offensive tackle John Theus has started the first three games at right tackle as a true freshman. Even though head coach Mark Richt has been shuffling his lineman, he has no plans to do that with Theus. When interviewed by Jonathan Branch of Dog Bytes Online, Richt explained his reasoning for not moving Theus:

"For a true freshman, you're just trying to get him ready to play, period. The assignments probably wouldn't be as much of an issue as just learning how to pass set from the left side. He's gotten so many quality reps on the right. It's hard to throw a guy over there (at left tackle) especially as a freshman."

Theus is also still adjusting to playing at the college level:

"I think I've gotten better each week. The way to get better by doing something is by doing it. Throughout the reps and the learning, it's a process. Practice and scrimmages, you learn a lot, but you never learn like you do in a game when stuff happens."

Theus and the Bulldogs play the Vanderbilt Commodores at 7:45 p.m. on Saturday. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2.

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports. For more information on the SEC check out Team Speed Kills. For more news and information on college football, check out SB Nation's NCAA Football hub page.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Bulldogs' Special Teams Looks For Retribution

In last year's 33-28 win over the Vanderbilt Commodores, the Georgia Bulldogs' special teams didn't fare so well, as Marc Weiszer of the Athens Banner-Herald reminds. The Commodores extended a drive on a fake punt that led to a touchdown, had a 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown and blocked a punt late in the game that gave them a shot to win it.

So far in 2012, though, the No. 5 Bulldogs' special teams has impressed head coach Mark Richt:

"We're blocking well," Richt said. "Teams are even starting to pooch kick for it because they're a little concerned about our return men and what we've been doing there. We've blocked an extra point, which is a big emphasis. We've had to blast through to block extra point and field goals."

The Bulldogs' special teams can show better against the Commodores on Saturday when they meet at 7:45 p.m. ET in a game televised by ESPN2.

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports. For more information on the SEC check out Team Speed Kills. For more news and information on college football, check out SB Nation's NCAA Football hub page.

UGA Football Recruiting 2013: Kelsey Griffin, Others Scheduled To Visit Athens This Weekend

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has an extensive list of recruiting visits of local interest for this weekend's college football games. One name expected to visit Georgia for its Saturday game against SEC rival Vanderbilt is top defensive line prospect Kelsey Griffin.

A defensive tackle from Mill Creek listed at 6'1, 289 pounds, Griffin is rated as a four-star recruit by Rivals. He's rated the 12th top defensive tackle in the country and the No. 11 recruit for the state of Georgia. Along with the Bulldogs, his listed choices of schools include Auburn, Florida, Florida State and South Carolina.

Also expected to visit the Bulldogs for the game against the Commodores are: Alpharetta WR Carlos Burse (committed to Vanderbilt), Northside-Warner Robins WR Anfirnee Chatfield, Newnan DB Tray Matthews, Brookwood LB Shaun McGee, Marist TE Greg Taboada, Thomson TE Jordan Davis, Valwood OL Aulden Bynum and Richmond Academy OL Will Jones.

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports. For more information on the SEC check out Team Speed Kills. For more news and information on college football, check out SB Nation's NCAA Football hub page.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Bacarri Rambo, Alec Ogletree Expected To Return Next Week

Georgia Bulldogs safety Bacarri Rambo and linebacker Alec Ogletree are expected to be back in uniform for the Bulldogs after this week's game against the Vanderbilt Commodores.

While being interviewed by The Telegraph, cornerback Malcolm Mitchell gave a subtle hint that these two players, currently serving four-game suspensions, will be back after Saturday's game:

"It's coming up to about time where I've been doing more offense," Mitchell said. "It's because after this game we get some players back. You know what I mean? Now it's just another shift, and time to get prepared for something else."

Bulldogs head coach Mark Richt has said that he will not reveal in-house suspensions during the season, so there is no knowledge on what the two were suspended for.

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports. For more on Vanderbilt, check out Anchor of Gold. For more information on the SEC check out Team Speed Kills. For more news and information on college football, check out SB Nation's NCAA Football hub page.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Wide Receiver Depth Key For Bulldogs

Through their first three games, the Georgia Bulldogs have done an impressive job of spreading the wealth in their passing game. Michael Bennett, Marlon Brown, Tavarres King, and Rantavious Wooten have all managed to find the end zone before the Bulldogs open SEC conference play on Saturday against the Vanderbilt Commodores. Offensive coordinator Mike Bobo thinks that having a deep group of wideouts without a clear star, like former Dawg A.J. Green, is preferable to having defenses key in on one player.

"I think most definitely we like to have as many weapons as we can have. That's why I keep (being) ready to have 26 back. That's another weapon," Bobo said of Mitchell, with a grin.

Malcolm Mitchell, who was moved from wide receiver to defensive back in the spring, is expected to play some snaps on offense as well as defense. Mitchell caught one pass for 49 yards against Florida Atlantic, and as Bobo alluded to, his role in the offense should increase as the season progresses.

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Josh Dawson Faces School He Turned Down

When Vanderbilt comes to Athens, Ga., on Saturday, it will be the first time freshman defensive end Josh Dawson sees the school he snubbed at the last minute on Signing Day last year.

Dawson, a four-star DE/OLB from Georgia, was one of the jewels of James Franklin's first recruiting class at Vanderbilt. However, a late push from Mark Richt made Dawson a last-minute flip back to Athens.

In an interview with Dogbytesonline, Dawson talked about why he made the decision and whether he thought there would be any hard feelings on Saturday:

The whole program is a great program. Nothing against them. I just felt like I was more comfortable here at Georgia. It's my home state so I felt more comfortable. My family is an hour away. ... I felt the comfort level here, Plus, I knew more people on the team. It just felt like home when I came here instead of Vanderbilt. Not taking anything away from Vanderbilt. It's a good program, a good coaching staff. The players treated me like family.

In three games as a true freshman, Dawson has two tackles, including 1.5 for loss. In the interview, he said that he did not know whether Franklin would talk to him on Saturday.

For more on Georgia football, check out Dawg Sports and continue to read SB Nation Atlanta.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Freshman Jordan Jenkins Impressing Early

Jordan Jenkins might only be a true freshman, but the talented linebacker from Hamilton, Ga., has already earned a start for the Georgia Bulldogs and is turning heads.

Some considered Jenkins the No. 1 prospect in the state of Georgia out of high school. He was destined to play as a freshman for Georgia -- he cited early playing time as a reason for choosing the Bulldogs over Alabama -- but the start against Florida Atlantic was a surprise this early in his career. Defensive coordinator Todd Grantham told the Athens Banner-Herald:

Jordan’s a good player, and he’s going to continue to get better. (Saturday’s) game is good for him. The more guys play, the more depth you create. And you can mix and match packages as you move down the road, so I think he played well. I think he’s a very mature guy for his age, and he’ll continue to get better the more he plays, so we’re just going to continue to play him and develop him.

The 6'3 linebacker has nine tackles, one for a loss, as well as four quarterback hurries and a pass deflection for the Bulldogs.

For more on Georgia football, check out Dawg Sports and continue to read SB Nation Atlanta.

Georgia Vs. Vanderbilt: The Manic-Depressive Preview Has A Few Scores To Settle

Can Georgia beat down Vandy just like old times, or has the Dawgs-'Dores rivalry entered a new era of competitiveness? You will be shocked to find that our Manic-Depressive Previewers do not agree on the answer to this question at all.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Dallas Lee May Not Start Saturday

Left guard Dallas Lee might not be fully healthy for the Georgia Bulldogs in time for Saturday's game against the Vanderbilt Commodores, which could lead to the first shift in the starting lineup on Georgia's offensive line on the young season.

Lee, who started seven games at left guard in 2011 before a season-ending leg fracture, sprained his left ankle against Florida Atlantic, but is considered to have a "good chance" of playing in Saturday's matchup. That's playing, not starting, as coach Mark Richt would not confirm Lee would start if ready to play.

The most likely configuration for the Bulldogs in Lee's absence would see them shift Kenarious Gates from left tackle over to Lee's guard spot, where he started nine games last season before shifting to replace second-round draft pick Cordy Glenn. Mark Beard would likely be slide into the left tackle spot vacated by Gates.

For more on Georgia football, Dawg Sports has you covered, and continue to check out SB Nation Atlanta.

Jarvis Jones Climbing Up NFL Draft Boards

Outside linebacker Jarvis Jones of the Georgia Bulldogs is considered the No. 1 draft prospect in the country by many, including Mel Kiper Jr., after a dominant performance against Missouri.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia Odds: Bulldogs Favored By 16

The Georgia Bulldogs host the Vanderbilt Commodores in their second SEC game of the season, and they're favored to win by 16 points. That's where the line opened, and it has held steady at most sportsbooks. Vanderbilt head coach James Franklin has improved the Commodores program, but the team still isn't expected to keep pace on the road against one of the SEC East's best.

Related: Other Bulldog Voices, Other Bulldog Rooms: 9/20/2012

Georgia is 3-0 so far this season, with wins over Buffalo, Missouri and Florida Atlantic. All of those wins were by at least 21 points. Vanderbilt is 1-2, with losses to South Carolina and Northwestern to go with a win over Presbyterian.

Stick with this StoryStream for more updates as Georgia prepares for Vanderbilt. For more Bulldogs insight and analysis, check out Georgia blog Dawg Sports, and for complete coverage from across the NCAA, head over to SB Nation's college football hub.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: James Franklin Hates Fair Catches

James Franklin has had some innovative ideas in his two years as head coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores, most notably that the perennial cellar-dwellers should actually compete in SEC ballgames. His idea about punt returns stated before his team's matchup with the Georgia Bulldogs is just about as revolutionary.

After a few punts dribbled past returners in the team's 58-0 beatdown of Presbyterian, a reporter asked the 40-year-old coach about his thoughts on returning kicks, and received a surprising answer:

We don't want any punts fair caught. I don't want a punt fair caught ever when we're here. If they can get six inches, I want them to get six inches. There's a halo rule now again. We should never, we should never, in the twenty-five years that we'll be here, we should never fair catch a punt. We're just looking for somebody that can get us positive yards.

That's great news for Georgia's gunners, who are probably excited about the prospect of hitting unsuspecting Vandy return men. Most notable is Franklin's apparent desire to stay with the Commodores for 25 seasons, which will probably please Vandy fans who have become enamored with the coach who won six games for the upstart Commodores last season. This year, his team is 0-2 against BCS play, but one of those was a close 17-13 loss to a top-ten South Carolina Gamecocks squad, so Georgia isn't guaranteed an easy win.

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, head over to Dawg Sports and continue to check out SB Nation Atlanta.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia Injury Report: Watts Dantzler, Josh Dawson And Others Limited In Practice

The No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs look to improve to 4-0 as they host the Vanderbilt Commodores on Saturday. Like any football team, they prepare for the game dealing with a number of injuries. The Georgia injury report is below, via the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Offensive players limited in Wednesday's practice were lineman Watts Dantzler (ankle) and wide receiver Rantavious Wooten (knee). On the defensive side, outside linebackers Josh Dawson (shoulder) and James DeLoach (shoulder) were limited.

Offensive lineman Kolton Houston will miss the game against Vanderbilt. While not injured, he has not been cleared by the NCAA following a positive test for a banned substance. Houston will not be cleared to play until his tests register below an acceptable threshold.

Stick with this StoryStream for more updates as Georgia prepares for Vanderbilt. For more Bulldogs insight and analysis, check out Georgia blog Dawgsports, and for complete coverage from across the NCAA, head over to SB Nation's college football hub.

College Football Schedule 2012: Georgia Host Vanderbilt, Georgia Tech Takes On Miami

Here is a look at the notable games across the Atlanta area, including the top ACC and SEC games.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Malcolm Mitchell Still Primarily On Defense

Early season suspensions made it a necessity to put Malcolm Mitchell on defense, but as those players return, Mitchell's role is up in the air. On Tuesday, head coach Mark Richt weighed in on the situation.

Richt said Mitchell will play mostly defense for now but could become a two-way player.

"I know he’s smart enough to understand what’s going on on both sides of the ball with the experience he’s had. We need him on special teams too. He’s going to play offense, defense and special teams off and on for the rest of the year I would think."

After missing the opener, Mitchell has recorded seven tackles in two games as a cornerback. A season ago, he had 665 yards and four touchdowns as a receiver.

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, head over to Dawg Sports, and for more on the Vanderbilt Commodores, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Be sure to check out SB Nation's college football hub for news and updates.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Amarlo Herrera Continues To Exceed Expectations

Georgia inside linebacker Amarlo Herrera is technically a backup to Alec Ogletree, who is considered to be one of Georgia's best defensive talents.

But Ogletree has missed Georgia's first three games, and will miss one more, because of a disciplinary suspension. That's where Herrera comes in.

So far this season Herrera has done it all. Last weekend against Florida Atlantic, the sophomore managed seven tackles and returned an interception 35 yards for a touchdown. The week before, he led his team with 10 tackles against Missouri and recovered a fumble.

With Ogletree expected to return next week, Herrera could find himself out of the starting lineup. Says Herrera,

"I've found myself in a strange situation. You've got a starter that's not playing and he's expected to come back and start. So you never know, but I can't concern myself with all that. I'm just trying to produce and help us win."

For the latest on all things Georgia, check out Dawg Sports.

Jarvis Jones Injury: Bulldogs' Linebacker Practices Tuesday

Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jarvis Jones is serious about returning to the field this week against Vanderbilt. The All-American missed last week's game against Florida Atlantic with a groin strain, but Jones seems adamant that it will be the only game he misses due to this particular injury.

Jarvis Jones pretty adamant on his status for Saturday: "I'm going to play."

— Seth Emerson (@SethEmerson) September 18, 2012

Jones recorded seven solo tackles the last time he was on the field, which was a 41-20 win against Missouri on Sept. 8.

UGA left guard Dallas Lee suffered a sprained ankle in the second quarter against Florida Atlantic and didn't return. According to Emerson, Lee and Watts Dantzler (ankle) were running on the side, apart from fellow offensive linemen at practice on Tuesday.

Safety Bacarri Rambo and linebacker Alec Ogletree have also been missing in action as part of the group of suspended Bulldogs. Being without so many players has impacted team chemistry for UGA, as some players have admitted, but they are still ranked No. 5 in the nation and undefeated through three games.

Read more on the Georgia Bulldogs at Dawg Sports and SB Nation Atlanta.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Christian LeMay Ready To Get Back To Practice Field

After giving up a fumble and an interception return for a touchdown against the Florida Atlantic Owls, Georgia Bulldogs backup quarterback Christian LeMay is happy to get back on the practice field and try to learn from his mistakes that he made last Saturday,

In an interview with Ryan Black of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, LeMay talked about his desire to get back to practice,

"I couldn't wait to get back out here and get back to work and get that off my mind. When you're trying to be great, the good things are overshadowed by the bad things. When you're trying to get to that level, you've got to make as little mistakes as possible and those were big mistakes I shouldn't be making at this point in my career. There's really no excuse for it."

LeMay was pulled following his interception, and knows that he will need to extra hard to gain the trust of his coaches again,

"The coaches don't trust you as much, so you've just got to go back to work and earn their trust back."

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, head over to Dawg Sports, and for more on the Vanderbilt Commodores, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Be sure to check out SB Nation's college football hub for news and updates.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Cornelius Washington Likes A 'Good Confrontation'

Georgia Bulldogs senior linebacker Cornelius Washington wasn't too happy about missing out on the heated exchange between Vanderbilt and Georgia players following last year's game at Vanderbilt.

Washington wasn't able to participate in the game, as he was serving a two-game suspension because of a DUI arrest.

Washington, however, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he likes a good confrontation, and wasn't happy to miss last year's skirmish.

"I like a good confrontation and that seems like one I would have enjoyed being a part of," the senior outside linebacker said Monday.

"I think it's something we do care about," he said of the contentious tone of last year's meeting. "It's a pride thing. It's a competitive thing. When somebody comes out and challenges you like that and you have those kinds of things go on, you go through the week with a little edge, a little chip on your shoulder. You go into the game trying to knock somebody's block off."

Washington will have his opportunity to bring that edge to the football field this Saturday, when Vanderbilt visits Georgia.

For the latest on all things Georgia, check out Dawg Sports.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Josh Dawson Heading Toward An Awkward Moment

Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Josh Dawson will probably come accross Vanderbilt Commodores head coach James Franklin on Saturday. When they meet, the heavy scent of awkwardness will be in the air. Dawson originally verbally committed to play for Vanderbilt before suddenly signing with Georgia on signing day.

Dawson commented on his sudden decision to sign with his hometown school:

A little disappointed, but he understood. It was just something I felt like I had to do, and I'm glad I came here.

After Dawson switched his commitment, Franklin told a group of players that those that decommitted were not "men of honor" or "men of integrity." Franklin later backed away from those comments, but that doesn't mean that the awkwardness will not be in full effect.

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, head over to Dawg Sports, and for more on the Vanderbilt Commodores, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Be sure to check out SB Nation's college football hub for news and updates.

Hutson Mason Redshirt Plan Still Up In The Air

Any potential injury to Georgia starting quarterback Aaron Murray could be devastating on a number of fronts for the program. Junior quarterback and logical backup Huston Mason elected to take a redshirt this season so that he could finish one year later than Murray (thus earning a starting gig even if Murray plays through his senior season). However, without Mason, the backup duties fall to redshirt freshman Christian LeMay.

LeMay was shaky in a clean-up duty against FAU on Saturday, most notably when he threw a pick-six. Therefore the decision on Mason's redshirt will be a situational one - Mason told reporters that if Murray were to go down early in a game or go down for a number of games, he'd likely burn his redshirt.

Mason's assessment of LeMay, a quarterback he needs to improve rapidly if Mason ever wants to start a full season, is downright glorious (courtesy of Macon.com):

Mason said he tried to give LeMay some moral support on Monday, citing a scene from Will Ferrell's basketball movie "Semi Pro."

"He's in the wrestling ring, wrestling with the bear, right, and the bear gets loose, and he's like: 'Panic! Everybody panic!' And I was like to LeMay: That's not what you wanna do, man," Mason said. "It's just stuff like that where you can keep him loose and get a laugh out of him. Because I mean, there's so much pressure on him, and it's just one game. I know he had nerves, and people are expecting a lot of things out of him. You know, he's gonna continue to work. He came in today, you could tell he was a little down, but the great ones just ignore the noise and keep coming back. And I feel positive that's what he's gonna do."

EVERYBODY PANIC NO WAIT NO ONE PANIC, OK?

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, head over to Dawg Sports, and for more on theVanderbilt Commodores, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Be sure to check out SB Nation'scollege football hub for news and updates.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia Odds: Dawgs Should Win Big

The No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs are picked as 15 1/2-point favorites against SEC opponent Vanderbilt by OddsShark.com. This is a fairly generous spread, based on the results so far this season and given the history of these programs.

Vanderbilt (1-2) already has losses to South Carolina and Northwestern, while its only win came against Presbyterian on Saturday. The Bulldogs (3-0) are obviously ranked as a top five team in the country after boasting a three-touchdown victory against the Missouri Tigers on Sept. 8.

A win for the Commodores would be considered a huge upset for the Bulldogs. Most who voted at OddsShark are picking the Dawgs to cover the spread and win easily against Vanderbilt.

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, head over to Dawg Sports, and for more on the Vanderbilt Commodores, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Be sure to check out SB Nation's college football hub for news and updates.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: Austyn Carta-Samuels Listed As Commodores' Top QB

Vanderbilt coach James Franklin listed redshirt junior Austyn Carta-Samuels as his No. 1 quarterback Monday, but said the depth chart could change before Saturday's contest at fifth-ranked Georgia, according to the Associated Press.

Depending on how Carta-Samuels and Jordan Rodgers perform in practice this week, Franklin said he will choose his starter by Thursday.

Carta-Samuels started the Commodores' 58-0 rout of Presbyterian Saturday and finished 13-of-20 for 195 yards, though Vanderbilt rushed for 410 yards. Rodgers started the first two games of Vanderbilt's season, losses to South Carolina and Northwestern, before losing his starting spot.

In two seasons at Wyoming, Carta-Samuels passed for 3,850 yards and 20 touchdowns (six interceptions), but transferred to the Nashville school upon Franklin's arrival.

If Carta-Samuels does indeed keep his starting role, Saturday's 7:45 p.m. ET contest in 92,746-seat Sanford Stadium will be his first SEC start.

For more on the Georgia Bulldogs, head over to Dawg Sports, and for more on the Vanderbilt Commodores, head over to Anchor Of Gold. Be sure to check out SBNation's college football hub for news and updates.

Mike Bobo, Rodney Garner Among UGA Assistants To Have Salary Restructured

A few Georgia Bulldogs football coaches saw a change in their yearly salaries on Monday.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: James Franklin Respects Todd Grantham, Bulldogs' Defense

Vanderbilt head coach James Franklin and Georgia defensive coordinator Todd Grantham got into a heated shouting match in the aftermath of last year's meeting between the two schools. On Monday, Franklin was asked if he'd spoken with Grantham since the incident, and Franklin took the opportunity to let everyone know that he respects Grantham and the Bulldogs' defense.

"We saw each other and most of the assistants on the road recruiting. He does a great job and has done a great job for a long time," Franklin said. "His defense plays hard and flies around. They're passionate about what they do and we're passionate about what we do. It's nothing more than that. I do have respect for how his defense plays."

Related: Monday Morning Dawg Bites - 'Machine Gun' Edition

Last season's incident occurred following an emotional 33-28 win by the Bulldogs. Players from both sides had to be separated after the game, which is how Franklin and Grantham ended up sparring.

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports. Vanderbilt news and info can be found at Anchor Of Gold, and all your SEC football news is available at Team Speed Kills and SB Nation's college football page.

Vanderbilt Vs. Georgia: James Franklin, Todd Grantham Storyline Gets Revisited

Vanderbilt's 2012 trip to Athens earned a special date on the calendar last fall, when Commodores head coach James Franklin got into a heated confrontation with Bulldogs' defensive coordinator Todd Grantham following Georgia's tight 33-28 win in Nashville.

With the 'Dores due in Athens Saturday, coaches on both sides are trying to downplay the incident, according to Macon.com, but the players remember:

"It’s not just Coach Grantham. It’s the whole team, offense and defense, everyone," Commings said. "Any time something goes down like that after a game, we kind of put that in the back of our minds, and we bring it back up when we play that team again. So that’s definitely gonna be on our minds throughout this week and definitely on Saturday in the game."

Franklin has been repeatedly quoted from his statements at the SEC meetings over the summer that he holds no ill will towards Grantham, Richt or anyone on the UGA staff:

"I’m a very emotional, passionate guy. This is personal to me. But on the same hand I’m a guy who once things happen, I move on," Franklin said. "I have tremendous respect for Coach Richt and that program. I have respect for Coach Grantham, as well, and what he’s trying to do. I think Coach Grantham was trying to do everything he could to support his players and show them that he had his back. And I was doing the same. And those things happen from time to time."

The heated moment is likely to be played up in the wake of a lopsided match-up, as 3-0 Georgia is a 16-point favorite against Vandy, who enter Saturday 1-2 and without a win over a FBS opponent. Then again, the Dawgs opened Monday of last year with a healthy -11.5 spread as road favorites...

For more on Georgia, check out Dawg Sports. Vanderbilt news and info can be found at Anchor Of Gold, and all your SEC football news is available at Team Speed Kills and SB Nation's college football page.

Georgia Bulldogs 2012 Schedule Preview: Yup, Vanderbilt Is A Rival Now

VANDERBILT COMMODORES
Sanford Stadium, Athens, Ga., Sept. 22

Coach: James Franklin, 6-7 in his debut season at Vanderbilt.
Last year: 6-7 (2-6 SEC).
Best win: The season finale, a 41-7 road shellacking of a Wake Forest team that went to a bowl.
Worst loss: A 27-21 overtime heartbreaker to a bad Tennessee squad they had every chance to beat.
Returning starters: 18 (nine offense, seven defense, two special teams).

Stock watch for 2012: Rising, slightly. From a team that earned what was only Vandy's fifth bowl bid in program history and put up a decent fight in nearly every team it played, the Commodores return a ton of experienced talent. That bodes well for a defense that performed quite well for the most part in 2011. What's less certain is whether the Commodore offense can put up consistent production for the first time since Jay Cutler graduated six years ago. James Franklin was hired for his offensive prowess, so expectations will be high that he can get the 'Dores' offensive attack in gear.

Best-case scenario (from the Dawgs' perspective): A defense that's still royally pissed about last year's game comes out with guns blazing and holds the 'Dores to single digits on the scoreboard. Let's face it, the Bulldog defense has double motivation to play hard against Vandy this season -- sure, Franklin's postgame dustup with Todd Grantham last season went viral in a hurry and provided the Dawgs with reams of bulletin-board material, but even if that little incident had never happened, the Bulldog D should have chips on their shoulders simply because they didn't play that well in Nashville last October (199 rushing yards at better than five yards per attempt, for starters). Everyone's talking up Georgia's defense as one of the very best in the country this season, and this should be a statement game for them. Not that that renders the offense an afterthought or anything, but if Aaron Murray can have the same kind of game he had against the Commodores last year (326 yards, three TDs and only one pick), Georgia will be in good shape.

Worst-case scenario: Vanderbilt's defense knocks the rebuilding Bulldog offensive line for a loop, stymies Aaron Murray and Todd Gurley, and upsets the Dawgs in Athens. Remember, Vandy's going to have chips on their shoulders about last year's game too, and whatever else you can say about Franklin, he's given the Commodores the kind of swagger few current SEC fans have seen in their lifetimes. Vandy beat Georgia in Athens six years ago, they came within a few plays of knocking off the Dawgs last year, and they'll ride into Athens in September fully believing they can win. Georgia's defense should be able to corral a Vanderbilt attack that's been inconsistent at best the last few years, but the pressure will be on the offense to minimize mistakes and put some points on the board early. If they can stun Vanderbilt with a couple quick TDs, they'll be in good shape, but a low-scoring defensive slugfest would play into the Commodores' hands in much the same way the 2006 game did.