With the Georgia Bulldogs prepare for the 2012 season, Richard Samuel is prepared for a new role this season. The fifth year senior has moved from running back to linebacker and back again during his time in Athens, but this year Samuel has a dual role, splitting time between tailback and fullback.
In an interview with Chris Starrs of the Athens Banner-Herald, Samuel talks about the difficulties in playing two positions,
"It’s a little difficult because you get tired at times doing reps at one position and then doing reps at another position. And you have to be able to differentiate in your mind what you’ve got to do and what your job responsibilities are so you don’t get them confused."
Samuel has rushed for 768 yards in his Georgia career, but injuries and an influx of players pushed him back to fourth on the depth chart. Samuel saw a possible opening at fullback and decided to make the move and now sits as the backup there, behind only Merritt Hall.
Samuel is looked on as the leader for Georgia's young group of running backs, and starting quarterback Aaron Murray expects a lot in Samuel to help prepare them for the upcoming season,
"I’m expecting a lot from Richard — both his play on the field and his ability to mentor the younger guys. The biggest thing he’s contributed this summer is his knowledge — his knowledge of the playbook, his knowledge of what it takes to compete in the SEC and in college football. He’s done a great job of mentoring those guys."
Samuel knows this and is happy to give advice to anyone who comes his way,
"It makes me feel good, it makes me feel like I’m helping out somehow to get the young guys ready because they’re going to be the ones that will rotate in the game with me. By helping out the best I can, it makes me know they’re ready when it’s their time to play and I feel comfortable with them being in there."
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