Georgia vs. Nebraska: Run defense crucial for Bulldogs

Run defense is likely to be key for both the Georgia Bulldogs and the Nebraska Cornhuskers, points out Dog Bytes Online. Georgia was 78th among FBS schools with 177.8 yards allowed per game, while Nebraska ranked 96th, giving up 194.9 ypg. The Bulldogs likely have more to be concerned about than Nebraska. The Cornhuskers had the eight-ranked rushing attack in the nation, with Ameer Abdullah rushing for more than 1,000 yards and quarterback Taylor Martinez collecting more than 970.

Struggling against the run hasn't escaped notice for Georgia. "We've had some trouble with the rushing game lately," said head coach Mark Richt, "so we need to make sure we can handle that." Georgia posted dominant wins against the triple-option offenses of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and Georgia Southern Eagles. Despite a combined 600 yards rushing, the teams combined for just 24 points, but it's not clear Georgia can carry that into their bowl game. Contending with Martinez's athleticism is likely to provide unique challenges.

The Bulldog run defense has struggled with consistency, holding the Florida Gators to just 75 yards rushing, but allowing over 200 to Kentucky the week before. "You never know what team you’re going to get," noted linebacker Christian Robinson, "We can’t go into the game thinking we’re going to dominate because we have a strong running game."