Most of the offseason discussion involving Georgia football have centered on the offensive line worries or the player suspensions that could decimate the defensive secondary in the early going. Another area of concern comes in the kicking game here both Drew Butler and Blair Walsh must be replaced this season.
The Bulldogs are expected to go with a pair of freshman in those key positions this season. Collin Barber will take over for Butler at punter while Marshall Morgan will handle place kicking duties. Both were rated among the best in the nation but they will be stepping onto a much bigger and pressure packed stage this season.
"It'll be interesting," Richt said. "I'm sure they will be nervous. Kickers and punters, maybe more than any other position, the better fundamentals they have and the more reps they can accumulate will help them. . . . They have powerful legs. There's no question in my mind they have all the tools to get it done. But the first time you do anything I'm sure they'll be nervous. I'm sure they'll be nervous in practice. Certainly they'll be nervous in ballgames if in fact they win the jobs. They have a good chance."
Special teams are often overlooked particularly until something goes wrong. The Bulldogs for the most part had a luxury for the past four seasons in Butler and Walsh. They will be looking for similar production from the two newcomers.
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