Georgia Vs. Auburn: Bulldogs' OL Mark Beard eager to play in home state

Georgia offensive lineman Mark Beard will be coming home when the Bulldogs visit the Auburn Tigers this Saturday. Beard grew up in Adamsville, Ala., and is eager to play against some familiar faces in his home state (via Dog Bytes Online):

"It's real exciting," Beard said. "Especially going against the home team, it's real exciting."

Beard may even get his first start of the season against Auburn, because starting right guard Chris Burnette may be sidelined with a shoulder injury. Beard has played in every single game this season, mainly rotating in at left tackle.

The path to Georgia has been an interesting one for Beard, who originally signed with Troy in high school but decided to attend a community college instead. He finally became a Bulldog in January.

If Beard does get the start, it will come in a critical came for Georgia. A Bulldogs win clinches the SEC East division and ensures a trip to Atlanta for the SEC Championship Game. Beard is hoping for that to happen, so he can silence some of his friends from back home:

"They (Auburn) throw their rings in my face, and my boys that play at Alabama have their rings," Beard said. "It's time for Georgia to get our rings."