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Georgia vs. Nebraska: John Theus impresses during freshman year

Georgia Bulldogs freshman offensive tackle John Theus impressed the Bulldogs staff this season, helping fellow freshman Todd Gurley run for over 1,200 yards this season.

Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Though a lot of attention has been placed on Georgia Bulldogs freshman running back Todd Gurley, another freshman that has been impressive has been one of his lead blockers, tackle John Theus. One of the highest rated recruits in Georgia's 2012 recruiting class, Theus has helped Gurley run for 1,260 yards and 16 touchdowns this season.

Coaches for the Bulldogs acknowledge that he's not the player they want yet, but with more work, Theus should only continue to get better and better, according to offensive coordinator Mike Bobo:

"Theus just has to continue to get stronger," offensive coordinator Mike Bobo said. "He's got some natural strength, but he's got to get stronger, really keep changing his body to the type of player we want to look to. He's just got the natural strength and natural size and we've just got to keep molding him."

Theus, who measures in at 6'6 and 309 pounds from Jacksonville, Fla., was named a Freshman All-American by The Sporting News. Against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at the Capital One Bowl on Wednesday, Theus will likely line up against defensive end Eric Martin, who recorded 8.5 sacks this season, tied for second in the Big 10.

Regardless of what happens in that game, Theus is happy with how this season has turned out:

"It's really been a heck of a ride," Theus said. "As a freshman to be at the University of Georgia and the SEC and to have this type of season for your first year is definitely something special and something I'll never forget."

Photographs by coka_koehler used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.