Georgia Bulldogs Prepare for Rivalry Game Amid Running Back Injuries
It’s no secret that the Georgia Bulldogs have been dealing with a banged-up backfield, but there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon for the No. 10 team in the nation. While star running back Trevor Etienne remains sidelined with a rib injury, head coach Kirby Smart hinted that reinforcements could be on the way just in time for a potential College Football Playoff (CFP) run.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Smart shared some encouraging updates about tailbacks Branson Robinson and Roderick Robinson II. Both players, who have been sidelined with injuries, are ramping up their practice reps and could be close to returning to action.
“Branson and Rod have both looked good in the last week in terms of picking up their pace, running, cutting,” Smart said. “We’re going to progress them today. They’re going to do more today than they have. I guess y’all saw them run Saturday. They did more yesterday. We’re day by day with those guys, but there’s a possibility, so we’re excited about them getting back to work.”
Georgia’s Backfield Woes
Etienne, a transfer from Florida, has been a standout for the Bulldogs this season, racking up 477 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. However, his absence has been felt in recent weeks. He didn’t play in Georgia’s dominant 59-21 victory over UMass and had only 13 carries combined in the games against Ole Miss and Florida.
In Etienne’s stead, freshman Nate Frazier has stepped up in a big way. Frazier delivered a career-best performance against UMass, rushing for 136 yards and three touchdowns. While Frazier’s emergence has been a bright spot, the Bulldogs are eager to get their full complement of running backs healthy and ready for the stretch run.
Injury Updates: Who’s Close to Returning?
Here’s a quick breakdown of Georgia’s injury situation in the backfield:
- Branson Robinson: The No. 1 running back prospect in the Class of 2022, according to ESPN Recruiting, has missed the past four games with a sprained MCL. Robinson also sat out the entire 2023 season while recovering from a torn ACL.
- Roderick Robinson II: Georgia’s top returning rusher from 2023 has been sidelined for all 11 games this season due to a turf toe injury that required surgery. However, he’s now practicing and could be nearing a return.
Smart’s optimism about their progress is a welcome sign for Bulldogs fans, especially with the SEC Championship Game looming on Dec. 7. Georgia will face the winner of Saturday night’s showdown between No. 3 Texas and No. 15 Texas A&M.
Other Key Injuries
It’s not just the running backs who are dealing with injuries. Defensive lineman Christen Miller is questionable for Friday night’s rivalry game against Georgia Tech after dislocating his shoulder against UMass. Meanwhile, receivers Dillon Bell (ankle) and Anthony Evans (hamstring) are also working to get back on the field.
“We’re hopeful for Dillon and Anthony,” Smart said. “They’ve been progressing, and we’ll see how they respond in practice this week.”
What’s Next for Georgia?
The Bulldogs will host Georgia Tech on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. ET (ABC/ESPN+). While the Yellow Jackets may not pose the same level of threat as some of Georgia’s recent opponents, rivalry games are always unpredictable. With the SEC Championship Game and a potential CFP berth on the line, Georgia will be looking to fine-tune its game plan and get as healthy as possible.
For now, all eyes are on the Bulldogs’ backfield. Can Nate Frazier continue his breakout performances? Will Branson Robinson and Roderick Robinson II make their long-awaited returns? And how will Georgia’s offense adapt without Etienne? These are the questions that will define the Bulldogs’ postseason hopes.
One thing is certain: Georgia fans will be watching closely as their team fights to stay in the national championship conversation. With a deep roster and a proven leader in Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs are poised to make some noise in December. Stay tuned, because this season is far from over.
Originally Written by: Mark Schlabach
