Georgia has managed to avoid major injury setbacks this season, but a few players have still gone down with minor issues early on. Among them are two key starters on the right side of the offensive line, Juan Gaston and Earnest Greene.
Kirby Smart offered a short update on both earlier in the week, though he stopped short of confirming whether they’ll be available for Saturday’s matchup with Alabama.
“They’re putting in the work. All they can do right now is keep their head down, keep grinding, and focus on improving. That’s what we’ll keep doing with all of them,” Smart said via DawgNation.
Gaston managed to play the full game against Tennessee two weeks ago, but Greene’s injury flared up and sidelined him late. The good news is both linemen have continued practicing, which could indicate they’ll be ready to suit up against Alabama.
Georgia’s backfield has gotten a major boost from star running back Dwight Phillips this season. While his touches have been limited, nearly every time he gets the ball he breaks off a big gain.
Phillips did pick up a foot injury in the Tennessee game, but Kirby Smart downplayed any long-term concern.
“He seems fine. He’s been playing on special teams, doing things well,” Smart said. “He’s really had no limitations.”
Having Phillips, along with Gaston and Greene, fully available against Alabama will be critical. The Crimson Tide just got a lift of their own with reports that two of their top players are set to make their season debuts this weekend in Athens. Georgia would love to counter with all three Bulldogs healthy and ready by Saturday.