The Georgia Bulldogs are inching closer to full strength, but significant questions remain about their backfield as they prepare for a Friday rivalry game against Georgia Tech and the SEC championship game just around the corner. Coach Kirby Smart offered updates Monday on the team’s health, with a particular focus on running backs Trevor Etienne, Branson Robinson, and Roderick Robinson II.
Etienne Out, but Others Making Progress
Trevor Etienne, who transferred from Florida and quickly became the Bulldogs’ leading rusher with 477 yards and seven touchdowns this season, is still sidelined with a rib injury. Though the junior tailback has missed key games, including last week’s dominant 59-21 win over UMass, Smart hinted that other options in the backfield could soon return to action.
Branson Robinson, the top-ranked running back recruit in the Class of 2022, has been out for the past month with a sprained MCL. After sitting out all of the 2023 season due to a torn ACL, he has been slowly working back into form. Smart expressed optimism about Robinson’s recovery:
“Branson and Rod have both looked good in the last week in terms of picking up their pace, running, cutting,” he told reporters. “We’re day by day with those guys, but there’s a possibility, so we’re excited about them getting back to work.”
Roderick Robinson II Nearing a Return
Roderick Robinson II, Georgia’s leading rusher from 2023, has yet to take the field this season after undergoing surgery for a turf toe injury suffered in the preseason. However, like Branson, he has been ramping up practice reps and could be available soon.
These reinforcements could arrive just in time as the Bulldogs look to secure a potential College Football Playoff spot. The No. 10-ranked team faces a must-win situation in the SEC championship game on Dec. 7 against either No. 3 Texas or No. 15 Texas A&M.
Nate Frazier Steps Up in Etienne’s Absence
Freshman Nate Frazier has been a revelation in the backfield while Etienne recovers. Last week, Frazier rushed for a career-best 136 yards and scored three touchdowns against UMass, proving himself as a reliable option when needed.
With Etienne still unavailable, Frazier could play a critical role in Friday’s game against Georgia Tech and possibly in the SEC title game.
Key Updates on Other Injuries
The Bulldogs’ injury woes extend beyond the running backs:
- Christen Miller (DL): Questionable after dislocating his shoulder against UMass.
- Dillon Bell (WR): Dealing with an ankle injury, but there’s hope he’ll suit up Friday.
- Anthony Evans (WR): Progressing from a hamstring issue, though his status remains uncertain.
Playoff Hopes Hinge on Depth
Georgia’s path to the playoffs relies heavily on their depth and adaptability. With the SEC championship game looming and a potential playoff berth at stake, getting key players back on the field is paramount. Smart’s squad faces no shortage of challenges, but with promising young talent like Frazier and the potential return of seasoned veterans, the Bulldogs might be poised to peak at just the right time.
For Georgia fans, the question isn’t just who’s healthy—it’s whether the Bulldogs can hold their ground as contenders in college football’s most competitive stretch.
