An early look at Georgia’s special teams

Published 3:33 pm Tuesday, July 3, 2018

In close games during the college football season, often what results in either victory or defeat is a team’s play on special teams.

Georgia coach Kirby Smart often stresses the importance of having success in special teams, so here’s a look at what players Georgia fans could see at those key positions in 2018. 

Punter: Cameron Nizialek spent his senior season at Georgia by way of a grad transfer from Columbia University. He excelled at the punter position, averaging 45 yards in 61 punts. 

Georgia returns redshirt sophomore Marshall Long, who played in nine games in 2016, averaging 38.7 yards per punt.

Along with Long, Georgia will bring in freshman Jake Camarda, who was a three-star recruit from Norcross. He was recruited as a kicker, but has the ability to punt, as well. 

Kicker: This area is where the Bulldogs have the most experience and talent. Georgia will return redshirt junior Rodrigo Blankenship. Blankenship enjoyed a successful 2017 season, going 20-for-23 on field goals.

His biggest came by way of a 55-yard kick in the Rose Bowl against Oklahoma. He was named a preseason All-SEC first team selection as a specialist, and is poised to have a big year this upcoming season.

Georgia also has Camarda on roster if anything were to happen to Blankenship, but barring injury, Blankenship will most likely assume the starting job.

Kick/punt returner: There are a lot of options for Georgia at this position. Most eyes point to junior receiver Mecole Hardman for punt returner, due to his duties last year at the position. Hardman spoke during the spring about being eager to return a punt for a touchdown. If he gets similar responsibilities this upcoming season, he could very well get his chance. Fans could also see senior receiver Terry Godwin as this position as well due to his athletic abilities and experience. 

Kick returner could come from a variety of options. If Smart is OK with using a running back at that position, he could point to Elijah Holyfield or D’Andre Swift. Either Hardman or Godwin can also assume the role as the other returner. 

Printed with permission from The Red & Black independent student media organization in Athens, Ga.; redandblack.com/sports.