Kirby Positive After UGA's First Scrimmage
ATHENS - UGA coach Kirby Smart talks about Georgia's first scrimmage of the year at Sanford Stadium.
General thoughts on the scrimmage:
“I was pleased with the effort and toughness in the scrimmage. We had some physical hits, good striking, good toughness. We challenged them and that’s what we wanted to see. The guys pushed hard. … We’ve got a long way to go to get better. The more experienced players played better and answered the bell and competed hard. I need to reserve judgment on the younger guys until I watch the tape.”
On Julian Rochester being “dependable:”
“Julian was dependable last year. I’m looking for him to be a difference maker this year. He’s better at staying on balance. He still needs to improve on that.”
On the scrimmage performance of quarterbacks Jake Fromm and Justin Fields:
“Both quarterbacks played well. They did some things in the passing game that can help us win. … Talking creates toughness. They showed command of the huddle, command of the offense, securing the ball, all of the things involved that go into being a quarterback. Both guys had great presence and command of the offense.”
On Demetris Robertson being able to play this season:
“I’m excited for Demetris. He’s a great kid and he’s blending in well with our team. He played with toughness and he competes every day. He’s got good speed, he’s bright and he’s picked up the offense. We’ve just let him go out and play and he has picked things up. There’s a lot of competition in the receivers room, and I’m proud of the way Demetris has competed. He needs to keep working and improving and help us where he can.”
On Natrez Patrick’s leadership:
“Natrez has always been a good leader. His stamina to perform at the SEC level has to improve so that he can go 30 plays in a row. He’s not afraid to speak up and challenge guys. His ability to sustain is the biggest thing he needs to improve.”
On Isaac Nauta’s leadership:
“He’s not afraid to speak up. He doesn’t care what you think. If he sees it, he calls you out on it. He’s answered the bell. He’s a positive leader on the offensive side of the ball.”
The Bulldogs will open the season on Saturday, Sept. 1, at home against Austin Peay. Kickoff is slated for 3:30 p.m. and the game will be televised by ESPN.