UGA Football DB Tykee Smith Turning Heads In 2023
Real Georgia Fans Don’t Miss the Dawg Post Newsletter - Sign up now!
ATHENS - Coming into the 2023 season, you could make the case that the Georgia Bulldog secondary was one of the best in college football.
And you’d probably be right.
I mean, with Malaki Starks back there sat safety, he brings All-American potential. Javon Bullard was a turnover machine in 2022, and Kamari Lassiter was a returning start at cornerback.
But then there’s Tykee Smith. A veteran defender and a former transfer from West Virginia, we knew Smith would play a key role this season, but he’s exceeded expectations so far.
Playing among a talented group of defensive backs, Smith has been the most productive so far this season. His instincts, experience, cover skills, and ball skills have stood out through his first seven games, and it’s resulted in 27 tackles and four INTs.
That’s exactly what Georgia needed out of Smith. They aren’t forcing fumbles, but thanks to Smith, they’re creating turnovers against the pass.
See all of what Eko Poly can do for your backyard!
Use the code: “DAWG15” to get 15% off & FREE Shipping!
“Tykee’s been really solid for us”, Smart said after Georgia’s win over Vanderbilt. “He had the huge INT right before the half. He had some plays where he didn’t do the right thing and he has to play better for us to go where we want to go but he made some plays too.”
Thanks to Smith, the Bulldogs are 11th in the country in passing defense, giving up 171.1 yards per game. They’re also 6th in total defense, giving up just 262 yards per game.
He’s a tough, secure tackler, but his presence in coverage has been exceptional. Just last weekend, Smith’s late 1st-half INT gave the Bulldogs a chance to march down the field and find the end-zone right before the half. His turnover turned into points, and that’s what the Bulldogs need more of.
Malaki Starks is still playing great football with his 25 tackles and two INTs. Kamari Lassiter has made 21 stops, and Bullard, who has fought through injuries this year, has made 20 tackles himself.
Still, it’s Smith who has taken a giant step forward and has really made a name for himself. In a defense that plays a lot of defensive backs, Smith has been able to make play after play this season. He’s a reliable defender in the middle of the field who can cover tight ends as well as receivers in the slot.
He’s not the biggest or fastest guy out there, but he’s a veteran who knows what he’s doing. He’s a playmaker, and he’s made some big ones so far in 2023.