## Georgia Bulldogs Open Season: Young Talent Ready to Shine

**ATHENS, Ga.** - Kirby Smart kicks off his 10th season as Georgia's head coach with a roster brimming with youthful energy. With over half of the team in their first or second year, the Bulldogs are eager to prove themselves on the field. 

"We are young... but we are hungry," said Smart during Thursday's first preseason practice. "We’ve got a team that’s fun to coach...A lot of them haven’t had an opportunity to play, and now this is their opportunity."


**Youth Movement in Athens**

The defending SEC champion Bulldogs have only seven returning starters from last year's 11-3 season, which saw them finish No. 6 in the final AP Top 25 poll. This marks Georgia's eighth consecutive top 10 finish under Smart, including back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022.

Georgia's offense returns only four starters: tight ends Oscar Delp (7 starts) and Lawson Luckie, right tackle Earnest Greene III, and wide receiver Dillon Bell.  
 The defense also boasts a limited returning core of only three starters: lineman Christen Miller, inside linebacker C.J. Allen, and cornerback Daylen Everette.


**Quarterback Battle Heats Up**

The competition for the starting quarterback position continues to be fierce. Gunner Stockton, who took over for injured Carson Beck in last year's SEC Championship win over Texas, is currently battling with Ryan Puglisi. Despite the ongoing competition, Stockton’s strong spring practice and performance in the G-Day game solidify him as a frontrunner to start against Marshall on August 30th.

**Championship Mentality Prevails**

Returning tight end Oscar Delp, a member of Georgia's 2022 national championship team, emphasizes the importance of maintaining the "standard" for success. He actively shares his experiences with younger players, reminding them that consistent effort and dedication are crucial for achieving championship glory.


 **“Big Mike” Ready to Lead**

Fifth-year senior offensive guard Micah Morris (6-4, 330), nicknamed “Big Mike,” is poised to become a full-time starter after serving as a fill-in starter last season. Morris, known for his immense strength and unwavering commitment to the program, has consistently developed himself while awaiting his opportunity.


**Disciplinary Actions Announced**

Head Coach Smart addressed the internal disciplinary actions taken against backup offensive lineman Jahzare Jackson, who was arrested on July 16th for possession of more than an ounce of marijuana. While Jackson remains with the team, he faces internal consequences for his decision-making.





## Georgia Bulldogs Open Season: Young Talent Ready to Shine

**ATHENS, Ga.** - Kirby Smart kicks off his 10th season as Georgia's head coach with a roster brim

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Kirby Smart opens preseason camp for 10th season at Georgia with young team after 2024 SEC title