FOOTBALL
The sixth-ranked Georgia football team conducted the first of two two-a-days slated for the 2012 preseason camp with a pair of 90-minute sessions on Tuesday.
The Dawgs concentrated mostly on special teams in the morning practice at Sanford Stadium, then returned to the Woodruff Practice Fields for the second session in shorts and helmets.
“We had two practices today, and I thought they went well,” said coach Mark Richt. “We are still working a lot of people and getting a lot of guys reps to create as much depth as possible and also to evaluate in certain spots. It was a good morning.
“This afternoon we installed our one-minute offense. I thought we had a good day. Everybody has been doing well. We already have seven practices under our belt pretty quickly, and I’ve been pleased so far. I think we’re on track and I think we’re working hard.”
Tuesday’s special teams practice allowed Richt and his staff to assess the group of kickers and punters that includes true freshmen Marshall Morgan and Colin Barber.
“I thought our extra points and field goals were not what they need to be yet,” Richt said. “When they hit it really good it looked great, but there was a little inconsistency and not as deadly accurate as you want. A lot of it is getting used to going full speed with the live rushers and new holder and just being in Sanford Stadium.
“As far as the punting, I thought Colin had some balls with some outstanding hang time. I think he understands that part. His operation time was pretty good.”
The team will return to full pads Wednesday morning for the first scrimmage of the preseason.
“It’s very big for a lot of reasons,” Richt said of Wednesday’s scrimmage. “You want to gain confidence in your unit. That’s a big part of it. There will be a lot of individuals who will be trying to earn playing time. Everybody is going to get a chance to get something on film that the coaches can evaluate.”
Fall semester classes begin at UGA next Monday, August 13th, and the annual Fans Picture Day will be held Saturday, August 18th, in the Reed Plaza area of Sanford Stadium. Georgia football players will be on hand for photos and autographs from 3-5 p.m. between Gates 2 and 4. Richt will also be available from 3-5 p.m. for those with ticket coupons.