Georgia Football: 5 Returning Underclassmen to Watch in 2015

Nov 15, 2014; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker

(42) and fullback Christian Payne (41) celebrate a play on special teams in the third quarter of their game against the Auburn Tigers at Sanford Stadium. Georgia won 34-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

No. 3 – Christian Payne, Fullback (Rising Sophomore)

The Bulldogs have always had a fearless, bruising fullback leading the way for their seemingly endless stable of running backs. With Quayvon Hicks continuing to work on his more hybrid role of tight end and kick returner (as well as some fullback play), this might be the time for Payne to stake his own claim.

Payne saw very little action last season, but he was impressive when he did play. As a true freshman he played in seven games, including a start against Georgia Tech, and some time against Arkansas.

He’s a very solid 6’1, 225 pounds and knows how to use his frame and his lower body strength to his advantage. As a blocker, its clear he knows what he’s doing, and he’ll only continue to improve on that. He hasn’t been featured catching any passes out of the backfield yet, but could be a good go-to plan in short yardage when everyone is expecting Chubb or Marshall.

Would love to see Payne evolved into a full-time fullback roll, and become a big part of the Bulldogs’ running attack.

Next: Jeb Blazevich