Linebacker and UAB-transfer Jake Ganus has been impressive so far in his short time at Georgia.
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On December 2nd of 2014, a huge injustice occurred with the shutting down of the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s football program. The Blazers were coming off of only their 2nd campaign that ended with bowl-eligibility in program history, only to be given the ax a few days later. Not only that, but all of their players who wouldn’t be graduating were now without a team to belong to. Like a renter getting evicted, the Blazers were searching for new homes.
Enter Jake Ganus, a rising senior inside linebacker from Chelsea, Alabama.
Coming out of high school, the 6’2, 220-pound linebacker only received three FBS scholarship offers: Army, Navy, and UAB. The practically unknown commodity made a name for himself while in Birmingham, as he led UAB in tackles the past two seasons. So, when he became a free agent, so to speak, with the cancellation of UAB’s program, Ganus now had the attention of numerous big-time programs, including the University of Georgia, who he would commit to.
Ganus was a great pick-up for the Dawgs at inside linebacker, and he has not disappointed thus far in spring practice.
The former Blazer has led the Dawgs in tackles in both scrimmages so far this Spring. In the first scrimmage, Ganus recorded 10 tackles, one sack, a pass-breakup, and an interception. In his follow-up performance, Ganus had nine tackles.
Nov 29, 2014; Hattiesburg, MS, USA; UAB Blazers linebacker Jake Ganus (4) celebrates after sacking Southern Miss Golden Eagles quarterback Nick Mullens (9) in the second half at M.M. Roberts Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
At a position where Georgia is losing the production and experience of Ramik Wilson and Amarlo Herrera, Ganus’ stats are exactly what Dawg fans want to hear. Ganus also brings in valuable game experience, having been UAB’s starter at inside linebacker for the past three seasons, something that the other inside linebackers at UGA are lacking.
Ganus’ second chance is not only a good thing for him, but for the DawgNation as well, as we gained an excellent football player who will contribute immediately to the Dawgs’ title hunt. I personally can’t wait to see how his senior season plays out.
Just don’t ask me to pronounce his last name.