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Top 5: Georgia’s most likely defensive breakout performers

By Justin Hubbard

Oct 3, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Que, the Georgia Bulldogs mascot, sits in his doghouse prior to the game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Que, the Georgia Bulldogs mascot, sits in his doghouse prior to the game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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John Atkins

Nov 28, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive end Josh Dawson (91), defensive lineman John Atkins (97) and defensive tackle James DeLoach (89) celebrates with fans after their game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The Bulldogs won 13-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive end Josh Dawson (91), defensive lineman John Atkins (97) and defensive tackle James DeLoach (89) celebrates with fans after their game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The Bulldogs won 13-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

John Atkins might be the least recognizable name on this slideshow.

His position – defensive tackle – doesn’t get a lot of glory. Atkins, a junior, is set to take the reins of the position as the team’s primary starter this season.

James DeLoach was Georgia’s main defensive tackle last season, but Atkins saw a good bit of playing time, participating in 10 games. Atkins finished the 2015 season with only 12 total tackles, including one for loss.

Now, it’s Atkins’ turn to be Georgia’s plug in the middle. His experience should assist him, and his ever-improving skills will make him a force for the defense. But since his position isn’t flashy, Atkins could have a big year but still not really break out like others on this list.

Of course, this is all assuming Atkins will indeed serve as the primary defensive tackle. There’s a younger player who could take the spot from him and force Atkins elsewhere on the line. More on him later, though.

Next: No. 4: Lorenzo Carter

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