It is not always about the big play. While the Georgia Bulldogs were able to get into the end zone three times without him in the first half on Saturday vs. the Kentucky Wildcats, it was running back Chauncey Bowens serving as the early tone-setter for the team. He had nine carries for 51 yards in the first half vs. the Kentucky defense trying everything to keep this game close. Give him the rock!
In a first half where Gunner Stockton was hit or miss as a passer, with the offensive line dropping like flies, and with Glenn Schumann continuing to never be trustworthy as the team's defensive coordinator, Bowens is playing like a guy who understands what is at stake in this SEC game. His running style is reminiscent to that of what made Nick Chubb so special Between the Hedges before.
Over the years, Georgia has had one great running back after another. So it is not the least bit surprising that one from today rushes in a manner of a great one from years' past. It is Bowens' all-out effort, kind of like a bull in a china shop sort of mentality. In a game that is getting increasingly finesse, Bowens has been a breath of fresh air when it comes to running the dang ball over at Georgia of late.
This continues to be a strength for this team, but the offensive line injuries are starting to mount up.
Chauncey Bowens provides the punishing rushing style Georgia needs
With another half of the game to play, as well as seven more after this, here is why Bowens' willingness to run like his hair is on fire is so key for Georgia. When Georgia is at its best as a football team, the Dawgs play great defense and then run the football with conviction. It is when they get into anaconda constrictor mode in the fourth quarter where they squeeze the life out of the opposition.
One of the biggest reasons why an Air Raid offense will never win a national championship in this era of college football is because they rushing attack does not inflict pain on the defensive front. Over time, each punishing run put forth by Bowens, Stockton and the rest of Georgia' ball carries add up. This is how one-yard runs become three, three become seven, and seven becomes massive gains.
Bowens is still trying to carve out a name for himself at Georgia, but these first four games of the season half left an indelible impression on those who watch and cover him. Eventually, he is going to break one of these off for a lengthy touchdown run. In the meantime, he has become an incredibly important piece for the Georgia offense now and moving forward. He is a guy that they can lean on.
With it potentially being a low-scoring affair vs. Kentucky, ball control is of even greater importance.