Georgia's defense entered the year with elite standards and championship expectations. So far, the Bulldog's defense has not played up to par with those standards. SEC offenses have very talented players and coaching staffs, and they have been able to take advantage of this Georgia defense. And the loss to Alabama is the perfect example of that.
The defense is young overall, with the majority of current starters stepping into their roles for the first time of their careers. Senior cornerback Daylen Everette is the elder statesman of the defense, being the lone senior starter for the group. The rest of the defensive backs are new to this much playing time, and so far this inexperience has shown in big games.
Growing pains in Georgia's secondary is costing UGA
Fans and coaching staff alike were expecting some struggles with having new starters this season, but not to this extent. The cornerback position across from Everette is a revolving door, and teams are targeting whoever lines up on that side of the field. Daniel Harris has his struggles, and Ellis Robinson IV has not played well in his limited snaps either. Harris has some issues tracking the ball when it's in the air, and Robinson hasn't adjusted to playing in the SEC despite being a five-star recruit.
The good news is that this is the beginning of the season, and with more reps, the secondary can play a lot better as the season goes on.
Georgia is tied with Appalachian State for the 47th-ranked total defense in the country. Georgia is also ranked 21st in first down defense. Georgia needs to improve as a whole if they want a shot at playing for another conference championship this season. The big plays and coverage busts have to stop, and they need to rally as a young group.
Kirby Smart and defensive backs coach Donte Williams have to keep building these young defensive backs up despite their struggles if UGA is going to find success this season.