Georgia defensive lineman Jordan Hall (44) reacts during the second half in an NCAA football game at Sanford Stadium, Saturday, October 18, 2025, in Athens. Georgia won 43-35 over Mississippi. (Hyosub Shin / AJC)
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Georgia’s defense made some key stops late in the game. It did so without some notable pieces on the defensive side of the ball.
“That puts us a little bit down at several positions,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said. “We have to have guys step up and get ready to play. It’s all over our league right now. Florida was that way coming into the game with a lot of defensive guys they got back for this game.”
Defensive lineman Jordan Hall left the game on the opening defensive possession of the game for Georgia. He was quickly ruled out for the game.
Smart said the junior defensive lineman is dealing with a knee injury.
Hall has dealt with leg injuries in the past, including exiting the Kentucky game earlier this year.
With Hall out, Georgia slid Joshua Horton into his spot on the defensive line. Freshman Elijah Griffin also saw an uptick in snaps.
Georgia defensive back Demello Jones left the game in the fourth quarter. He was replaced by Ellis Robinson, though the two rotated throughout the game.
Smart said Jones was dealing with an elbow injury but was unsure on how severe.
Robinson would go on to break up a fourth-down pass from DJ Lagway on what proved to be Florida’s final offensive play of the game.
Smart also added that Chris Cole is dealing with a knee injury. Georgia still found a way to win 24-20, with two fourth-down stops in the fourth quarter.
The Georgia coach did comment on the playing surface. Georgia kicker slipped while attempting his first kickoff of the day. Fortunately for Georgia, he did not miss any time.
“Didn’t notice it,” Smart said. “It felt a little soft, like spongy. But nothing that, I think guys slipped and fell a lot. I think it was that opening kick, Peyton certainly did.”
Georgia wide receiver Colbie Young did make the trip with the team, though he was getting around with the help of a scooter.
Defensive back Kyron Jones was once again out, as was wide receiver Talyn Taylor.
Georgia continues SEC play next Saturday when it visits Mississippi State. The game is set for a noon ET start.
Be the first to comment