LSU has run through just about every opponent while going undefeated this season. But the Tigers haven’t played Georgia this season. As we’ve noted all season here, LSU’s rise has come on the strength of underclassmen on defense. So while the Tigers are expected to win today, Georgia is the more interesting team from an NFL Draft perspective.
SEC Championship Game: LSU vs. Georgia NFL Draft watch notes
Earlier this week there was a report that Georgia tight end Orson Charles will enter the 2012 NFL Draft. As much as I like Charles, he shouldn't go pro. Quarterback Aaron Murray has continued to develop this season and could make Charles the nation's top tight end next season.
How Murray plays today will ultimately determine the outcome of today’s game. With Georgia being fortunate enough to avoid both LSU and Alabama this season the Dogs haven’t faced a top defense since the second week of the year against South Carolina. How well Murray plays could also help determine how highly rated by draft analysts the sophomore enters next season.
Georgia’s Cordy Glenn has looked much better than expected while moving over to left tackle this season. Still, he projects much better to guard, his more natural position. That should be proven today against a speedy LSU pass rush. In the middle, Ben Jones has been stout for the Bulldogs. Much like Glenn, he’ll face tough opposition with the nation’s best young defensive tackle group.
The top individual matchup in this game could be Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin against LSU wide receiver Rueben Randle. The Tigers receiver could give Boykin trouble with his physical play.
Georgia pass rusher Jarvis Jones has quietly stated that he’s coming back for his junior season. But if he closes with a good game today and in a bowl game, he may have a hard time sticking with that. On the season, Jones has 19.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks.
See More:
