The Georgia Bulldogs have the third-worst rushing offense in the SEC through Week 6. Georgia is averaging just 131.6 rushing yards per game, which is down significantly from 2023, when Georgia averaged 191.2 rushing yards per game.
Part of the explanation of Georgia’s down year statistically is the defenses Georgia has faced. The Bulldogs have played four Power Four opponents in five weeks (Clemson, Kentucky, Alabama and Auburn), which is more than most (if not all) other teams in the SEC.
“We’ve played some really good teams, especially when you look at some of the defensive statistics out there with Kentucky and Clemson, what they’ve done,” said Georgia coach Kirby Smart. “So, the most important thing is to get better.”
Another issue with Georgia’s rushing attack is a lack of designed quarterback runs, which can give opposing defenses a lot of trouble. But Georgia had Carson Beck at quarterback a season ago and was far more productive in the rushing game.
Georgia running back Trevor Etienne has certainly looked explosive and capable of breaking tackles in the backfield. Etienne is probably not what is causing Georgia’s rushing attack to be among the worst in the SEC.
“He (Trevor Etienne) made some things happen with nothing there and then had a couple that I thought maybe should have gotten more on that he’s one step away from breaking one open and using his quickness,” said Smart. “He’s got really good open field skills to make people miss, and I think that’s something that we’ve needed around here.”
Ultimately, it starts up front with Georgia. The Bulldogs need to block better. Georgia is certainly missing star offensive guard Tate Ratledge, who is out with an ankle injury, but is expected to return later in the season.
Two more issues that are hurting Georgia’s rushing attack are game script and lack of possessions. Georgia had to play behind a bunch against both Alabama and Kentucky. Georgia’s defense could force more three-and-outs in order to give the offense more opportunities to succeed in the rushing game.
Another factor is that Georgia has the second-fewest rushing attempts of any team in the SEC with 144.
