Georgia football scrimmage 2: ‘The offense today probably out-performed the defense’

ATHENS — Kirby Smart said he plans to “reserve judgement” on Georgia’s Spring Practice No. 2, but it was clear the head coach had some feelings about it.

“The offense played a lot better today, more consistency in the run game,” Smart said. “I thought last week the defensive line and defensive units controlled the run game. I thought we had a lot more 5, 6, 7-yard runs — not a lot of explosives, but ran the ball better.

“Just very efficient, didn’t get a lot of third-and-longs which made it hard for the defense to win the third-and-mediums.”

Smart said tailback Brian Herrien did some good things, and he has been encouraged by D’Andre Swift throughout spring drills.

The Bulldogs impressed the head coach by pushing through the warmer temperatures.

“Starting to develop a little more identity and a little more toughness,” Smart said, “and a little more leadership showing through in some guys.

“I thought it was a little hot out there today, the guys pushed through it.”

Georgia has three spring practices remaining, including the G-Day game at 2 p.m. next Saturday.

“That’s practice 12 of our 15, and I thought they had good energy considering that, so I was pleased with the overall scrimmage,” Smart said. “We’ve got a long way to go in some areas to get where we need to go.”

Smart lated added that “I’m never where I want to be,” explaining that he is eager to have all the freshmen and incoming players present so he can assess his complete roster.

“But we are not where we need to be,” Smart said. “We didn’t cause a lot of (defensive) havoc today, let’s put it that way.”

Obviously, there’s a balance, as the offense’s efficiency had much to do with that.

Georgia has a third-year quarterback in Jake Fromm, a veteran offensive line and a talented backfield that likely negated the defense’s ability to create the big plays Smart is looking for.

“I thought the defense played hard, it’s just ebb and flow, somebody’s got to make a play,” Smart said. “It’s just today, the offense today probably outperformed the defense.”

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