Redshirt sophomore center Drew Bobo logged his first start on Saturday in Georgia’s 31-13 home win over the Auburn Tigers on Saturday.
Bobo, the son of offensive coordinator Mike Bobo, was thrown into action after the Bulldogs ruled out starter Jared Wilson due to a foot injury he suffered against Alabama.
The former three-star recruit from Auburn, AL put on a solid performance in Georgia’s victory, which made head coach Kirby Smart very proud.
“Drew has worked really hard,” Smart said. “He’s a tremendous athlete. People don’t give him enough credit for his second-level blocks, and getting downfield effort. I mean, he is probably one of our highest-effort players. Because every play he’s running downfield, he’ll hit somebody. And I was really proud of him. And it was a great moment.”
While continuing to praise the young Bobo, Smart revealed just how far back the two go.
“He was a ring bearer at my wedding,” Smart said. “And just got a lot of respect for Drew, the way he works. And to see him grow up and just be the great man and person that he is. I was happy for him to have success today.”
Smart wasn’t the only one who was impressed with Bobo. Quarterback Carson Beck also shared some high remarks for his teammate, while admitting he knew all week that Bobo was getting the start so they had some time to prepare.
“We knew all week. Talking to him and going through practice. I thought he had a phenomenal start at center,” Beck said. “I mean, there’s, there’s a lot, you know, behind the center. You know, it’s not only in physical position, but you got to be intelligent. It’s really fundamental. You got to know that he checks the potential. Because I told him, I’m right here to help you. Don’t worry, you make your decision. You’re good. Go out there and have confidence in yourself. Have faith. And I thought he had a really good game today.”
Exactly how extreme Wilson’s injury is and when he will return to his starting job is unclear. But at least the Bulldogs don’t have to worry about rushing him back knowing they can count on Bobo to fill his void in the meantime.
