5 biggest takeaways: Nick Chubb exceeds expectations during Gurley's absence

Here are the five biggest takeaways from Georgia’s 63-31 trouncing of the Kentucky Wildcats yesterday in Lexington, Ky.

1. Lorenzo Carter is the next great UGA pass rusher — The true freshman outside linebacker got a spot start against Kentucky due to Leonard Floyd’s recent struggles on the field. Carter didn’t disappoint, either. If his 6-foot-6, 237-pound frame isn’t enough to intimidate opposing offensive linemen, he also displayed elite speed and athleticism for an outside linebacker as he chased UK quarterback Patrick Towles all over the field. He recorded nine total tackles in yesterday’s contest, along with 2.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss. All of those were season highs. UGA may lose some talent from its linebacking corps after this year, but they have a what looks to be a future star waiting in the wings.

2. Nick Chubb exceeded expectations — When Todd Gurley’s indefinite suspension first came down, focus immediately shifted to UGA’s freshman back Nick Chubb. Blessed with great size and speed, everyone could see in Chubb’s limited action behind Gurley that he was a talented runner. However, I’m not quite sure anyone expected Chubb to dominate during the four games of Gurley’s absence. As the team’s starting running back, Nick Chubb gained 671 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 102 carries. He was a threat in the passing game as well with 10 receptions, 98 receiving yards and one touchdown. Obviously, a player of Gurley’s caliber demands most of the touches, but Chubb certainly made a strong case to be a massive part of the offense even when Gurley is back on the field.

3. Georgia showed great maturity in response to UF loss — Last week’s defeat was tough for UGA to swallow. Not only did the Bulldogs likely lose a shot at the College Football Playoff, but their divisional title hopes to a significant hit, falling behind Missouri into second place. Georgia’s had great success against UK, but having to bounce back from an upset loss against a rival is tough to do, especially one week later on the road. But Georgia did just that and they passed the test with flying colors. Defense struggled to stop UK early on, but eventually the entire team was clicking and the result was hardly ever in doubt. I’m not sure there’s a better way to respond than by scoring 63 points on the road, but UGA exhibited a lot of growth and mental toughness in yesterday’s game.

4. Hutson Mason continues to play well — Earlier in the season, it seemed Hutson Mason was more of a liability than an asset for the UGA offense. However, that perception has changed in recent weeks, thanks to several quality performances. His best yet may have come yesterday against Kentucky. Although his passing yardage numbers weren’t high at just 174 yards, Mason was highly accurate (13-of-16) and efficient (4 TDs). It was also his fifth straight game without an interception. With Gurley coming back, Mason’s responsibility in leading the offense will take a hit, but he’s proven to be capable of stepping up and delivering when called upon.

5. One game to likely decide UGA’s SEC fate — Well, UGA fans … next week is what you have been waiting for. Auburn comes to Athens, Ga., this coming Saturday in Georgia’s SEC finale for the 2014 season. The ‘Dawgs are currently sitting behind the 8-ball in the SEC East title race and will absolutely need a victory against the Tigers in order to still have a shot at going to the SEC Championship. It’s easily Georgia’s most important game of the season, but the Bulldogs will need some outside help in the form of a Missouri Tigers loss during their remaining three conference games.