Georgia LB Tae Crowder has been a pleasant surprise for the Bulldogs this season as he’s third on the team with 36 tackles. It’s a long way from being recruited as a running back in high school.

Coach Kirby Smart explained the transition and evolution for the senior.

“It’s a story of perseverance,” Smart said on the SEC media teleconference. “He was a very lightly recruited kid, as far as I know, I wasn’t here but I know (the previous staff) took him in the last couple of days. Took him as a big, athletic running back. He transformed himself, kept working hard, wanted to play and he came and talked to me and said he was wanting to play special teams. One thing led to another and he grew himself into a really athletic, good inside backer. He is smart, instinctive kid that didn’t play much defense his whole life he’s played well in space, he’s a good athlete. He has been a really positive success story and a great kid.”

Smart also reviewed the win over Florida and what he liked about it.

“I thought he played well, played hard and he continues to grow and get better and we are proud of the leadership he provides,” he said. “He has a really good understanding of our defense.”