Kirby Smart talks Mizzou QB Brady Cook, offers updates on Arik Gilbert, Jalen Carter and others
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Kirby Smart and No. 1 Georgia head to Missouri on Saturday night.
The Bulldogs are coming off of a 39-22 win over Kent State this past Saturday, but it was the least impressive performance of the year for Smart’s squad.
During the weekly SEC coaches teleconference Wednesday, Smart said in watching film on the Tigers that he’s been impressed with Missouri quarterback Brady Cook.
“He’s a really good athlete,” Smart said. “… He’s got the ability to run and do a lot of things in the pocket. … They already are a good running team, but when you add a quarterback who can run and throw the ball, it creates problems on third down and in the red area.”
Smart also updated a number of personnel/injury issues Wednesday, including sophomore wide receiver Ladd McConkey’s status.
“It’s a use, a volume issue, not really an injury that was sustained,” said Smart when asked about McConkey’s foot issue. “… This week he’s been much better. Last week we shut him down 2 days. … He’s been pretty good this week, getting lots of treatment on it.”
Also addressed were where things stand with tight end Arik Gilbert, who has yet to play this season after being involved in an accident in late August.
“AG has been practicing with us and continues to do that,” Smart said. “He’ll be day-to-day each day. We’re hoping he can contribute to our team this year.”
Smart also said that defensive lineman Jalen Carter is getting close to working his way back onto the field.
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart with an update on DT Jalen Carter (ankle): “Jalen Carter’s been practicing, taking more volume … Looks much better this week”
— Jordan D. Hill (@JordanDavisHill) September 28, 2022
As for where things stand with Javon Bullard following his arrest, Smart said that’s being handled internally.
The Bulldogs and Tigers are set for a 7:30 p.m. (ET) kickoff Saturday. The game will be televised by the SEC Network and Georgia is a 28-point favorite.
"Chris Wallace covers college football for Saturday Down South. He has covered college athletics for multiple newspapers and also worked previously for Rivals.com and GolfChannel.com."
