Georgia Football: Quarterback Depth for 2012

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In Mark Richt's pro-style offense the position of quarterback is quite possibly the single most important position on the field.  

In recent years we've seen the Bulldogs do well under solid QBs like Matt Stafford and David Greene, and not so well under the likes of Joe Cox.  

With Aaron Murray returning for his redshirt junior season, and with NFL scouts lurking behind every corner, UGA's depth at quarterback will play a huge role moving forward for Mark Richt.  

Let's take a look at the weapons he has available for the 2012 season.  

Aaron Murray — RS Junior

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After initially red-shirting, Aaron Murray is back for his fourth season in Athens. After starting the past two years, Murray is basically assured to go into 2012 at number one on the depth chart.

Murray was an ESPN First Team All-SEC pick last season, and Second Team All-SEC choice by the AP and looks to maintain his successful stats this coming year.  

If his offensive line can hold up against the SEC pass rush, then Murray will likely have another outstanding season statistically, and at present moment he is the man to beat. 

Hutson Mason — Junior

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A highly touted high school star at Lassiter, Hutson Mason eventually settled for the number two position on Georgia's depth chart behind Aaron Murray, but with NFL teams watching Murray closely this season, it will be important for a solid backup to emerge between the hedges. 

Mason has been patient and waited his turn, and will likely red-shirt for the 2012 season in hopes of becoming the starter for either 2013 or 2014.  

Hutson has seen limited action in both of his first two season in Athens and shows some promise.  Look for Mason to continue to solidify himself as a solid backup with starting aspirations.  

Christian LeMay — RS Freshman

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Christian LeMay is yet to see actual game-time for the Bulldogs, but suited up as an emergency quarterback for most of the season.  

LeMay's role at UGA is still uncertain, but it will be a massive undertaking to move up on the depth chart any time soon.  I'm sure he has plenty of talent, and with a chance to display his skills he has a chance to shine. 

Parker Welch — RS Sophomore

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This red-shirt sophomore has seen limited action, only playing in two games in 2011.  He sat out the 2010 season, playing a key role on the scout team for the Bulldogs.

Barring an injury or other unforeseen circumstances, the starting job in Athens is not in question, but a strong push by a candidate such as Welch could move into a solid second spot on the depth chart.

With some talent sitting behind him, Parker will need strong showings this spring and summer to keep from becoming a career special teams player.  

Michael Tamburo — RS Junior

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A three-year starter at North Gwinnett, Tamburo made Boise State his college of choice, but after red-shirting decided he'd move closer to home and wound up in Athens.

Michael sat out for the 2010 season, and saw no playing time in 2011, but was an important part of UGA's scout team.  

Tamburo is an outside contender, but unlikely to ever start at Georgia.  

Faton Bauta — Incoming Freshman

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Georgia's newest face on the depth chart at quarterback is West Palm Beach, Florida signee Faton Bauta.  

Bauta had offers from several major schools such as Alabama, Maryland, and West Virginia, but chose to take on the major task of moving up Georgia's depth chart behind a lot of other talent.  

This likely red-shirt will need a strong camp this summer to make a name for himself.  

Greg Bingham — RS Sophomore

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Other than a handful of snaps in last year's spring game, Greg Bingham hasn't seen much live action to speak of.  

He was one of Georgia's Outstanding Scout Team Award recipients, and named to the 2011 SEC Academic Honor Roll, as well as the 2010 Athletic Director's Honor Roll, but hasn't had the same success on the field.

Bingham may be Georgia's least likely candidate for actual playing time, but is a great kid who will probably play a key roll on the scout team this year.