Georgia Bulldogs 2009: Impact Players

Georgia entered the 2008 season ranked No. 1 and with the highest of expectations. While I don't consider '08 to be a complete dissapointment, it was a bit of a letdown. With all the talent the Georgia Bulldogs had it wasn't enough to reach their goals. Something was missing. The Dawgs lacked leadership.

Georgia needs their own version of Tim Tebow. A vocal leader with the likeness of a general leading his troops into battle, pushing them to excel. Who will rise up and be the leader we need?

Though every member of a team is important, there are some that stand out. These players become leaders on and off the field. These players lead through hard work and dedication on the football field, as well as how they conduct themselves in everyday life.

I think Matthew Stafford is great, and a great quarterback, but he wasn't the leader Georgia needed him to be.

Matthew was almost silent on the field, almost like he was playing alone. If you ever noticed when the defense was on the field Stafford would be sitting on the bench. On the other hand when Florida's defense took the field Tebow would be running up and down the sidelines, pumping up the fans and cheering his teammates on. See the difference?

Here are my choices for impact players.

Joe Cox QB #14

Georgia's success in their '09 campaign could very well walk hand in hand with how well fifth-year senior Joe Cox handles his responsibilities as starting quarterback.

How many high school quarterbacks do you know who's team NEVER lost when he started? I know one: Joe Cox.

Rennie Curran WLB #35

This man is a total beast in the weight room. Rennie works very hard to be in the best physical shape possible. This determination is seen on the field as well. If anyone can lead by example, it's Rennie Curran.

A.J. Green WR #8

A.J Green had a fantastic freshman year pulling in an SEC leading 56 receptions for 963 yards. Green had help from Mohamed Massaquoi during his freshman year, and will need to be that same mentor for incoming freshman Marlon Brown.

Though he may not know it, A.J. Green helped Georgia's recruiting efforts with his performance in '08. Being able to come in as a freshman and contribute like that is very appealing to receivers coming out of high school.

Richard Samuel RB #22? or Caleb King RB #4?

With Knowshon Moreno entering the NFL Draft the starting job as Georgia's next running back is up for grabs. Most believe that either Caleb King or Richard Samuel will take over.

Georgia plays with a run heavy offense, not to mention that Georgia's passing game relies heavily on the run to open up the play action pass. The Dawgs will need whoever lands the starting job to step up in a big way.