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The Defensive Ends
DeMarcus Dobbs (Jr), 6'2", 282 lbs.
Dobbs plays like a linebacker but has the size and skill-set to play his position effectively.
He appeared in 13 games last season and racked up 19 tackles (including two for a loss) to go alongside two-interceptions (one of which resulted in a touchdown).
Dobbs is athletic and fast for his size and has the ability to run down players in the backfield with relative ease.
He exerts great effort on every play and doesn't allow himself to get beat very often.
As far as his pass-rush skills are concerned, he doesn't excel in that arena. However, he disrupts plays at the line by out-hustling everyone and getting his hands up to shut down passing lanes.
His intensity and solid approach to playing the game more than makes up for any deficiencies he may have as a pass-rusher.
Backups include Kiante Tripp (Jr), 6'6", 270 lbs., a converted tight end/offensive lineman who moved back to the position at the end of 2009 spring practice, and Cornelius Washington (RSo), 6'4", 243 lbs., a big and fast pass-rushing specialist.
The other end position is up for grabs as projected starter Justin Houston has been suspended for the first two-games of the season.
Houston (So), 6'3", 264 lbs. showed great promise after his performance in the G-Day game, where he racked up three sacks and was named Most Improved Defensive End at the end of spring practice.
Houston is extremely athletic and knows how to get into the backfield quickly to both disrupt the passing game as well as make a play on the quarterback—he excels at making whoever has the ball very nervous.
His absence means that Roderick Battle (Sr), 6'4", 259 lbs. is likely to get the nod at the starting job, but he isn't likely to make much of an impact at the position and could see a serious challenge mounted by some of the more talented guys on roster.
One of those guys is Jeremy Longo (RFr), 6'3", 241 lbs. He's a little small, but has the frame to add more bulk and strength to his body.
He does very well as a run blocker but is also adept at the pass-rush.
His best asset as a player may be his ability to get free of blockers and pursue the running back—he's quick and has good burst off the line
As of now, he will be limited due to a shoulder injury, but expect him to make some appearances in games as the season progresses.
Neland Ball (RSo), 6'6", 232 lbs. also sat out of spring practice due to injury, but should be back by the start of fall practice.
Georgia's defensive line is looking fairly solid. They just need to find a playmaker or two at the DE position, and they should be much improved over last season's squad.
Next up: The Linebackers
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