Georgia Football: 5 Returning Dawgs Primed for a Breakout Year

Coming off a disappointing 6-7 season, the Dawgs will need their young talent to get back to football's elite.

Who will step up in the absence of A.J. Green and Kris Durham?

Who will breakthrough the defensive line and add much needed pressure to opposing teams?

Let's look at five returning Dawgs who are poised to have breakout seasons.

Marlon Brown, WR

A former four-star recruit, Brown and was haled as the best player in the state of Tennessee in 2009.

He hasn't been able to build any momentum at UGA, but look for him to step up in the absence of A.J. Green.

Kwame Geathers, DT

Kwame Geathers had only minimal contributions to the Dawgs in 2010, but look for him to make a name for himself this fall.

He won Spring Practice Defensive MVP and is poised to terrorize opponents all year.

Michael Bennett, WR

Michael Bennett looks to fill the hole left by receiver Kris Durham.

At 6'3" 210 lbs, Bennett will be a big target for Aaron Murray this fall.

Ken Malcome, RB

With the departure of Caleb King, Ken Malcome looks to get some early carries in the Bulldogs' backfield.

Even with highly touted prospect Isaiah Crowell coming to Athens this fall, look for Malcome to finish the year as the Dawgs' second-leading runner.

By season's end, the Crowell/Malcome duo will be turning heads across the league.

Garrison Smith, DE

One of the best players in the state coming out of high school, Garrison Smith will likely get his fair share of snaps on the defensive line this fall.

He stands at 6'4" and weighs nearly 300 lbs—perfect for a defensive end in Todd Grantham's 3-4 defense.

Look for Smith to be the next breakout defensive lineman to come out of Athens.