Georgia LB Nolan Smith Doubtful for Tennessee Game with Shoulder Injury, per HC Smart

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart announced Monday that linebacker Nolan Smith is "probably doubtful" to play in Saturday's game against No. 2 Tennessee because of a shoulder injury.

Smith, who leads the top-ranked Bulldogs with three sacks this season, suffered the injury during last week's 42-20 win over Florida, per ESPN's Mark Schlabach.

"His availability has not been determined," Smart said. "It does not look good for availability this week. It's a [pectoral] muscle, so it's one of those deals where we'll do an MRI on. We're still getting some opinions on it, but he's probably doubtful for this week."

Along with his team-high sack total, Smith has also tallied 18 total tackles and a pass defended during the Bulldogs' 8-0 start to the season. He's recorded 12.5 sacks in 38 games across four years at UGA.

A silver lining for Georgia if the talented linebacker ends up missing the marquee clash with the Vols is the team's defense managed three sacks against the Gators despite Smith leaving early with the injury.

Christopher Smith (no relation), Chaz Chambliss and Mykel Williams each took down Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson once, and Smart also credited defensive tackle Jalen Carter, who returned from a knee injury, for helping put pressure on the QB.

"He looked better than I thought," Smart said. "I hope we'll be able to have him at full speed."

Without Smith, the Dawgs would need a similar defensewide effort to create pressure on Tennessee signal-caller Hendon Hooker, who's compiled 21 touchdowns and just one interception during the Volunteers' matching 8-0 start.

It won't be easy because the UT offensive line has been strong in pass protection, allowing just 13 sacks, including just one in its season-altering win over Alabama in mid-October.

Georgia will be favored even if Smith is ultimately ruled out, but losing the senior represents not only a pass-rushing loss but a on-field leadership one, as well.

Expect another update on the linebacker once the Bulldogs get back further testing results.

Saturday's kickoff at Georgia's Sanford Stadium is set for 3:30 p.m. ET on CBS.