Georgia Football: Brandon Boykin and the Dawgs' Special Teams Studs

Heading into the 2011 season, Georgia players and fans alike have high expectations for the Bulldogs.

One of the brightest areas for Georgia is the special teams unit. With some of the nation's top players at the key special teams positions, the 'Dawgs look to lean hard on this unit in 2011.

Let's take a look at Georgia's dynamic players at each of the key special teams positions.

Brandon Boykin, KR

Senior, 5'10", 183 lbs

Throughout his career in Athens, Brandon Boykin has distinguished himself as one of the nation's top kick returners.

He has taken four kickoffs to the house, and holds the career Southeastern Conference mark for total kick return yardage and number of plays over 100 yards (3).

Boykin is an absolute game-changer.

Blair Walsh, K

Senior, 5'10", 192 lbs

This Boca Raton, Florida native enters the 2011 as the top kicker in the SEC and one of the best in the nation.

Walsh is a former finalist for the Lou Groza Award, and is 40-for-45 on field goals over the last two seasons.

Look for him to make another push for the Groza Award in 2011.

Drew Butler, P

Senior, 6'2", 214 lbs

The 2009 Ray Guy Award winner as the nation's top punter, Drew Butler gives the 'Dawgs the ability to instantly flip the field on their opponents.

He's averaged over 46 yards per kick for his career entering his senior season. He and Blair Walsh, make up the most feared kicking duo in the country.

Branden Smith, PR

Junior, 5'11", 176 lbs

Though Branden Smith is a little banged-up at the moment, head coach Mark Richt & Co. expect him to play this Saturday against Boise State.

An electric player, Smith has the ability to spark Georgia's offense after a big punt return.

He's had a great attitude going into his junior campaign, and as long as he holds on to the football, he can help put quarterback Aaron Murray and the offense in great shape.