Kirby Smart breaks down role of freshman tight end Brock Bowers

When several Georgia pass catchers went down with injuries in the last few months, head coach Kirby Smart knew he would need young receivers and tight ends to shine if the Bulldogs wanted to reach the College Football Playoff come December. 

True freshman tight end Brock Bowers has stepped up unlike any other member of the Georgia receiving corps. 

On Wednesday’s SEC coaches teleconference, Smart discussed his expectations for his young star for the second half of Georgia’s season. 

“Same as it’s been all year, to execute and perform at a high level, which he’s been able to do” Smart said in response to a question about Bowers’ role now that some of the previously injured receivers are returning to the field.

The Napa, Calif. native has 20 receptions for 315 yards and four touchdowns this season. He leads Georgia tight ends and wide receivers in all categories and is third in yardage amongst Power Five tight ends.

“We’ve played some different kinds of defenses, and he’s done a tremendous job,” Smart added. “I thought he’s had probably two of his best games, the last two games in terms of physicality and execution, and I’m really pleased with his work ethic and the things he’s been able to do.”

Against Vanderbilt three weeks ago, Bowers earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors after scoring three total touchdowns. He became the first Bulldog to do so since running back Sony Michel in 2017.

Bowers already showing why he was highly coveted

The 6-foot-4, 230-pound tight end was a five-star prospect and the top tight end in the 2021 On300 prospect rankings out of Napa (CA.) High School. Bowers has good speed, allowing him to gain separation from his defenders and operate like a wide receiver, a skill set which is becoming more coveted in the transition to more pass-heavy offenses across college football. 

“As for recruiting we saw tremendous tape,” Smart said earlier this season. “He was a really good football player. Played tailback, played receiver, played tight end. Just got the ball to him. He was fast, he was physical, tough.”

Bowers will face the best defense Georgia has seen since they played Clemson to start the season on Saturday. Kentucky has the fourth-best scoring defense and pass defense in the SEC, allowing just 17.5 points and 193.7 yards in those categories. 

Georgia is a 22.5-point favorite as of Thursday afternoon.