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Georgia football: 5 breakout players to watch in 2020

By Cody Williams

ATHENS, GA - SEPTEMBER 07: Zamir White #3 of the Georgia Bulldogs warms up prior to the game against the Murray State Racers at Sanford Stadium on September 7, 2019 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
ATHENS, GA - SEPTEMBER 07: Zamir White #3 of the Georgia Bulldogs warms up prior to the game against the Murray State Racers at Sanford Stadium on September 7, 2019 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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Georgia football (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Georgia football breakout candidate No. 4: Travon Walker, DT

The defense was not the issue for the Bulldogs in the 2019 season as they had one of the best and most consistent units in the SEC, maybe in the country. But while the offense sometimes left a little to be desired, if there’s one area where Georgia would like to see improvement on defense in the 2020 campaign, it would be in terms of getting to the quarterback. That’s where 2019 recruit and 5-star prospect Travon Walker could come into the fray.

Walker was named to the All-Freshman SEC Team a year ago after appearing in 12 games for Smart’s club. While he was playing in a reserve role, he was still able to highlight the physical potential that he offers as a young player. Walker finished his first season in Athens 15 total tackles, 2.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss, all of which are impressive for such a young player.

At 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds, Walker moves like a player who is about 30 pounds lighter than he actually is. You can see that on his film from high school and in his reps as a true freshman. That’s why he has the opportunity before him to possibly burst onto the scene after getting some experience and become one of the most critical cogs on the Dawgs defense.

To begin the season, largely because of experience, it wouldn’t be a shock to see senior Malik Herrig starting at defensive end over Walker. But talent has a way of winning out, particularly when it flashes like Walker already has. Subsequently, no one should be surprised if he’s not only the starter by midway through the season but if he’s garnering buzz as one of the best young defensive players in the SEC.

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