How much does the first-half suspension of George Pickens hurt against LSU?

DawgNation has four staffers who cover Georgia football from every angle: Beat, live streams, photos, podcasts, recruiting, etc. The “Cover 4” concept is: 1) Present a topic; 2) Offer a reasoned response; 3) Share a brisk statement on that opinion. 4) Pepper the page with photos for the big picture. For this edition, we discuss which team the George Pickens suspension as it relates to the LSU game.

DawgNation continues with the “Cover 4” concept. The focus is always a timely look with each of our guys manning the secondary on a pertinent topic.

The quick in-and-out game remains. It is designed to come out quicker than former Bulldog Nick Chubb scored his third touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens earlier this year.

The latest “Cover 4” question is:

How much does the George Pickens first-half suspension hurt against LSU?

Brandon Adams: Not very much

DawgNation Daily does not see the first half George Pickens storyline proving to be that big of a factor in the game. (Jeff Sentell/DawgNation)/Dawgnation)

The “why” from “DawgNation Daily” here: “This is a “keep chopping” game for UGA. The Bulldogs are going to be busy in the first half trying to establish the run. The best chances for explosive passing plays will be in the second half when Pickens gets to make his return.”

Mike Griffith: A great deal

Freshman George Pickens caught his sixth touchdown pass of the season against Georgia Tech. (Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)/Dawgnation)

The “why” from “On the Beat” here: “Pickens is the most talented receiver and would’ve been most apt to draw a second defender in the first half. His absence allows LSU to scheme more aggressively, as far as playing one safety deep or two, and it limits the UGA play calls as he’s the most dangerous downfield threat. The Bulldogs need to play with a lead in a game like this because the offense does not have the firepower to keep up with LSU.“

Connor Riley: Like falling off your bike and scraping a knee

George Pickens can still play a big role against LSU. (Jeff Sentell/DawgNation)/Dawgnation)

The “why” from “Good Day UGA” here: “It’ll hurt and be visibly noticeable, but Georgia should still be able to get to where it wants to go. It’ll just have to do it at a much slower and deliberate pace.“

Jeff Sentell: It decreases the win percentage and reduces the margin for error.

Look for George Pickens to come out ready to make amends with a big second half against LSU. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)/Dawgnation)

The Intel here: “It is now the culmination of limiting factors for an offense that still hasn’t played its best game. Lawrence Cager is out. Will D’Andre Swift be near his best? That lingers. Pickens is Georgia’s leading receiver in yards, catches, and touchdowns. How would it affect LSU’s chances be affected if it lost its top playmaker at wide receiver for a half? Pickens averages 0.5 touchdowns per game. Georgia’s best chance at hitting a deep shot against a stacked box is a lot tougher, but oddly I think this assures that Pickens now delivers a big game.”