Georgia defensive lineman Malik Herring seemed to come into his own near the end of the 2018 season, and there are high hopes he can continue that progression this season as well.

With that in mind, UGA coach Kirby Smart issued a strong challenge to Herring this week.

That is the subject of today’s DN90.

Herring has been a popular name dating back to his presence in the DawgNation Christmas Commitments video — where he and wide receiver J.J. Holloman announced their pledge to the Bulldogs in a video where quarterback Jake Fromm and safety Richard LeCounte pretended to be Santa Claus.

One of the more memorable moments from that video shows Herring completing a backflip — a demonstration of his rare blend of size and athleticism.

That’s part of the reason Herring has been surrounded by expectations. Another reason is his recent presence in the stat sheet.

Tackles for loss were hard to come by for UGA last season. The Bulldogs recorded just 65 — tied for 95th in the country with Western Kentucky, Ball State, Old Dominion and Illinois.

However, Herring combined for two over Georgia’s final three games — potentially providing a glimpse of what could be yet to come for him this year. His effort against Georgia Tech stands out.

Credit Smart for being clear about what it’s going to take to get him there.

For a look at what Smart had to say about Herring, click the video linked above.