ATHENS — Georgia senior receiver Tyler Simmons left the Bulldogs’ game against Arkansas State on Saturday with 2 minutes left in the first quarter with a right shoulder injury.
Simmons, one of three UGA game captains for the game, played more than half of last season with a shoulder brace.
Red Wolves senior cornerback Jeremy Smith slammed Simmons to the ground out of bounds after his 12-yard catch at the Arkansas State 28-yard line.
The officials elected not to throw a flag for a late hit. Instead, the UGA sideline was issued a warning, clearly upset the apparent infraction was not recognized by the officials.
It was Simmons’ second trip to the injury tent in as many weeks. Simmons rolled his ankle last week against Murray State. The x-rays were negative, however, and he returned to the 63-17 win over the Blue Racers.
Simmons left the sideline and went to the locker room on Saturday.
The Bulldogs’ receiving corps is already without slot receiver Kearis Jackson and redshirt freshman wideout Tommy Bush.
Jackson suffered a broken hand after starting the opening game at Vanderbilt. Bush has been out with a groin injury and is not dressed for the game with Arkansas State.
Georgia has had to replace it’s top four receivers from a season ago. Senior Terry Godwin ran out of eligibility, underclassmen Mecole Hardman and Riley Ridley turned pro, and junior J.J. Holloman transferred to Florida International.
Simmons also started Saturday’s game at the Bulldogs’ punt returner. Freshman Dominick Blaylock replaced him on the punt return team. Blaylock later scored on a 60-yard TD reception from Jake Fromm.
