ATHENS — Georgia’s Nick Chubb tried to give it a go. It just didn’t go far.

A week after suffering an ankle sprain against Ole Miss and missing practice all week, Chubb came into the game at tailback on the Bulldogs’ second offensive series. He took a handoff at left tackle for a three-yard gain. He was replaced on the next play by starter Sony Michel and did not return for the rest of the first half.

Chubb suffered a sprain of his left ankle late in the second quarter last Saturday against Ole Miss. His father, Henry Chubb, said Friday Chubb would be sitting out the Tennessee game. However, head coach Kirby Smart said late Friday afternoon that it would be a “game-time decision” for the Bulldogs’ star tailback.

Chubb warmed up with the rest of Georgia’s backs before Saturday’s game and opened it on an exercise bike on the Bulldogs’ sideline. But he spent most of the half either standing behind Georgia’s offensive coaches or riding the bike.

Michel had 10 carries for 72 yards and freshman Brian Herrien added 65 on nine carries as Georgia logged a season-best 147 yards rushing in the first half.

Chubb tore three ligaments in his left knee on the first play of last year’s game against Tennessee. But he was able to return for preseason practice and not only started the Bulldogs’ opener against North Carolina, he rushed for 222 yards and two touchdowns in the 33-24 victory.

Chubb gained only 200 yards total in the three games since, however, as Georgia’s offensive line struggled to run block.