Although there were more than a few programs represented at Wednesday’s LakePoint Football Showcase, none were as noticeable as Georgia.
Coach Kirby Smart, who unfortunately did not arrive in a helicopter this time, was seen talking to anyone who would listen, while offensive coordinator Jim Chaney and wide receivers coach James Coley were very hands-on with the drills.
With some of the top rising prospects in attendance, including 5-star quarterback and noted UGA target Trevor Lawrence, it gave the coaches a chance to instruct and observe the players.
Smart seemed to prefer to be seen and not heard. Strolling about from drill to drill, Smart did not say much to the players, but his presence was never unnoticeable. Chaney, on the other hand, could be seen working closely with the quarterbacks and cracking jokes at every opportunity.
“Atta way to whip it, big boy,” was among the several encouraging and entertaining phrases Chaney uttered.
Most of Chaney’s attention appeared to be on Lawrence, and for good reason. The nation’s No. 1 quarterback and overall prospect in the Class of 2018, Lawrence is nearing a decision on his college future and Georgia is very much in the mix.
“Coach Chaney has seen me throw, so he knows what I can do,” Lawrence told DawgNation after the camp. “He wanted to work with me a little bit, so hopefully I can go back down there and work with him some.”
Smart may have been among those pushing against the satellite camp movement, but there is no denying that he and Georgia are taking advantage of the opportunities that have presented themselves.