ATHENS — Coach Kirby Smart was asked the same question Tuesday that’s being debated by many who watch the Georgia football program: When quarterback Jacob Eason is cleared to play, does he return as the starter, or could Jake Fromm keep the job?

“I don’t know that that’s a fair question,” Smart said. “I think the question is No. 1, what is cleared to play? Is that 100 percent healthy, or is that emergency backup? I think a lot of that is determined by how Fromm is playing.

“We’ll make that decision when the time comes. It’s not like we’re going to sit here and make an ultimatum. It’s going to come as his health improves.”

Fromm is expected to start a third straight game on Saturday, this time in Georgia’s SEC opener against Mississippi State.

“We’ve got a freshman quarterback that I think’s playing good. We’ve got to go out and let him play,” Smart said. “He’s got to make good decisions.”

Eason practiced on a limited basis on Monday and Tuesday.

“Jacob is throwing the ball. Done some drops. He got to take some reps,” Smart said after practice Tuesday. 

Fromm’s efficiency rating is fifth among SEC quarterbacks entering this weekend. He has passed for 449 yards over the first three games, with 5 touchdowns and 1 interception, though he also has 2 fumbles. His completion percentage is 59.6.

Georgia has now entered SEC play, with the Mississippi State game beginning a run of eight straight conference games. Next week Georgia visits Tennessee, followed by a trip to Vanderbilt and then a home game against Missouri.