With the first game of the 2007 season still months away, uncertainty lingers over much of the Bulldogs’ depth chart. However, one position that will not be in question will be senior Paul Oliver’s cornerback role.

Oliver came in last year with just two game starts and a lot to prove to coaches, teammates and fans.

Luckily for the Bulldog nation, Oliver did not disappoint. With 57 tackles, two sacks and three interceptions, the Kennesaw native proved that he’s up to the task.

His best game came at the end of the season when he shut down Georgia Tech’s All-American wide receiver Calvin Johnson. Oliver held the future NFL star to just two catches for 13 total yards, which included Oliver knocking a touchdown pass out of Johnson’s hands in the end zone as well as a late-game interception that sealed the win for the Bulldogs.

Oliver then added to that success by getting nine tackles, a team high, in the Bulldogs’ Chick-Fil-A Bowl victory over Virginia Tech.

Oliver’s success made him consider going pro, but, after evaluating his situation, he decided to stay in Athens.

“It made more sense for me to come back for my senior season. I gave it (the draft) a lot of thought. I think everyone wants to go pro,” Oliver said.

“Everyone’s situation is different. I felt like coming back for my senior season, with hopefully a better team. It made a lot more sense.”

Still, Oliver hopes to improve his game this spring.

“I just want to solidify my job, get better at techniques, and just get better at everything,” Oliver said when asked about his spring practice goals.

Oliver comes into the 2007 season with a slightly different role than previous years. With young talent surrounding him, the senior has become a role model for the underclassmen

“It’s different. All the younger players come and ask me questions now, but I welcome the role,” Oliver said.

Oliver and strong safety Kelin Johnson will anchor the secondary as some younger guys become more accustomed to their roles.

Johnson, also a senior, knows Oliver has what it takes to carry the load.

“Paul is one of those rough guys,” Johnson said. “Nothing is gonna break him. It doesn’t matter what you say to him. He doesn’t try to be anybody he’s not. He comes ready to work everyday.”

Many players dread the mat drills that are a key part of the spring, but Oliver knows the trick to getting through them.

“Mat drills are bad if it’s your first time doing them, but as long as you push yourself, they get easier,” Oliver said.

Oliver said he’s looking forward to his favorite part of spring practice – the annual G-Day game on Saturday April 7.