Players, coaches scrutinize recurring mistakes

Mistakes are common in any sport, but improvement is expected to correct those mistakes.

The problem comes when the same errors are made repeatedly, and that is what left many Georgia football players and coaches shaking their heads Monday after watching film of their second scrimmage of the spring.

“On both sides of the ball, we were missing a lot of assignments,” head coach Mark Richt said.

“Defensively, we were playing too high, and offensively, we didn’t get our hats right where they belong when we were blocking.”

Of the defense’s play, senior strong safety Kelin Johnson said, “We had a lot of hustle, but we still had a lot of guys not running to the ball. When you run to the ball, good things happen. Strips happen, interceptions happen and forced fumbles happen.”

The team will practice Wednesday and Friday and scrimmage again on Monday.

Injury update

Redshirt freshman offensive lineman Josh Davis returned to practice Monday. The Jayless, Miss. native missed time with a knee injury.

Also, senior linebacker Brandon Miller said he only felt a little sore from a rib injury that caused him to miss a portion of Saturday’s scrimmage. He participated fully in Monday’s practice.

Sophomore offensive lineman Vince Vance still is recovering from a ligament strain in his knee, but Richt said he expects him back soon.

“He looks close to me to practicing again,” Richt said. “If it’s not Wednesday, I’ll bet you it’s Friday. He needs to get those last two scrimmages in.”

Sturdivant stands out

Among the new faces on the practice field are junior college transfers and freshmen getting their first taste of college football.

According to Richt, freshman offensive tackle Trinton Sturdivant has been impressive thus far.

“Of the new guys coming in, I’m really pleased with Trinton Sturdivant,” Richt said of the Wadesboro, N.C. native.

“He’s made a lot of strides and he’s got a long way to go, but he’s done a good job for us.”

Richt also complimented junior college transfer Scott Haverkamp and the rest of the new Bulldogs.

“I like how they are all competing, but Haverkamp and Trinton are running with the first team right now. We can’t say (the new players) are ready-made, but they’re coming along nicely.”