The Great Georgia Exodus: Did They All Ditch for the NFL?
Ah, the age-old question that haunts the halls of every college football program in December: how many players are skipping the bowl game to focus on the NFL Draft? This year, the Georgia Bulldogs were ground zero for this drama, especially when their opponents, the Florida State Seminoles, looked like a team on spring break thanks to a whopping number of opt-outs.
How Many Georgia Players Have Opted Out |
So, did the Dawgs follow suit and bolt for the pros?
Nope! Not a single Georgia Bulldog officially opted out of the Orange Bowl. That's right, folks. These guys were committed to the team, their coaches, and most importantly, to sticking it to the Seminoles. We can only imagine the look on Kirby Smart's face if his players started disappearing left and right.
There were some rumors swirling that some key players might sit out due to injury, but in the end, the Bulldogs showed up ready to play (and win, because, well, they're the Bulldogs).
Does this mean Georgia players are choirboys who wouldn't dream of skipping a bowl game?
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Hold on there, partner. Don't get carried away. There have definitely been Bulldogs who opted out in the past, but this year, the team culture and the chance to embarrass a rival (especially one with so many missing players) seemed to be strong motivators.
But wait, there's more! The plot thickens...
While there weren't any official opt-outs, there were some interesting cases to consider:
- The mystery of the missing stars: A couple of Georgia's top players, like tight end Brock Bowers, were mysteriously absent from the Orange Bowl. Now, were these strategic injury "rests" or something more? The world may never know (or maybe they were just enjoying some well-deserved vacation time).
Here's the bottom line: The Georgia Bulldogs in 2023 defied the odds and showed up for their bowl game, even when faced with the temptation of focusing solely on the NFL Draft. They might not have gotten a participation trophy, but they did get the satisfaction of a victory and the bragging rights that come with it.
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How To FAQs: Opting Out Like a Champion (or Not)
How to decide if you should opt out of a bowl game?
This is a personal choice for each player. Consider factors like draft position, injury risk, and team culture.
How to avoid suspicion if you're secretly opting out but say you're injured?
QuickTip: Read step by step, not all at once.
Let's be honest, coaches aren't dumb. But hey, if you must, focus on non-contact injuries and mysterious aches and pains.
How to deal with the wrath of your coach if you do opt out?
Communication is key! Be upfront and honest about your decision, even if it means facing some grumbling.
Tip: Reading with intent makes content stick.
How to make the most of your time off if you do opt out?
Focus on training, getting healthy, and preparing for the NFL Combine. Don't forget to relax and recharge too!
How to ensure your teammates don't think you're a traitor if you opt out?
Talk to them! Explain your decision and reassure them of your commitment to the team (even if it's from the sidelines this time around).