Well news out of Athens is not good. Richard Samuel freshman tailback has undergone wrist surgery putting him out of Spring drills. This is being reported by Tim Tucker of the AJC.

Samuel the 17 year from Cartersville emerged as the primary backup to Knowshon Moreno during this past season. Samuel displayed in practice and in games a better understanding of pass protection than another freshman,Caleb King while spelling Moreno. He also developed into the kick returner on special teams, most memorable however was the key mistakes in returns during the Georgia Tech disaster.

Samuel is expected to make a full recovery for the opening season and this will allow Caleb King to further develop his pass blocking skills.

Also on the roster is Dontavious Jackson who as a Junior at Heard County ran for over 2600 yards and scored 29 touchdowns. Jackson missed his Senior year after breaking his wrist. Carlton Thomas is another back to watch. Thomas standing only at 5'7 will emerge as a type of Thomas Browning type player for Coach Bobo's offense. Remember Browning and his 93 yard catch and run in Baton Rouge.

So while the cupboard is thin with Moreno departing early and the Samuel injury. It is hardly bare in Athens. This year the coaching staff will have there work cut out for them, but with top 10 recruiting classes over the past years and another one expected this year (highlighted by highlight real running back Washaun Ealey from ECI) Coach Richt and company will get the most out of them.

Any further updates The Saturday Evening Blog will keep you informed.