Georgia Football’s Best and Worst PFF Grades in 2024: Analyzing Key Performances
The 2024 college football season for the Georgia Bulldogs has been a continuation of the team’s dominance in the SEC, as they march toward yet another potential national championship. As the Bulldogs work toward achieving their ultimate goal of a three-peat, Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades provide valuable insights into individual player performances, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the team. While Georgia’s success on the field is often measured by wins and championships, PFF grades give a more nuanced understanding of who has truly stood out, and who may need improvement.
In this post, we’ll dive into Georgia’s best and worst PFF grades of 2024, examining the players who have been key contributors and those who have faced challenges.
Best PFF Grades: Standouts in 2024
1. Carson Beck – Quarterback
Carson Beck has been one of the most consistent and efficient quarterbacks in college football this season, and his PFF grades reflect that. After stepping into the starting role for Georgia following Stetson Bennett’s departure, Beck has handled the pressure remarkably well. His PFF grade consistently ranks among the highest for quarterbacks in the country.
Grade Breakdown:
- Passing Grade: 90.0
- Deep Ball Accuracy: 85.0
- Intermediate Throw Accuracy: 88.5
- Pass Protection: 82.0
Beck’s ability to perform in critical moments, especially on deep and intermediate throws, has been a key element of Georgia’s success. His ability to read defenses and deliver accurate throws downfield has propelled the Bulldogs’ offense to new heights. Additionally, his composure under pressure, combined with a solid understanding of the game, has made him one of the top quarterbacks in the country this season.
2. Brock Bowers – Tight End
Brock Bowers continues to be a revelation for Georgia in 2024, and it’s no surprise that he leads the team in PFF grades. As one of the best tight ends in college football history, Bowers’ versatility and playmaking ability are unmatched. Whether it’s as a receiving threat, blocking in the run game, or helping in pass protection, Bowers excels in nearly every facet of the game.
Grade Breakdown:
- Receiving Grade: 91.2
- Run Block Grade: 85.3
- Pass Block Grade: 80.7
- Yards After Catch (YAC): 9.5 per reception
Bowers’ ability to create mismatches with defenders is evident in his PFF grades, as he is both a dangerous weapon in the passing game and a reliable blocker. His performance in both the receiving and blocking aspects of the game shows that he is a complete player, and his consistency in making big plays has been critical to Georgia’s offensive success in 2024.
3. Jamon Dumas-Johnson – Linebacker
The defensive side of the ball has been a major strength for Georgia in 2024, and Jamon Dumas-Johnson has been a standout player. The junior linebacker has been an impact player against both the run and the pass, with an impressive ability to diagnose plays and make crucial tackles.
Grade Breakdown:
- Run Defense Grade: 89.4
- Pass Rush Grade: 80.5
- Coverage Grade: 83.1
- Tackling Efficiency: 94.7%
Dumas-Johnson’s ability to disrupt plays both at the line of scrimmage and in coverage is reflected in his high PFF grades. His tackling efficiency stands out, as he consistently wraps up ball carriers and makes sure tackles. As one of the leaders on Georgia’s defense, Dumas-Johnson has been vital to the Bulldogs’ top-tier defense in 2024.
4. Amarius Mims – Offensive Tackle
Georgia’s offensive line has long been a point of strength, and Amarius Mims is one of the key figures leading that charge. The junior offensive tackle has excelled in pass protection and run blocking, earning one of the highest grades in the country for offensive linemen.
Grade Breakdown:
- Pass Blocking Grade: 90.2
- Run Blocking Grade: 88.3
- Penalty Rate: 0%
Mims’ ability to protect Beck and open up lanes in the running game is a crucial element of Georgia’s offense. His stellar PFF grades are a reflection of his technical skills, physicality, and discipline on the field. As Georgia continues its push toward another championship, Mims will remain one of the key players to watch on the offensive line.
5. Malaki Starks – Safety
The Georgia defense continues to be one of the most formidable units in college football, and safety Malaki Starks has been at the forefront of that. With exceptional range, intelligence, and ball skills, Starks has emerged as one of the top defenders in the SEC in 2024.
Grade Breakdown:
- Coverage Grade: 89.7
- Run Defense Grade: 85.1
- Tackling Efficiency: 93.2%
- Interceptions: 3
Starks’ PFF grades reflect his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. His playmaking in coverage has been a game-changer, and his ability to read the quarterback and make key interceptions has helped Georgia maintain dominance on defense. Starks is quickly becoming one of the most feared safeties in the country.
Worst PFF Grades: Areas for Improvement
While Georgia has been a top contender in 2024, not every player has performed at the highest level. Some players have faced challenges, and their PFF grades reflect areas that need improvement for the Bulldogs to continue their championship aspirations.
1. Trezmen Marshall – Linebacker
Trezmen Marshall has had an up-and-down season, struggling with consistency in both run defense and coverage. While he has flashed potential at times, his PFF grades indicate that there are still areas in his game that need refinement.
Grade Breakdown:
- Run Defense Grade: 65.3
- Coverage Grade: 58.9
- Tackling Efficiency: 72.1%
Marshall’s struggles in run defense and coverage have been apparent throughout the season. While he has shown flashes of his athleticism, his tendency to miss tackles and struggle in coverage situations has been a liability for Georgia’s defense. If Marshall can improve his consistency, he could still be an important piece for Georgia moving forward.
2. Jamon Jackson – Offensive Guard
On the offensive line, Jamon Jackson has had a mixed performance in 2024. Despite being a key part of Georgia’s offensive line rotation, his PFF grades suggest that he has struggled in both pass protection and run blocking in key moments.
Grade Breakdown:
- Pass Blocking Grade: 65.4
- Run Blocking Grade: 67.1
- Penalty Rate: 3.2%
Jackson’s struggles in pass protection have been a noticeable issue, as he has given up pressure on the quarterback and committed several penalties. His inability to open up consistent running lanes has also been an area of concern. If Georgia wants to maintain its offensive dominance, Jackson will need to improve his performance moving forward.
3. Kelee Ringo – Cornerback
Kelee Ringo, a key figure in Georgia’s secondary, has faced challenges in 2024, particularly when it comes to consistency in coverage. While he remains a highly talented cornerback, his PFF grades indicate some struggles against top-tier wide receivers.
Grade Breakdown:
- Coverage Grade: 70.2
- Pass Rush Grade: 62.7
- Yards Allowed Per Target: 11.6
- Missed Tackles: 6
Ringo’s tendency to give up big plays and struggles with missed tackles have been areas of concern for Georgia’s defense. As a key figure in the secondary, Ringo’s ability to step up and perform more consistently in coverage will be essential for the Bulldogs’ championship hopes.
Conclusion
As the 2024 season progresses, Georgia’s football team continues to exhibit a high level of play, but like any team, there are areas of strength and areas that need improvement. The standout players, including Carson Beck, Brock Bowers, and Jamon Dumas-Johnson, have been crucial to Georgia’s success, as their PFF grades demonstrate their impact on the field. On the other hand, players like Trezmen Marshall, Jamon Jackson, and Kelee Ringo must improve their performances to ensure Georgia’s continued dominance.
Ultimately, PFF grades offer valuable insight into the individual performances that contribute to Georgia’s overall success. As the Bulldogs aim for their third consecutive national championship, refining areas of weakness and maintaining the high-level performances from their standout players will be key to their success in 2024.