The Georgia Bulldogs, perennial contenders in the college football landscape, enter the 2025 season facing a crucial period of transition. With four of their five starting offensive linemen from the previous year departing for the NFL Draft or exhausting eligibility, head coach Kirby Smart and his staff are urgently revamping the trenches—an area long considered the backbone of Georgia’s physical identity.
In 2024, the Bulldogs struggled at times to assert dominance up front. Though they finished the season with an impressive 11–2 record, the offensive line’s inconsistency hindered the running game and left quarterback Gunner Stockton vulnerable. Georgia allowed 25 sacks, an uncharacteristically high number for a Smart-led team, and failed to generate explosive runs in key moments. The red zone offense sputtered, settling for field goals rather than capitalizing on opportunities to finish drives with touchdowns.
Now, Georgia’s offensive staff, led by new offensive line coach Bryan Ellis, is focused on reestablishing the unit’s toughness and cohesion. Recruiting and development are central to the plan. Five-star freshman tackle Zane Matthews, a 6’6”, 325-pound powerhouse out of Buford, Georgia, is already making waves in spring practice. Coaches are impressed by his quick feet, punch at the point of attack, and grasp of the playbook. Matthews is expected to challenge for a starting role immediately.
Alongside him, sophomore Daniel Calhoun is shifting inside from tackle to guard—a move designed to maximize his raw strength and simplify his blocking responsibilities. Calhoun, who appeared in all 13 games last year as a rotational piece, is projected to be a mauler in the run game. Returning center Jared Wilson anchors the line as the lone holdover starter, tasked with guiding the younger linemen through pre-snap adjustments and protections.
Georgia is also tapping into the transfer portal to add veteran depth. They recently secured a commitment from former Stanford guard Mason Ellis, a graduate transfer with 34 career starts and a reputation for high football IQ and leadership. His experience will be invaluable in bridging the gap between the younger talent and the demands of SEC play.
The Bulldogs’ offense is expected to evolve in 2025, placing more emphasis on tempo and misdirection to mitigate any early-season growing pains on the line. Yet, the success of Georgia’s championship aspirations still hinges on controlling the line of scrimmage—a tenet that has defined their recent dominance. With a mix of youth, experience, and urgency, Georgia is betting big on a rebuilt offensive front to protect its legacy and pave the path to another College Football Playoff run.
