Georgia Football’s Monster Unleashed: Chris Cole Is a Superstar Again

Cole’s breakout season

Chris Cole has moved beyond his five-star recruit status in his junior season, becoming a full-time starter for Georgia. The article describes him as an almost certain first-round NFL draft pick this spring.

At 6-foot-3 and about 230 pounds, Cole can cover, stop the run and pressure the passer. Teammates call him the “tarantula” because of his long arms, and his estimated 40-yard dash time is 4.6 seconds.

Production across the defense

He has recovered three fumbles and returned two for touchdowns of at least 66 yards. His speed in pursuit has stood out when quarterbacks scramble or receivers catch screen passes.

Smart praises his approach

Georgia has already passed last season’s sack total in about half as many games, and Cole has contributed to the improved pass rush. Kirby Smart said, “Chris Cole accounts for some of that,” describing how the linebacker contributes both inside and on the edge. Smart also praised Cole’s intelligence, purpose and understanding of football. He said Cole differs from former Georgia linebackers including Jalon Walker, Roquan Smith, Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, calling him “a very good different.”

A test against Ole Miss

Georgia faces Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss on Saturday night. The story suggests Cole’s performance this season could help against the opposing quarterback. The article says Georgia has had a player of Cole’s stature again since Brock Bowers. It also mentions Zachariah Branch and Jalon Walker as players who came close to that status.