ATHENS, Ga. (AP) — Georgia coach Mark Richt says it is time to confirm the obvious: Isaiah Crowell is the team’s No. 1 tailback.
Richt said Tuesday that the freshman from Columbus would start Saturday against Coastal Carolina. Playing behind Richard Samuel, Crowell rushed for 118 yards with a touchdown in last week’s 45-42 loss to then-No. 12 South Carolina. He also caught a 17-yard touchdown pass.
Richt says Crowell’s production is “a big part” of his promotion to starter. Samuel also is slowed by a heel injury. If Samuel can’t play this week, junior Carlton Thomas could have his first carries of the season behind Crowell.
Crowell leads Georgia (0-2) with 178 yards rushing. Richt calls him “a very special back.”
