Roderick Robinson putting in work, ready to take next step in Georgia RB room

Georgia running back Roderick Robinson has been circled as a potential breakout star for the Bulldogs, and he’s putting in the proper work this offseason to take that role on. While the addition of Trevor Etienne to the backfield from Florida has made the biggest headlines this offseason, the development and improvement of Robinson is equally important to Georgia’s success. Robinson knows that, as does his trainer Brad Lester.

“One of the biggest things that I wanted to do with him is to not alter anything that UGA is doing,” Lester told DawgsHQ. “This time of year, and all time of the year, the biggest thing they don’t work on his pass protection, route running and their open field moves. The first time running backs get to make a move on defenders is usually the first day of camp. The biggest thing about this offseason is to work on the small things that are going to help you in one-on-one situations.”

Robinson, who played in five games last season, rushing for 196 yards and two touchdown, is one of six scholarship running backs on Georgia’s roster. There’s Etienne, who immediately steps in as an impact player. There’s Branson Robinson, still trying to make his way back from a torn patella tendon he suffered during fall camp last season. Then there’s the three new freshmen – Nate Frazier, Chauncey Bowens and Dwight Phillips – all of whom are trying to get their feet wet at the collegiate level.

That leaves Roderick Robinson as one of the team’s top options. While he’s not as experienced as some No. 2 backs around the SEC, he’s got the tools to be special. Lester’s goal this offseason has been trying to fine tune those to enhance his abilities.

“He’s already 230-240-pounds, if he doesn’t want to run them over, lets get some alternative things you can do,” Lester said. “Me talking to NFL scouts over the last year or two, they’re looking for the big back that can also catch out of the backfield and pass protect. Those are the things we’re trying to prepare him for trying to be a top-round running back.”

“You can have one back that is your best runner but it’s third and five and you have to make a decision if you’re going throw the football or run the football. Usually that guy that can’t pass protect, you have to pull him out. Now, you’re play-calling is limited,” he continued, talking about the importance of the attention they’re giving to pass protection in an effort to keep Robinson on the field as much as possible.
“If you have a great defensive coordinator going against you and you rotate certain personnel they can determine what kind of plays you’re going to call. If you’re a guy that can play all downs, you’re more valuable to a team and an OC.”

Robinson knows he can be valuable to Georgia, and as a result, not a moment has gone by that he’s missing an opportunity to work. He and Lester got together on Father’s Day earlier this month and put in time on the field. When many are deciding to sit things out or take a break, that’s when Robinson and Lester have been working their hardest to give him an edge.

“To come out on Father’s Day, and say ‘Hey coach, if you’re working, we’re working’ says a lot. If these guys are willing to come out and work on a holiday, then of course, I’ll get out here and grind with them,” Lester said. “He’s coming from Athens to Lilburn which is probably about a good hour and 15-minute ride. A lot of college players weren’t doing that. That shows his level of commitment.”

“I have to give his dad praise,” he continued. “He comes from a great household. His dad is very involved and we communicate very often about the workouts. He trains in California as well and he’s excited about some of the work we’re doing.”

What all that work amounts to this season remains to be seen. Lester has high hopes and expectations. Regardless of what the results are in season, he feels confident the work they’re doing this offseason will be beneficial to him and his ability to contribute as the season rolls along.

“The way Georgia rotates running backs, it’s not about week one. It’s about week seven and eight, where is your body during that time of the year,” Lester said. “I’m big on that. I’m preaching to these guys to take care of their bodies and get the extra treatment. For him, if he stays healthy for the full season, I don’t see a reason why he won’t run for 1,000 yards.”

Georgia kicks off its 2024 campaign August 31st against ACC favorite Clemson in Atlanta (12:00 p.m. ET, ABC). The Bulldogs will get back to campus and begin a full sprint to the season with the turn of the calendar as fall camp is set to begin in just over a month.

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