Introducing the Georgia Bulldogs All-Quarter Century Defense and Special Teams

The University of Georgia Bulldogs have a rich football tradition that spans over a century, producing some of the most elite players to ever take the field in college football history. From rugged defenses that stymied offenses to special teams units that changed the course of games with clutch plays, Georgia’s football program has been home to countless legends. With the Bulldogs celebrating a storied legacy, it’s time to recognize the players who have defined the defense and special teams through the years, compiling an All-Century Team for Georgia football.

This collection of standout players not only exemplifies the grit, skill, and championship pedigree that has made Georgia synonymous with excellence in college football but also highlights the school’s impact on both sides of the ball. From Hall of Famers to iconic playmakers, this All-Century Defense and Special Teams roster captures the best of the best from every era of Georgia football.

Defensive Line: The Pillars of Power

The defensive line at Georgia has been the foundation of its aggressive, hard-hitting defenses throughout the decades. Players on this list dominated the line of scrimmage, pressuring quarterbacks, stuffing the run, and setting the tone for the entire defense. The Bulldogs have produced an abundance of NFL-caliber defensive linemen, and picking the best from this storied group is no easy task.

David Pollack (2001-2004) – Defensive End

One of the most decorated players in Georgia football history, David Pollack’s relentless pursuit of the quarterback made him a terror on opposing offenses. As a three-time All-American, Pollack became the face of Georgia’s defensive dominance in the early 2000s. He holds the Georgia career record for sacks (36) and was known for his leadership and intensity on the field. Pollack’s impact was so profound that he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014.

Charles Johnson (2001-2004) – Defensive End

Charles Johnson was a standout pass rusher and one of the most physically imposing players ever to wear the red and black. His combination of size, strength, and speed allowed him to disrupt offenses regularly. Johnson was a key figure in Georgia’s defense, particularly during their SEC Championship seasons, and he went on to have a productive career in the NFL, further solidifying his legacy as one of the best to ever play for Georgia.

Richard Seymour (1997-2000) – Defensive Tackle

A towering presence on the interior of Georgia’s defensive line, Richard Seymour was a force of nature. With his blend of athleticism and raw power, Seymour was virtually impossible to block one-on-one. A key player on Georgia’s 2000 SEC Championship team, Seymour went on to have a Hall of Fame-caliber career in the NFL, earning multiple Pro Bowls and Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots.

Jarvis Jones (2010-2012) – Outside Linebacker (Edge Rusher)

While technically an outside linebacker, Jarvis Jones was known for his ability to rush the passer and wreak havoc on opposing offenses. Jones brought an explosive pass rush to Georgia’s defense, leading the nation in sacks during the 2012 season. His play in the 2012 SEC Championship game against Alabama, where he dominated the Crimson Tide’s offensive line, was a testament to his elite ability to disrupt plays.

Linebackers: Masters of the Middle

Georgia’s linebacker corps has been filled with some of the most formidable players in college football history. Linebackers at Georgia are known for their versatility—capable of stopping the run, covering in pass defense, and delivering bone-crushing hits. These linebackers have embodied the heart and soul of the Bulldogs’ defensive identity.

Roquan Smith (2015-2017) – Inside Linebacker

Roquan Smith’s instincts and ability to read plays were unmatched. During his career at Georgia, Smith evolved into one of the most dominant linebackers in college football. His leadership on the field was integral to Georgia’s run to the 2017 National Championship Game. Smith was a unanimous All-American in 2017, a year where he won the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker. His speed and intelligence allowed him to cover sideline to sideline, and his ability to deliver a crushing blow in the open field made him an unforgettable presence.

Lorenzo Carter (2014-2017) – Outside Linebacker

Lorenzo Carter’s blend of size, speed, and football IQ allowed him to excel both as a pass rusher and in coverage. Carter was a dynamic force on Georgia’s defense, and his ability to change the game with key plays—including several clutch sacks and tackles for loss—helped Georgia maintain dominance in the SEC. His versatility was invaluable, and he played an essential role in Georgia’s success under Kirby Smart.

Channing Tindall (2018-2021) – Inside Linebacker

As one of the most impactful defensive players during Georgia’s 2021 National Championship season, Channing Tindall showed why he’s one of the best linebackers to ever play for the Bulldogs. With elite speed and a powerful frame, Tindall was key to Georgia’s suffocating defense. His leadership and ability to read offenses were on display throughout the season, especially in the national title game. Tindall’s playmaking ability, particularly his knack for coming up with timely sacks and interceptions, helped elevate Georgia to its first national championship in over four decades.

Defensive Backs: The Masters of Coverage

Georgia has produced some of the best defensive backs in the history of college football. These players were not just lockdown cornerbacks or ball-hawking safeties—they were also leaders who could swing the momentum of games with their ability to create turnovers and stop big plays in their tracks.

Champ Bailey (1996-1998) – Cornerback

One of the most decorated and gifted players in Georgia football history, Champ Bailey was a shutdown cornerback who could eliminate top receivers from the game entirely. Bailey’s agility, speed, and ball skills made him one of the most feared defensive backs in college football during his time at Georgia. He was a consensus All-American and was selected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014. Bailey went on to have an incredible NFL career, where he became a 12-time Pro Bowl selection.

Eric Stokes (2017-2020) – Cornerback

Eric Stokes emerged as one of the top cornerbacks in the country during his time at Georgia. Known for his blazing speed and sticky coverage, Stokes was a shutdown corner who regularly blanketed opposing wide receivers. His ability to take away half of the field made him a central figure in Georgia’s defensive schemes. Stokes’ playmaking ability, particularly his knack for interceptions, helped solidify Georgia’s reputation for having a dominant secondary.

John Little (1956-1959) – Safety

John Little may not be as widely known as some of Georgia’s more recent stars, but his legacy as a key figure in the Bulldogs’ defensive backfield is undeniable. As one of the top safeties during the late 1950s, Little was known for his ability to read offenses and his knack for big plays. He was a staple in Georgia’s defensive schemes, helping the Bulldogs maintain success throughout the decade.

Terrell Davis (1989-1990) – Safety

While primarily known for his time with the Denver Broncos in the NFL, Terrell Davis was an integral part of Georgia’s defense during his short but impactful time in Athens. His ability to cover ground and make plays in both the passing and running games made him a versatile safety. Davis’ intelligence and leadership were key in a defense that consistently ranked among the best in the SEC.

Special Teams: The Difference-Makers

Special teams is often the forgotten phase of football, but the Georgia Bulldogs have produced some of the most dynamic kickers, punters, and return specialists in college football history. These players not only contributed to the team’s success on special teams but often made game-changing plays that turned the tide in critical moments.

Rodney Williams (1992-1994) – Punter

Rodney Williams was an exceptional punter who could change field position with his booming kicks. Known for his precision and ability to flip the field, Williams’ punting was crucial to Georgia’s field position battles throughout his career. He earned All-SEC honors during his time at Georgia and is remembered for his consistent ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory.

Brandon Boykin (2008-2011) – Kick Returner

Brandon Boykin was one of the most electrifying return men in college football during his time at Georgia. Whether it was on kickoffs or punts, Boykin had the ability to take any return to the house, leaving defenders in his wake with his exceptional vision and speed. Boykin’s game-changing returns were often the spark Georgia needed to shift momentum in key games, and his contributions to special teams were as impactful as any in the history of the program.

Rodrigo Blankenship (2015-2019) – Kicker

Rodrigo Blankenship, known affectionately as “Hot Rod,” became one of the most reliable and accurate kickers in Georgia history. Blankenship’s leg strength and accuracy were pivotal in securing many victories for the Bulldogs, and he became a fan favorite for his consistent performance under pressure. Blankenship made numerous game-winning kicks throughout his career, including a clutch 50-yard field goal against Kentucky in 2019 that helped propel Georgia to an SEC East title. His accuracy and poise in the most critical moments make him one of the greatest kickers to ever play for Georgia.

Georgia’s All-Century Defensive and Special Teams roster features a blend of past and present stars who have left an indelible mark on the program. From legendary defenders like David Pollack and Champ Bailey to explosive return men like Brandon Boykin, these players have all been instrumental in making Georgia one of the most storied programs in college football history. Their contributions, both on defense and special teams, showcase what it means to be part of the Bulldog legacy—fearless, relentless, and always striving for excellence.

As Georgia continues to compete at the highest level of college football, this team of All-Century players will forever stand as the standard of greatness, an enduring symbol of what it means to wear the red and black.