Ely-Kelso Earns Scholarship
Good to see punter Gordon Ely-Kelso rewarded with a scholarship. He’s obviously earned it, much like Billy Bennett capturing the placekicking job a few years ago. Ely-Kelso joins placekicker Andy Bailey on scholarship, though Bailey’s status as a starter isn’t as stable. If Brandon Coutu continues to press Bailey for the kicking job, Coach Richt may face the decision of leaving a scholarship player on the bench in favor of a walk-on. Given Richt’s historically stingy use of scholarships for special teams, it’s unlikely that a third specialist would be put on scholarship.
I believe OL Ryan Schnetzer has earned a scholarship for his senior season. Schnetzer was a walk-on, but he was pressed into duty over the past two seasons, especially in 2003 where he started two games. Georgia’s offensive line has been thin since 2003, and it was fortunate that Schnetzer was able to contribute alongside the few scholarship linemen who were able to play. Though the line situation is better entering 2005 and Schnetzer’s playing time might be diminished, the scholarship is well-earned for the service he’s already given to the program.