Elijah Griffin’s growth meets an Ole Miss test

Georgia sophomore defensive lineman Elijah Griffin enters Saturday night’s game at No. 10 Ole Miss as an every-game starter after expanding his understanding of the Bulldogs’ defense. Griffin said he knew the playbook last season but now better understands the scheme, blocker technique and how Georgia’s coaches want him to play.

The 6-foot-4, 310-pound Griffin appeared in all 14 games as a freshman reserve, recording 22 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, one sack and 14 quarterback pressures. He has 12 tackles and two sacks this season and is one of eight Georgia defenders to start every game.

His latest sack came in Georgia’s 27-8 victory over No. 24 Florida. The Bulldogs held Jaden Baugh, who entered averaging 109 rushing yards per game, to 38 yards on 17 carries. Florida totaled 54 rushing yards on 28 attempts.

That run defense is central to Kirby Smart’s approach because forcing an offense into predictable passing situations gives Georgia’s rushers more chances to attack. The Bulldogs are allowing an SEC-low 14.9 points per game and have 26 sacks, third-most in the conference.

Ole Miss presents a different challenge. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss leads the SEC with 273.6 passing yards per game and a league-best 18 touchdown passes. Smart praised Chambliss’ decision-making, accuracy, anticipation and ability to escape pressure. To contain those escapes, Griffin and Georgia’s front must maintain discipline around the pocket.

Ole Miss ranks ninth in the SEC with 157.50 rushing yards per game, while Georgia ranks third at 200.1. Controlling the Rebels’ running game could give Griffin more opportunities to use his size, strength and improved recognition in passing situations.

Griffin’s development has been as much mental as physical. Once a young player who preferred video games to football, he became a five-star recruit and the No. 2-ranked prospect in the country before arriving at Georgia in January 2025. He now describes himself as a “smarter player,” with another year of growth still expected.

Why it matters

Griffin’s improved scheme knowledge gives Georgia another dependable starter along a front with 26 sacks. His ability to help stop the run and pressure the passer will be tested by SEC passing leader Trinidad Chambliss.

What to watch next

Georgia plays Saturday night at No. 10 Ole Miss, whose offense is led by Chambliss’ 273.6 passing yards per game and 18 touchdown passes.