Georgia football: Closer look at Georgia's opener today against Lousiana-Lafayette

Line: Georgia by 28.

Series Record: First meeting.

What’s at Stake

Georgia needs to stay healthy before opening its SEC schedule next week at South Carolina. If the Bulldogs lose to an opponent that is winless in 34 games against the SEC, job security questions are surely to become a major issue for Georgia coach Mark Richt.

Key Matchup

Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green vs. Louisiana-Lafayette secondary. The Ragin’ Cajuns likely will need to deploy two defenders or zone coverage in defending the All-SEC flanker. His size, strength and speed create a difficult matchup that should leave more room for other targets to run open routes against linebackers.

Players to Watch

Louisiana-Lafayette: RB Julian Shankle has 41 career rushing attempts for 155 yards in a backfield that must replace both starters against Georgia’s new 3-4 front.

Georgia: Quarterback Aaron Murray. A redshirt freshman who never has taken an official college snap, Murray must avoid temptations of holding the ball too long in the pocket and trying to pass into tight coverage. He is protected by five returning starters on the offensive line.

Facts & Figures

The Bulldogs are 38-4 against non-conference opponents, 25-1 at home, under Richt. … Since coach Rickey Bustle was hired in 2002, Louisiana-Lafayette has blocked 41 kicks and punts. … Under new defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, Georgia hopes to improve vastly on takeaways. The Bulldogs had just 12 last year to rank No. 118 in the nation. … Louisiana-Lafayette MLB Grant Fleming has moved inside after his 89 tackles were second-most for the Cajuns last year. … Georgia LT Clint Boling plans to make his 26th consecutive start, tops among current Bulldogs. … Georgia TEs Aron White and Orson Charles combined for 374 yards receiving last season.