‘Heavy handed’ Isaiah Wynn getting work at all three offensive line positions
Isaiah Wynn is Georgia’s starting left guard. He’s also a backup tackle. He can play center if needed.
The Georgia coaching staff has put a lot on the St. Petersburg, Florida native’s plate this summer as he prepares to enter his first season as a starter. Wynn was a highly-regarded recruit who appeared in 11 games with one start a year ago.
“He’s tough, he’s heavy-handed, man,” Georgia offensive line coach Rob Sale said. “He’s probably put on 22 pounds since the end of spring ball. When he was 268 in spring ball he was the stoutest 268 young man I’ve ever seen.”
The Bulldogs briefly looked at Wynn to play center before going with junior Brandon Kublanow, last year’s starting left guard, instead. Wynn is still seeing some reps at center and at tackle during individual drills while participating at left guard mostly in team work.
“It feels good knowing (Sale) can rely on me at any time, and also just being able to pull guys along with me too,” Wynn said.
Earlier this week, Georgia head coach Mark Richt said Wynn would see time at left tackle with the first team during Saturday’s scrimmage to ensure the Bulldogs have a backup plan this season.
“I think we’re pretty set on our top five right this second but if one guy gets hurt you have to decide how to handle it,” Richt said. “We’re looking at some plan B situations here and there.”
Wynn has been willing to play any of the positions asked of him this preseason. Of course, he’ll get the start at left guard when Georgia opens the season at home against Louisiana-Monroe. Wynn’s teammates have been impressed with his preseason and are confident he’ll step in without an issue as the offensive line’s lone non-returning starter.
“He’s a baller,” senior right tackle Kolton Houston said. “You won’t have to worry about him.”
Wynn has been willing to step in wherever else when called upon. It doesn’t matter the position, Wynn just wants to play.
“If (Sale) wants me at tight end, I’ll play tight end,” Wynn said.
This story was originally published August 23, 2015 at 11:24 AM with the headline "‘Heavy handed’ Isaiah Wynn getting work at all three offensive line positions."