September 1, 2012; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jarvis Jones (29) waits to rush the passer against the Buffalo Bulls during the first quarter at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Buffalo 45-23. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-US PRESSWIRE
Georgia outside linebacker Jarvis Jones is public enemy #1 for offensive coordinators in the SEC this year.
The 6’3”, 240 pound junior took over the game against Missouri and helped shut down the explosive Mizzou offense. Jones has 3.5 sacks so far this season and was credited five hits on Missouri quarterback James Franklin and a forced fumble.
The key to Jones’ success is in his unreal burst off the edge. He is in the backfield before opposing offensive lineman have time to think. Jones had 13.5 sacks last year as a sophomore and should improve on that number this year. However, even though Jones is a pass rushing phenom, he is no one-trick-pony. Jones has excellent instincts and read-and-react ability. he is always flowing to the ball and is always playing at full intensity.
His hand work has improved since last year as well. Sometimes he would rely on the shoulder-dip and his speed to get around the edge. He certainly has the ability to do so, but it sometimes caused him to over-pursue and take himself out of plays. This year he is attacking offensive lineman with excellent handspeed and great bend around the edge.
The Bulldogs are moving Jones all over the field and he is excelling standing up and with his hand in the dirt. In the draft, he will probably present the most value in the 3-4 as an outside linebacker, where he could potentially be a top 10 pick.
Jones has has shown great improvement over an already stellar sophomore campaign. If he continues to be unstoppable against the talented SEC offensive lines, he could be hearing his name called very early next April.