Just as it was worth keeping in mind that Fromm?s proficient performance in last spring?s G-Day game was against the second-string defense, fans also should keep in mind that the App State defense, while good by mid-major standards, is not of Power 5-conference quality.
And, because of that, Fromm got away with staring down his intended receivers (a common problem with freshman QBs) and with lofting quite a few dying duck passes that likely would have been interceptions against Notre Dame or an SEC opponent.
Fromm was clearly committed to UGA as his college destination early on. So, having to run into the scoreless game with little to no warm-up, then leading his team?s offense to the tune of 300 yards and 31 unanswered points seemed almost like old hat to the big kid with the Hollywood good looks.
Just look at how Fromm played against the Mountaineers. Yes, he had an encouraging performance, but he wasn?t the world-beater many fans tried to make him out to be both during and after the game. His stats were respectable, but he still had plenty of issues, notably forcing too many passes and staring down receivers. His highlight of the game, a 34-yard TD pass to Javon Wims in the second quarter, was thrown up for grabs and would likely have been picked by 80 percent of the defenses Georgia will face this season. On a third-and-goal in the second quarter, he had an opportunity for his second TD pass, but stared directly at this receiver, never even hinting he was looking elsewhere. Georgia settled for a field goal.
His performance against Appalachian State was also pretty equivalent to Eason?s first game with a ?G? on his helmet. Against UNC in last year?s season opener, Eason was 8 of 12 for 131 yards and 1 TD. Like Fromm?s game on Saturday, that was nothing special, but it was serviceable, and it gave fans some hope to latch onto. But acting like Fromm is head-and-shoulders above where Eason was at this early point in his career is disingenuous.
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The fact is that Fromm is right out of high school.
Not only will he be playing a very good Notre Dame team, he will be playing in the hallowed halls of Notre Dame. If the pressure does not get to him I will be amazed.
Chubb and Sony will get their runs but Notre Dame is going to be committed to stopping that Georgia run game, forcing Fromm to win with his arm. Its not that Fromm does not have a good arm, but he is no where near the rocket Eason throws at times.
One other aspect I always think about is this is not a SEC game. The Bulldogs can lose this and still win the SEC championship game. It may be in back of their minds.
I smell money and it smells green.