Georgia beats Florida, Ga. Tech for Valdosta LB

Mike Gilliard, a linebacker from Valdosta, said he has decided to play at Georgia. The 6-3, 205-pound linebacker is the third linebacker commitment for the class. Emanuel County Institute's Dexter Moody and Chestatee's Chase Vasser committed in January. At the time of Moody and Vasser's commitments it was believed Georgia would only add another linebacker if Columbus' Jarvis Jones was interested. Jones is considered the top linebacker prospect in the state and one of the top 40 players nationally. But Gilliard was also in Georgia's sights. In addition, the trio of linebackers now committed gives Georgia some possible versatility. Moody also can play safety. The 6-4 Vasser may also grow into a defensive end. "[The depth] at linebacker was something that I looked at, " Gilliard said. "But I am not trying to be cocky or anything, but I think I can go in there an outwork them. I'm confident. I think I am the best." Gilliard averaged 9.3 tackles per game last season, had eight sacks and two interceptions. According to Scout.com, Gilliard is a three-star prospect. Rivals.com considers Gilliard a four-star prospect. Gilliard chose Georgia over Georgia Tech and Florida. Georgia is expected to secure no more than 20 commitments this recruiting season.

Alabama LB Nico Johnson wonders if he's still UGA target

Linebacker Nico Johnson of Andalusia, Ala., one of the nation's top prospects, has said he will reconsider Georgia's scholarship offer if the Bulldogs coaches let him know he's still wanted. Earlier this summer, the 6-foot-3, 230-pound Johnson said he got the understanding that Georgia had withdrawn its scholarship offer after three other linebackers committed to the Bulldogs. When pressed on where he got that information on Tuesday night, Johnson said, "One of my friends told me that. They either heard or read that Georgia was full at linebacker and not going to sign any more. So I guess I believed it." Georgia coaches are not allowed to comment on prospective student-athletes. Johnson again denied rumors he was close to committing to Alabama, saying he has no favorites. "I haven't talked to them in a while, but I would look hard at Georgia if they need more linebackers, " he said. "It's a great program, about the same as Alabama. A great defense, and just a great program." Johnson is ranked as the nation's No. 30 overall prospect by Rivals. Georgia has commitments from three players who are listed as linebackers, although they could change positions in college: Chase Vasser of Chestatee, Michael Gilliard of Valdosta and Dexter Moody of Emanuel County Institute. The Bulldogs are also in the running for linebacker Jarvis Jones of Carver-Columbus, arguably the state's No. 1 prospect.