Georgia Bulldogs: Wherefore Art Thou, Jakar Hamilton?

Photo Credit:AP/JOHN AMIS

Jakar Hamilton...remember Jakar Hamilton? He was the stud JUCO defensive back who was supposed to make the Georgia Bulldogs' secondary come alive in 2010.

However, instead, Hamilton is best remembered for two things—one of which isn't very good—a 17-yard interception return for a touchdown in his season-opening debut, and an ill-advised decision to lend a license-less Washaun Ealey his Chevrolet Impala.

When Hamilton first arrived on the scene, he had Georgia fans salivating at the prospect of his, possibly, being the 'next' Greg Blue or Thomas Davis—legendary safeties from the Mark Richt era—who were known for laying thunder and lightning on opposing players.

Hamilton was going to be the difference and the defense, particularly under the new 3-4 of Todd Grantham, was going to be a much better unit in 2010. 

So, what happened to all that promise Hamilton displayed in the early-going? How did he go from potential stud to disappointing dud in the span of just a few games? Was it the sudden change in the level of competition? Did the playbook overwhelm him? Is he playing the wrong position?

All of the above are possibilities.

Hamilton's looked confused more times than not, and it was clear that he was not used to being "blown up" by the bigger, more physical, receivers of the SEC as a JUCO standout. There was a definite learning curve for him coming from Georgia Military College, but he's been slower to catch on to than some of his counterparts—Alec Ogletree in particular—and that meant seeing him fall victim to a steady regression in 2010. 

Perhaps a change in position is best for Hamilton (there have been discussions that he could be more comfortable at cornerback). The defensive responsibility that comes with the safety position, particularly in Georgia's 3-4 scheme, may simply be too much for Hamilton to overcome.

At the same time, you hate to see him waste away on the bench when he, at least physically, appears to have so much potential. 

Hopefully, as Hamilton enters his senior season, he is able to find his mojo again and make a genuine contribution. He may no longer be the 'Hitman' that he imagined himself to be, but he's definitely capable of being a good football player if he can just find his groove in this defense.