Is Brock Bowers playing in the Orange Bowl? Georgia TE's injury and options for Kirby Smart explored

Georgia Bulldogs’ All-American tight end Brock Bowers has been battling injuries throughout the 2023 season, raising concerns about his status for the upcoming Orange Bowl.

Bowers left the Bulldogs' game against Vanderbilt on Oct. 14 with a lower leg injury. It was confirmed that he had suffered a high ankle sprain.

Ole Miss v Georgia

The sprain, requiring tightrope surgery, sidelined Bowers for two games. While he made a speedy return (26 days later), he hasn't quite regained his usual dominant form. Bowers played in the SEC championship game against Alabama in Week 14, where he caught for 53 yards on 5 receptions, which was a highlight for the Bulldogs. However, he was seen limping on the field multiple times.

This, along with the lingering injury, casts doubt on his participation in the prestigious Orange Bowl against the Seminoles on Dec. 30.

When asked about whether he would play against Florida State, Bowers remained non-committal:

“I’m not sure yet," Bowers said. "I’ve got people to talk to and stuff like that.”

Bowers is yet to decide on his future. He could opt for one final run with the Bulldogs in the Orange Bowl before potentially pursuing an NFL career.

Georgia seeks solutions

The Georgia Bulldogs (12-1 SU, ATS 4-7-1) face a major challenge heading into the Capital One Orange Bowl. Coach Kirby Smart must now evaluate his options ahead of the game against the formidable Florida State Seminoles (13-0 SU, ATS 7-4).

Georgia boasts a sturdy offensive line, providing quarterback Carson Beck ample time to hit his receivers.

All-SEC team Football

However, Georgia's defense might miss the presence of injured linebacker E.J. Lightsey, reportedly out with a back injury. If edge rusher Jalon Walker fails to replicate Lightsey's impact, FSU's offense could thrive.

The game will start at 4 p.m. Eastern Time on ESPN.

The last time Georgia faced Florida State, the Bulldogs won 26-13 in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1, 2003.

Georgia last played in the Orange Bowl in 2021, when it defeated Michigan, 34-11, in the College Football Playoff semifinal.