Verdun Wheeler starting again

ATHENS – Danny Verdun Wheeler’s family was very upset when he was moved from starter to third team five weeks ago. Georgia’s senior linebacker took it in stride, though.

“I don’t believe in all that emotion and stuff like that,” Verdun Wheeler said. “I believe everything happens for a reason. All I wanted to do was help Georgia win. I didn’t care if I was going to play special teams the rest of my time here. I didn’t care what else was happening, I just wanted the best guys on the field at the best time possible. (Linebackers coach John Jancek) went that way, and I waited my turn.”

That tactic worked out for him. Verdun Wheeler was moved back into the starting lineup ahead of Brandon Miller on the strongside last week against Kentucky. He’s expected to remain in that spot for the Auburn game.

“Right now, Danny’s penciled in as the starter,” Jancek said, “but I’m going to play both of them and let that work itself out on the field.”

Verdun Wheeler, who had one tackle against Kentucky, handled his demotion professionally, Jancek said.

“Danny’s a very classy kid,” he said. “He’s got a lot of character. He puts the team before himself. He’s really done a great job for us, and I’m really proud of him. I just hope he has a great game for us.”

The Bulldogs need a great game out of their strongside linebacker spot. Verdun Wheeler and Miller have combined for just 14 tackles in the last five games.