Reports: Gurley won't play at Arkansas

Georgia's Todd Gurley, right, runs past the reach of Clemson's Tony Steward in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2014, in Athens, Ga. Georgia won 45-21. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

— Georgia running back Todd Gurley did not make the trip for the Bulldogs' game against Arkansas in Little Rock, according to multiple reports citing Georgia officials.

Gurley was suspended last week for reportedly accepting money in exchange for autographs, which is a violation of NCAA rules. Despite missing one game, he is the SEC's leading rusher this season with 773 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Freshman Nick Chubb replaced Gurley in the lineup last week. Chubb ran 38 times for 143 yards and a touchdown in the Bulldogs' 34-0 win at then-No. 23 Missouri.

But Georgia's depth at running back is a concern entering the game. In addition to Gurley, the Bulldogs are expected to be without injured junior Keith Marshall. Georgia has moved safety J.J. Green to running back in practice this week.

Gurley practiced this week, but Georgia coach Mark Richt didn't sound optimistic the star junior would play.

"You prepare like he won't be there," Richt said on the SEC coaches' teleconference Wednesday, "and if he is it's a bonus."

Gurley has been arguably the SEC's best running back the last three seasons. He has rushed for 3,147 yards and has 33 all-purpose touchdowns in his career.

Even with Gurley presumed not playing by Thursday night, Arkansas defensive coordinator Robb Smith said the No. 10 Bulldogs present a challenge because of Chubb's ability.

"Whoever they have out there, we'll be prepared to play," Smith said Thursday. "The focus this week has been on us.

"We've got to defend whatever Georgia does."

The Razorbacks are coming off an impressive defensive performance in their 14-13 loss to No. 7 Alabama last week. Arkansas held the Crimson Tide to 227 yards of total offense, including 66 yards rushing.

Smith said Georgia plays a similar style as Alabama.

"I think we've prepared in such a manner that our guys will be ready to play," Smith said. "I think we've stacked some good weeks of preparation together and I think that breeds confidence on Saturday."