New Georgia defensive coordinator Todd Grantham has stressed several times that he doesn't need a gargantuan body to play nose in his 3-4 scheme.
He's got one anyway.
Bulldogs head coach Mark Richt announced after Tuesday's practice that Justin Anderson, who made five starts early last season at right guard, has been moved to defense. The 6-foot-5, 330-pounder is sitting out this spring because of a shoulder injury.
"We won't see what he can do out at practice, but he can start learning the terminology," Richt said. "We think he can do well there, because he's quick and strong. He's an explosive athlete."
Richt also announced that redshirt freshman quarterback Zach Mettenberger, who was arrested March 7 on five misdemeanor charges in Remerton, Ga., likely would serve a one-game suspension. He said the penalty is subject to change should any additional information be obtained.
Anderson, who Richt said was receptive to the move, made seven starts in 2008 and was named to the SEC All-Freshman team. The switch will be aided by the return of offensive linemen Trinton Sturdivant (knee) and Tanner Strickland (shoulder) this summer, and Richt said Anderson could move back if the Bulldogs have some injuries up front offensively.
"In this type of scheme, Justin has the type of body that can help us," Richt said. "So we'll see how it goes."
The Bulldogs worked out for two hours in full pads and will practice again Thursday through Saturday. Georgia is now a third of the way through spring practice.
"The level of teaching is different," said Grantham, who has spent the past 11 years in the NFL. "You're taking guys who are really raw and are teaching them quite a bit of stuff. It's a little slower process from that standpoint, but I still think we'll get there."
Tailback Caleb King missed Tuesday's workout with a stomach virus.