Georgia Bulldogs running back Dante Dowdell was hospitalized following an ATV accident near his home in Picayune, Mississippi. Coach Kirby Smart confirmed to ESPN that Dowdell sustained serious injuries and is receiving treatment at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, a facility specializing in rehabilitation for spinal cord and brain injuries.

While Dowdell is "out of the really tough range," Smart expressed uncertainty about his return to play this season. Dowdell, a senior, transferred to Georgia from Kentucky this offseason and was anticipated to be a key backup. In his previous season at Kentucky, he recorded 560 rushing yards and three touchdowns. He also played at Oregon and Nebraska, where he had a notable 2024 season with 614 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Smart described Dowdell as a "tremendous kid" with a "great family" and noted the team's support during this "really tough deal."