Good Friday afternoon, Dawg fans! We’re almost to another weekend of a glorious college football slate, and Saturday features some of the biggest games of the season. While some might argue that Penn State vs. Oregon is the week’s headline matchup, we SEC folks know better; there’s no doubt the true spotlight is on Athens, where it’s the Dawgs vs. the Tide!
Georgia comes in ranked fifth after their thrilling win over the Vols a couple of weeks ago. Fortunately, they had a much-needed bye week following that possible game of the year. Alabama also had the week off after demolishing Wisconsin. Tomorrow’s game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. (with actual kickoff closer to 7:45) on ABC.
The key matchup, in my opinion, is Georgia’s defense against Alabama’s offense, specifically the Dawgs’ secondary trying to slow down Bama’s passing attack. Since their week-one loss to FSU, the Crimson Tide offense has really found its rhythm. Yes, their recent opponents haven’t been elite defensively, but it’s still hard to overlook how explosive they’ve looked.
Quarterback Ty Simpson has been excellent, throwing for 862 yards so far this season with a clean 9–0 touchdown-to-interception ratio. When he gets time in the pocket, he can carve up any defense. His receiving corps makes him even more dangerous, with Germie Bernard and Ryan Williams as the clear spark plugs, while Isaiah Horton has thrived in the WR3 role.
That’s why Georgia’s secondary can’t afford a repeat of their Tennessee performance, when they gave up 371 passing yards, 128 of those yards being on just two big touchdown plays. Do I think the Dawgs will tighten things up? Absolutely. I highly doubt Kirby Smart and his staff will allow it to happen again. But ultimately, it comes down to execution. The best way to take pressure off the defensive backs is for the front seven to get after Simpson and make him uncomfortable, just like Florida State did, and we saw how that turned out.
On offense, Georgia will need another strong outing, similar to the one they had a couple of weeks ago. Quarterback Gunner Stockton has answered every question about whether he can win with his arm and has proven he’s the right guy to lead this offense. The offensive line play will be key in keeping Stockton upright and giving him time to deliver, while also opening lanes for the run game with Nate Frazier, Chauncey Bowens, and Dwight Phillips Jr.
Prediction: Georgia 31, Alabama 27
Like so many of their recent showdowns, I expect this one to be another classic. Playing at home gives Georgia an edge, but they’ll need to finish strong and keep their foot on the gas, something that has tripped them up against Bama before. This game will come down to willpower and toughness, and whoever controls the line of scrimmage will win.
I believe Georgia will rise to the occasion, play one of their best games, and move to 4–0. As always, GO DAWGS!
