Week 3: Razorback Road Test

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

As I’m writing this article, Georgia will have its 1st bloody Tuesday practice prior to an SEC game. This SEC opener has the added stress of being on the road in Fayetteville, Arkansas, against the “Woo-pig Sooie!” Razorbacks. No longer led by loved former UGA O-line coach Sam Pittman, former Memphis coach Ryan Silverfield is now the head ball coach and will look at bounce back against the #2 Georgia Bulldogs at home after falling to #20 Utah on the road 43-10.

In his press conference this week, Kirby emphasized the uptick in talent in the SEC and the difficulty of playing your first conference game away from Sanford Stadium.

I’d counter and say that last year's barn burner in Neyland Stadium will pay dividends this Saturday as a vast majority of last year's team returns, many having started for the first time, and basically got away with murder in the OT thriller.

For UGA, fans will get to see the best of this team as the travel roster will be condensed and mainly significant contributors will make the trip. For Arkansas, their fans will see if this team will come out swinging after a disappointing performance last week. When Silverfield came to Fayetteville, he also brought 8 transfers with him to the program along with “virtually his entire offense staff”. Although it has yet to produce results, Saturday presents another opportunity to right the ship.

Arkansas HC: Ryan Silverfield courtesy of University of Arkansas Athletics

Players to Watch Against Arkansas

QB KJ Jackson

The Hogs signal caller is mobile but struggled against the Utes in week 2. Going 14/34 for 139 yards and an interception, Kirby praised him for his accuracy in his press conference, but the numbers suggest he was neither consistent nor accurate last week. He will need to improve dramatically as he faces a much better defense with another KJ waiting in this secondary.

S Christian Harrison

The 5th year Senior, and son of NFL Patriots legend Rodney Harrison, is widely considered to be the “heartbeat” of this defense. Last week he had 1 interception and a pass breakup to go along with 6 tackles.

WR Chris Marshall

Although he didn’t make the impact he wanted to with only 5 recs for 63 yards, he is their go-to receiver. He was targeted 11 times, more than any other WR. Utah just did a good job in coverage and disrupting the QB.

Keys to the Game

Run the ball, Stop the run

I know it has been against lesser competition, but UGA has dominated both lines of scrimmage to start this season and I expect that to continue Saturday. Arkansas was out rushed by Utah 141 to 61 and that presents a big problem for them and a BBQ buffet for us.

Gunner’s legs

Utah’s QB Devin Dampier torched the Razorback defense with 2 passing TDs and 2 rushing TDs last week. I expect Bobo to pour in a heavy dose of RPO’s and QB pulls for Gunner, especially in the red zone.

Defensive Chaos

There will be ample opportunities for this UGA defense to create turnovers Saturday. Arkansas struggled with batted balls at line of scrimmage, gave up 4 sacks under consistent pressure, and missed receivers in tight coverage all night.

Target Tight ends (pause)

Utah’s TE Noah Bennee had a field day against this team. He had 4 recs for 113 yards and a TD, and was wide open on most of his catches. Bad news for the pigs, UGA has 5 NFL tight ends. Let’s eat!

Georgia vs. Arkansas Prediction

While I expect Fayetteville to be ROCKING early, there are reports of a fan boycott (?), which would all but eliminate the only advantage that Arkansas currently has. Regardless of the fan chaos, I expect Silverfield to have his team playing desperate. I also expect UGA to dominate. Every strength this team has shown thus far is a major weakness for the opposition and can often lead to blowouts. Dawgs roll over the Razorbacks to 3-0. Go Dawgs!

Prediction: Dawgs win 52-10

TWO GAMES IN: WHERE DO THE DAWGS REALLY STAND?

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

Georgia just put us through a WHIRLWIND

133 points scored. 23 points allowed. Two games, two blowouts.

Georgia has opened the 2026 season by handling Tennessee State and Western Kentucky, putting together one of the most explosive starts in the country. The Dawgs have scored 63 and 70 points, giving the fan base plenty to feel good about heading into the next stretch of the schedule.

But let's be real. You don't hang banners for beating teams you're supposed to beat. Well that is unless you’re Michigan and then you storm the field after the refs clearly gave you a mulligan.

The question isn't whether Georgia can run up the scoreboard against overmatched opponents. It's whether this team has what it takes when the talent levels out.

So where do the Dawgs stand right now? Let's get into it.

Let THE NUMBERS TALK

-Georgia through two games-

Point differential+110 T

Total yards 1,153

Total yards per game 576.5

That's a fast start.

Georgia has looked explosive from the jump. Georgia has scored at least 60 points in consecutive games, something the program hasn't done since 1915.

The offense is moving the ball. The defense is flying around. And the Dawgs have had plenty of time to get the next man ready.

The offense has been efficient through the air, dangerous on the ground, and capable of turning a routine play into a tuddy.

The Dawgs have already shown they can score in bunches, but the biggest positive might be the way the offense has operated without having to lean on one player every single snap. I’m not alone in thinking we haven’t opened up the playbook yet. The biggest thing is respecting that the competition this season is insane. We can do it truly if we’re locked in. This team has a veteran presence and young talent. It’s easy to get giddy if you are a Georgia fan. It’s fun to think this is the year.

GUNNER STOCKTON: COOL, CALM, AND DEALING

Through two games, Stockton has completed 28 of 32 passes for 436 yards, eight touchdowns, and zero interceptions.

That's an 87.5% completion rate.

Against Western Kentucky, he went 13-of-16 for 234 yards and five touchdowns, tying a Georgia record. That's exactly what Georgia needs from its quarterback. The question now is how that efficiency holds up when the pocket gets tighter and the defense across the field can match Georgia's athleticism. The offensive line has youth working against it in its ability to read the blitz properly. The communication and growth in this area really is everything to help protect Gunner Stockton. We have the muscle for sure but the cohesion is the absolute most important thing.

THE RUN GAME IS BRINGING THE HEAT

Nate Frazier has already shown what he can do when he gets daylight.

Through two games, he has 127 rushing yards and four touchdowns on just 10 carries. That's 12.7 yards per carry. Small sample? Absolutely. But when the holes are there, Frazier is hitting them with bad intentions.

Georgia has gotten explosive plays from the backfield, the receivers, and the tight ends. The offense has multiple ways to hurt you, and that's a problem for any defense trying to prepare for this group. As we move into now a 9 game SEC stretch we have to dig into the depth of the running back room for the preservation of playoff possibilities. Chauncey Bowens and Nate Frazier can be the thunder and lightning between the tackles. Then you add in the occasional delayed handed off or underneath pass to Dwight Phillips Jr. and we’ve created a dangerous trifecta. We have depth here. The younger guys Bo Walker, Jae Lamar, and Nick Peal all come into play when we need fresh legs or horses when the game is out of hand. They all have shown flashes.

THE OFFENSIVE QUESTION

Here's where the rubber meets the road.

Can Georgia's offensive line win against an SEC defensive front?

Can the receivers create separation when the corners are just as talented?

Can Stockton stay efficient when the pocket gets muddy?

Those are the questions that matter now. Cupcakes are fun but bad for your health. Moving the chains against a defense that knows exactly what you're trying to do? That's SEC football!!

THE DAWGS ARE MAKING OFFENSES EARN IT

Georgia has allowed just 23 points through two games. That's the headline, but the yardage numbers tell the same story. Tennessee State managed only 109 total yards, while Western Kentucky finished with 225. That's 334 yards allowed across two games, an average of 167 per contest.

The Dawgs have been flying to the football, limiting big plays, and making opposing offenses work for every yard. Georgia has already made plays in all three phases. Turnovers, pressure, negative plays, and special teams production have all been part of the early story. Tyriq Green's 91-yard kickoff return against Western Kentucky was a reminder that Georgia can flip the field in a hurry. When this defense creates extra possessions, that offense can make you pay. The biggest thing is understanding these positive metrics are exactly what the doctor ordered heading into 2026.

THE DEFENSIVE QUESTION

The starters have done their job. Now the next group has to prove they're ready. Western Kentucky scored 14 points in the fourth quarter, most of it coming after Georgia had opened up a massive lead. That's not a reason to panic, but Kirby Smart isn't interested in excuses. The standard doesn't change when the backups enter the game. Once SEC play starts, Georgia's depth has to be ready to step in without the whole operation falling apart.

THE NATIONAL PICTURE

WHO'S LOOKING LIKE A CONTENDER?

The championship picture is already starting to take shape, and a few teams have made some serious noise through the opening weeks. Texas has the biggest résumé win after its comeback against Ohio State, while Georgia has been one of the most dominant teams statistically, putting up 133 points and allowing just 23 through two games. Miami has brought serious offensive firepower, and Indiana continues to look like a team capable of defending its national title. Ohio State, LSU, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, and Alabama also have the talent to stay in the conversation. But here's the deal: September numbers don't win championships. Georgia has handled business, but the Dawgs haven't faced a real heavyweight yet. The next few weeks will tell us which teams are built to survive the grind and which ones were simply feasting on the early schedule.

SO WHERE DOES GEORGIA STAND?

The offense is explosive.

Georgia is scoring at a ridiculous pace and finding ways to generate big plays.

Stockton is protecting the football.

That's a big deal. He's efficient, confident, and making good decisions.

The defense is doing what Georgia defenses are supposed to do.

Limit yards. Create pressure. Force mistakes.

The depth is getting tested early.

Young players are getting snaps before the games get tight.

That's valuable.

WHAT WE STILL NEED TO SEE

Can Georgia win a game where the offense isn't clicking?

Can the offensive line handle a nasty SEC front?

Can the defense get off the field against a quarterback who can sling it?

Can the Dawgs win a fourth quarter when the game is hanging in the balance?

That's the difference between looking like a contender and actually being one.

THE VERDICT

We look ready to run the table to be honest. Now it's time to see if they can play like one when the SEC starts swinging. Georgia has handled business. No question. We haven’t been tested but that’s not our fault. If anything we need to grow more now than ever. Kirby will be on their asses, without a doubt.

Go DAWGS!

Week 2: WKU Preview, The Whiteout

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

Despite dominating their week 1 opponent Tennessee State and rising to #2 in the newest AP Rankings, The Georgia Bulldogs received ZERO 1st team votes from the poll voters. No one in DawgNation is in need of praise for beating an inferior FCS team, but a large majority of the teams that did get votes faced weak competition in their openers as well. The disrespect is notable, especially for a program that is known for playing down to lighter competition and rarely covering large spreads during the Kirby era. With that being said, Kirby will use this as jet fuel and week 2 foe Western Kentucky will feel the repercussions .

Georgia Bulldogs Receive Zero First-Team AP Votes Despite Rising to No. 2

The Dawgs will host a slightly more talented FBS opponent in Western Kentucky in Athens for week 2. The last and only time UGA faced the Hilltoppers was in a 48-12 victory back in 2006. WKU lost Nevada on the road 49-14 to begin their season and will have their hands full again amidst a Sanford Stadium white-out no less.

Georgia vs. Western Kentucky Week 2 Matchup

Nevada ran rampant on WKU last week, finishing with a staggering 323 rushing yards and 5 TDS from multiple players on the day. Western Kentucky running back Ajay Allen also had a good day however, with 102 rush yards on 21 carries while scoring both touchdowns for his squad. The Hilltoppers allowed 3 sacks last weekend, so UGA will go into this game looking to build on the momentum they started vs TSU.

Georgia Bulldogs Week 1 Performance Sets the Stage for Week 2

UGA had one of its best showings both offensively and defensively that I can remember against a clearly outmatched team. The media doesn’t like to show Georgia love anyways, but both units down to the 3rd stringers looked like Juggernauts last week and I expect that to continue Saturday. The week 1 to week 2 jump in football is real and improvement from the team could raise its ceiling to scary heights just in time for SEC conference play.

Georgia Week 2 Gameplan

Gameplan:
Both coordinators were on fire last week! Bobo used all of his weapons in a multitude of ways and the result was explosive splash plays. Glenn Schumann got production from all 3 levels of an extremely talented defense that gave up only 10 rushing yards and even tallied 3 sacks on the day.

Ground game:

If I’m Kirby I’m leaning on a devastating rushing attack the same way Nevada did. Not just this week, but in the weeks to come. The O-line, RBs, and TEs are next level talented, and I’m forcing teams to stack the box against these guys. Doing this will allow the TEs and WRs to terrorize the secondary.

Gunner (John) Stockton

As gutsy and clutch as we’ve seen Gunner be as the starter, it didn’t feel like he had to make every single play by himself in week 1 like he often had to in 2025. No, it feels like Gunner has a plethora of weapons that are capable and will allow our QB to orchestrate this offense the same way NBA Hall of Famer John Stockton did with the Utah Jazz. Still the NBA all-time assist leader by a wide margin, with 15,806 assists, John Stockton found his teammates every time they were open and gave them easy opportunities to score. Gunner can be that for us in 2026 and then some, while also utilizing his feet when things break down.

Georgia Bulldogs Look to Build Momentum Before SEC Play

Week 2 offers another step up in competition as we get closer to SEC play. This team will get that much more dangerous as they continue to grow. All in all, UGA may not be currently getting the respect they deserve quite yet, but soon they’ll be impossible to ignore! Wear your white and get loud because Georgia dominates again in week 2. Go Dawgs!

Georgia vs. Western Kentucky Prediction

Prediction:
Dawgs win 55-9

State of the Affairs: Set to Dominate

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

Where We Stand Heading into the 2nd Game

There’s a difference between winning your opener and walking out of Week 1 making the rest of college football pay attention. It’s harder to do when your opponent is TSU. As easy as it is to blame an inferior opponent for a superior performance- I’ve been paying attention to the Dawgs long enough to know the little things matter when you’re consistent. We’ve had great performances in sloppy seasons and sloppy outings amidst championship runs . It’s all about response and consistency overtime. Not who has the best one performance when the cameras are on but who can push the edge when it’s Week 1 TSU or Week 2 Western Kentucky. Georgia did the latter. The Dawgs put Tennessee State away 63-3, and by the time the afternoon was over, the scoreboard almost looked fake.

660 yards - 109 allowed -31 first downs -& an 11 yard average Georgia snapped the football.

That’s pure domination. That’s taking control of a game from the opening whistle and never giving it back. And the thing that stood out most? The level of performances throughout the depth chart. We may have had more Sports Center level plays in this game that I’ve seen in a hot minute.

Gunner Stockton looked completely comfortable. He went 15-of-16 for 202 yards and three touchdowns before his day was finished.

Nate Frazier needed only four carries. Four. He turned them into 72 yards and three touchdowns, including a 48-yard house call on his first touch. Then Ryan Puglisi came in and threw a touchdown. Ryan Montgomery got his opportunity and immediately connected with Jeremy Bell for a 54-yard touchdown. The team rallied around Bell after the passing of his brother. Georgia kept throwing different guys onto the field and the production didn’t stop. That’s what jumps out when you look at this team. There’s depth everywhere. And defensively? 109 yards.

That’s it. Tennessee State averaged 1.9 yards per play. Georgia never turned the ball over. The Tigers never found any rhythm.

Obviously, nobody in Athens is going to confuse Tennessee State with an SEC opponent. This game wasn’t going to tell us whether Georgia can beat Alabama in December or survive a playoff game in January.But that’s not really the point.

You’re supposed to dominate games like this if you’re Georgia. And Georgia dominated it. The one thing Kirby Smart probably won’t love?

Eight penalties for 85 yards. That has to get cleaned up! Also the botched field goal is a matter of getting the reps and communication sharped with the specialist guys. It’s the kind of thing that has cost good teams from being great.

But when that’s about the biggest complaint you can make after a 60-point victory, you know how the afternoon went! And while Georgia was doing that in Athens, the rest of college football was giving us plenty to talk about.

Around CFB

-LSU absolutely crushed Clemson 51-10 after a near 2 hour delay

-That was one of the biggest statements of the weekend and immediately put LSU into the national conversation.

-Oregon had to fight Boise State off 34-27.

-Ole Miss survived Louisville 41-38 in an absolute shootout.

-Notre Dame handled Wisconsin 41-13.

SMU walked into Tallahassee and knocked off Florida State 27-24 despite a power outage

And Michigan?

Michigan needed 2 last second Hail Marys to escape Western Michigan 13-12. That is if you believe a football game is 60:00.1 long

Mainly SEC

One weekend and the national picture already looks different. Georgia moved up to No. 2 in the AP Poll. Ohio State is still sitting at No. 1. I encourage everyone to check out the poll I make every week. To me Georgia is the best team in the country.  It wouldn’t be a good movie though if the competition wasn’t fierce. LSU is coming. Texas looked like a machine. Alabama looked like Alabama actually running the ball. Texas A&M handled business. Tennessee rolled and the young QB had some polished moments.

The SEC is already starting to look like the meat grinder everybody expected it to be. And that’s probably the biggest takeaway from Week 1. Georgia isn’t going to have the luxury of having many weekends where it can just cruise. There are too many good teams. Too many elite quarterbacks.

Hungry DAWGS Wanna EAT

Too many rosters loaded with NFL talent. But that’s also what makes Saturday in Athens so interesting. Georgia’s identity on offense seems more clear. It’s basically what fans like us wanted to see.  Fast. Physical. Deep. Explosive. And nasty when it gets rolling. Stockton looked ready. Frazier looked dangerous.The receivers made plays. The defense suffocated an opponent. And Kirby got a whole bunch of young guys meaningful snaps.

And after one week, everybody else is going to have to start figuring out how they plan on dealing with them. Go DAWGS.

Week 1 Preview: “White cup, Orange Pop, Tennessee State ish”

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

UGA will begin its hunt for greatness in the 2026 season in Athens against the Tennessee State Tigers. Reports sound like it’s going to be a hot one, and the Dawgs will look to get off to a hot start in its season opener against the Tigers from the Ohio Valley Conference.

Tennessee State University: History, Location and Background

Located in West Nashville, TSU is a public historically black land-grant University that was founded in 1912. It is the only* state funded HBCU in Tennessee with notable alumni such as Oprah Winfrey and Robert Covington (former NBA player). On Saturday Sept. 5th they will wrestle with the No. 3 team in the country the Georgia Bulldogs.

An aerial view of TSU’s campus in Nashville courtesy of TSU

Tennessee State Head Coach Reggie Barlow

They’re led by 2nd year coach Reggie Barlow, 4- time conference coach of the year honoree, and SuperBowl XXXVII Champ with the Tampa Bay Bucs (as a WR) back in 2002 with the likes of John Gruden, Warren Sapp, Mike Alstott, Ronde Barber, and Keyshawn Johnson.

Here you see coach Reggie Barlow number 84 on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002 & 2003.

Tennessee State’s Week Zero Game Against Jackson State

This will not be their first game of 2026 however, as they lost a close opener 26-24 to Jackson State in week zero. It wasn’t an impressive showing by TSU by any means, but they do have a leg up on correcting the mistakes they made (a lot of mistakes) in their first week, whereas UGA hasn’t had the same opportunity. Unfortunately for TSU, that probably won’t amount to much.

Tennessee State Players to Watch

QB: Daylin Lee

Dayton Lee had 1 passing TD and 1 rushing TD  with 265 yds passing and 40 yds rushing on 13 attempts. The dual-threat QB will be the focal point for the UGA defense.

WR: Jayden Guy

This dude is a speedster that reportedly runs a 10.3 100m which is lights out. He was explosive for TSU catching 9 for 148 yds

RB: Brenton Paul

(Brenton Paul (True Freshman) had a rushing TD on the day.

TSU only managed 91 rush yds in their total 354 yds against Jackson St. which doesn’t bode well for them, so expect the secondary to get a lot of work.

Goals for Georgia Against Tennessee State

UGA should use the first 2 weeks to get in football shape. The heat index may break records, so they’ll have to lock in mentally and limit mistakes. I expect the 2’s and 3’s to get a lot of work and of course being healthy is always the goal. UGA should win big Saturday but Kirby will keep the focus on the season long goals. The fans will get to enjoy a long Labor Day weekend with some matchups that you can’t miss, while the Dawgs take the words from an old Drake song and focus on “White cup, Orange Pop, Tennessee State sh*t.” We get to “Drop a 4 in it and appreciate the GREATNESS.”

Georgia vs. Tennessee State Prediction

Prediction: Dawgs win 57-6

Go DAWGS!

Which Georgia Coordinator Is Facing More Pressure in 2026?

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

At the University of Georgia pressure is different than it is at most schools. Here, pressure is a privilege. Kirby Smart has elevated this University to an annual contender that expects to compete for National Champions every year. However, we have to acknowledge that CFB has changed drastically. The result so far, UGA hasn’t been to the title game since the new NIL rules began, and the SEC hasn’t won a title in 3 years and counting. Whether we like it or not, the SECCG no longer guarantees a chance at a natty the way it used to as UGA is back-to-back conference winners with 2 first round exits to follow. One being to an in conference foe. Both of UGA’s coordinators are in prime position to excel in 2026 with their returning talent if they can fix a few mistakes from last year, but with that being said which coordinator is facing more pressure this year?

OC Mike Bobo: 2023-2026

History is not on this coordinator’s side as much of the fanbase remembers what could have been. However, the offense saved us in multiple games in 2025 and was not the reason we lost to Ole Miss in round 1 of the playoffs.

Offensive Scoring

2023: 40.1 pts/g (5th)
2024: 34.6 pts/g (22nd)
2025: 32.1 (28th)

As you can see the pts/g have dropped every year since Bobo was the OC. You can blame the defense, the injuries, or the drops if it makes you feel better but those are the numbers. To Bobo’s credit he has led the offense to 2 SEC Championships in this same timeline.

Talent

QB: Gunner Stockton (7th in Heisman race, SECCG MVP, 3rd All-SEC)

This dual-threat Senior is ready to be fully unlocked. Leading the team with 10 Rush TDs in 2025. If his decision making in the deep passing game can take a step forward UGA will be scary.

OL: Projected as one of the best units in the country with 2, 1st team All-SEC players including his son (Drew Bobo and Earnest Greene III) running the ball and protecting Gunner will not be an issue.

TE: This is not hyperbole. I think this could be the best TE room in the country and in school history. There are 5 NFL TEs in this room with a variety of skillsets to create mismatches. Bobo has to excel with these weapons.

Goal

The RB room is deep and talented leaving most of the questions for the WR room. I see these receivers more as wild cards than question marks personally. Canion, Humphreys, Talyn, and CJ Wiley have talent, and Sacovie and Dandridge help with depth. If Bobo can use these WRs to open things up for the run game and TEs underneath, defenses won’t be able to keep up in 2026.

Pressure rank: 8/10

DC Glenn Schumann: 2022-2026

Schumann has been looked at more favorably than the OC because of the LB’s he has produced while at UGA and our program was known for its stingy defenses that he’s been a part of since day 1. That changed last year in games against Tennessee, Bama, and Ole Miss in the playoffs. The offense saved us in key moments last year while our secondary struggled so this is the year to return the favor.

Defensive Scoring

2023: 15.6 ppg (5th)
2024: 14.5 ppg (2nd)
2025: 17.5ppg (10th)

It’s very hard to be critical of these numbers as this defense still shows a bend don’t break mentality, has been elite in the red zone and was a top 5 run defense last year. At times last year it did feel like we couldn’t get stops in big moments however.

Talent

This defense is LOADED. I truly think this defense will be as good as 2022. There are 5 ⭐️ and #1 players at each level who were young last year and STILL won the SEC

Secondary:

S KJ Bolden (1st team All-American, 1st All-Sec, #1 returning safety, #11 OVR player by PFF)

CB Ellis Robinson IV (1st SEC, best defensive freshman ‘25, former ESPN #1 OVR recruit)

NC Khalil Barnes (3rd SEC, former All-ACC DB at Clemson) Demello Jones, Rasean Dinks, Riddle, etc.

LBs:

Deepest and most Talented LB room in the country. Former #1 Justin Williams, Elite Chris Cole, Vet Raylen Wilson (2nd SEC, 5 star Zayden Walker. Multiple edge players that can win (Q Johnson, Gibson, Linton)

DLine:

Even after losing Amarius Williams we have Elijah Griffin (2nd All-SEC) who could be the next great UGA DL, Gabe Harris (3rd SEC) returns, Jordan Hall to anchor, Joseph Jonah-Ajonye, Xavier McCleod, Josh Horton, etc.

Goal

The biggest goal will be for this secondary to put it all together. The talent is undeniable and has another year of experience. Better coverage will give this front 7 a chance to add sacks to last year’s pathetic total of 20. So secondary growth is BOGO free.

Pressure Rank: 8.5/10

Final Verdict: I’m giving Glenn Schumann MORE pressure this year because of sheer talent and that’s Kirby’s bread and butter. As much flak as Bobo (deservedly) gets. If the defense is a little better in a couple key areas, this 2026 team will be a tough out. Go Dawgs!

How Georgia Baseball Became the Story of the Summer

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

There’s something about “magical teams” that seemingly captivate the attention of society at large. Closer to home, there are certain Georgia teams that transcend their sport.

For me growing up the 1980 football team was Georgia Fan folklore. The 2021 and 2022 football teams healed a generation of heartbreak and reminded the college football world what the “G” on the helmet means. When Georgia Basketball won the SEC Championship in 2008 it was a major triumph. From media irrelevancy to the promise land of confetti and championship hardware being handed off. Solo heroics such as the Anthony Edwards year that resulted in a number one pick in the NBA draft or similarly the 2024 Charlie Condon-led baseball team that made the nation stop and watch live in the memory of Georgia fans that otherwise hardly ever think beyond the pigskin moving between the hedges.

Bandwagons be damned I think we are “all in” on this Georgia squad.

The 2026 Georgia Baseball team has become something different.

They have become a movement. Sour Power, “feeding the trees”, and the electric play of our Diamond Dawgs have all shined in the national spotlight.

For the first time in nearly four decades, Georgia Baseball has captured the attention of casual fans, football only fans, and an entire state that suddenly finds itself checking pitch counts, watching late night innings, and screaming at a television in June, a steple of the captivating environment that encompasses Omaha.

Even if Dave Portnoy doesn’t want to hear it..

This team has something you just can’t manufacture!

They are elite. They are connected. Their talent is ridiculous. & even someone like myself who has admittedly said the phrase “baseball is boring” countless times .. cannot wait to witness the electric energy surround this special magical run we are currently on.

And even though the road to Omaha has been marked with challenge, these DAWGS are having more FUN than anyone in the country. Except maybe all of us Georgia Fans of course!

The Most Dangerous Offense in America

The numbers almost don’t look real.

Georgia entered Omaha with 51 wins, an SEC regular season championship, an SEC Tournament championship, and one of the most terrifying offenses college baseball has seen in years. They have hit baseballs at a historic pace and turned a simple phrase into a program identity:

Feed. The. Trees.

Foley Field has never been less safe for squirrels.

The trees around Foley Field have been receiving a steady diet of baseballs all spring.

At the center of that destruction is Daniel Jackson, a player who somehow took the torch from Charlie Condon and carried it even further. The SEC Triple Crown winner, SEC Player of the Year, and Dick Howser Trophy winner has become the face of college baseball. Jackson even embraced his own spirit animal, the rhino, representing his strength, toughness, and no fear style of play. The “Rhino” has become another piece of Georgia baseball lore.

But this offense was never just one man.

Tre Phelps. Rylan Lujo. Kolby Branch. Ryan Wynn. A lineup where the ninth batter feels capable of ruining a pitcher’s evening. & even supporting role players like Michael Oshaugnesy have been nothing but clutch when it mattered most down the stretch.

After the last three games Georgia has amassed over 30 runs.

Georgia’s offense is built on analytics and launch angles, sure.

More than anything though, It’s built on joy. Us fans get to have a ton of fun on what has truly been an electric unforgettable ride.

Sour Power, Brotherhood, and Why This Team Feels Different

Most championship teams have a rally cry.

Some have chains.

Some have hats.

Georgia has a Buc-ee’s candy addiction.

The now famous Sour Power belts have become a symbol of this team. I think if Buccee’s doesn’t make a major NIL push for the program they’re dropping the ball. What started as a random Buc-ee’s stop became a tradition, then a dugout ritual, and eventually a fan movement that followed the Dawgs all the way to Omaha. Players estimate they’ve gone through dozens of bags during the run. Somewhere a dentist is in terror of the dental ramifications. lol.

That’s the magic of this group.

They can beat you 11-1 in the SEC Championship game.

They can erase a six-run deficit against Florida.

They can come back from seven runs down in a Super Regional game that instantly became part of Georgia baseball history.

Against Mississippi State, the Dawgs trailed 7-0 before unleashing one of the most unbelievable comebacks the sport has seen, eventually winning 13-12 in a game with 11 home runs. A day later, Daniel Jackson delivered again as Georgia completed the Super Regional sweep and punched its ticket to Omaha.

This team doesn’t panic.

They believe the next swing changes everything.

Usually, they’re right.

The Wes Johnson Transformation

When Wes Johnson arrived in Athens, there was excitement.

There was also skepticism. Could a former MLB pitching coach build a complete college powerhouse? Three seasons later, the answer is obvious. Absolutely.

Johnson has evolved from the guy known for developing pitchers into the architect of the most complete baseball culture Georgia has seen in a generation.

He built a program that embraces modern baseball while still playing with an old-school edge.

The result?

SEC Coach of the Year. SEC regular season champions.

SEC Tournament champions. A College World Series team.

And perhaps most importantly, a team that genuinely loves showing up to the ballpark every day.

Omaha: The Next Challenge Is Oklahoma

Now comes Oklahoma.

Do not be fooled by the regular-season record.

The Sooners are the definition of a dangerous postseason team.

They entered Omaha after knocking off national seed Georgia Tech, dominating Kansas in the Super Regional, and then shocking Alabama 9-0 in their College World Series opener. They are playing with the confidence of a team that has nothing left to lose.

Their formula is simple:

• Freshman arms like Cord Rager and Xander Mercurius have been fearless.

• Their bullpen has found another level.

• Their offense has suddenly discovered serious power.

Georgia, however, remains the more explosive team on paper. The Bulldogs entered the matchup with a staggering 181 home runs and 660 runs scored compared to Oklahoma’s 89 home runs and 442 runs.

The question is not whether Oklahoma can compete. They absolutely can. The question is whether anyone can survive a Georgia lineup that believes every baseball was put on Earth for one purpose:

To feed the trees!!!

A Summer Georgia Fans Will Never Forget

Years from now, Georgia fans will remember where they were for the football championships.

They will remember Charlie Condon’s legendary season.

They’ll remember how a Star was born in Anthony Edwards.

How Josh Brooks has helped lead a resurgence of sports like Track, Tennis, Golf, Basketball, Gymnastics..

And now, they will remember the summer of Sour Power.

The summer of the Rhino. Of the 15k strike out night by Joey Volchko!

The summer where Wes Johnson’s vision became reality.

The summer where a baseball team with ridiculous power, unbelievable chemistry, and absolutely zero fear turned Omaha into the next stop on a journey that has already become one of the greatest stories in Georgia athletics. Even though we’re in Omaha and not at the familiar Foley Field, the trees are still hungry.

And the Dawgs are not done feeding them!!!

Go DAWGS !

G-Day Recap: Eye Test PASSED

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

Spring football in Athens doesn’t come with too many answers but it does come with lots of hints, flashes, and just enough noise to get folks talking. On a warm day in the April sun between the hedges, this year’s G-Day had a little bit of everything: quarterbacks trading punches, young playmakers making their case, and a defense that bent early but found its teeth when it counted. It may just be spring, but you can already feel something brewing. We look fantastic. Eye test, Aced!

KEY DETAILS OF THE SCRIMMAGE

• Game result: Red beat Black 27–17

• ~700 total yards of offense combined (wide-open spring feel)

• 7 QBs played → reinforces your “wide open room” take

• Nate Frazier tweaked ankle on first carry and stayed out to play it safe.

• Passing leaders:

  • Millender: 9/15, 103 yards

  • Beaver: 9/13, 101 yards, TD

  • Montgomery: 132 yards total

• Dowdell: ~70 total yards + TD

• Key splash plays you can reference:

  • Beaver → 43-yard bomb + late TD drive

  • Montgomery → chunk throws (48-yard to Heinrich, 23-yard to Roldan)

  • Reddell → 23-yard run + TD

• Defense clutch moments:

  • Lonon stop on 3rd down

  • Stewart PBU on 4th

  • Tyriq Greene INT late

Analysis: A few guys clearly stood out today.. At quarterback, Hezekiah Millender and Bryson Beaver probably helped themselves the most. Millender looked composed and efficient, leading a scoring drive and finishing with over 100 total yards while making smart decisions. Beaver flashed upside accurate, mobile, and not afraid to push the ball downfield, including a late touchdown drive. Ryan Montgomery also had some strong moments with chunk plays and showed touch on his passes, while Gunner Stockton showed a couple of flashes of improved accuracy. One time specifically he climbed the pocket to show some growth in composure against pressure. Puglisi had some of the sharpest flashes of any as far as pure passing but he also had some question mark plays. If he can gain consistency he’ll anchor down QB2. The longer Puglisi leaves it on the table the more wide open the back up spot becomes. Someone like Millender with the athletic upside good pull a Stetson Bennett and be the wildcard player that has come to define the way the QB room shakes out at Georgia these last years of the Kirby era.

At the skill positions, Dante Dowdell was probably the most impactful back - he showed power and burst, scoring and ripping off one of the longer runs of the day. Dwight Phillips Jr. also popped with both a touchdown and explosive plays, while Jaden Reddell continues to look like a mismatch piece with his size and ability to move. The tight end group as a whole (Reddell, Heinrich, Prothro) was one of the most consistently productive units, which is very on-brand for Georgia. Craig Dandridge, Landon Roldan, Talyn Taylor, & Jeremy “ ✈️ “ Bell all have fans confidence that veteran producers Isaiah Canion and London Humphreys have help.

Defensively, I really liked the D-Line. At times Josh Horton was very disruptive. Also, a few younger players flashed in key moments. Chase Linton showed why he’s been getting name dropped by local press. He had an athletic pass knockdown on a rollout pass. AJ Lonon made a big stop on a critical down, and Blake Stewart had a clutch pass breakup. Tyriq Greene capped things with a late interception. The defense didn’t dominate early, but individual playmakers showed up when it mattered. The takeaway: the biggest “winners” weren’t the established names it was the fans getting to enjoy some glimpses of younger quarterbacks, versatile tight ends, and rotational defenders who flashed real game-impact potential. Another great G-Day in the books ! In 2026, the world’s our oyster. The sky is the limit.

Go DAWGS !

G-Day: Return of The Kings

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

It could just be the eternal Spring optimism, but after soaking up all the figures and on paper looks for this 2026 Georgia Football team- I confidently think we got this. As in, this could be our year. As in, compare this to times I turned out delusional, & there’s at least an 80 percent chance I’m right. More on this hope later.

No championships are won in the writing rooms or in my fantasy of a 3rd Natty in 6 years. If Spring is where good habits are solidified…

G-Day is where this years dreams can get slightly battle tested.

Offense: New Faces, Same Expectations

Now, let’s not dance around it, the offense lost a good bit of proven production. But in Athens, that usually just means the next group’s been waiting their turn. This year is no different.

It all starts under center at QB.

Gunner Stockton looks to have the obvious track right now. Hopefully, we see him gain confidence in finding more awareness in games by way of seeing open receivers and sharpening his timing of throwing the entire route tree. Behind him, Ryan Puglisi is holing on but a now healthy Ryan Montgomery’s push for 2nd string gives this room a little extra intrigue. And I’m most curious to see if Hezekiah Millender or even Bryson Beaver can make some plays this G-Day.

Behind them, the Running Back room looks like the kind of group Georgia folks are used to leaning on.

Nate Frazier headlines it as the top returning rusher, with Chauncey Bowens right there in the mix. You’ve also got transfer Dante Dowdell who I think could conceivably have the best season. He gives that physical edge, plus names like Bo Walker, Dwight Phillips Jr., and freshman Jae Lamar all are competing for carries. Great rotation, and we’ve had them before. I want us to stay healthy.

Wide Receiver : that’s where things get real contentious and competitive.

Isiah Canion comes in from the portal with expectations to contribute right away. If his tape is true he’s are WR1. While London Humphreys gives you one of the few steady returning options. To me he’s WR2. My personal expectations are that Sacovie White-Helton makes a huge impact in the Z Branch role. After that, it’s a crap shoot with a whole lotta young talent trying to grow up quick potential break out players like CJ Wiley, Talyn Taylor, not to mention a rotation that includes Landon Roldan, Tyler Williams, Jeremy “Flight” Bell, and Craig Dandridge.

At Tight End, it still feels like the tip of the spear.

Lawson Luckie is expected to be the kind of player that don’t leave the field much, with Elyiss Williams, Ethan Barbour, and Jaden Reddell all bringing different tools to the table. Then there’s Kaiden Prothro, the freshman everybody keeps talkin’ about. Don’t forget if it weren’t for Prothro hogging the media hype we’d be making an evere bigger deal about the other parts of the Freshman Trio of TE’s : Brayden Fogle and Lincoln Keys are also super legit.

And O-Line? That’s where it’ll all be decided.

The offensive line is one of the biggest storylines this spring. We have the dudes first off. Who is going to be the Fab-Five if you will. It’s more about the chemistry here to me as anywhere on the team. Earnest Greene anchors things, Drew Bobo holds it down inside, and Dontrell Glover brings experience. Then you’ve got battles with Michael Uini, Daniel Calhoun, and high-upside pieces like Juan Gaston, along with standout Spring Freshman Zykie Helton. Ekene Ogboko is another guy that could get his moment and not relinquish a spot on the field. Jah Jackson panning out is going to make this staff look genius, and I personally want that near 7 foot player out there just to intimidate anyone and everyone.

If that group comes together, everything else gets a whole lot easier. We have the most physically imposing O-line squads we’ve had in quite sometime.

Defense: Still Looks Like Georgia

Now if you’re worried about the defense, you might wanna take a breath.

Because if DawgNation’s right—and again, they usually are—this side of the ball still looks like something Kirby Smartwould be mighty proud of.

D-Line, there’s a chance this defensive line ends up being special.

Elijah Griffin is expected to step into a major role, alongside Jordan Hall, Xzavier McLeod, and Nasir Johnson. There’s depth behind ‘em too—Nnamdi Ogboko, Valdin Sone, & Carter Luckie. To me the guy being slept on the most is Preston Carey. He plays with the required meanness I think goes much further than anyone realizes.

On the edge, it’s about gettin’ after folks.

Gabe Harris leads the way. Now that we know Amaris Williams is out for the season we. have to lean on guys like Joseph Jonah-Ajonye, JJ Hanne, and Justin Greene. Plain and simple they’ve just gotta get to the quarterback more consistently.

At Linebacker, you’re lookin’ at one of the deeper groups on the team.

Raylen Wilson has that leader feel to him, with Justin Williams and Chris Cole right there alongside. Zayden Walker adds more young talent to the mix. Chase Linton has enough buzz to think he could also be a factor this year. Honestly, there’s a ton of talent in this room but even Justin Williams who was number one at his position is just now becoming a mainstay option to see meaningful playing time. On the one hand that’s a lot of waiting, but on the other probably no room has had the pro success to show that the wait is more than worth it. Dollars talk.

The Secondary? Well, that’s where I’m most curious.

There’s no shortage of talent—Ellis Robinson is primed to have his best season to date, Demello Jones has experience, and Rasean Dinkins emerging all give you versatility and stability. At Safety KJ Bolden is a shoe in All American. Ty Green the freshmen- KJ’s former Buford Teammate- has impressed anyone who’s been asked about him. Zion Branch could be a big deal this year like other Veteran safety’s in the past. Plus transfers Khalil Barnes and eventually J’Marley Ridley (when healthy) could be guys that contribute more and more as the season progresses. I think we become the ELITE unit we should be here with a little help from the pass rush in 26. The biggest thing is can we figure are shit out before we play Alabama in the Fall.

What G-Day’s hopefully indicates..

First, somebody’s gotta step up at pass catcher. Whether it’s Humphreys, Canion, Wiley, or one of them young guys, Georgia needs dependable targets.

Second, the pass rush has to show up. Let’s see if we see pressure at all from anybody. Seriously, it’s that simple. Who can disrupt their block??

And maybe most important of all—this young roster’s gotta grow up quick.

Because that’s what this team really is. Talented? No doubt.
But young in some key spots. Reps matter so hopefully G-Day is the perfect place to sharpen the axe. These coaches may show their value more than ever this season. Developing & directing all of the potential is no easy task. Even with all the questions in the air- In Kirby I trust! It’s a glorious time to enjoy some freakin football in the Spring.

If you’re going down to Athens- drive safe!

G-Day is on ESPN+ @1PM

(Word to the wise: i’ll be Adding it to Hulu then Canceling on Monday… Value Add because Wrestlemania is also on ESPN+ this weekend)

Georgia Football Returns to New Orleans: Job Not Finished

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

With the Dawgs heading back to New Orleans this postseason, it’s impossible not to reflect on the heaviness that surrounded last year’s trip. Bowl season is usually about competition, celebration, and one last shared moment with a team that’s meant so much to its fans. But last year, all of that faded quickly. What should have been a joyful week turned somber as the passing of Sonny Smart cast a shadow over the entire Georgia family. The loss on the field hurt, but it felt secondary to the heartbreak off it, compounded by a series of tragic events, including a terror attack that shook the city. To be quite blunt, it fucking sucked.

Luckily, NOLA & DAWG Nation are both highly resilient. The marching bands will be seen in the streets, the Mardi Gras beads will be a plenty, and the DAWGS will be ready to EAT.

(Cafe Du Monde is my go to if you’re going to be in New Orleans grab a Beignet)

What better treat for the Sugar Bowl other than French pastry laden with powdered sugar .

Georgia’s Comfort in the Sugar Bowl and on the New Orleans Stage

While Ole Miss will be in the biggest spotlight the team has been in.. in decades, Georgia knows this building. Georgia knows this city. Georgia knows what it takes when the lights get hot and the stakes get real. The Sugar Bowl has long been a proving ground. If nobody tuned in and the Super Dome were empty, I know Georgia would want to prove it to themselves. Victory typically leans towards the team with confidence, composure, and physicality, all traits Georgia has consistently carried into postseason play. This isn’t a new environment for the Dawgs. It’s familiar territory. Put the cameras down. There’s work to be done. Kobe said it best, “jobs not finished”.

Ole Miss Enters Dangerous with New Leadership and Nothing to Lose

Ole Miss arrives with fresh energy under a new head coach and the kind of fearlessness that comes with having nothing to lose. Teams in transition don’t play cautiously; they play aggressively, sometimes recklessly. That approach can rattle even elite opponents early. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it leads to mistakes that snowball quickly. Georgia understands that danger and knows it must be handled early. So with potential shenanigans in play, contrarily I expect somewhat of a Pete Golding effect. It’s hard to see this game being near as offensively oriented as the last.

A Saban Tree Chess Match on the Sidelines

What separates this matchup from a typical postseason rematch is the battle on the sidelines. Two defensive minds shaped under Nick Saban now square off, each fully aware of the other’s tendencies, philosophies, and pressure points. There are no schematic secrets here just adjustments, discipline, and toughness. By the second half, this game will come down to which staff adapts better when the initial plan no longer works. That is where Georgia has THRIVED the most. It’s hard not to feel an advantageous mindset creep in but that’s why the DAWGS must be laser focused this go.

Rematches at this level are brutal. History shows that teams rarely get the benefit of familiarity the second time around. The pressure intensifies. Mistakes are magnified. Elite programs, however, don’t flinch. Georgia has lived in this space for years, navigating rematches and postseason expectations with consistency. Against Ole Miss, in the Sugar Bowl, and in New Orleans, the historical edge favors the Dawgs but history only matters if you’re ready to uphold it.

Injury Report Impact: Why Colbie Young’s Return Matters

The injury report adds another layer, and the names matter. Georgia will be without edge rusher Gabe Harris Jr., defensive backs Joenel Aguero and Kyron Jones, interior lineman Jordan Hall, and offensive lineman Drew Bobo, thinning depth in both the trenches and the secondary. That makes the return of Colbie Young especially important. Young provides a physical presence on the perimeter — a big-bodied receiver capable of winning contested catches, blocking in the run game, and settling the offense in high-leverage moments. With Ethan Barbour also listed as probable at tight end, Georgia regains flexibility in its passing concepts and big bodied red-zone packages. Ole Miss faces its own challenges, with Cedrick Beavers and John Wayne Oliver out, Raymond Collins doubtful, and Caleb Odom questionable. In the postseason, depth and durability often decide outcomes as much as playcalling. Again, the advantage goes to Georgia.

How Georgia’s Defense Has Evolved Since the First Meeting

Since their October meeting, both teams have been winning — but the paths couldn’t be more different. On paper, the records look similar. In reality, Georgia’s run has been forged against tougher competition. Early in the season, the Dawgs’ defense was still searching for its identity, allowing nearly 20 points per game and struggling against ranked opponents. Then something changed. Adjustments were made. Pride took over. Since that game, Georgia’s defense has transformed, cutting down scoring, smothering ranked teams, and reestablishing itself as a unit that thrives when the lights are brightest. Whatever Ole Miss saw the first time around, this version of Georgia’s defense is different. Still, that doesn’t mean Trinidad Chambliss isn’t worthy of our respect. When It comes to a football analysis he’s just a baller. If we give him too much time or don’t stay at home in the running lanes he could gain large chunks of yards easily. Kewan Lacy to me is the 2nd best if nothing else the most battle-tested back in the country. If I’m Ole Miss I’m trying to get away from being so one dimensional and letting my All Star RB take over. That said, Georgia held Bama to -3 yards last game. This is really what I think will decide the game.

Ole Miss ranks second nationally in total yards and tenth in offensive touchdowns, and that production was on full display during the first matchup. The Rebels are explosive and confident. But since that fourth quarter, Georgia’s defense has flipped the switch. This is where postseason football draws a line. Champions respond. A win would be meaningful, but a victory defined by defensive dominance against an offense of this caliber would say something more. It would give an obnoxious Georgia fan like myself even more confidence , a scary proposition for my friends who cheer for other teams.

What Will Decide the Game Late

By the fourth quarter, this won’t be about scheme diagrams or yardage totals. It’ll be about contact. Conditioning. Depth. Who still trusts their technique when legs are heavy and the margin for error disappears. If this were a 7 on 7 matchup I could say objectively much closer to a wash. However, I think we have a scrappy set of dudes in the trenches that have something to say about that. Georgia’s return to New Orleans isn’t just about advancing it’s about resilience, redemption, and proving once again that when the stage is biggest, the Dawgs are built for it. LETS EAT DAWGS.

THREE MORE GAMES. JOBS NOT FINISHED. LFG.

Gimme Georgia taking care of business in NOLA.

Final Score: 31-19.

Go DAWGS!

College Football’s Most Wonderful Time of the Year

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Students are finishing finals before Christmas break. Fantasy leagues are in the middle of their playoffs while NFL teams fight for position, and the CFP bracket is set to kickoff. The NIL and coaching carousel are in full rotation while 12 teams fight for a chance at a trophy 🏆.

It feels like the format has changed every year since the inception of the playoff and with that comes new strategies of the best way to win a title. It used to be that the SEC champ was a major favorite to win it all, but now we have back to back Champions from the BIG10 since UGA won its’ back to back titles.

Rest vs Rust: The Biggest CFP Debate

One of the more popular questions outside of seeding and matchups is the “rest vs rust” debate. Is it more beneficial to be a top 4 seed, secure a bye and rest your team? Or is it better to avoid your conferences’ championship game, play a weaker team and find your rhythm early but have the seeding out of your control?

Matchups and seeding will always be the most vital in my opinion, but with the amount of games that teams play now, I truly think a healthy team will beat a talented team as the season wanes.

Context Matters: Why Last Year’s CFP Results Are Misleading

A quick look at last year however, tells a different story IF* you don’t provide the context. All four teams with a bye lost last year. Mind you those teams were Boise State (joke outside of Ashton Jeanty), UGA (Carson Injury), Arizona State (Skattebo szn), Oregon, and they were beat by Penn state, Notre Dame, Texas, and Ohio State. All better teams that were healthy, two of which played for the title.

This year I think the top 4 (outside maybe Tex Tech) are legit championship teams. Before we break down my bracket, let me start by saying that I think UGA or OSU wins it all this year given their respective paths.

CFP Round 1 Predictions

Round 1:
12 JMU vs 5 Oregon -Oregon is the better team.
9 Alabama vs 8 Oklahoma - if you haven’t been paying attention, Venables defense has been elite, the blueprint is out, and they’ve already beaten Bama who’s offense hasn’t looked good and they are not healthy. In Norman? Give me the Sooners.
11 Tulane vs 6 Ole Miss - I think Pete Golding is up for the task. The Rebels already smoked this team and I expect the defense to be better and offense to stay strong regardless of QB.
10 Miami vs 7 Texas A&M - I think A&M is the 2nd best SEC team and even though Marcel Reed didn’t finish his campaign with Heisman consideration, he can take over games with his legs and arm. Miami’s front is ferocious but less effective on mobile QB’s. Can Carson avoid turnovers? Doubt it.

CFP Quarterfinal Predictions

Quarterfinals:
5 Oregon vs 4 Texas Tech- Tech’s season doesn’t impress me. They lost at ASU and their best wins… BYU twice. Dan’s Ducks will be warmed up and the most talented QB and roster the red raiders have seen all year.
8 Oklahoma vs 1 Indiana- this is going to come off as disrespect, and I don’t care. This Sooners team is a problem! I know IU just beat OSU, but now you’re in the big leagues now and you haven’t been up here for very long. Can your Heisman winner win you a Rose Bowl? That’s a lot of pressure for a team that’s never felt it.
6 Ole Miss vs 3 Georgia - The Rebels had a real chance when they came to Athens. Kiffin is gone and Chambliss may be too, and this defense has been different since the first matchup. Give me a dominant run game and give me the Dawgs.
***7 Texas A&M vs 2 Ohio State- This is the most important game in my entire bracket. The cotton bowl is in Texas and I think Mike Elko and company have enough talent to pull the upset. The Aggies secondary will decide this game. Can you stop Jeremiah Smith and Julian Sayin? If Tex A&M can knockout the Buckeyes I think UGA wins it all

CFP Semifinal Predictions

Semifinals:
5 Oregon vs 8 Oklahoma- Two programs that are building strong foundations meet, but I feel like Oklahoma is a year away and doesn’t match up well with the first explosive dual-threat QB they see in the CFP.

3 Georgia vs Texas A&M- Two talented teams that have found a way to get to this point. Georgia handles Ole Miss, but the Aggies need everything and maybe even overtime to beat OSU. Not enough in the tank for a line of scrimmage game that UGA will assert with its depth and talent.

CFP National Championship Prediction

Championship:
5 Oregon vs 3 Georgia- Call it a homer take if you want but this Bulldog team is dangerous both defensively and dare I say it? Offensively! We are healthy at the right time and I truly think it’s between us and Ohio State. A lot will have to go right, but the Dawgs have a real shot at 3rd title in the Kirby era. Go Dawgs!

GEORGIA FOOTBALL: SEC CHAMPIONS

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

Georgia Takes Commanding Lead — But Fans Stay Guarded

We were up three touchdowns, but it hadn’t sunk in. Not for many Georgia fans who had faced years of disappointment against Nick Saban’s Alabama. Not to mention the overlapping Falcons fans who suffered the most traumatizing comeback in modern times during the Super Bowl. No, there was no initial comfort for the fans of a team who had been reminded of the poor record against the Crimson Tide every minute of every hour of the preceding week. It all felt surreal. Play after play, Georgia amassed a 3-TD lead. I sure didn’t feel safe. Maybe it was me giving Bama too much credit, or maybe just not giving our Dawgs enough. Somewhere the joy was bubbling up, and the touchdown by Zachariah Branch to go up 28–7 broke down the floodgates.

Stick to the Blueprint, Show the Growth

In the preview, Chito highlighted the need to not reinvent the wheel against Alabama. It seemed to me we kept the basis of the game plan but included all the elements of growth we’ve seen since September. It was a top-to-bottom excellent job by this staff to make the most of the hustle from this team. We played with conviction. When talent has heart you have the best of both worlds. The core of this team could very well be coming back next year. Let’s “finish the drill” and get these Dawgs a Natty.

SEC Championship Stats: Georgia Dominates Alabama in Every Phase

On paper, the numbers told the same story the field did: Georgia controlled nearly every meaningful aspect of the SEC Championship. The Bulldogs outgained Alabama 297–209, limiting the Tide to one of their lowest total-yard outputs of the season. While Alabama leaned on the passing game for 212 yards, Georgia balanced its attack with 156 through the air and a far more decisive 141 on the ground.

The most jarring statistic belonged to the trenches. Alabama finished with –3 rushing yards, a reflection of both Georgia’s front-seven dominance and the Tide’s inability to generate any push up front. That mismatch contributed to Alabama’s sluggish 3.8 yards per play, compared to Georgia’s steady 4.4.

Key Situational Wins: Third Downs, Fourth Downs, and Total Plays

Situational football separated the two teams even further. Georgia converted 6 of 16 third downs and a perfect 2-for-2 on fourth, while Alabama managed just 3 of 14 on third down and 1 of 3 on fourth. In total snaps, the Bulldogs ran 67 plays to Alabama’s 55, a differential that mirrored the game’s rhythm.

Turnovers, Sacks, and Discipline Define the Momentum

Protection and discipline shaped key moments as well. Alabama surrendered three sacks to Georgia’s one, and while the Bulldogs were flagged seven times for 80 yards, they overcame that self-inflicted adversity by playing turnover-free football. Alabama’s lone interception became one of the game’s decisive possessions.

Time of Possession: How Georgia Controlled the Game

The most defining gap came in time of possession. Georgia held the ball for 36:52, nearly 14 minutes longer than Alabama. In a matchup built on precision and physicality, that disparity underlined the Bulldogs’ control from start to finish.

Georgia vs. Alabama: The Ongoing Rivalry Under Kalen DeBoer

Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama has beaten Georgia two out of the last three times we’ve played. Those are the facts. I’ll take this SEC Championship in stride. What is also factual is that while the Tide have had some high moments beating UGA, we’ve maintained a steadiness that speaks to the quality of our program. I don’t want to hear excuses from Bama fans. Both teams had banged-up rosters, and if they really want to go there, bring up how Colt McCoy was hurt in the Texas National Championship game. Just say that one shouldn’t count. Usually that shuts them up in my experience. The good news is Georgia has plenty of time to rest up and get prepared for the winner of Tulane and Ole Miss.

A Program Win: Special Teams Spark, Complete Team Effort

This was a top-to-bottom program victory. What started with a Cole Speer blocked punt to the Rod Robinson touchdown—Georgia illustrated in real time the true dominance (ass whooping) they have in college football. So many ballers and warriors alike on this squad. Proud of the victory, and we’re celebrating all week—probably until New Year’s if we’re being real.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas—
Our Dawgs are SEC CHAMPIONS.

Scratch that.. BACK2BACK SEC CHAMPIONS.

HBTFD! Gooo Dawgs!! SIC ’EM!

Insanity: Georgia vs Alabama SECCG Preview

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

People say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. If that were the case, why do we look up to sports legends like Michael Jordan, Tom Brady, Serena Williams, and Wayne Gretzky?
They are known for their successes, but also for their failures and diabolical preparation and practice to overcome those failures. Georgia will face-off against the University of Alabama in the SEC Championship (again) and ride the emotional rollercoaster this game always produces.

Round 1: Breaking Down the First Matchup

Alabama beat the University of Georgia 24-21 in Athens, Ga. during a night game in our home stadium where almost no team has had success in the last 5 years. Both teams were breaking in new starting QB’s and both defenses were tabbed to be top 3 in the SEC. UGA rushed for 227 yards and passed for only 130. The Tide amassed 280 passing yards behind then Heisman contender Ty Simpson, and 117 yards rushing. I felt like UGA was the better team going into that game, but the inability to get Bama off the field on 3rd down and failing to convert a 4th & 1 with Cash Jones instead of kicking the FG cost us the game.

Since Then: Momentum, Trends, and Playoff Stakes

Kirby and the Dawgs have rattled off 8 straight wins (6 SEC wins) to finish the regular szn 11-1 with the no. 4 spot in the CFP bracket.
DeBoer and the Tide on the other hand have been stuck in “neutral” winning a lot of tight games against inferior opponents and even losing to a good Oklahoma team in Tuscaloosa. A 3rd loss, even in an SECCG, potentially putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy as they sit at no. 9. On paper, trending, per. Vegas and even on the injury report Georgia looks like the better team, but we know this movie very well. Since 2007 Georgia is 1-9 in its last 10 vs. Alabama. 0-4 Alabama in SECCG’s and currently sits 0-2 vs. Kalen Deboer.

Keys to the Game for Georgia

To be truthful Georgia had the blueprint to win this game last go round, but made some uncharacteristic mistakes that cost us the game. The main key will be to mentally lock in and RELAX.

Run the Ball / Stop the Run

UGA will have the advantage here again. Bo Walker will be out but Chauncey Bowens is back healthy and should allow this RB room to target 200 yds rushing on the day. Stopping this Kalen Deboer offensive on the ground shouldn’t be a great feat as they have struggled in this area all year long and like to lean on Simpson. No fumbles by Frazier, time of possession keeping Bama’s offside on the sideline, and no 3rd and longs give Georgia a chance.

Third Down Conversions Will Decide Everything

Alabama converted 13 of 19 3rd down opportunities on the road in round 1. That literally can never happen again. Simpson was so locked in, national pundits wanted to give the Heisman Trophy that night. A lot of it was simple concepts that Kirby and Glenn Schumann should be ready for the 2nd time around. RBs and TEs leaking into the flats out of the backfield untouched (both starters questionable for Saturday) and the rest was Germie Bernand looking like Jamar Chase going crazy (minus the spitting)! Fortunately for UGA, the improvement of edge players Gabe Harris, Chris Cole, and Q Johnson has been obvious and will need to turn up another notch. Also the secondary which was a weakness early in the szn has turned into a strength as KJ Bolden, Demello Jones, and Ellis Robinson have been locking people up.

X-Factors: Gunner Stockton and Zachariah Branch

Even with an emphasis on the ground like the first time, Gunner Stockon and Zachariah Branch must be our X factors and take over this ball game. Gunner didn’t play bad last time around but he definitely wasn’t the aggressive player we’ve seen at times since then. 13/20 for 130 passing and 1 TD is pedestrian and 22 yds rushing will not move the needle. Gunner needs to be more confident with his reads and find his weapons when they are open. Making himself a bigger threat in the run game would be huge too whether it’s designed runs, pulling it on reads, or scrambling in man coverage it all adds up. Likewise, I expect to see Branch more involved. Colbie Young was the leading WR in the first matchup while Branch only had 3 receptions. We need Zach to have about 10 touches, whether it’s in the screen game to add an extension to the run or exploiting coverages with him. Nobody is consistently covering him in man schemes, and he will find space in any zone the Bama defense deploys, allowing our other weapons to run deep for chunk plays.

Conclusion: Can Georgia Finally Break the Alabama Curse?

Oxford dictionary defines insanity as extreme foolishness or irrationality. Given our track record against Alabama, especially in the SECCG it is irrational to pick against them. I’m one of the fans that wanted to skip the SECCG altogether, rest, and hopefully get a good seed. Good thing Kirby is the coach and I’m not, because he sounds ready for war. Call me a conspiracy theorist, but I also think the SEC would love to see both Alabama and Georgia in the payoff, I mean playoff ($$$) and both teams know it. Think back to 2021, we lose in the SECCG and win the rematch for a natty, I’ll take that everyday! The SECCG just isn’t as vital to a Natty as it used to be.

I said I was going to pick Bama next time and everything in me says take the Tide for all the reasons listed and the mental aspect of them playing for their playoff lives, but I just can’t do it. Kirby is insane, the talent on this roster is insane, so maybe I’m insane too. Go Dawgs!

Score Prediction: Georgia finally, over Alabama 27-24

Clean Old Fashioned Preview

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

Mercedes-Benz Stadium: A Modern Stage for a Historic Rivalry

For the first time in the rivalry’s 130-year history, Georgia and Georgia Tech are meeting on truly neutral ground, taking Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate into the heart of Atlanta and under the gleaming roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With Bobby Dodd Stadium undergoing renovations and Tech seeking a venue worthy of a ranked, 9-win season, the two programs will square off on a stage big enough to match the moment.

Following the most electric iteration of this game last year is no easy task. That said, in many ways- the moment is undeniably bigger.. on paper.

A Matchup With Elevated Stakes

This isn’t just another late-November game on the Southern football calendar. This is one of the most compelling editions of the rivalry in decades — and the numbers prove it:

• Most combined wins ever entering the matchup (19).

• Both teams ranked for just the 12th time in series history.

• Georgia (10–1) fighting to secure a College Football Playoff berth.

• Georgia Tech (9–2) seeking its first 10-win season in years.

• Georgia aiming for an 8th straight victory, which would tie Tech’s longest streak (1949–1956).

The records, the rankings, the implications - all of it elevates this matchup far beyond the typical interstate clash. Thanks to two tough minded coaches eager to bring glory to their alma maters, Brent Key and Kirby Smart have this game feeling more akin to the early 2000’s edition of the rivalry. It’s renewed and I love it. As long as we keep winning , that is…

Why Mercedes-Benz Stadium Matters

With construction at Bobby Dodd, Georgia Tech elected not to downsize or relocate to a temporary field. Instead, they chose the state’s premier sports venue - a decision that speaks to the program’s confidence and its desire to showcase its resurgence on the largest possible stage.

For Georgia, the Benz has become familiar turf. Kirby Smart’s program thrives under bright lights, controlled conditions, and the noise of a packed house. Georgia fans will travel well, but for the first time ever, this rivalry gets a setting that feels equal parts bowl game, kickoff classic, and championship rehearsal.

Buster VS Bobo

A subtle but fascinating subplot emerges between the coordinators.

Buster Faulkner — now the architect of Tech’s increasingly explosive offense — once worked inside Georgia’s building during their championship run. He knows Kirby Smart’s tendencies, understands UGA’s preparation style, and carries a competitive edge against his former program.

On the other sideline, Mike Bobo has built one of the most efficient offenses in the nation. His ability to adapt, adjust, and create mismatches has been a cornerstone of Georgia’s success in 2025.

Both men know each other’s philosophies. Both have deep regional ties and long memories. Their strategic duel may define the rhythm of the night.

A Rivalry Rooted Deep in Southern Football History

Dating back to 1893, Georgia–Georgia Tech is one of the South’s oldest and most storied rivalries — marked by eras of dominance on each side, unforgettable finishes, and the kind of cultural weight that extends beyond the football field. In this state of late the Yellow Jackets (fans) often times stay in extended hibernation but I’m enjoying the relevancy and the competitive nature of these games that gives to more chirping and shit talking at the local watering holes and social zones. At this rate this game is set to be more and more monumental.

Quarterback Dual

Haynes King (Georgia Tech)

King remains the engine of Tech’s high-scoring high powered offense. The former Texas A&M Aggie is truly a good representative of how the transfer portal can impact a program in need of a QB. His dual-threat ability, improvisational skill, and competitive drive have fueled one of the ACC’s most efficient units. If Tech challenges Georgia, it will be through King’s ability to extend plays and create explosive moments. How much can King shoulder when the physicality can surely take its toll?

Gunner Stockton (Georgia)

Stockton has developed into one of the SEC’s most reliable and poised quarterbacks. Smart with the football, accurate in rhythm, and confident in big moments, he anchors a Georgia offense that hums with efficiency and balance.

Their contrast - King’s unpredictability and Stockton’s steadiness — offers one of the most intriguing quarterback matchups in the rivalry’s recent history. I can’t remember a time where both Qb’s have been in the Heisman conversation.

UGA’s Defensive Shift: Young Linebackers Step Into the Spotlight

Georgia will be without CJ Allen, its leading tackler and emotional core of the defense. His absence is significant - especially against a mobile quarterback like King.

But Georgia’s depth at linebacker is among the best in the country.

Chris Cole

A former 5-star with elite length and range, Cole brings a safety-like skill set to the second level. His ability to track quarterbacks and play in space could be pivotal.

Justin Williams

Smart, instinctive, and highly disciplined, Williams is the communicator and stabilizer of the front seven. He diagnoses quickly and rarely misses in open field situations.

Together, Cole and Williams represent the next generation of Georgia linebacking talent - and this stage offers them an opportunity to establish themselves.

Bottom Line

Georgia is fighting for playoff placement. Georgia Tech is fighting for a statement win and a 10–2 finish. The venue is new. The stakes are historic. The rivalry is timeless. Black Friday may be a new twist, but this is the most important leg of the season for Georgia.

Let’s keep the train a rolling and await our fate be it SEC Championship game or a playoff game next. Those possibilities are out of our hands. Wrecking Tech however is ours for the taking. Go DAWGS!

Georgia Cruises Past Charlotte 35-3

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

Georgia had an uneventful Saturday afternoon as it demolished the 49ers from Charlotte, NC 35-3. A nice quiet beatdown is exactly what the doctor ordered for a team that has weathered the ups and downs of a long football season. This game won’t be remembered as important in the context of the 2025 season, but UGA did ALL of the important things that can make this season memorable.

Celebrating Georgia’s Seniors and Rising Underclassmen

It was a feel-good moment for both the seniors and the underclassmen on Saturday. For the seniors, a spectacular career highlighted by a 49-5 record, the 2022 National Championship, and SEC Championships in both ’22 and ’24. For the underclassmen, patience and hard work were rewarded with playing time and numbers on the stat sheet!

Kirby Smart’s Culture on Full Display

This is important because it proves that Kirby means it when he says he emphasizes the culture of this program by celebrating the seniors' contributions. It’s also important for the future of the program to allow the young guys to see real playing time (before the portal opens) and show future recruits what UGA development looks like in real time. In addition to that, we were able to rest starters who we need to help us for a deep playoff run, notably Drew Bobo, Earnest Greene, CJ Allen, and Chauncey Bowens.

Bo Walker and Nate Frazier Lead the Offensive Explosion

Let’s give a shoutout to those who actually played as well. Bo Walker has been talked about a ton since before the season started, but boy does he look like he’s going to have a good career in the red and black! He dominated the day with 3 TDs on 9 carries for 48 yards, while Nate Frazier also did his thing with 12 carries for 54 yards and 2 TDs.

Georgia Maintains Momentum Ahead of Georgia Tech Matchup

This is exactly what I meant when I said that UGA needs to keep a rhythm going into Georgia Tech, and we did just that. Nearly 200 yards rushing and 5 TDs with an O-line and RB room at less than full strength. Meanwhile, the honey bees from Atlanta thought Pittsburgh was sweet and gave up 42 points and 200 yards rushing to ONE RB in their loss to the Panthers Saturday.

A Healthy Program That Handles Business

We overlook it as fans, but these wins show the good health of this program. We don’t stress unranked opponents because Kirby has this team focused and moving in the right direction. Rivals can make fun of the few arrests we have, but when you play us, all that giggling stops real quick.

On to Week 12: Wreck Tech and Go Dawgs

On to week 12… Wreck Tech and Go Dawgs!

Welcoming the 49er’s: Georgia Football Preview

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

Georgia Gets a Much-Needed Break After Brutal SEC Stretch

Just like that the 2025 SEC schedule has come and gone and Georgia gets to take a beat after 8 straight conference games. Kirby will never admit it, but this team has earned and deserves a bit of a “breather” after that run and will host the 49ers from Charlotte, North Carolina between the hedges for the last regular season home game.

Charlotte 49ers Enter Athens Heavily Outmatched

Truth be told this shouldn’t be much more than a glorified scrimmage and I’m being polite. The Niners are coming into this game 1-9 from the American Athletic Conference with their one win being over the Monmouth Hawks 42-35. In a state with so many well known Universities, Charlotte is often regarded as the “little brother” in North Carolina and that vibe will carry over on Saturday as this Georgia team greatly outmatches this team.

Why Charlotte, NC Is Still Worth a Visit

I will say this though, if you’re not familiar with The Queen City (Charlotte, NC) you need to visit. It is a super well rounded place that I would definitely consider moving to. It has something for just about everyone from the Uptown scene, the Whitewater Center, and it’s home to the Carolina Panthers, the Charlotte Hornets and Knights, not to mention Charlotte FC. It’s a beautiful state and city you should travel to see at least once!

Three Things Georgia Fans Should Watch For Against Charlotte

1. Establishing Rhythm

Here are 3 things I want to see from Georgia this Saturday:

Rhythm- this is in no way a trap game, however, I do really want to see this team go out and execute the game plan that it has in place. Not that this team needs to be at its best to beat the guys on the other side, but because as this season nears its end we need to be firing on all cylinders. We can't afford to be sloppy on Saturday and spend all next week fixing issues before we face Georgia Tech in Atlanta.

2. Backups Stepping Into the Spotlight

Backups- This is still a young team but with a full season under their belt, it’s time to let the depth chart shine a little bit! I expect Nnamdi Ogboko and Elijah Griffin to get plenty of meaningful reps on the D-line. I’d love to see the same thing in the LB rotation with Justin Williams and Zay Walker who both got a chance to stretch their legs against Texas after CJ Allen got hurt (more on that later). Offensively, I think DawgNation as a whole is ready to see Puglisi, Elyiss Williams, Sacovie, CJ Wiley, and possibly Bo Walker make some waves for the offense. This gives the roster some confidence and experience before the portal opens, and gives the starters some much needed rest while minimizing injuries.

3. Prioritizing Health Before Georgia Tech

Stay healthy- executing no. 2 well helps with no. 3. I expect a heavy run game from Bobo to hold possession and eat a lot of clock. By halftime this game should be in hand with the majority of backups on the field. This is the time of the year where having a healthy roster is just as, if not more important than having a talented roster. If Georgia wants to make a deep playoff run it will need CJ Allen (hopeful to return soon!) and its other starters, healthy and ready to ride.

Final Thoughts: Georgia Looks to Enter Tech Week at 10–1

Conclusion: In what has been a wild two months of SEC football, UGA has earned an easier opponent on the schedule before its annual rivalry with Tech to kickoff the holiday season. It’s easy to lose focus on a week like this but Kirby is a seasoned vet and will get the most out of this team even against a lesser opponent. Dawgs dominate and move on to 10-1, Go Dawgs!

Score Prediction: Georgia Wins 55–6

Score: Georgia wins 55-6

Bevo for Dinner: Georgia EATS Texas 35–10

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

How do y’all like your steak? Ironically many are now wanting to put a fork in the playoff hopes for Texas after we hand delivered them a third loss. Georgia’s 35–10 whoopin’ over Texas wasn’t the epic “Return of the King” finale the matchup was hyped to be for the Longhorns. Instead, Texas fans had the evening play out more like a part 3 disappointment.. like the Godfather Part III. The buildup promised drama, but the on-field story was one sided from start to finish. They flopped, we triumphed and I’ll do the best I can not to make the following one giant I told you so to all the national media that wanted to give Arch Manning the Heisman and Texas the National Title before a game had been played.

Simply put, Georgia controlled every meaningful phase of this game. We came prepared/executed a polished, disciplined game plan that neutralized Texas’s strengths, exposed their weaknesses, and turned a supposed heavyweight clash into a statement win. We fired up the grill around kickoff and it was nothing but Longhorns for dinner after that.

Georgia Set the Tone Physically

The stats tell a clear story:

• Rushing yards: Georgia 128, Texas 23

• 3rd down: Georgia 4/11, Texas 2/12

• Time of possession: Georgia 35:09 to Texas 24:51

Texas entered the game with a reputation for defensive toughness, but Georgia dismantled that narrative. They ran the ball consistently, stayed ahead of the chains, and dictated the pace while Texas became one-dimensional early. With the Longhorns abandoning the run after their opening drive, Georgia’s defense feasted—forcing long down-and-distances, collapsing pockets, and limiting Texas to just 23 yards on the ground.

Stockton’s Performance Steals the Spotlight

Quarterback Gunner Stockton delivered the type of performance that ignites Heisman conversations. Efficient, aggressive when needed, and poised, Stockton continued building the résumé of a true national contender. Against a highly respected Texas defense, he accounted for five touchdowns and operated with the leadership traits often associated with elite dual threat quarterbacks like that of Jalen Hurts & Russell Wilson, with a calm, unshakeable command of the offense.

His performance in this game SHOULD reshape the national awards conversation.

Defensive Depth and Emerging Stars

Despite the loss of key personnel like CJ Allen, Georgia’s defense played arguably its most complete game of the season. Underclassmen such as Zayden Walker and DeMello Jones emerged as standouts, contributing in coverage, tackling, and run fits. The secondary showed discipline, and the pass rush. While as a unit we have been inconsistent at times this season we came alive in big moments to grill up some Bevo Steaks.

Texas finished 2-for-12 on third down, and their offense never regained rhythm after the first quarter. Georgia’s defense lived in the backfield, forced predictable passing situations, and shut the door on any comeback attempt.

Coaching and Game Management Shine

The victory was as much about preparation as execution. Georgia’s staff, including Kirby Smart and Mike Bobo, crafted a game plan that attacked Texas’s vulnerabilities while leaning on their own strengths. Offensively, the Bulldogs blended run balance with efficient quarterback play. Defensively, they pressured Texas into abandoning the run, tightening up in the red zone, and becoming increasingly frustrated as the game progressed. The cherry on top was the onside kick following the two 4th down conversions.

A Lopsided Sequel and a Statement Win

What was expected to be the dramatic third act in a budding rivalry instead turned into a decisive Georgia showcase. Texas, hyped as the rising contender, struggled with penalties (nine for 58 yards), protection issues, and an inability to sustain drives. Georgia played clean (just one penalty), controlled possession, and never allowed the game to become chaotic. If anyone thinks “the SEC still runs through Texas” they may want to see a doctor.

Looking Ahead

With Texas now behind them, Georgia shifts focus to the upcoming matchup against Charlotte. The Bulldogs enter with momentum, a healthy level of national respect, and a quarterback performing at an elite level. If this performance was any indication, Georgia is hitting championship form at exactly the right time. We are living in the glory days.

Go DAWGS!

Georgia vs Texas Vol.3: Historic Showdown in Athens

by Chito Chibuye

Dawgs OTL Writer/ UGA Alumnus

Georgia Welcomes Texas to Athens for the First Time

No. 5 Georgia and No. 10 Texas will lock horns in Athens, GA for the first time in the two programs’ history. UGA welcomed the Longhorns to the SEC last year by beating them at DKR 30-15, and then taking the SEC Championship out of their grasp in OT with a 22-19 victory. Both teams will look different this time around, and while the expectations around Texas have shifted, the Dawgs remain poised and focused on winning more titles — conference or otherwise.

Facts Over Feelings: The Real Story Behind the Matchup

There is no data set or stat alone that is going to magically get UGA a win on Saturday, because Texas is still a very talented team.

However, this team is not as good a team as last year’s squad, even if they still have everything in front of them. UT comes into this weekend’s matchup 7-2 with losses at OSU 14-7 and at Florida 29-21. Their best win was a home game vs. OK without John Mateer (23-6), while also having two questionable OT wins on the road vs. Kentucky (16-13) and MSST (45-38).

I’m not impressed by this Texas team, but I will give them credit for trending in the right direction.

Quarterback Showdown: Arch Manning vs. Gunner Stockton

The preseason hype on these two quarterbacks couldn’t have been more different. The media crowned Arch Heisman winner, All-American, All-SEC, National Championship MVP. Keegan mentioned several times on this platform that Arch had no game film to back that up and all the hype came off name alone. We were correct, as he will likely be none of those things in 2025. Then you’ve got good ol’ humble Gunner Stockton, the country boy from Rabun County — a guy who was thrown into the fire in 2024 and helped Georgia beat Texas, and on short notice made some plays but ultimately fell short of beating the CFP runner-up in Notre Dame. Gunner Stockton carved out one of the most decorated careers in Georgia high-school football history, blending production, leadership, and longevity in a way few quarterbacks ever have. As the 2021–22 Gatorade Georgia Player of the Year, he was a stat machine & was recognized as the state’s most complete and impactful athlete. Stockton finished his career with 177 passing touchdowns, the most ever in Georgia, and an astonishing 254 total touchdowns, a record reflecting his dual threat elite status. I’m on record saying Gunner reminds me of Russell Wilson at Wisconsin and needed to work on his pocket presence in the offseason, while the media used his tape to cast doubt and tell Dawgs fans that he was worse than Carson Beck.

Arch: 2,123 yds, 18 TD, 6 INT, 63.1 QBR (59th)

Gunner: 2,040 yds, 15 TD, 2 INT, 89.4 QBR (3rd)

Three times more interceptions and a QBR down in Antarctica — give me Stockton all day.

2024 vs. 2025: How the Teams Have Evolved

This year’s Texas team isn’t as good as the one Georgia beat twice last year, and that seems most obvious at both QB and OL positions. Like many premier programs, the Longhorns lost a lot of talent to the NFL, and last year hit their OL pretty hard — they have struggled to bounce back. Running the ball has been a major issue for them, averaging 135.3 ypg (95th), which ends up putting more pressure on a QB that hasn’t been great. Georgia has been inconsistent at stopping the run at times, but they’ve also already had success against this unit and scheme recently. Defensively, this Texas team hasn’t fallen off at all — unlike UGA. They allow 16.4 pts/game (11th) and give up only 314 yds per outing (22nd), and while they lead the SEC in rush yards allowed, they have yet to deal with an offensive unit that is buzzing like Georgia is right now. Averaging almost 200 rush yds/game (24th), 33.4 pts/game (29th), and 435.8 total yds/game (32nd), Texas has a daunting challenge on their hands on the road, where they have not been as sharp. Texas’s offense is considerably worse than last year, and their defense is the same but elite. Georgia’s offense has taken a big step forward in efficiency, and the defense has taken a step back in havoc rate.

X-Factors That Could Decide the Game

I’m not going to write a paragraph on the keys to the game this week because to me they’re obvious: establish the run, stop the run, and win the turnover battle. Instead, I want to talk about three X-factors:

1. Billy Napier

While it might seem like an irrelevant story to some, I think the recently fired Florida coach being in Athens this week is more than an old friend “just visiting.” This is a coaching family that is well-liked and respected in the state of Georgia, and one of two coaches to beat Texas this year. I’m guessing Kirby picked Billy’s brain on the topic — they are friends after all.

2. Noah Thomas

There’s probably not a player on this Georgia roster that hates burnt orange more than Thomas. As a former Texas A&M Aggie, there isn’t anybody who knows Texas and has played them every year of his career like Noah has. He has been more involved in the game plan the past couple of weeks, and if Texas prepares for Branch (which they better), expect #5 to go off!

3. Collin Simmons

This is the man who could single-handedly wreck this game for the Bulldogs. Of course, he has help in LB Anthony Hill Jr., but Simmons has shown himself to be one of the most dominant EDGE players in the country. He plays with a relentlessly high motor, and that has helped him amass eight sacks for a unit that has the second-most team sacks in the nation with 34. Fortunately for UGA, even Simmons knows that this Georgia team is one of the most physically tough in the game, and they’ve only allowed 11 sacks — tied for second-fewest in the SEC.

Conclusion: Georgia’s Edge and Score Prediction

In my honest opinion, this Georgia team, while young, might be an overall better team than the 2024 version. Mind you, that version beat a Texas squad that’s better than the 2025 iteration on the road and then again in ATL.

Now you take those ingredients and you bring them to Sanford Stadium — which will be going crazy for a night game against a team that thinks they’re the pride of the conference? Yeah, good luck with that. Texas’s best-case scenario is to force OT, where they’ve snuck out two wins this year, but I don’t see it. Dawgs on top!

Score Prediction: 27-17

DAWGS Unleash in Starkville

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

The Georgia Bulldogs left Starkville with a statement win on Saturday, taking down Mississippi State 41–21 in a game that showcased dominance on both sides of the ball. After falling behind 7–0 early, Georgia flipped the switch and controlled the rest of the contest with 38 unanswered points.

Total Team Control From Start to Finish

Georgia’s offense was unstoppable, piling up 567 total yards compared to Mississippi State’s 322. The Bulldogs from Athens displayed perfect balance — 264 passing yards and 303 rushing yards — and averaged an impressive 7.7 yards per play. Mississippi State struggled to match that rhythm, managing just 4.7 yards per play and 18 first downs to Georgia’s 30.

Ground Game Sets the Tone

The difference came in the trenches. Georgia’s offensive line dominated, allowing zero sacks and paving the way for a relentless rushing attack. The run game wore down Mississippi State’s defense, setting up big gains through the air and controlling possession for over 33 minutes.

Defense Adjusts and Shuts the Door

After Mississippi State’s opening touchdown drive, Georgia’s defense settled in and dictated the rest of the game. They held MSU to 149 rushing yards and 173 passing yards, limiting explosive plays and forcing multiple stalled drives. Pressure from Georgia’s front and solid tackling in space kept Mississippi State off balance the entire second half.

Efficient Execution on Key Downs

Georgia’s offense thrived in crucial moments, converting 7 of 12 third downs, while Mississippi State went 8 of 16 but struggled to sustain drives when it mattered most. The Dawgs’ ability to finish drives, stay penalty-free in key spots, and maintain tempo separated them as the game wore on.

Statement Win for Georgia

With this victory, Georgia not only improved to 8–1 but also reminded the SEC that they’re still one of the most complete teams in college football. Balanced, disciplined, and physical — this was the type of performance that signals championship form as the regular season winds down.

Go DAWGS

Dawg Eat Dawg World: Georgia vs. Mississippi State Preview

by Keegan Shinall

Dawgs OTL Writer/ Bleeds Red and Black

Well folks, it’s that time again — the battle of the Bulldogs. Red and black meets maroon and white, and it’s fixin’ to be one of them games where pads pop, helmets rattle, and only one set of Dawgs walks off waggin’ their tails.

Kirby Smart’s Georgia boys are rollin’ down to Starkville with championship focus, while Jeff Lebby’s Mississippi State crew is lookin’ to prove they can bite just as hard. It’s a Dawg-eat-Dawg kind of weekend, and you better believe both sides will be foamin’ at the mouth for this one.

What to Look For

Georgia is sittin’ near the top of the heap again — smart, tough, and mean up front. They’ve got that mix of NFL-ready power and old-school grit. Don’t expect any gimmicks. Kirby’s crew will line up, punch the gas, and make you prove you can slow down the train.

Mississippi State, on the other hand, is still carving out its new identity under Jeff Lebby — and I’ll tell ya, this man’s got that Oklahoma-style offensive mindset. Fast pace, spread sets, and lots of chunk plays through the air. He ain’t afraid to let that quarterback sling it 40-plus times if the game script calls for it.

It’s a clash of philosophies:

• Kirby’s controlled chaos, built on defense and balance.

• Lebby’s pedal-to-the-metal offense, built on tempo and pressure.

So in essence- it’ll be Kirby’s control and discipline versus Lebby’s speed and space. 

Whoever can impose their brand of football — that’s who’ll be howlin’ by sundown.

Keys to the Game

1. Georgia’s Run Game vs. MSU’s Front Seven

If Georgia’s offensive line gets rolling, Mississippi State could find themselves in a long night of body blows. The key for MSU is stacking the box and forcing Gunner Stockton to beat them through the air.

2. Blake Shapen’s Decision-Making

Mississippi State’s QB has been steady this season — over 2,100 yards and 15 touchdowns — but Georgia’s defense will test every read. One mistake could swing this game.

3. Anthony Evans III — The Game-Breaker

Evans has been a bright spot for MSU, hauling in nearly 300 yards on 21 receptions this season. He’s shifty, quick, and has that knack for finding daylight in the open field. If he breaks one early, watch momentum shift fast.

4. Turnovers and Momentum Swings

Both teams play disciplined, but Georgia’s depth often means they can survive a mistake. MSU can’t. Winning the turnover battle is Mississippi State’s best path to an upset.

Score Prediction

This ain’t gonna be no walk-in-the-park for Georgia, even if they’re the top dogs. Starkville’s loud, cowbells are ringin’, and MSU’s hungry to prove they belong. Still, talent runs deep in Athens, and Kirby knows how to finish late. This is a real opportunity to put the offense to work. Let’s finally put a 40 Burger on the scoreboard. I’ll call this optimistic but think we can come up big. Go Dawgs.

Final Score: Georgia 40, Mississippi State 20