Georgia football is no stranger to the spotlight, and this weekend they’re back on prime time, front and center. The 12th-ranked Bulldogs are gearing up to host No. 7 Tennessee in Sanford Stadium, a showdown that’s the talk of college football. It’s not just a big game; it’s the game of the weekend—the kind that gets everyone glued to their screens and biting their nails. For Head Dawg Kirby Smart, the stakes couldn’t be higher. They’re in “win-or-bust” territory, with their playoff dreams riding on keeping the momentum alive.
It’s like walking a tightrope; there’s no room for a slip. The Bulldogs have handled big moments before, but with the Vols rolling into town, it’s a pressure-cooker situation. Buckle up Dawg Nation—this one’s going to be a nail-biter! Before the Bulldogs and Volunteers clash, let’s get all the game-day details straight! Georgia takes on No. 7 Tennessee this Saturday, Nov. 16, at 7:30 PM on ABC. The hype starts bright and early with ESPN’s College GameDay live in Athens, kicking off at 9:00 AM EST. Grab your coffee and your foam fingers—it’s going to be a day-long Dawg party. As for the broadcast team, Georgia’s getting the varsity squad. Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit are in the booth, bringing the energy and insight they’ve delivered all season.
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Chris Fowler, the seasoned play-by-play maestro, is butter-smooth delivery has the ability to keep the action moving. Fowler, a 1985 University of Colorado graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree, hosted College Gameday until 2014, having previously worked as a producer and co-host for a Boulder magazine. And then there’s Kirk Herbstreit, as we all paid our tributes and shared Kirk’s grief over the passing of his golden retriever, Ben, who lost his battle with cancer. Back without Ben, which will be the only sad-watch on this occasion. Ex quarterback for Ohio State now serves as an analyst for ESPN’s College GameDay. He joined his now partner Fowler in 1996 and covers a wide array of college football teams. Holly Rowe and Laura Rutledge will patrol the sidelines, ready to dish out all the juicy on-field scoops.
This game? Oh, it’s massive. Like, “don’t-you-dare-miss-it” massive. Georgia’s path to the College Football Playoff is as clear as it is unforgiving: win, and they’re in contention; lose, and those championship dreams evaporate. It’s all riding on this one, and a win would likely vault Georgia back into the upper echelon of the rankings. With two relatively easier games left after this, the Bulldogs would be sitting pretty for a playoff spot. So, Dawg Nation, buckle up—it’s do-or-die time in Athens!
What to know: Georgia vs Tennessee
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Can Georgia's playoff dreams survive Tennessee's challenge, or will the Vols crush their hopes?
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The quarterback situation for Tennessee can keep you Vols fans on edge. Freshman phenom Nico Iamaleava is listed as questionable after reportedly entering concussion protocol. This five-star talent has been a bright spot for the Vols, racking up 1,879 passing yards and 11 touchdowns across nine games. Losing him for this game would feel like a fumble before the opening whistle. If Iamaleava can’t suit up, senior Gaston Moore will step into the spotlight. Moore’s numbers are more modest—273 yards and two touchdowns—but he’s got experience and poise that could steady the ship.
For, the Kirby Smart and Co., as Joel Klatt, mentioned about their overall offense problem not just QB1 Carson Beck’s. Beck has taken a huge step back in his second season as a starter, regressing in completion percentage, passer rating and yards per attempt. In conference play, Beck has 10 touchdown passes to 12 interceptions and became the first SEC player since Matt Corral to throw 12 interceptions in six games. When Beck doesn’t throw an interception, Georgia is 4-0.
So, place your bets wisely, ladies and gentlemen.
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Can Georgia's playoff dreams survive Tennessee's challenge, or will the Vols crush their hopes?