ATHENS, Ga. — The Georgia Bulldogs face a pivotal challenge Saturday as they host the Tennessee Volunteers in a Southeastern Conference showdown that carries major implications for the College Football Playoff.
Georgia (7-2, 5-2 SEC) enters the game on uncertain footing after a 28-10 loss at Ole Miss. The defeat marked the Bulldogs’ second of the season, putting them in unfamiliar territory. A loss to Tennessee (8-1, 5-1 SEC) would give Georgia its first three-loss season since 2018, a sharp contrast to their recent dominance.
The Bulldogs are 14-3 under head coach Kirby Smart following a loss and haven’t dropped consecutive games since 2016. However, the challenge grows tougher without standout running back Trevor Etienne, ruled out with a rib injury he sustained earlier this month. Freshman Nate Frazier will take the lead in Georgia’s backfield, supported by a shorthanded group.
Tennessee arrives at Sanford Stadium riding a four-game winning streak, including a 24-17 victory over Alabama three weeks ago. Despite their recent form, the Volunteers have struggled historically against Georgia, dropping the last seven meetings by at least 14 points. Their last win in Athens came in 2016, a narrow 34-31 victory.
Both teams are battling for a spot in the SEC Championship and a chance to remain in contention for the expanded College Football Playoff. For Georgia, a win is critical to keep slim playoff hopes alive, while Tennessee seeks to break its losing streak against the Bulldogs and secure its eighth conference win.
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.
