Georgia Travels to Tuscaloosa for SEC Showdown with Alabama

September 27, 2024

By Carter Rennyson

The Georgia Bulldogs have set the standard for college football programs in the 2020s. They won back-to-back championships in 2021 and 2022 and boast a 50-4 record this decade. Kirby Smart has dominated the SEC, while Kalen DeBoer is looking to make his mark within the tough conference. DeBoer, who succeeded Nick Saban as Alabama’s head coach, has had a strong start. A statement win at home could propel Alabama back to the SEC Championship Game, where they essentially ended Georgia’s season last December.

Carson Beck and the Bulldogs started the season strong, but the Kentucky Wildcats gave them a scare. Georgia won 13-12, but their performance raised questions about the offense, leading to Texas overtaking them for the top spot in the rankings. Beck has looked like a Heisman candidate at times, but he needs more week-to-week consistency before he can be labeled a contender.

On the other hand, Jalen Milroe has looked like a Heisman candidate from the start. The Alabama quarterback has scored at least two passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns in each of his first three games. While the Alabama offense has been solid, Georgia’s defense is a different challenge. The Bulldogs have only allowed 18 points (all field goals) in three games and are holding opposing offenses to an average of 200 yards per game. If Milroe can continue his dominance, Alabama will be well-positioned to win this showdown.

Alabama’s defense has also been impressive in its first three games. With talent at all three levels, the Crimson Tide is allowing just over three yards per play. Linebackers Jihaad Campbell and Deontae Lawson lead the team in tackles, while defensive back Keon Sabb has two interceptions. DeBoer has built on his success at Washington and brought it to Alabama, where the Crimson Tide aims to reclaim its title as the SEC’s top team.

Under the lights at Bryant-Denny Stadium, Alabama will be tough to beat. Smart is one of the nation’s best coaches and will have the Bulldogs ready to play. This is the biggest game of the season so far, and it should be a close battle in Tuscaloosa.