Across the Ball: Three key matchups for Georgia-Alabama
Joke’s on me for not being too concerned about Georgia’s defense going into Tennessee. That game got off to a hot start by both offenses and finished scorching.
Heading into Saturday’s game against Alabama, the questions have reversed. The offense answered the call against Tennessee, but the defense left a lot to be desired.
Can Georgia’s defense get right this week? Will the offense keep it moving against an Alabama team hoping to make people forget about the egg it laid against Florida State?
We’ll find out on Saturday, with these three key matchups being ones to watch:
Georgia cornerbacks vs. Ryan Williams, Germie Bernard
Last year, Williams destroyed Georgia’s secondary to the tune of six receptions for 177 yards and what would be the game-deciding touchdown. Williams has played in only two of Alabama’s games this year, but exploded for five catches, 165 yards and two touchdowns two weeks ago against Wisconsin. Williams’ speed and agility is exceptional for any defensive back to deal with, evidenced by Georgia being unable to stop him a year ago.
Bernard has been impressive as well, totaling a team-leading 15 catches for 275 yards and three touchdowns this season. The two receivers complement each other well and will be a tough test for a Georgia defensive backfield that just allowed Tennessee’s receivers to combine for 371 yards and four touchdowns.
Since arriving to Georgia, Smart has preferred to play the cornerbacks in man coverage on the outside. If the Bulldogs do that against Alabama, the defense better generate a pass rush because covering those two wideouts for more than three seconds is incredibly difficult.
Georgia running backs vs. Alabama rush defense
When Tennessee jumped out to a 21-7 lead, Georgia decided to lean on the run and slow the game down. The strategy was sound and it worked. It kept the Volunteers off the field and allowed Georgia to regain control, at least for the time being.
Florida State had a similar approach in the opener against Alabama by running the ball 49 times for 230 yards. The Seminoles didn’t produce that many chunk plays on the ground, but by moving the chains steadily they were able to control the game flow and make things uncomfortable for the Crimson TIde.
The right side of Georgia’s offensive line has some major question marks. But if the group can help the backs run effectively like they did against Tennessee, the Bulldogs will be in a good position to keep Alabama’s offense off the field.
Georgia offensive line vs. Alabama pass rush
Speaking of the Georgia offensive line, pass protection will be critical. Florida State chose to throw the ball only 14 times, which created zero sacks for Alabama. But two weeks ago, the Crimson Tide recorded four sacks against Wisconsin.
The Volunteers were able to sack Gunner Stockton four times two weeks ago, with one of those resulting in a costly fumble in Tennessee territory. The Bulldogs need to do everything they can to protect Stockton so that the offense can remain ahead of the sticks.
ICYMI
Georgia’s preparing for the “hottest quarterback” in the nation.
News and notes, including Zachariah Branch’s familiarity with Saturday’s showdown since he watched last year’s game from afar.
Everything Alabama coaches have said about Georgia thus far.
The focus stays on Georgia’s right side of the offensive line.
Jayden Wade, the No. 1 recruit in the class of 2028, is ready to get back to Georgia.