Georgia Bulldogs vs. Tennessee Volunteers: SEC Showdown Preview (11-13-24)

By: Joey Raymond

Headline Photo Credit: Tennessee Vols

A high-stakes SEC clash looms as the No. 11 Georgia Bulldogs host the No. 6 Tennessee Volunteers in a matchup packed with playoff implications. With both teams fighting for SEC supremacy and potential College Football Playoff spots, Saturday’s game promises intensity and drama.

Georgia Bulldogs Season Overview

After a stellar start to the season with a dominant 34-3 win over Clemson, Georgia’s journey has been turbulent. Narrow victories against Kentucky and a heart-wrenching 41-34 loss at Alabama have shown Georgia’s resilience but also its vulnerabilities. Most recently, a 27-20 loss to Ole Miss has put their playoff hopes on the line, making this game a must-win for the Bulldogs.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Bulldogs bring a balanced approach on both sides of the ball. Offensively, Carson Beck leads a strong passing game, averaging 286 yards per game — fifth best in the SEC. Georgia’s red-zone efficiency has also been a bright spot, scoring on 34 of 37 trips. However, Beck’s 12 interceptions are a concern, as are the team’s struggles in the ground game, averaging only 124 rushing yards per game.

On defense, Georgia has been solid overall, ranking sixth in both pass and run defense in the SEC. However, their situational defense stands out, with opponents converting just 28% of third downs and a stingy red-zone defense that has allowed only 11 touchdowns in 24 trips.

Tennessee Volunteers Season Overview

Tennessee arrives in Athens riding the momentum of an 8-1 record, including a crucial 5-1 mark in SEC play. The Vols’ high-tempo offense, led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava, has consistently pressured defenses. Though Iamaleava is recovering from a recent injury, he’s expected to play Saturday, a crucial boost for Tennessee’s offense.

Players to Watch

Georgia Bulldogs

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• QB Carson Beck: The senior quarterback has flashed potential but also struggled with consistency, throwing 17 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His ability to limit mistakes and execute in the red zone will be essential for Georgia’s success.
• RBs Trevor Etienne and Nate Frazier: Despite a lackluster rushing attack, Etienne and Frazier are Georgia’s top backs, combining for over 800 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. They’ll need to find gaps against a tough Tennessee front.
• Edge Jalon Walker: The junior edge rusher leads Georgia with 4.5 sacks and is a crucial disruptor for the defense. Walker’s ability to apply pressure could force mistakes from Tennessee’s quarterback.
• S Malaki Starks: Starks leads the team with 49 tackles and adds stability in the secondary. Known for his prowess against the run, he’ll also be tasked with managing Tennessee’s dangerous passing game.

Tennessee Volunteers

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• QB Nico Iamaleava: The young quarterback’s strong arm and mobility have made him a challenge for defenses, though consistency remains key. Returning from an injury, Iamaleava will need to avoid turnovers and make plays against a stingy Georgia defense.
• WR Dont’e Thornton Jr.: Thornton has been a deep threat for the Volunteers, showcasing his explosive playmaking ability with a 73-yard touchdown against Mississippi State. He could be a difference-maker downfield if Georgia’s secondary isn’t sharp.
• RB Jaylen Wright: Leading Tennessee’s ground attack, Wright is critical in creating a balanced offense. His ability to pick up yards and keep Georgia’s defense honest could set up bigger plays downfield.
• LB Aaron Beasley: Beasley leads Tennessee’s defensive unit and has excelled in stopping the run and pressuring quarterbacks. His play will be pivotal in containing Georgia’s versatile offense.

Keys to the Game

For Georgia:

1. Protect Carson Beck: Tennessee’s front seven has been successful at pressuring quarterbacks. Georgia’s offensive line must keep Beck upright and give him time to find his targets.
2. Win the Turnover Battle: Mistakes have plagued the Bulldogs, and with Tennessee’s opportunistic defense, any turnover could be costly.
3. Stop Tennessee’s Big Plays: The Bulldogs’ defense must limit explosive plays, especially with Tennessee’s deep-threat receivers. Georgia will need to control the game’s tempo and force Tennessee into short-yardage situations.

For Tennessee:

1. Establish the Run: With Georgia’s strong pass defense, creating a balanced attack will be essential for Tennessee. Wright’s productivity on the ground will be key.
2. Apply Pressure on Beck: Forcing Beck into mistakes could change the game’s momentum. Tennessee’s defensive line will need to be aggressive and relentless in pressuring him.
3. Capitalize in the Red Zone: Tennessee’s ability to score touchdowns over field goals in the red zone could be the difference in this close matchup.

Game Outlook

This game carries enormous weight for both teams’ playoff dreams. Georgia’s resilience after past setbacks and the home-field advantage at Sanford Stadium are key factors, but Tennessee’s offensive firepower and confidence from recent wins make this a true toss-up. Expect a fierce battle as these SEC powerhouses collide with everything on the line.