Texas will face off against Georgia at Sanford Stadium in Athens on Saturday night. This matchup marks the beginning of a crucial late-season stretch that will significantly influence the conference”s postseason prospects.
The Longhorns, currently ranked No. 10, are in a race against time to solidify their position in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Head coach Steve Sarkisian has noted that teams competing for championships are finding ways to win, as evidenced by his observations of other teams during a recent break. “The cream is kind of rising to the top right now,” he stated during his weekly press conference.
Having previously fallen out of the AP Top 25, the Longhorns have rejuvenated their season and are eager to maintain their momentum. However, they are aware that their playoff aspirations hinge on their ability to overcome Georgia, a formidable opponent with a rich history of success.
The Bulldogs, currently ranked No. 5, have a strong chance to qualify for the SEC Championship game. Both teams are under pressure to win, with their respective undefeated rivals, Alabama and Texas A&M, looming large in the conference standings. A third loss against Georgia could severely diminish Texas” playoff chances, emphasizing the importance of this game.
Georgia has been dominant at home, boasting a record of 51-2 in their last 53 games and holding the best overall record in college football since the 2020 season. Their only loss this year was to Alabama, a team also in the running for a postseason berth.
Texas has struggled against Georgia in recent encounters, last defeating them in the Sugar Bowl six years ago. Their last regular-season victory against the Bulldogs dates back more than six decades. The teams met twice last year, with Georgia prevailing each time, largely due to their ability to run the ball effectively against a strong Texas defense.
Texas averaged only 1.1 yards per carry in those matchups, which hindered their offensive effectiveness and forced quarterback Quinn Ewers into a high-volume passing situation against a defense that produced several first-round NFL Draft picks.
The Longhorns” running game, which has not yet reached its potential, will be tested against Georgia”s stout run defense. Running back CJ Baxter acknowledged the importance of the run game, stating, “You have to be able to run the football well to win a football game.” He highlighted the need for their ground game to perform against a formidable defense.
As the game approaches, both teams are aware of the high stakes involved. A win for either squad could dramatically reshape the landscape of the conference and the playoff race.
