The Georgia Bulldogs are gearing up for a critical matchup against the Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday, a game with major College Football Playoff implications. For Georgia, a win keeps their playoff hopes alive, while Tennessee can virtually secure a spot in the 12-team playoff with a victory. Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart and his players have spoken candidly about the challenges of facing the Vols’ high-speed offense.
“It’s tough, because you have to change your defense to play against them,” Smart admitted during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. He emphasized that Tennessee’s unique approach forces Georgia to call plays and defenses they haven’t used all season. “They’re fast, they have huge splits…you gotta try to beat them back to the ball, get lined up, out-execute them.” Smart also noted Tennessee’s balanced attack this year, highlighting their explosive wide receivers, quarterback, and running back Dylan Sampson.
Georgia wide receiver Miles Thornton echoed Smart’s concerns during The Players Lounge, calling Tennessee week “the week that players kind of dread a little bit.” Defensive back Malaki Starks added, “It’s hard to prepare game speed and practice speed [against Tennessee].”
Tennessee’s fast-paced offense creates unique preparation challenges for opponents, potentially making them more focused and locked in. However, as Smart pointed out, execution and clean play will likely decide the outcome of this high-stakes game in Athens. Playing at home may give Georgia an edge, but the Bulldogs face a tough task against a Vols team that thrives on its innovative and relentless style of play.
