Georgia slides multiple spots in ESPN’s updated power rankings despite win over Florida
By Luke Greco
Published:
The Georgia Bulldogs slid down to No. 8 from their previous spot at No. 5 in ESPN’s updated power rankings, despite winning this week over Florida.
The Bulldogs struggled against Florida as they went into the half tied 10-10. The Bulldogs would then go on to outscore the Gators 14-10 in the second half to escape with the victory, but it wasn’t always pretty. Quarterback Gunner Stockton was 20 of 29 for 223 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception through the air. Zachariah Branch was Stockton’s favorite target this week, hauling in 10 receptions for 112 yards.
Here’s what Mark Schlabach of ESPN had to say in regard to the Bulldogs dropping 3 spots in the updated power rankings:
The Bulldogs didn’t have their finest effort on offense in a 24-20 victory against rival Florida in Jacksonville on Saturday. But once again, Georgia’s offense made big plays when it needed it most in the fourth quarter. After running for 221 yards in a 43-35 win over Ole Miss on Oct. 18, the Bulldogs didn’t have as much success on the ground against the Gators. Georgia ran 39 times for 138 yards, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry. Florida’s defense did a good job of containing quarterback Gunner Stockton, who has hurt many opponents with designed keepers this season. Running the ball was a point of emphasis for coach Kirby Smart this past offseason, after his Bulldogs ranked next to last in the SEC with 124.4 yards per game, the lowest average in his tenure. Georgia has been better this season; it ranks sixth in the league with 184 yards per game. But Smart wants even more out of his ground game in the final month of the season.
Georgia still has a tough schedule of remaining games, including matchups against Texas and Georgia Tech.
The Bulldogs will be looking to make a statement next week as they travel on the road to take on Mississippi State. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. ET on Nov. 8.
