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Rapid Reaction: Gurley, Chubb carry Georgia in blowout rivalry win
By Drew Laing
Published:
Here are some quick thoughts on UGA’s 34-7 win over Auburn in the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry.
What it means: Georgia’s done its part in regard to the SEC Championship. The ‘Dawgs finish out the conference season with a 6-2 record and now they must wait on Missouri’s game to see if they’ve earned a trip to Atlanta following a great performance against Auburn. UGA is playing its best football of the season right now and the return of Todd Gurley gave a huge shot in the arm to the entire team as evidenced by the energy the players displayed tonight.
What I liked: UGA’s running back duo — Todd Gurley and Nick Chubb. The two were reunited after more than a month due to Gurley’s suspension and it appeared they hadn’t missed a beat. Both reeled off highlight-reel runs over the course of the game and eventually wore down Auburn’s defense as evidenced by the missed tackles in the fourth quarter. They combined for 282 rushing yards on 48 carries. It’s hard to imagine any team left on Georgia’s schedule or perhaps later on in the SEC Championship game stopping the punishing running attack of these two great running backs.
What I didn’t like: Early miscues costing Georgia big plays. The ‘Dawgs played a great game, but early penalties negated two huge plays for UGA. Todd Gurley would have had the most epic return of any player in college football history with a 103-yard kickoff return for a touchdown on his first touch, but a holding penalty brought it back. Later on, UGA executed a fake punt pass which would have given the ‘Dawgs a first down at Auburn’s two-yard line, but an ineligible receiver downfield nullified the trick play. Ultimately, it didn’t matter but it certainly cost UGA some explosive plays early.
Who’s the man: Todd Gurley and Nick Chubb. This wasn’t too hard of a choice and the two both deserve this distinction. As mentioned earlier, these two tailbacks ran over Auburn for 282 yards. Chubb added another 48 yards receiving as well. UGA’s offense leaned heavily on them all night and they didn’t disappoint. They are easily college football’s best running back duo and it’s not even close.
Key play: Amarlo Herrera’s INT early in the fourth quarter. Although Georgia was up 20 points at this point, Auburn was driving and threatening to score, but Herrera’s interception near the goal line officially sealed the win for the Bulldogs.
What’s next: The Bulldogs face Charleston Southern in a tune-up game for in-state rival and ACC foe Georgia Tech in two weeks.
Drew Laing will be providing analysis and insight on Florida, Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina.
