Can the Bulldogs pull off the upset in Jacksonville?

There’s no question that Georgia Bulldogs biggest rival are the Florida Gators. For as long as I can remember the two teams have played their monumental game in neutral territory in Jacksonville, Fla. in what has been coined ‘The Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.’ Well, cocktail or not, the game is huge with the winner usually ending up winning the SEC East.

With the exception of Georgia’s victory last year the Bulldogs have only won three other games against the Gators in more than 20 years. But the good news is that overall, Georgia leads 48-40-2 over Florida in a series that dates back to 1913.

With both teams being ranked in the top ten, today’s game definitely has BCS championship game implications.

I think Georgia coach Mark Richt will be under the microscope. Against Florida, Richt has a 3-8 record and simply cannot afford another loss. If by chance he does lose today, this could be the beginning of the end of the Mark Richt era at Georgia. And I know many of you agree with me on that. But, the good news is, if Richt defeats Florida and wins the rest of his conference games, he’ll take the Bulldogs to their second straight SEC championship game, and possibly a BCS game. But I don’t want to get too far in the future.

So, who will win?

While this game is an opportunity for both teams to make a statement, one could argue that Georgia needs the win much more. I will have to say however that
on paper Florida’s ability to run the football may just prove to be too much for the Georgia defense, sorry Georgia fans. But predictions are just predictions and mean nothing until the game is actually played.

In order Georgia to win they must keep Florida’s running game in check. Early on Georgia has to contain Florida running back Mike Gillislee and put a lot of pressure on quarterback Jeff Driskel. If the Bulldogs can accomplish this and jump out to an early lead they can pull off the upset. Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray must remain poise for all four quarters and utilize his running back Todd Gurley.  

Regardless the outcome of the game, I think it will be close and not a lopsided victory. It should be a good one to watch.