Saturday Spotlight
(3) Georgia Bulldogs at (2) Alabama Crimson Tide
Georgia: I can sit here and say they’re one of the best teams I’ve seen early on in the country. When all is clicking, they’re a tough group to beat. Stetson Bennett looked a bit shaky in the win against the Tennessee Volunteers in week six but I took it as miscues in communication once again. Outside of that, he’s shined and had success since Kirby Smart named him the starter. I’ve seen a balanced offensive attack, a physical offensive line that bullies any defensive front in front of them and the defense is still the best in the conference and amongst one of the elites in the country. Some things don’t change. They may have different names on the defense, but the production is still the same which won’t change. They’re in first place alone in the SEC East. Tonight will be a test though.
Alabama: When you think of Alabama football, what comes to your mind first? Defense because it’s been the backbone of this team. They’ve always had amongst the best units in the country and have shut teams down which has led to success for years. But in 2020, you must expect the unexpected and now, they have a new brand of football. A lot of offense. It’s potent and they find several ways to get the ball down the field. With Mac Jones as your quarterback, you get more of a traditional guy who throws the ball from the pocket. Although they are 3-0, I was concerned watching their last game against Ole Miss because the defense looked far too sloppy for my liking. They played a Big-12 style of football last week scoring 63 points in the win. Now, they return home tonight for a big showdown.
Georgia X-Factor: Kearis Jackson– Coming into the year, George Pickens was supposed to be the number one receiver for the Bulldogs offense. That hasn’t been the case. So far, Kearis has been the teams’ leading receiver in their first three games. Bennett has developed a nice chemistry with Jackson. I look for them to connect early.
Alabama X-Factor: Jaylen Waddle– He’s the most dynamic and electric player in the country. When the ball is in his hands, magic happens. They dial up different play calls to get him the ball. They’ll motion him to get him open. He’s also more physical than he’s given credit for when running.
Final Thoughts: It’s Nick Saban facing another assistant once again. Kirby Smart was Nick’s defensive coordinator for years at Alabama. This will be the best offense the Georgia defense will have seen on the year. Stetson Bennett must play close to perfect football for the Bulldogs to have a chance. I’m also watching the Alabama defensive front against this Georgia offensive line. This could determine the outcome of the game.
Prediction: Alabama 31 Georgia 27
