By : Jackson James
(Photo/Kameron Taylor-Albany Herald)
The No. 4 Georgia Bulldogs (1–0) return to Sanford Stadium this Saturday for a non-conference matchup with the Austin Peay Governors (1–0). Both teams are coming off season-opening wins, but the stakes and expectations couldn’t be more different.
Georgia’s Week 1 performance was a masterclass in dominance. Gunner Stockton asserted himself as a true dual-threat, passing for 190 yards with 2 TDs and rushing for another 73 yards along with 2 touchdowns. Transfer standout Zachariah Branch posted 95 yards receiving and a touchdown. Offensively, Georgia piled up 488 total yards, controlling the line of scrimmage and pace of play. Defensively, the Bulldogs suffocated Marshall, limiting them to 7 first downs and forcing six tackles for loss. Georgia looked every bit the College Football Playoff contender, controlling both lines of scrimmage and spreading reps across its deep roster.
On the other side, Austin Peay enters with momentum after a 34–14 upset win over Middle Tennessee. Chris Parsons threw for 142 yards and 2 TDs, supported by Shemar Kirk’s 69 receiving yards, while the Governors posted 344 total yards. Defensively, the Governors were outstanding, holding MTSU to just 153 total yards and a staggering 0-for-12 on third downs. It was a statement performance for a program trying to climb the FCS ranks.
Georgia’s balance on offense — with Stockton’s dual-threat ability and multiple playmakers — should stress the Governors both vertically and on the ground. Austin Peay’s discipline will be key; they forced MTSU into mistakes last week, but Georgia’s size and depth along the offensive line present a completely different challenge. Georgia will likely rotate heavily, which means Austin Peay will face fresh legs from start to finish.