Georgia Faces First Tough Challenge Saturday in Knoxville

By Don Stone, Football Atlanta

   Georgia’s upcoming trip to Knoxville has all the makings of one of the weekend’s spotlight games, as the No. 3-ranked Bulldogs hit the road to face No. 8 Tennessee at Neyland Stadium on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

   Quarterback Gunner Stockton, who started both games this season will make his first career road start for Georgia. In last week’s Austin Peay game in Athens, Stockton was efficient, completing 26 of 34 passes for 227 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions, helping the Bulldogs to a 28-6 win. His poised play will be tested in a loud and competitive environment as Georgia looks to continue its dominance in the series against Tennessee.

   The Bulldogs boast a strong defense, allowing just 6.5 points per game so far this season, and an offense that averages 36.5 points. On the other side, Tennessee enters the showdown with explosive offensive numbers, averaging 58.5 points and over 600 yards of offense per game, led by quarterback Joey Aguilar. Tennessee fired a warning shot in their 72-17 win over an outmatched East Tennessee State last week and is eager to break an eight-year losing streak against Georgia.

   Tennessee coach Josh Heupel sees this as a landmark opportunity to overturn the recent trend and ignite enthusiasm among Volunteers fans.  “Obviously, we know the test that we have in front of us, facing a really good Georgia football team,” he said. “It’s a great weekend and opportunity for (College Gameday) to be here on the biggest stage in college football.

   Head coach Kirby Smart highlighted the challenge of playing at Neyland Stadium, emphasizing the physicality and communication needed to succeed on the road. 

   This classic SEC rivalry will be a critical test for Stockton and a defining moment early in the 2025 college football season. UGA fans are a bit on edge after watching their Dawgs’ sluggish performance last week. They can expect a competitive, hard-fought battle that could set the tone for the SEC East race.

   Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET Saturday at Neyland Stadium, with live coverage on ABC.