By Don Stone, Football Atlanta

The Georgia Bulldogs will play their second game of the 2025 season at home on September 7 against the Austin Peay Governors. Georgia comes into the contest ranked No. 4 nationally after a commanding 45-7 win over Marshall in their opener, extending their active home winning streak to 32 games. The Bulldogs, led by head coach Kirby Smart, will use this game as a tune-up before entering SEC play next week at Tennessee.
Georgia showcased a balanced offensive attack and a dominant defense in their opener, with quarterback Gunner Stockton throwing for 190 yards and two touchdowns while adding 73 yards and two scores on the ground. Coach Smart highlighted the need for continued progress in Stockton’s confidence and trust in the offensive line as they prepare for the Austin Peay defense, which is known for its quickness and disruptiveness.
I have to believe that someone in the Austin Peay sports communication office is having a big laugh with the name of their website, www.letsgopeay.com.
Anyway, the Governors are an FCS team in the United Athletic Conference (UAC) that comes in hot off a surprising statement 34-14 road win against the FBS Conference USA Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders. The Governors’ defense got after quarterbacks effectively, earning five sacks and eight tackles for loss in that victory. Their offense displayed balance with multiple players rushing effectively and their quarterback, Chris Parson, throwing for 193 yards and two touchdowns. Despite being heavy underdogs, Austin Peay is motivated and confident after their upset win and will bring energy and toughness to Sanford Stadium.
UGA Head Coach Kirby Smart cautioned that the Bulldogs cannot take this game lightly despite the talent gap, emphasizing the Governors’ tight, hard-playing unit and their disruptive style. Georgia hopes to continue rolling while gaining more depth experience and progressing as a team before the grind of SEC play begins.
Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m. ET at Sanford Stadium, with Georgia aiming to showcase its depth and dominance in this home game against the confident and physically aggressive Governors of Austin Peay. The game is available on ESPN+.