For the first time since 2007, the Georgia Bulldogs have conquered Bryant-Denny Stadium. In a heavyweight SEC clash that lived up to every ounce of its immense billing, the No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs (6-0, 4-0 SEC) traded body blows with No. 6 Alabama (5-1, 3-1 SEC) before escaping with a thrilling 20-17 victory. The signature win keeping Kirby Smart’s squad undefeated was a brutal testament to modern SEC football.

   Coach Smart highlighted the physical nature of the contest and praised his quarterback and staff, noting that “humility is a week away”.

   Ground and Pound – Georgia relied on a strong ground game, led by Dwight Phillips Jr. with 120 rushing yards and Bo Walker with 69 yards. The Bulldogs took an early 10-0 lead after Gunner Stockton connected with London Humphreys on a 20-yard touchdown pass. Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer praised Stockton’s clutch and efficient play under center.

   The Tide Swings Back – Alabama responded before halftime with a 14-point rally to take a 14-10 lead. In the second half, Stockton tied the game with a 14-yard touchdown run, and Peyton Woodring secured the go-ahead field goal late in the fourth quarter. Smart also credited offensive coordinator Mike Bobo for the game plan and execution.

   Icing the Victory – The Georgia defense stood strong on Alabama’s final possession, aided by a crucial personal foul penalty on Alabama that allowed UGA to run out the clock.

   “It’s a hard place to play. I don’t judge my happiness or success on how we play Bama. I got a lot of respect for this place,” Smart said. “Nick [Saban] taught me a lot. Watching that show the other night… I have so much respect for him. We run our program a lot like that. The stuff going on in that show is going on in Athens right now… it’s what he taught me and it’s what we’re trying to do.”

   Now 6-0, the likely #1 ranked Bulldogs return home to another sold out Sanford Stadium to host Auburn. Kickoff is 3:30 p.m. on ESPN.