Tennessee Preview

Well, it's been a long week, with Communication Law dominating me and a History midterm this morning.

All are behind me now, and we will turn our attention to tomorrow's match-up with the Volunteers.

Here's what I think about the game: Just like in 2005, Tennessee is a few plays from being pretty decent. Offensive struggles have been there, but Nick Stephens seemed to play well against UNI, despite the offense putting up shoddy offensive numbers overall. A loss in overtime to UCLA, a game that Tennessee could have easily won, and a fumble at Auburn have hurt this team.

Tennessee's strength is the offensive line, which could give Georgia fits. Tennessee hasn't allowed very many sacks, which doesn't bode well for Georgia's lack of pass rush, especially with Rod Battle being in a limited roll. But, the rush game hasn't gotten going for UT, which I find surprising. With Dannell Ellerbe not playing, hopefully this trend continues. Georgia has shut the run down very well.

Defensively, Stafford needs to continue to protect the ball, like he has all year. Kid has only given up 1 INT all season. Much, much better game management from Staff. He will have to protect the ball this week as super stud Eric Berry will be prowling in the secondary. Berry is only one season and five games into his UT career, and he's already 8th on UT's all time interception yards list. Impressive.

UT has shut the run down pretty well, as they have the 4th best run defense in the SEC, as well as the 4th best pass defense. That makes them the best defense overall. Tennessee's defense has kept it in games.

For Georgia, you just have to hope the offensive line has come along a bit. Make holes for Knowshon and Caleb, give Stafford time to throw, and things should be ok. Stephens making his first road start could be interesting. Last time this situation played out for UGA, Tennessee won in Athens in 1992. Typically, you wouldn't expect a guy making just his second career start and first on the road to play super well. I think Tennessee runs the ball alot. Give Stepens the chance to be successful and not make mistakes to take the Vols out of the game. UT has three very talented backs, so let them do the work. But, Georgia's pass defense has been porous at best, so Stephens could have success if he gets time.


The Vols come in somewhere around a 12.5-13.5 underdog. I think Georgia should win by two touchdowns, but this game could be a little tougher than people are thinking. Some are thinking UGA cakewalks, but I think Tennessee will come to play. They always bring it against UGA. Georgia should be angry and humiliated after the Alabama debacle, so they should be ready to play. The past two seasons should be motivation enough. Plus the off week was huge. Georgia is 10-2 after an off week under Richt. The injuries are a bit concerning, but Georgia should take care of business.

ChiliDawg