Turnovers. Georgia is plus nine in turnover margin since 2021 under Kirby Smart. Ball security is one of the most important and necessary things for a team to win in any sport, but also being on attack defensively and forcing turnovers greatly helps jumpstart an offense that still may be working some kinks out. After losing the top two receivers to the NFL, Mike Bobo’s offense may need a few drives to gain their footing.

‌Start out fast. Every single football season is filled with upsets even in these FBS versus FCS matchups, so it is extremely vital for teams like Georgia to jump ahead early and not concede any momentum to their opponent. Take Notre Dame versus NIU in the 2024 season as an example. Notre Dame, the national champion runner up, lost to NIU strictly because they sputtered offensively and could not hold off the NIU offense. The key this Saturday is for Gunner Stockton to command drives early and to establish a consistent pace and flow.

‌Third Down Defense. Like all Georgia defensive units under Glenn Schumann, the 2026 Junkyard Dawgs should be extremely solid from up front all the way to the secondary. The experience is unmatched along with the snaps played together. However, a lack of discipline mixed with broken plays can ruin all of the phenomenal cohesion seen on first and second down. Nothing takes the air out of Sanford Stadium more than a huge play given up on third down. This, mixed with hurry up offense and zero substitutions, can completely wreck a defensive game plan. The Dawgs D third down pass rush has to avoid being on their heels defending the run on first and second down.

‌Get the ball out fast. The screen game, especially in these early games, can be this offense’s best friend as many of these new faces look to make an impact on the field. Sacovie White-Helton and Isaiah Canion have been in big moments before, but there is something special about the first game and the jitters. Screens, jet touch passes, and jet sweeps can all help Georgia’s top weapons gain traction and familiarity with one another and the speed of the game. Long developing shot plays make all fans stand and hold their breath, but they should be saved for later. Starting your first drive and being in second/third and long will deflate any offensive energy or momentum.

‌Perfection on Special Teams. Football is a game of momentum and energy. Everyone remembers the famed onside kick against Texas last season that put the nail in the coffin, but these type plays can absolutely flip the tone of the game. A muffed punt, blocked field goal, or even just a miss on a usual chip shot can spark the energy for any opponent and give them life. Additionally, it gives fantastic field position and puts a defense right back on the field instead of resting on the sidelines. Momentum shifting plays are typically followed by a quick attempt (and often successful) to steal points.