1 – Score:

Georgia’s defense has gotten a great deal of attention this season. The Bulldogs stop unit will face its toughest challenge of the season thus far Saturday afternoon against the high octane Aggies. More on that just down the page. No matter how good a defense plays, at some point, in any sport, if scoring is a problem, that defense will wear down. That puts a lot of pressure on Georgia to put up points. Hot take No. 1. A shootout with the Aggies doesn’t fit for Georgia, but the Bulldogs offense must hold its own.

2 – Red Zone:

An enormous part of holding its own for Georgia’s offense is cashing in, in the red zone. Unlike the Bulldogs last two teams that were delivered a slew of big plays offensively, the 2019 edition of the Silver Britches have, for the most part, scored on long sustained drives. That is A-Ok. But the margin for error isn’t what it was in 2017 and 2018. Again, that’s okay. But with fewer explosive touchdowns, and possessions even more valuable, it’s vital for the Dogs to punch in touchdowns against the Aggies. And if they don’t, of course, make the field goal.

3 – Slow down the Run:

These defensive keys are right from John McKay’s NFL Films magnificence. “Can’t stop a pass, or a run … otherwise, we’re in great shape.” Well it starts with neutralizing the run against the Aggies. If Texas A&M has running success, it’s passing game feasts. Georgia’s big men up front will have to be at their very best against the fast-paced attack from College Station. Isaiah Spiller is a very good back, averaging over 6.0 yards per attempt. 

4 – Pressure Mond:

One of the best signal-callers in the Southeastern Conference, the 6-3, 217 pound junior from San Antonio, Kellen Mond is having an outstanding season. He can move and has all the throws. Making him uncomfortable is a must. Getting back to Key No. 3, when the running game is going, Mond can pick defenses apart, hit the deep ball, and he’s a threat to take off and go. One of his top feats this season is back-to-back games averaging 10.0-plus yards per attempt against Mississippi State and Texas-San Antonio.

5 – Contain the Catchers:

While Texas A&M and LSU were going back-and-forth in the epic seven overtime decision won by the Aggies 74-72 in SEVEN, yes seven, overtimes last season, wide receiver Kendrick Rogers was one of the most impressive players on the field. He, Quartney Davis and Jhamon Ausbon headline an outstanding crop of receivers. Georgia’s defensive backs must get physical and stay disciplined, walk that tightrope. When Mond gets moving on broken plays, these receivers can become even more dangerous. They can all run.