Mark Schlabach is one of the top college football writers in the business. He knows his stuff. Mark is just 51 years old and has already had a Hall of Fame career. Not only is Mark a lights out college football writer, he does a great job covering golf for ESPN and is an accomplished author of over two dozen books. Mark and his wife Heather are the proud parents of three children: Caroline, Jane and Jack. As always, we greatly appreciate his insight.

Exceptional coaching jobs by Kirby Smart and Nick Saban this year, what stands out to you about them and their teams this year?

I think Kirby Smart and his staff continue to do a tremendous job in recruiting and developing players. After losing another boatload of players to the NFL draft, Georgia once again plugged in replacements with younger players and didn’t miss a beat. I think the Bulldogs improved week to week after some so-so performances early in the season, especially on defense. Alabama struggled on offense early, but new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees built his game plan around quarterback Jalen Milroe’s strength, which is running the football. Nick Saban continues to replace key assistant coaches and this season was no different. I don’t think this is Alabama’s most talented team, but Saban and his staff figured out the best way to utilize what they have.

‌Do you think the SEC Championship Game should continue in the 12-team playoff era?

I worry about the college football schedule becoming more like an NFL slate with teams playing 16 or 17 games. I don’t think the SEC is ever going to give up the millions of dollars in revenue it generates from staging a conference championship game. But there’s no question that the two teams that qualify for the championship game might be at a disadvantage by playing an extra game. Hopefully, the honor that comes with winning an SEC title still carries weight in the expanded playoff era. The winner–and perhaps the loser-will at least be in the hunt for a first-round bye in the 12-team playoff.

‌What does Alabama need to do to beat Georgia?

The Crimson Tide need to protect the quarterback, which hasn’t been easy the past couple of seasons with a mediocre offensive line. Running quarterbacks have given Georgia’s defense some problems the past few seasons, and sealing the edge against Milroe is going to be paramount. Going into last week’s Iron Bowl, Alabama had surrendered 38 sacks, which ranked 12th in the SEC and was 28 more than the Bulldogs had allowed. On defense, the Tide need to generate pressure on quarterback Carson Beck and slow down the running game. Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell are as disruptive as any linebackers in the FBS.

How much longer do you think Nick Saban coaches at Alabama?

Saban turned 72 years old on Halloween. Bear Bryant was 69 years old when he finally walked away. Legendary Florida State coach Bobby Bowden was 80 before he was forced out. Saban hasn’t been quiet about his dislike for the recent changes in college football–the transfer portal, Name, Image and Likeness, and conference realignment. I think the 12- and 14-hour days are starting to weigh on him more than they have in the past. If Alabama beats Georgia and goes on to win another national championship, I could see him hanging it up while he was on top. But I also think he likes the talent level at Alabama and still has a couple of years left in him.

‌What does Georgia need to do to beat Alabama?

Georgia needs to slow down Milroe in the running game and force him to make some difficult throws. I think when you look at the teams’ rosters, Georgia has an advantage on the offensive line, running back, receiver, tight end and possibly quarterback. Alabama’s probably better at linebacker and on the defensive line. The secondary might be a toss-up, although Alabama cornerbacks Kool-Aid McKinstry and Malachi Moore are considered potential NFL first-round picks. Georgia can’t turn the ball over and can’t make dumb penalties, which it has largely avoided this season. The Bulldogs can’t fall behind again; it’s going to be more difficult to come back against the Crimson Tide.

‌How would you like to see the SEC schedule set up when the new contract and slate comes into play in 2025?

I want to see more variety in teams’ schedules to where fans aren’t waiting eight or nine years to make a trip to Austin, Texas, or Oxford, Mississippi. I’m all for keeping the longtime rivals like Georgia-Auburn, Tennessee-Alabama and Texas-Oklahoma. But I’d like to see some variety year to year. It’s definitely going to get more difficult for College Football Playoff contenders. Georgia’s 2024 schedule, which includes road trips to Alabama, Ole Miss and Texas, is clear evidence.

‌What is your score prediction?

Georgia 27, Alabama 20