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Freddie Gilbert and Sony Michel Will Be Inducted into The Georgia-Florida Hall of Fame

The Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame will celebrate four standout players with their induction into the Hall of Fame on Friday, October 31, 2025. The prestigious Induction Ceremony and Luncheon, presented by Miller Electric Company, will take place at 12:30 pm at Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, a new location for this event, as part of the Georgia-Florida Weekend. 

This year’s inductees include Georgia Bulldog stars Freddie Gilbert and Sony Michel, alongside Florida Gator greats Brandon James and Todd Johnson. These four players will be recognized for their exceptional contributions to the storied rivalry between the two programs. 

University of Georgia 

Freddie Gilbert, Georgia Bulldog 1980-1983 

Freddie Gilbert was a dominant defensive force for Georgia during one of the most successful eras in program history. A native of Griffin, Ga., Gilbert went 4–0 against Florida during his career, anchoring the defense in memorable wins such as the 44–0 shutout in 1982 and the narrow 10–9 victory in 1983. Known for stepping up in big games, he tallied eight tackles with three for loss against Florida in 1981, prompting head coach Vince Dooley to call his performance “outstanding.” Over four seasons, Gilbert recorded 233 tackles, 26 sacks (sixth all-time at Georgia), and set the school’s single-game sack record with five against Temple in 1983. A two-time All-SEC selection and 1983 All-American, Gilbert helped Georgia capture the 1980 national championship and three straight SEC titles. 

Following college, Gilbert went on to play professionally in both the USFL and NFL. He began with the New Jersey Generals, teaming up with fellow Bulldog legend Herschel Walker before joining the Denver Broncos. Gilbert played four NFL seasons, highlighted by appearances in Super Bowl XXI and XXII with the Broncos. His blend of power, consistency, and championship pedigree made him one of Georgia’s most impactful defensive linemen of the early 1980s. 

Sony Michel, Georgia Bulldog 2014-2017 

Sony Michel cemented his legacy in Georgia football history with explosive performances in rivalry games and on the national stage. A South Florida native, Michel closed out his Georgia-Florida series career in style, rushing for 137 yards and two long touchdowns in the Bulldogs’ 42–7 victory in 2017. Over four seasons, he compiled 3,638 rushing yards, 33 touchdowns, and more than 600 receiving yards, becoming one of just a few Bulldogs to record multiple 1,000-yard seasons. Ranked No. 3 on Georgia’s all-time rushing list, he served as a two-time permanent captain and was instrumental in leading the Bulldogs to the 2017 SEC Championship and their first College Football Playoff appearance. 

Michel’s senior season proved historic, highlighted by his 181-yard, three-touchdown performance in the Rose Bowl to send Georgia to the National Championship Game. His college success carried into the NFL, where he was drafted in the first round by the New England Patriots in 2018. Michel won two Super Bowls in five seasons—scoring the only touchdown in the Patriots’ Super Bowl LIII victory and later capturing another title with the Los Angeles Rams in 2022. He retired with 3,243 career rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in the NFL. 

“Jacksonville has served as the stage for the Florida-Georgia rivalry since 1933,” said Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. “As we gear up for this year’s game, we are proud to honor some of the players who have contributed to the legacy of this cherished tradition. Our entire city congratulates the honorees, and we look forward to celebrating them.” 

Tickets for the 2025 Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon presented by Miller Electric Company, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, are on sale now at https://gafljax.com/hall_of_fame. 

About the Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon presented by Miller Electric Company Established in 1995, the Florida-Georgia Hall of Fame celebrates the remarkable players, coaches, and administrators who have shaped one of college football’s most enduring rivalries. Over its 29-year history, the Hall of Fame has honored more than 100 distinguished individuals, including iconic Gators like Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel, Tim Tebow, and Fred Taylor, as well as legendary Bulldogs such as Vince Dooley, Herschel Walker, David Pollack, and Knowshon Moreno. 

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