One of best guys in the business, Mike Morgan of ESPN and the SEC Network, is an old friend with a deep knowledge of the league. A fellow Seinfeld aficionado, Mike hosts the “JC and Morgan” podcast @MorganOnAir. For a decade, he was the voice of South Carolina athletics, and gives his great insights on this weekend’s showdown.
What is your overall view on the Georgia-South Carolina game?
It remains one of the most underrated games on the SEC schedule. This year, it’s getting the hype it deserves. Love the fact that it’s early. It gives us a chance to see what each side and particular players are made of. The loser can still have a great season, but the winner can have a special season.
What does South Carolina need to do to win?
Keep it low scoring for one. A shootout favors Georgia in my mind. The S.C. defense has to keep the Georgia running game in check. The Gamecocks can’t let D’Andre Swift go off. Offensively, Jake Bentley needs to be precise and take care of the ball.
What do the Bulldogs need to do to win?
Just play Georgia football. Georgia has an edge in overall talent. The new starters on defense will be tested by an offense with talent at the skilled positions. Jake Fromm could be the difference late in a close game.
What is your take on Georgia?
Lots to like, especially on offense, which should be explosive. The losses on defense could be concerning, but if they shore that up, it should be another great season
in Athens.
Are there some changes you would like to see in college football?
One. Expand the Playoff to six or eight. It’s going to happen, but we’ll have to wait until the end of the current contract.
Who are six or seven teams that you would put in the front-runner class for a potential College Football Playoff berth?
Same ole same ole. Get used to it. We are in an era where the same 10-12 teams are in this discussion every year. I’m not sure I see much changing anytime soon. Bama, Clemson, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Washington, Georgia, Auburn, Penn State. Sound familiar? It should. Get used to it.
Who wins, and what’s the score?
Georgia 27-21