Georgia vs Alabama, while not an annual game, has turned into an intense rivalry with critical meaning. The circumstances are unchanged this year, as the two titans are scheduled to face each other yet again for the SEC title. It is evident to all that if either team wants a chance to make the College Football Playoff, winning the SEC Championship is a priority.

In the past, the most recognizable plays from the rivalry have stemmed from unlikely events. To Georgia’s demise, a switch in quarterbacks altered the outcome of both the 2018 CFP National Championship Game and the 2018 SEC Championship Game. However, a blocked field goal in the 2022 CFP National Championship Game led to a Bulldog touchdown, giving Georgia a needed offensive boost leading to the Dawgs’ first national championship in over 40 years.

This year, with everything to play for, we can expect both teams to pull out every last play in the playbook to propel their team to victory. Trick plays, special teams, and turnovers will all be contributing factors to whoever emerges victorious. If the Dawgs expect to win their most important matchup of 2023, here are key factors that the Bulldogs will look to take advantage of in order to leave Atlanta with a win.

Create a special teams play.

In Georgia’s previous two SEC Championship victories under Head Coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs have blocked two field goals, returning one for a touchdown. As mentioned above, in the College Football Playoff National Championship game against Alabama, Georgia blocked a field goal, then drove the length of the field for a touchdown, altering the game by going up a point instead of being down six. In meaningful games, Georgia has found a way to make plays on special teams. Whether it is blocking a kick, punt, kicking a winning field goal, or making a critical return, it is imperative that Georgia finds a way to make an impact in this aspect of the game.

Limit red zone scoring.

Alabama has been exceptional scoring inside of the “red area” this season, ranking 13th nationally in red zone conversion percentage at 92%. More impressively, they rank 19th at touchdown percentage. Georgia’s defense, surprisingly, has struggled defending teams inside of the red zone this season, ranking 67th nationally. Points must be limited in this area for the Bulldogs to win the game.

Continue to win 3rd down.

Georgia is ranked second both offensively and defensively on third down conversion percentage. In close games, extending drives and capitalizing off scoring chances are critical. Taking advantage of those opportunities will fall on Carson Beck’s shoulders. The Bulldogs will need their quarterback to play with the same composure as he has all season while fending off an elite Alabama pass rush. Defensively, Georgia will have to contain Milroe in the pocket and hold up in man coverage. Winning third down on both sides of the ball can win this game.

There are a million factors that will impact this game, and simply put, that’s why the game is played. There are paths to Georgia dominance and Bama dominance in this game, but the reality is these teams are built to beat each other. Both programs are physical, disciplined teams with playmakers all over the field. There’s no doubt this should be a good one, and if the Bulldogs find a way to victory, this certainly will be one of the sweetest wins to date.