Dawg Bones Offense: Even

This is a compelling matchup of potent offenses that operate in numerous different ways. Ohio State relies on their dynamic wide receivers to stretch the field and create explosive plays. Georgia likes to establish the run game in order to open up their passing offense through tight end involvement. In 2022, Georgia is averaging 491 total yards per game compared to Ohio State’s 492 total yards per game. Ohio State averages more yards passing while Georgia averages more yards rushing. Whichever team is able to best execute its offense in the red zone will have the edge.

Dawg Bones Defense: Georgia

The Dawgs’ defense is only allowing an average of 12 points per game compared to Ohio State’s defense which allows an average of 19 points per game. Georgia is extremely physical up front with excellent linebacker and safety play. Ohio State’s defense is vastly improved from last year’s underperforming unit. This is due in large part to the work of highly respected, first-year defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. Ohio State’s defense was exposed against Michigan giving up numerous explosive plays through the air and on the ground.

Dawg Bones Special Teams: Georgia

An underrated piece of college football dominance is special teams play. Jack Podlesny recently was named SEC Special Teams Player of the Year. He has converted 23/26 field goal attempts on the season while making all of his extra points. Brett Thorson (named to SEC Freshman Team) has also proven to be a weapon as a punter averaging 45 yards a punt with a long of 75. Ohio State’s Noah Ruggles is having a great season as well, having converted 15/17 field goal attempts. Jesse Mirco, the Buckeyes’ punter, has almost identical statistics to fellow Aussie Brett Thorson, as he is also averaging 45 yards per punt with a long of 77. Pod’s experience and his impressive prior performances in Mercedes Benz Stadium gives the Dawgs the edge.

Dawg Bones Coaching: Georgia

Coach Smart has put together another outstanding campaign as Georgia’s lead man, which rightfully garnered him SEC Coach of the Year. Despite losing 15 players to the NFL and some to the transfer portal, Coach Smart has relied on a healthy level of experience and plenty of youth to fill the void left by last year’s championship team. Coach Day would probably be the first to tell you that this season did not go as planned for the Buckeyes. Despite starting the season 11-0, the Buckeyes failed its biggest test against Michigan. Day will have his team ready, but the coaching edge belongs to the Dawgs.

Dawg Bones Overall: Georgia

The Dawgs have shown throughout the 2022 season that they are the most complete team in the nation. They have demonstrated their ability to win games through the air and on the ground while also imposing their will on the defensive side of the ball. Ohio State comes into this game looking to prove to college football that, despite not playing in a conference championship game, they are worthy of competing for a national championship. Ohio State certainly has the talent and ability to win this football game, but simply put it’s Georgia’s game to lose.