1997 Georgia beats Florida
This was the one. I’m sure you all have one; a victory that comes to mind when someone asks you, “what game got you into Georgia football?” This one was it for me.
I liked the Dawgs before this. But this game is what made me a fanatic. Since watching it, I haven’t missed many Dawg games, whether I was watching them on TV or in person.
The dominance of those Steve Spurrier coached Gator teams of the 1990’s was spooky. Their football program was miles ahead of UGA’s at the time. They had 4 SEC championships in the 90’s and were the defending national champions. And they had owned the Georgia/Florida series, winning 7 straight prior to this one. Spurrier seemed to get a special joy out of beating the Dawgs, which made the win that much sweeter.
Big days from quarterback Mike Bobo and WR Hines Ward helped the Dawgs offense have a great day. But running back Robert Edwards was the true Gator killer on this particular Saturday. He had a career day, rushing for 124 yards and a record 4 touchdowns.
Florida had no answer for him, and he was the main reason their winning streak ended on that Saturday. A little defense was played that day by the red and black as well, including an interception by a young Bulldog defensive back by the name of Kirby Smart.
I remember seeing fans coming back from Jacksonville with “37-17” written on their windows, and absolutely loving it. Huge win that I will never forget.