Georgia football: what went right, wrong in the victory over Auburn

Near unstoppable rushing attack

Georgia had 303 rushing yards Saturday. That’s more than the Dawgs had in both games against Auburn last year combined. The Tigers just couldn’t stop Swift or Elijah Holyfield. Swift in particular gave Auburn fits. He rushed for 186 yards and added 43 receiving yards. Good enough for 10.9 yards per touch.

He racked off one highlight after another, finishing with a 77-yard touchdown run swerving through the Tiger defense. He showed off his agility with ankle breaking cuts, and his power with tough runs between the tackles.

Holyfield was no slouch either. He may not have broke off many long runs, nor did he top 100 yards. But he punished the Tiger defense with his familiar power runs. His day ended with 93 yards on 15 carries for an average of 6.2 yards per carry. The Swift/Holyfield is good enough for their own nickname. Any suggestions?

Spreading the wealth

Georgia’s offense was more than just Holyfield and Swift though. 10 different players recorded positive yardage Saturday. Godwin had three catches for 84 yards with one touchdown. Hardman had two grabs for 39 yards, plus a 41-yard kickoff return. Riley Ridley had a 19-yard reception, Simmons had 15 yards on a pair of catches. Back on the ground, Brian Herrien had 37 yards on five carries.

The only glaring omission is Jeremiah Holloman, who’s streak of games with a catch came to an end. But he was targeted twice in the end zone, and both times he was interfered with and Georgia’s offense continued to move forward.

Bending without breaking

Georgia’s run defense has not been pretty lately, and it wasn’t exactly gorgeous against Auburn at times. But the Dawgs only allowed 102 rushing yards. After one long touchdown drive allowed in the first quarter and a field goal on the next, Georgia’s defense was stout. They didn’t allow a point in the final 37 minutes.