6 things Georgia football does to remind the Vols they are little brother

Georgia football has to win first down on defense

Georgia football is aware that Tennessee runs the ball more than the Vols pass it, but at the same time, they like to throw it deep on first down. The Vols usually take a shot downfield on first down to try and get on track. If they succeed, then the tempo will come. Georgia has to win on first down to keep Tennessee off its tempo game.

If the Dawgs can force second and long, it will make Tennessee have to slow down and run their offense. However, third and fourth down will be key, too, because the Vols are notorious for running on third and long to get fourth and short. If they do, they will go for it.

Georgia is an excellent third-down team, but limiting the big plays on first down will be just as important on Saturday. If the Dawgs can contain Tennessee on first down, it will give them a better chance at preventing points. This Vols’ offense will score on the Georgia defense, but once the Dawgs’ coaches see what kinds of things the Vols are looking to do, adjustments can get made. We saw it last year after the first two drives.

However, this Georgia defense isn’t the same as it was in 2021 — it doesn’t need to be. Georgia has speed in many places, which will be a great test for them.