If the ears of Georgia fans were burning Saturday night, it was likely because so many UGA fans were cursing at the horrible play of the Bulldogs against the Auburn Tigers. Rather than use statistics, which will depress any Georgia fan, these three statements do a better job of describing just how terrible Georgia has looked so far against the Tigers.
1. The offensive line welcomed more people through than Walmart on Black Friday
Georgia gave up multiple sacks, tackles for loss, quarterback pressures and unblocked pass rushers that made the UGA line look like they were standing still. They even missed a few key blocks on Georgia's final drive of the first half that resulted in a field goal.
Games are won and lost in the trenches, and so far Auburn is dominating Georgia's offensive line.
2. Defensive backs were more grabby than ever before
How may pass interference calls could get called on a defense? Not sure, but the Bulldog secondary seemed intent on finding out. Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold just added to his multiple passes without interceptions repeatedly, thanks in large part to the poor play from Georgia's secondary
3. Auburn marched down the field like Sherman through Atlanta
Whether it was screen passes, slants, called quarterback runs, or just plain smash-mouth football up the gut of the defensive line, Auburn pushed the Georgia defense back on its heels time after time. It was embarrassing for the usually vaunted Bulldog defense.
The poor showing against Auburn was not an aberration. It was even predicted by UGAwire earlier this week, citing Arnold's play. The Tigers exposed the weaknesses in all phases of Georgia's team that have been covered up by wins against lesser opponents. It's time for Georgia fans to accept that there could be multiple losses this season.
Florida is ascending with better play. Ole Miss is rolling and gaining strength. Georgia Tech is a legit top-tier team this season. Texas and the Arch Manning Road Show has finally got their legs underneath them. Even though these are all home games (yes, the Benz in Atlanta counts as an extended home for Kirby Smart's team), each can easily be a loss.
Fans can place blame on the offensive and defensive coordinator or whoever they want, but the fact is that Georgia has a young, inexperienced team and it is showing.