Georgia fans can still cheer for their Bulldogs in the NFL. With three of the four teams left having Georgia connections, a Bulldog winning a Super Bowl ring is highly likely.
The New England Patriots, LA Rams and Seattle Seahawks all have a UGA player or coach. Only the Broncos are absent Bulldog representation. Let's look at who has the best chance for NFL glory this year.
Coach Mike Macdonald - Seattle Seahawks
In his third year, head coach Mike Macdonald is the odds-on favorite as the Seahawks (14-3) have powered through the playoffs. Macdonald was a grad assistant at Georgia from 2010-2013 under Mark Richt. Kenny McIntosh is also with the Seahawks, but he is on injured reserve.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford - LA Rams
With whispers of MVP following him, Matthew Stafford leads the Rams (12-3) into the conference championship with a league-leading 46 touchdowns. Also with the Rams is fan favorite Stetson Bennett, and cornerback Derion Kendrick, both on inactive status. Rounding out the Bulldog connection is offensive tackle Warren McClendon.
OL Jared Wilson - New England Patriots
Jared Wilson has started 13 games in a row for the Patriots (14-3), protecting quarterback Drake Maye. As the Patriots face the Broncos this weekend, he is the only Georgia representation in the AFC Championship game as the Broncos have no Georgia players or coaches.
Bulldog fans may still hurt from the grievous loss to Ole Miss, but the Red and Black faithful can still cheer on former Georgia players in both championships this weekend. Perhaps Georgia connections getting to the Super Bowl can soothe those tender feelings.
This many Bulldogs having a shot at the glory of a Super Bowl goes to show how elite the Georgia football program is, especially under Kirby Smart. While a national title didn’t happen for Georgia this season, fans can start preparing for the next season push and enjoy some possible Super Bowl magic as well.