The stakes for Georgia's matchup against Florida haven't been this high for both teams in quite some time. This game has always mattered to Georgia on a larger scale, but for Florida their season is typically over when this game rolls around so they've only been able to play for rivalry bragging rights.
This year however couldn't be any different.
Georgia being in complete control of their destiny
As of now Georgia is in complete control when it comes to accomplishing all of their goals, even after losing to Auburn. They are one of just two teams with one loss in the SEC, so if they win out they are guaranteed to make the SEC Championship game. If they lose though they would need a little outside help to get to the title game.
Georgia also has some breathing room when it comes to making the College Football Playoff. A 10-2 record this season should be good enough for any SEC team to make it in, so UGA can still afford a loss. They however don't want to lose any game, but if they were going to a drop a game the later in the season it happens the better so they don't have as much pressure to go undefeated the rest of the season for as long.
Rivalry bragging rights
Georgia has dominated Florida ever since Kirby Smart became head coach 11 years ago. So far during his tenure he is 8-2 against the Gators which includes winning the previous five meetings in a row.
Florida however has a new head coach in Jon Sumrall, and whenever a team gets a new coach there is a bit of a reset that happens in every rivalry. They have a chance to go 1-0 under their new head coach, and for them that would be a big deal.
Georgia however just lost their long winning streak against Auburn two weeks ago, so losing their win streak to Florida in their very next game would be a tough pill to swallow.
Florida's SEC Championship and CFP hopes
Florida still has an outside shot at making the SEC Championship game. Since they already have two losses they can't afford another conference loss if they're going to make it, but if they win out there's a decent chance they'll get to play for an SEC title.
Florida also controls their own destiny when it comes to making the College Football Playoff as well. They however don't have any breathing room since they have two losses, but if they win out and finish the season 10-2 they would be a lock to make the playoff. Even a 9-3 record with a win against Georgia would give them a chance to make it into the playoff as well.
Florida hasn't won the SEC since 2008 and any Gators fan would tell you that is too long. They also have never made it to the playoff either which for their standards is unacceptable. If they can beat Georgia though then both of those goals would still be possible this year.
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