Florida @ Georgia preview
TIAA Bank Field
Last Meeting ( Oct 31, 2009 ) Georgia 17, Florida 41
In most recent years, the winner of the Florida-Georgia game has won the right to represent the East Division in the Southeastern Conference Championship game. While still possible, becoming bowl eligible is a more pressing concern.
The two teams that have claimed nine of the last 12 division titles have had turbulent seasons, although one is in the midst of turning it around. After losing four consecutive games, the longest streak in 20 years, Georgia has won three straight in blowout victories.
Florida is streaking in the other direction. The Gators, who won four in a row earlier in the season, have dropped three straight games for the first time since 1988. Urban Meyer hadn’t lost three consecutive games in his entire coaching career.
Eight weeks into the season, Florida (4-3, 2-3 SEC) still hasn’t found its offensive rhythm. The Gators have scored seven or fewer points in two of the last three weeks. Meanwhile, Georgia (4-4, 3-3) has scored at least 41 points in its last three games, quieting the calls to replace coach Mark Richt.
But Florida always presents a challenge for the Bulldogs, who have beaten the Gators only three times since 1990. And with Florida coming off of a bye, Meyer has had an extra week to prepare. The Gators also will get receiver Chris Rainey back from suspension, which is a big lift because key playmaker Jeff Demps is still nicked up with an ankle injury, although he will play.
While Georgia has saved its season, the three wins have come against Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky, which are a combined 2-11 in the SEC. Still, the Bulldogs won the games by an average of 27 points.
Freshman quarterback Aaron Murray continues to show maturity, throwing for 12 touchdowns and only three interceptions. Running back Washaun Ealey set a school record last week with five rushing touchdowns. He suffered a sprained MCL but will play Saturday and get relief from Caleb King, who returns after a two-game suspension.
Meyer might look to attack Georgia in the air. Kentucky threw for 353 yards last week against the Bulldogs. Florida, though, ranks 82nd in passing offense with 186.9 yards per game.
John Brantley hasn’t set the world on fire, throwing for just two touchdowns in the last five games. On the season, the junior has thrown for six touchdowns and five interceptions. Florida kicker Caleb Sturgis is questionable (back).
Despite the troubles that have plagued the teams at times, both still have a shot at the SEC East title. If Florida wins its last three conference games, including a game against South Carolina on Nov. 13, it would win the East.
Georgia could win the East if it beats Florida, and South Carolina loses two of three remaining conference games. If South Carolina holds on and wins the division, the winner of Saturday’s game could be looking at a Gator Bowl appearance.