Georgia vs. Florida rivalry renewed, plus our Falcons midseason report card
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Carson Beck leads Georgia into another rivalry matchup on Saturday vs. the Gators. Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images
The rivalry between UGA and Florida dates back to 1904, when Georgia won 52-0. On Saturday, they'll try to get a similar result in the two teams' 103rd matchup.
Why it matters: UGA is ranked No. 2 in the country and is beginning a three-game stretch that could determine its playoff positioning.
- The next few weeks will see the Bulldogs play Florida, at No. 19 Ole Miss and at home versus No. 7 Tennessee.
The intrigue: Georgia has won the past three Florida games and six of the last 10.
- Florida is also 4-3 on the year and still needs two more wins to become bowl eligible.
Yes, but: It's a rivalry game played at a neutral site where stats seem to matter less.
Case in point: Georgia entered the 2007 game ranked No. 20 against the defending champion and No. 9 Gators. UGA went on to win 42-30 behind a masterful performance from quarterback Matthew Stafford.
How to watch: If you aren't headed to Jacksonville to be a part of the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" you can tune in to ABC at 3:30pm.
Yes, and: If you use St. Simons Island as a party headquarters this weekend, please clean up after yourselves on Frat Beach.
Falcons midseason report card
The Atlanta Falcons might actually be on to something.
State of play: Head coach Raheem Morris said the team's goal this year was to "outrun the South." But after Week 1, that seemed more like a fever dream than a prophecy.
The latest: After Sunday's win against Tampa Bay pushed the Falcons to 4-0 in the division and 5-3 overall, maybe it's time to start believing.
Offensive grade: B
- Atlanta has shown in spurts what this team can be when the offense is clicking. The Falcons have had the same number of 30-point games this year as the past three seasons combined.
- Yes, but: They need to do it more consistently.
Defensive grade: C
- Stop us if you've heard this before, but Atlanta still can't pressure opposing quarterbacks. Baker Mayfield attempted 50 passes Sunday for the Buccaneers and Atlanta had zero sacks; they have just six on the year.
- You can't win in the playoffs without a pass rush.
Overall: B-
What's next: Atlanta is in the driver's seat of its postseason future. The Athletic gives them an 86% chance to make the playoffs and 82% chance to win the division.
- The Falcons host the struggling Dallas Cowboys Sunday at 1pm on Fox.