As Georgia football prepares for another monumental showdown, this time against No. 7 Tennessee in Athens, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Fresh off a disheartening loss to Ole Miss, the Bulldogs are eager to reclaim their winning form and prove that they remain one of the elite programs in college football. This game represents not only a chance to bounce back but also to extend a remarkable winning streak over their SEC East rival.
The history between Georgia and Tennessee is deep, with the two teams having met every season as division foes in the SEC. However, with the conference’s realignment and the elimination of divisions, it’s no longer a guarantee that these two teams will meet annually. Nevertheless, this season, fans are in for another classic contest between two of the SEC’s powerhouses. But before we look ahead to Saturday’s game, it’s worth taking a step back and reflecting on the long-standing rivalry and how the Bulldogs have come to dominate the Vols in recent years.
Georgia holds a narrow edge in the all-time series, leading Tennessee 28-23-2. However, it’s the Bulldogs’ recent run of dominance that has truly captured the attention of college football fans. Georgia has won seven straight games against Tennessee, a streak that dates back to 2017. The most recent win in the series came in 2023, when the Bulldogs crushed the Vols 38-10 in Neyland Stadium. That victory wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. It was the culmination of Georgia’s dominance over Tennessee in the Kirby Smart era.
What’s particularly striking about this streak is the margin of victory. Georgia has won these seven games by an average of 26.4 points per contest. That’s a staggering statistic when you consider the strength of Tennessee’s teams during that period. The Vols have fielded competitive squads, including high-powered offenses, yet Georgia has continued to impose its will. This speaks to the program’s consistency, depth, and coaching under Smart, who has built a juggernaut in Athens.
Speaking of Kirby Smart, his tenure against Tennessee has been nothing short of impressive. Though he lost his first meeting as Georgia’s head coach in 2016, a heartbreaking 34-31 defeat, he has since reeled off seven straight victories over the Vols. That loss is now a distant memory, as Georgia’s dominance in the series has only grown stronger with each passing season. In fact, Smart’s 7-1 record against Tennessee is a testament to his ability to adjust, learn, and ultimately out-coach his counterparts in Knoxville.
Looking ahead, the big question is whether Georgia can extend its win streak to eight games. Despite the challenges presented by Tennessee’s potent offense and talented roster, the Bulldogs have shown time and again that they can handle whatever comes their way. With a solid defense, a powerful rushing attack, and a quarterback who continues to improve, Georgia appears well-equipped to continue their run of dominance. Additionally, the home-field advantage in Athens should only add to the Bulldogs’ confidence, as they’ve consistently played well in front of their home crowd.
For Georgia fans, a win against Tennessee would not only keep the streak alive but also further cement the Bulldogs’ position as one of the premier programs in college football. And for Tennessee, it represents an opportunity to finally break the cycle of frustration and prove they can compete with the SEC’s best. Regardless of the outcome, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter in one of the most exciting rivalries in college football.
