Will Tennessee Football Snap Eight-Game Losing Streak vs. Georgia? Our Prediction
The Tennessee Volunteers (2-0) are set to face off against the formidable Georgia Bulldogs (2-0) in a highly anticipated SEC showdown at Neyland Stadium. This game marks Tennessee's SEC opener and presents an opportunity to break an eight-game losing streak against their rivals.
The Matchup
No. 15 Tennessee will host No. 3 Georgia on Saturday, Sept. 13 at 3:30 p.m. ET. ABC will provide live coverage of the game, which will be played at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville.
Joey Aguilar's Performance Against Power-Conference Teams
Joey Aguilar, the Tennessee quarterback, has a history of facing tough competition. In three games against power-conference opponents, Aguilar has completed 50% of his passes for 736 yards, throwing for six touchdowns and one interception. His past performances include a close double-overtime loss at UNC in 2023 and a loss at Clemson in 2024 while playing for App State.
Against Syracuse, Aguilar completed 16 of 28 passes for 247 yards and three touchdowns in his Tennessee debut.
Georgia's Dominant Defense
The Georgia Bulldogs' defense is known for its strength, having produced three first-round NFL Draft picks last year. This season, despite roster turnover, the early returns are positive. Georgia's defense currently ranks among the nation's best, allowing an average of 201.5 yards per game (No. 8 nationally) and 6.5 points per game (No. 9 nationally). They also excel at preventing third-down conversions (21.4%, No. 14 nationally).
Last Time Tennessee Beat Georgia
The last time the Tennessee Volunteers defeated the Georgia Bulldogs was on October 1, 2016. In a dramatic finish, Josh Dobbs connected with Jauan Jennings for a 43-yard Hail Mary pass, securing a 34-31 victory for Tennessee in Athens. UT also won the prior matchup in 2015, 38-31 at Neyland Stadium.
These back-to-back wins are Tennessee's only victories against Georgia in the last 15 games.
Tennessee vs Georgia Prediction
Our prediction: Tennessee 30, Georgia 24. The Volunteers are poised to break their losing streak against Georgia, fueled by Joey Aguilar's emergence as a key player in the SEC. After conquering Alabama in 2022, it's time to conquer the Georgia elephant.
Expert Analysis
According to former Georgia QB Aaron Murray, Tennessee football has the capability to beat Georgia this time around.
Game Details: Georgia vs. Tennessee
No. 6 Georgia will look to extend its winning streak over No. 15 Tennessee in a marquee SEC showdown Saturday in Knoxville. The Bulldogs, reigning SEC champions, have cruised through wins over Marshall and Austin Peay, allowing just 13 total points behind a dominant defense.
- Date: Saturday, Sept. 13
- Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Neyland Stadium -- Knoxville, Tennessee
- TV: ABC
- Live stream: Fubo (Try for free)
Key Storylines
- Growing pains: Georgia's offense is showing some inconsistencies.
- Winning the trade: Joey Aguilar looks like a great addition for Tennessee.
- Historic woes: Tennessee has struggled against Kirby Smart's Georgia teams.
Georgia vs. Tennessee Prediction, Picks
The prediction is for Georgia -3.5. Despite inconsistencies on offense, Georgia's defense is expected to perform well, potentially leading to a Georgia victory, although the "under" on the point total could also be a smart play.
| Expert | Pick |
|---|---|
| Tom Fornelli | Georgia |
| Chip Patterson | Georgia |
| Brandon Marcello | Georgia |
| John Talty | Georgia |
| Richard Johnson | Tennessee |
| Shehan Jeyarajah | Georgia |
| David Cobb | Georgia |
| Brad Crawford | Tennessee |
| Chris Hummer | Georgia |