Georgia and Florida shift rivalry to Atlanta for stadium renovations

The traditional neutral site setting for this rivalry is currently unavailable due to renovations at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville. Consequently, the matchup between No. 3 Georgia and No. 17 Florida will take place on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

This is the first time the teams have met in the Georgia capital. The venue change alters the historical 50-50 ticket split, creating an atmosphere that Florida coach Jon Sumrall compares to an SEC championship game. Sumrall noted that while Atlanta is not the Gators' traditional backyard, the unique environment provides an exciting challenge for his players.

Georgia enters the contest with an 8-2 record in this rivalry under coach Kirby Smart. The Bulldogs have won the last five meetings. Smart stated that the venue change does not significantly impact the teams playing on the field, though it offers a unique experience for the fan base.

The game carries weight for both programs' SEC championship aspirations. Georgia, currently 6-1 overall and 4-1 in the conference, aims to rebound from a last-second 27-24 loss to Auburn that dropped them from the top spot in the AP Top 25. Florida, with a 5-2 overall record and 3-2 in the conference, seeks its second consecutive victory against a top 10 team after upsetting No. 7 Texas 27-24.

Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton faces a bounce-back test after throwing two interceptions and losing a late fumble in the Auburn loss. Tailback Nate Frazier returned from a rib injury but managed only 19 yards on nine carries, as Georgia was outrushed 192-113. Center Drew Bobo said Stockton has responded by maintaining his consistent preparation and effort on the field.

Florida's rushing attack will be a focal point, led by Jadan Baugh. Baugh has rushed for 763 yards and leads the SEC with 13 rushing touchdowns. As an Atlanta native and former Falcons fan, Baugh described the game as deeply meaningful. He noted he is trying to control his emotions, following his father's advice not to get overly excited before the moment.

Baugh revealed that Georgia recruited him heavily during his 10th grade year but later wanted him on the defensive side of the ball, a position he did not desire. Smart praised Florida's run scheme and Baugh's talent, stating that his coaching staff has shown clips of Baugh to players to emphasize the need for daily preparation against a high-level threat.

Florida ranks fourth in the SEC with 194.3 rushing yards per game. Georgia sits second in the league in run defense, allowing 91.4 yards per game, despite its performance against Auburn. If Florida wins, Sumrall would become the first coach in program history to lead the team to three wins over top 10 opponents in a debut season.

Georgia is preparing for uncertainty at the Florida quarterback position. Aaron Philo has returned to practice after missing the Texas game with a right shoulder injury. Sumrall has given reps to both Philo and Tramell Jones Jr. with the first-team offense. Smart described both quarterbacks as talented and capable players whom he has known for a long time.

The 2027 edition of the game is scheduled to be played in Tampa Bay.