As the Georgia Bulldogs gear up for another season, the spotlight is shifting from their offensive prowess to the defensive side of the ball. With key departures like cornerback Daylen Everette and linebacker CJ Allen, Georgia's defense is undergoing a transformation. The Bulldogs have brought in four defensive backs through the transfer portal to bolster their secondary, but the real challenge lies up front.
Last season, Georgia struggled to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks, a concern highlighted by ESPN’s Greg McElroy on The Always College Football Podcast. Despite improvements in their havoc numbers during the latter part of the season, the Bulldogs recorded only 20 sacks-the lowest in the Kirby Smart era.
The silver lining? Many of last season’s contributors are returning.
While replacing Allen’s production is crucial, players like Chris Cole, Zayden Walker, Gabe Harris, and Quintavius Johnson are poised to step up. Defensive tackle Elijah Griffin is also expected to make a significant impact in his second year.
In an effort to enhance their pass rush, Georgia added Auburn transfer Amaris Williams. He’s seen as a potential breakout player, and with the Bulldogs’ need for a stronger pass rush, his performance could be pivotal.
Brandon Marcello of CBS Sports urges fans to shift their focus from Georgia’s offensive stars to the defensive line, noting the drop in tackles for loss per game last season. The Bulldogs managed just 4.2 tackles for loss per game, the lowest under Smart, and two fewer than the previous season. This decline contributed to their early exit from the College Football Playoff, especially evident in their matchups against Ole Miss and quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, where they failed to record a sack.
Georgia will have another shot at Chambliss on November 7, 2026, when they face Ole Miss again. Historically, the Bulldogs have excelled more in run defense, ranking fourth nationally in 2025. However, to ascend to the elite ranks and achieve a deeper playoff run, Georgia must enhance its ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
As the 2026 season approaches, the Bulldogs are focused on making strategic improvements. While their defense has rarely been sack-dominant, a leap in this area could be key to reclaiming their spot among college football’s best.