What Georgia Fans Should Watch For in This Weekend’s College Football Playoff Action
The College Football Playoff kicks off Friday night, and while Georgia doesn’t take the field until New Year’s Day in the Sugar Bowl, there’s plenty on the line this weekend that could shape the Bulldogs’ path to another national title. With four games on tap before Kirby Smart’s squad gets its shot, Georgia fans have every reason to tune in - not just for the entertainment, but to get a clearer picture of who might be waiting for them down the line.
Here’s what Georgia fans should keep an eye on in each of this weekend’s CFP matchups:
Can Alabama Bounce Back - and What Does That Say About Georgia?
Let’s start with a familiar face.
Georgia’s most emphatic statement this season came in the SEC Championship Game, where the Bulldogs dominated Alabama 28-7. That wasn’t just a win - it was a dismantling. But as the Crimson Tide prepare to face Oklahoma on Friday night, the question becomes: was that Georgia at its peak, or Alabama falling flat?
Alabama actually outgained Oklahoma when they met in November but still came up short. Now, they’ll need a much sharper effort - especially on the ground.
Against Georgia, Alabama managed negative three rushing yards. That’s not a typo.
That’s a front-seven clinic by the Dawgs.
If Alabama can regroup and make a deep run, it only reinforces how strong Georgia looked in Atlanta. But if the Tide bow out early, it might raise some questions about how much weight that SEC title win really carries. Either way, Georgia fans will want to see how Alabama responds - because it could reshape the narrative around that December showdown.
Which Version of Carson Beck Will We See?
After missing the Playoff in 2023 and battling injuries in 2024, Carson Beck is finally getting his shot on the big stage. He’ll lead Miami into a hostile environment at Texas A&M on Saturday, and all eyes will be on which version of Beck shows up.
This season has been a mixed bag for the former Georgia quarterback. October was rocky, but he found his rhythm in November - much like his final year in Athens. The setting shouldn’t rattle him, but it’s worth noting: he didn’t exactly shine on the road against Alabama and Ole Miss earlier this year.
If Beck brings the November version of himself, Miami could be dangerous. But if the inconsistencies creep back in, it could be a long day for the Hurricanes.
Why should Georgia fans care? Because the winner of this game lands on Georgia’s side of the bracket. There’s a real chance Beck and Miami could be standing between the Bulldogs and a spot in the national title game.
Who Will Georgia Face in the Sugar Bowl?
This one’s simple - and significant.
Ole Miss takes on Tulane, and the winner gets Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on January 1. The Rebels are heavy favorites, and for good reason: they routed Tulane 45-10 earlier this season. But this rematch comes with a twist.
Lane Kiffin won’t be on the sidelines. Defensive coordinator Pete Golding has stepped in as interim head coach, and that change alone could shake things up.
Tulane is also navigating coaching turnover, with Jon Sumrall set to take over at Florida after the season. So both teams are dealing with distractions, and how they handle them could determine who earns the right to face Georgia.
From a matchup standpoint, Georgia would likely prefer to see a team that’s not already familiar with them. But either way, this game will directly shape the Dawgs’ next opponent.
How Healthy Is Oregon - and Can They Stay That Way?
In December, health is everything.
Georgia knows this firsthand, with key contributors like Gabe Harris, Colbie Young, and Drew Bobo all working to get back on the field. But they’re not alone in the injury department. Oregon, a team with legitimate national championship aspirations, is limping into its opener against James Madison.
The Ducks are already down two wide receivers, and three more have been questionable all week. That’s a lot of uncertainty for a team that relies heavily on its passing attack.
Oregon is a three-touchdown favorite in this one, but the real concern isn’t just winning - it’s getting through the game without further damage. If Dan Lanning’s squad wants to make a serious run, they’ll need to be close to full strength. Georgia fans should keep tabs on this one, because a healthy Oregon could be a major obstacle down the road.
The Bottom Line for Georgia Fans
While the Bulldogs wait for their Sugar Bowl clash, this weekend’s games will help shape the road ahead. Alabama’s performance could either validate or cast doubt on Georgia’s SEC title dominance.
Carson Beck’s return to the spotlight could set up a compelling semifinal storyline. The Ole Miss-Tulane winner will be Georgia’s next opponent.
And Oregon’s health could determine just how treacherous the rest of the bracket looks.
So yes, Georgia has to wait a little longer to get back on the field. But make no mistake - the Playoff starts now for the Bulldogs, even if they’re not suiting up just yet.