The Georgia Bulldogs are gearing up for an exciting 2026 college football season, coming in at No. 3 in the way-too-early Top 25 rankings. They'll kick off the season at home against Tennessee State on September 5, and their schedule is packed with high-stakes matchups that fans won't want to miss.
Highlighted games include a showdown with No. 10 Oklahoma on September 26, a road trip to No.
15 Alabama on October 10, a clash at No. 20 Ole Miss on November 7, a home game against No.
17 Missouri on November 14, and a visit to No. 25 South Carolina on November 21.
CBS Sports has identified three of these as among the 26 most important games of the season.
First up, the September 26 game against Oklahoma promises to be a defensive battle between two of the nation's top programs. It's a matchup that rekindles memories of their last meeting in the 2017 Rose Bowl, an overtime thriller that fans still talk about.
Then, on October 10, Georgia heads to Alabama for what could be a top-10 showdown if both teams remain unbeaten. Georgia's recent SEC Championship victory was a significant milestone for Coach Kirby Smart, marking only his second win against Alabama in nine attempts. It's a rivalry that always delivers drama, and this year's clash is set to be no different.
On November 7, Georgia faces Ole Miss in a game with major playoff implications. It's one of three critical matchups that weekend, making it a must-watch for college football enthusiasts. This game will be pivotal in shaping the SEC hierarchy as the season draws to a close.
Reflecting on last season, Georgia finished with a 12-2 record, securing the SEC Championship for the second consecutive year but falling short in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Sugar Bowl. Their split results against Ole Miss last year, with a regular-season win and a playoff loss, highlighted the challenges and unpredictability of college football.
Coach Kirby Smart attributed the playoff loss to Ole Miss's exceptional execution, particularly noting their quarterback's ability to make explosive plays under pressure. Both teams showcased dynamic quarterback play, making for an exhilarating contest.
As Georgia prepares for the upcoming season, they'll be without several key players, including standout receivers and linemen, as well as defensive stalwarts. However, the Bulldogs' depth and talent ensure they remain a formidable force in the college football landscape. Fans can expect thrilling games and intense competition as Georgia aims to build on their recent successes.