Why Georgia deserves No. 1 spot in preseason college football rankings
College Football season is almost here with games beginning this weekend. Georgia starts the 2024 campaign atop the polls, and it’s deserved. The Bulldogs have won 42 games the last three seasons with two titles to their name. A third could be on the way later this fall, and we think it’s only right that the Dawgs are on top. However, if you’re not convinced, here’s five reasons why Kirby Smart and company deserve the top spot they’ve got…
Recent Past: Georgia’s been consistent, and the culture hasn’t changed. Yes, the Bulldogs came up short last season in the SEC Championship Game, but a case easily could be made that they still were one of the top four teams in the nation. Had they gotten into the Playoff, who knows what would have happened. One loss doesn’t define a program, and Georgia’s track record under Kirby Smart is as good as anybody’s.
Carson Beck: Quarterbacks are key, and Georgia has one of the nation’s best. Carson Beck made the choice to return for his senior season and a second year as the starter under center. Surround him with weapons like the Bulldogs’ pass catchers and running backs and put it all behind an offensive line that returns four starters and it’s easy to understand why he’s a Heisman Trophy favorite entering 2024.
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All-American Defense: Of course it’s not all about the offense. Malaki Starks, Mykel Williams and Smael Mondon are All-American caliber players and difference makers for the Dawgs defensively. Each has experience, providing it at every level for Glenn Schumann and the defensive staff full of masterminds. Others have that type of talent too with the way Georgia has recruited, and this year’s unit has the makings of a special one.
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Tough Schedule: For those that view the preseason rankings as a predictive exercise for the final rankings, Georgia’s tough schedule works in the Bulldogs’ favor. They’ll have plenty of opportunities for marquee wins over opponents like Alabama, Texas and Ole Miss on the road in the SEC. Tennessee also comes to Athens, and UGA opens with ACC powerhouse Clemson. If Georgia can continue its crazy success in the regular season of the last three seasons (combined record of 36-0), even one loss on the record will give the Dawgs the nation’s best resume.
Kirby Smart: With Nick Saban retired from coaching, there’s no doubt who the top coach in the land is. Smart has two titles under his belt and he’s played for a third. Only Dabo Swinney can match that, however, Smart’s success has come more recently and includes a head-to-head win over Swinney in 2021 with a chance for another later this month. No coach will intimidate Smart and few can match all that he’s seen. Having someone on your side like that will win you a couple of games.
