About 12:45 today our 2nd ranked Georgia Bulldogs look to move to 3-0 in the conference and continue to bolster our resume as one of the true national title contenders against Vanderbilt on Homecoming in Athens. Everyone knows the undercurrent story of the week, and Kirby and the players have downplayed that angle in public. Of course, that player is still listed as “Questionable” on yesterday’s availability report. I imagine the behind the scenes is quite different as the Dawgs prepare for the Commodores. Let’s get to the preview.

When Georgia has the ball

The Georgia offense needs to continue to build on its explosive start. Regardless of the metric used, the offense has generated more big chunk yardage plays this year compared to the last couple of years. In particular, the running game has been downright scary as Georgia has created the opportunity for long runs by Nate Frazier, Dwight Phillips, Gunner Stockton, Ryan Puglisi, Jaden Reddell and Talyn Taylor. Just missing the 20 yard cutoff is the always tough Chauncey Bowens with an 18 yarder himself. I went back and looked at Vandy’s near loss to NC State. The Pack was very solid on offense other than turnovers and generated some explosives against the Vandy defense. If the Dawgs do that and limit mistakes, the 40-point barrier should be very much in play later today.

When Vanderbilt has the ball

Will Curtis play or not? That really is the question. As mentioned earlier, the freshman QB remains listed on the availability report as questionable. I believe that means he will give it a go later today. I’m assuming the Georgia defense has been fully prepared for Curtis to play and not to be limited. I expect the Georgia defense to give a lot of looks the young signal caller has not seen and to disguise true intent. If we can get pressure, I expect Curtis to give the Georgia defense opportunities to put on the Savage Pads and change field position and game momentum. If I were Clark Lea, I would try to shorten the game with ball control especially with the short passing game knowing how difficult the Georgia defense is to run against. If the game gets out of hand, how long does Lea leave Curtis in knowing that there are winnable games for the team down the road?

What will happen

Assuming nothing absolutely weird happens today including the weather, the Dawgs should win and win by double digits. Covering a spread that has moved to 25 1/2 likely requires the Dawgs to play clean and get Vandy’s offense off the field without sucking the game clock dry.

I said in the first look post that I expect the Dawgs to cover. I see no reason to back away from that at this point. The Dawgs’ offense continues its explosive play and generates yards and points. The defense gets after Curtis from the start and introduces Curtis to life as a Commodore in the SEC.

Final score: Georgia 41, Vanderbilt 10

What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

EDIT (by Otis): This is your post for comments throughout the game today.