Georgia Bulldogs

Georgia enters the season with a roster that is a year older and more experienced than the 2025 squad. The Bulldogs return 21 defenders who played meaningful snaps, and the offensive line brings back four players with significant starting experience. This veteran core, combined with a deep running back room featuring Nate Frazier, Chauncey Bowens, Dante Dowdell, and Dwight Phillips Jr., gives Georgia a physical, run-first foundation. However, as one opposing SEC assistant noted, the depth may not match the 2020 standard, meaning the margin for error is thinner than in past elite seasons.

Quarterback Gunner Stockton enters Year 2 as the starter after a 2025 season that showcased both his playmaking ability and inconsistency. The offense will go as far as he can take it, with the coaching staff aiming to let him operate within a rhythm-based, run-heavy attack. Stockton's confidence in throwing the ball will determine how aggressive the Bulldogs can be. The receiving corps, led by transfer Isiah Canion and explosive youngsters Talyn Taylor and Landon Roldan, provides weapons, but Stockton must shrink the gap between his ceiling and floor for Georgia to reach its full potential.

The defensive line is anchored by fourth-year junior Xzavier McLeod and sophomore Elijah Griffin, while the edge rush gets a boost from new outside linebackers coach Larry Knight. Quintavius Johnson and breakout spring performer Chase Linton are poised to improve the pass rush. Inside linebacker features a three-headed monster of Raylen Wilson, Chris Cole, and Justin Williams, giving Georgia a formidable second level. The secondary is set at cornerback with Ellis Robinson IV, but the safety spot alongside KJ Bolden remains a question mark, with Clemson transfer Khalil Barnes a candidate to start there or at nickel.

Placekicker Peyton Woodring enters his fourth season as a proven, reliable option in big moments. Punter Drew Miller is a strong-legged redshirt sophomore praised for his hang time and work ethic. The return game could see a boost from wide receiver Sacovie White-Helton, who is aiming to replace Zachariah Branch as the punt returner. These units give Georgia a solid floor in the kicking game, which can be critical in close SEC contests.

Georgia is expected to be a playoff team, but the path is less forgiving than in the early 2020s. The Bulldogs rely on a run-first offense, a deep defense, and experienced special teams, but the quarterback play and overall depth will be tested in SEC play. The season hinges on Stockton's consistency and the ability of the young receivers to step up. If the offense can avoid mistakes and the defense continues to develop its pass rush, Georgia has the talent to compete for a national title, but any slip-ups could prove costly in a more competitive conference landscape.