The 2018 Georgia Bulldogs football season was a rollercoaster ride, filled with moments of brilliance and frustrating setbacks. This comprehensive look back at their schedule provides a detailed analysis of each game, highlighting key plays and the overall impact on their season. While they ultimately fell short of their ultimate goal, the 2018 season showcased the talent and resilience of the Bulldogs.
The 2018 Season: A Game-by-Game Breakdown
Below, we'll examine each game of the Georgia Bulldogs' 2018 regular season and bowl game, offering insight into the performance and significance of each contest.
September 1st: vs. Austin Peay – W 45-0
The season opener against Austin Peay served as a comfortable introduction for the Bulldogs. This game allowed Georgia to showcase its depth and prepare for tougher opponents to come. The dominant victory built confidence and momentum heading into the more challenging games.
September 8th: vs. South Carolina – W 41-17
This SEC matchup against South Carolina was a more significant test, demonstrating the Bulldogs' offensive firepower and defensive prowess. This victory solidified Georgia's position within the conference.
September 15th: vs. Middle Tennessee – W 33-3
Another decisive win against an outmatched opponent, this game allowed Georgia to continue refining its game plan and build consistency.
September 22nd: vs. Missouri – W 28-20
This game was a closer affair, highlighting the competitive nature of the SEC. The narrow victory showed Georgia's ability to win even when not playing its best football.
September 29th: vs. LSU – L 24-23
This loss to LSU was a significant turning point in the season. A heartbreaking defeat, the game highlighted some key weaknesses that would need to be addressed moving forward. The close scoreline suggests that the team was still very competitive, despite the final outcome.
October 6th: vs. Vanderbilt – W 30-6
A bounce-back victory against Vanderbilt allowed the Bulldogs to regain some momentum after the LSU loss.
October 13th: vs. Florida – L 36-17
The annual rivalry game against Florida proved to be another significant hurdle. The loss further emphasized the need for improvement in several areas of the team.
October 20th: vs. Kentucky – W 27-17
A crucial conference victory against a strong Kentucky team. This win was important in the context of the SEC East race.
October 27th: vs. Mississippi State – W 31-3
A dominant performance against Mississippi State reassured fans of Georgia's overall strength despite their recent setbacks.
November 3rd: vs. Auburn – W 21-14
A pivotal win against Auburn kept their SEC championship hopes alive. This hard-fought victory underscored the Bulldogs' grit and determination.
November 10th: vs. UGA – W 24-17
Another significant conference victory that bolstered their chances at the SEC Championship.
November 17th: vs. Alabama – L 35-28
Another tough loss, this time against the eventual National Champion Alabama. Although a defeat, it was a very competitive contest that showcased the Bulldogs' talent despite the loss.
November 24th: vs. Georgia Tech – W 39-10
This traditional rivalry game ended with a comfortable win, providing a positive conclusion to the regular season.
January 1st: Sugar Bowl vs. Texas – W 28-21
The Sugar Bowl victory offered a satisfying end to a season that experienced both highs and lows. The win provided some closure and a positive note to end the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
H2: What was Georgia's record in the 2018 season?
Georgia finished the 2018 season with an 11-3 record.
H2: Did Georgia win the SEC Championship in 2018?
No, Georgia did not win the SEC Championship in 2018.
H2: Who was Georgia's head coach in 2018?
Kirby Smart was Georgia's head coach in 2018.
H2: What was Georgia's final ranking in the 2018 season?
Georgia's final ranking in the 2018 season varied depending on the poll, but they were generally ranked within the top 15.
H2: Who were Georgia's biggest rivals in 2018?
Georgia's biggest rivals in 2018 were Florida, Auburn, and Alabama. Traditional rivalries with Georgia Tech and South Carolina also remain prominent.
This detailed analysis of the Georgia Bulldogs' 2018 football schedule provides a comprehensive understanding of the season's events, achievements, and challenges. While the season ended with a bittersweet feeling, the team demonstrated the resilience and talent expected from a program with its rich history.