Sports
Georgia Bulldogs Prepare for Matchup Against UMass Minutemen
ATHENS, Ga.—The Georgia Bulldogs are set to face the University of Massachusetts Minutemen at Sanford Stadium in Athens in what promises to be a notable shift from their recent high-stakes matchups. Following a 31-17 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers, which potentially impacted Tennessee’s standing in the College Football Playoff rankings, Georgia looks forward to continuing their momentum this week.
The Bulldogs have prominently featured their tight ends in recent games, with quarterback Carson Beck successfully collaborating with them for significant gains. Beck connected with tight ends 10 times, amassing 130 yards and two touchdowns from junior Oscar Delp in the game against Tennessee. «Proud of those tight ends, man,» Georgia head coach Kirby Smart stated. «They haven’t had the year they wanted to have, but they had a really big night.»
So far this season, Georgia’s tight ends have combined for 29 catches, with freshman Lawson Luckie accounting for the majority with 16 receptions, 236 yards, and three touchdowns. Meanwhile, Oscar Delp has contributed 13 catches for 175 yards. The match will be broadcast live on the SEC Network, with Dave Neal and Max Starks announcing from the booth and Ashley ShahAhmadi reporting from the sidelines.
With Georgia heavily favored, the Bulldogs are expected to give opportunities to younger players during this game. «With Georgia being a massive favorite, we hope to give some young players some reps,» said Smart. Senior day ceremonies are scheduled before the game, honoring the graduating players of the team.
Georgia is currently standing with an 8-2 record, while UMass, who recently parted ways with their head coach, holds a 2-8 record. The game will also see Georgia potentially missing key players, including running back Trevor Etienne, due to a rib injury, and wide receiver Dillon Bell, who incurred an ankle injury.
The Bulldogs are predicted to dominate the Minutemen with a 56-3 predicted score. Despite lacking a 100-yard rusher this season, hopefuls see Nate Frazier potentially reaching that milestone. The Minutemen are ranked 11th nationally for their time of possession, recorded at 32 minutes and 43 seconds per game.