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Georgia Bulldogs vs Vanderbilt Commodores: Preview and Prediction

By Kathryn Morrison

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The Georgia Bulldogs still have a shot at the SEC East, making a win in this week’s matchup against the Vanderbilt Commodores all the more imperative for the Dawgs.

After last week’s 28-14 win over the South Carolina Gamecocks on Sunday, the Georgia Bulldogs have put their unfortunate loss to Tennessee behind them. The Bulldogs still have a real chance at winning the SEC East, making this week’s game against the Vanderbilt Commodores, though it should be an easy one, a must win.

Luckily, Vanderbilt seems to be very similar to South Carolina. They have a sufficient defense with an insignificant offense. Georgia’s biggest threat in Vanderbilt on offense will be running back Ralph Webb, who rushed for 100 yards against Kentucky last week. Defensively, the Georgia Bulldogs should watch out for linebacker Zach Cunningham, who recorded 62 tackles with 10.5 for a loss. ProFootballFocus.com calls him, “the best LB you haven’t heard of.”

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Georgia Bulldogs: Running Game Remains Key to Success?

Against South Carolina, the Bulldogs passing game was virtually non-existent, with just 29 yards, leaving their success in the hands of three running backs: Nick Chubb, Sony Michel and Brian Herrien. Nick Chubb returned full force against South Carolina after sustaining a minor ankle injury against Ole Miss, and can be expected to have another successful game this week. It was Sony Michel who led the Dawgs against South Carolina, with 133 yards on 21 carries. Freshman Brian Herrien also had 82 yards on 9 carries. Stopping Chubb and Michel will be the ultimate challenge for the Commodores this Saturday.

The presence of the running back duo is good news for freshman quarterback Jacob Eason, who still appears to be experiencing growing pains. Last week, he completed just five passes on 17 attempts for 29 yards, also throwing a touchdown and an interception. Expect Vanderbilt’s defense to be just as good as South Carolina’s, so also expect Eason to keep throwing the ball to a minimum and thus more focus on the running game for the Georgia Bulldogs.

Prediction:

VIA Brian Stultz of Campus Insiders:

"UGA vs. Vanderbilt PredictionGeorgia will face its second straight opponent that has a good enough defense and mediocre (at best) offense. Eason will need to keep his confidence up, so expect the Bulldogs to run some short routes and easy out passes early in the game to get him back into the flow. Chubb and Michel will do their thing, and Georgia will cruise to an easy victory.UGA vs. Vanderbilt Score Prediction: Georgia 30, Vanderbilt 10"

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This Saturday’s matchup will kick off at 12:00 PM ET at Sanford Stadium in Athens, GA. Catch the game on SEC Network.

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