Three keys to beating Auburn

Despite the sacreligiousness of the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry being played in October, the volume and gravity of Saturday is not diluted.

Auburn has a chance to sling mud on Georgia’s title hopes and give the Dawgs a first loss, while the WarTigerPlainsmen have eyes on salvaging the first half of a season. It’s not the first time that one side has had those aspirations going into this game...see Georgia in 2006.

Here’s three keys to another win against Auburn for the Dawgs on Saturday.

Out of the gate is key

Much has been made this week about this being Georgia’s first true road environment. In truth, it might be the toughest atmosphere Georgia faces all year. You can say that you’ll be ready for it, but this will be the most hostile environment for the Dawgs since....Auburn in 2019.

For that reason, Georgia cannot get overwhelmed early on. In simple terms, the first three offensive series are crucial. If Georgia fails to score on all three series, it's time to worry. That’s why moving the ball early and quelling Auburn’s home advantage is key, especially on offense.

Don’t let Nix extend plays

Even a t-shirt has been made about Bo Nix’s nonsensical run-around and find an open man play last week against LSU, and he has a track record of at times, extending a play to make a throw. That’s why wrapping up Nix when chances are there to do so is important. If not - a broken play could turn the game’s momentum.

Don’t let special teams beat you

In a game like this, special teams can be a turning point. Auburn has proved that it can do that, being second in the conference in punt return yardage and one of three teams with a punt return for a touchdown. Georgia needs to avoid miscues on special teams, not only by not having a blown coverage on a return, but also needs to avoid the handful of mental miscues on pre-snap penalties. Plus, in a hostile environment, if the game is close, look for the kicking game to be magnified.

Go Dawgs!