Georgia Favored Over Alabama in Athens

No. 3 Georgia hosts No. 16/17 Alabama Saturday night at Sanford Stadium (kickoff about 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC) in a primetime, playoff-impacting SEC showdown — Alabama's first trip to Athens since 2015. Alabama's offense, led by turnover-free QB Ty Simpson, has been potent, but the Tide must establish the run and protect Simpson, with RB Jam Miller expected to play after a dislocated collarbone. Georgia counters with a dominant defense that has shown occasional vulnerabilities in the secondary; Georgia right tackle Earnest Greene is out, a development that could affect Georgia's protection. Coaches on both sides emphasize discipline, limiting penalties and handling a hostile crowd in what is likely to be a one-possession game. The betting line has tightened with Georgia favored by about a field goal, and Nick Saban publicly picking Alabama underscores the national attention and stakes.