Simpson Starts at No. 5 Georgia Saturday

No. 17 Alabama (2-1) travels to No. 5 Georgia (3-0) Saturday night in Athens (6:30 p.m. CT on ABC) for the SEC opener — the first meeting in Sanford Stadium in a decade and a challenge to Georgia’s 33-game home winning streak. Alabama will start Ty Simpson in his first SEC road start after consecutive dominant performances, and Simpson recently announced a Gatorade NIL deal. The Tide expect roster boosts with DT Tim Keenan and senior RB Jam Miller returning from injury, though concerns remain about the offensive line, third‑down efficiency, defending RPO/read‑option concepts and the run game. Georgia, with a stronger rushing attack and more offensive weapons than a year ago, is being praised by coaches for its physical scheme and game‑plan versatility. Both programs view the game as a signature opportunity for College Football Playoff resumes amid heavy local and national coverage.