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SEC Football: 5 most important non-conference games in 2017

By Jerran Anderson

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 22, 2017; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart reacts on the field during the second half during the Georgia Spring Game at Sanford Stadium. Red defeated Black 25-22. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2017; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart reacts on the field during the second half during the Georgia Spring Game at Sanford Stadium. Red defeated Black 25-22. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Georgia at Notre Dame, Sept. 9

The Georgia Bulldogs travel to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in Week 2, their first matchup since the 1981 National Title game. Georgia won that game 17-10.

The Bulldogs finished 8-5 overall but 4-4 in the SEC last season. They struggled on offense before going with quarterback Jacob Eason, a true freshman.

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Eason looks to have a better sophomore season after throwing for 2,430 passing yards and 16 passing touchdowns in 2016. With running backs Nick Chubb and Sony Michel both returning in the backfield healthy, the offense should see better production.

The defense should be in good hands too with 10 starters returning in 2017. They also reeled in a highly-rated recruiting class this past recruiting cycle.

This year’s class is led by early enrollee safety Richard LeCounte III, a five-star in-state safety prospect. If he can find his role in the secondary, this team could surprise many in the SEC next year.

The Bulldogs have the experience to be very good next season. They just need to put it all together on the field. The Fighting Irish will serve as a good test for them as the team’s meet for just the second time in school history.

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