Georgia Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

ATHENS, GA - NOVEMBER 12: Quarterback Jacob Eason #10 of the Georgia Bulldogs throws a pass during their game against the Auburn Tigers at Sanford Stadium on November 12, 2016 in Athens, Georgia. The Georgia Bulldogs defeated the Auburn Tigers 13-7. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images) /

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OXFORD, MS – NOVEMBER 26: Nick Fitzgerald #7 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs drops back to pass in the first half of a game against the Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium on November 26, 2016 in Oxford, Mississippi. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Mississippi State is a young team that could be very, very dangerous in 2017 — and they may not have much to show for it as far as their win-loss record goes. State rode an impressive running game led by dual-threat extraordinaire Nick Fitzgerald to a bowl game last season, and if their defense can hold up, they may be able to cause some problems in the SEC West.

In short, UGA should be happy that this game is being played between the hedges. Both teams will be able to move the ball, but MSU’s defense doesn’t match up well against a physical Georgia running game. Fitzgerald can cause problems on the ground, but the Dawgs’ athletic defense will seek to keep him in the pocket and make him beat them through the air. He won’t be able to.

Expect a big-time performance from Chubb, and enough big plays from Eason to keep the Dawgs just out of reach. UGA will begin SEC play with an impressive win that garners some attention in the rankings.

Final Score: Georgia 31, Mississippi State 20 (3-1, 1-0 SEC)

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