Ranking Georgia football opponents by toughness

Georgia football plays what some would consider an easy schedule in 2022, but there are still pitfalls to avoid. Here’s how the Bulldogs’ schedule will shake out.

Certainly, you can’t lose as much talent as Georgia football did this year and not expect a drop-off. Yet, with players like Jalen Carter, Kelee Ringo, and Brock Bowers back in the fold, there’s still a lot of NFL potential on this roster.

That should fare well against a schedule where opponents only went 75-77 last year. They avoid Alabama entirely and draw what could possibly be the two teams at the bottom of the barrel in the SEC West. It’s entirely possible that Georgia goes undefeated against this schedule.

In ascending order, here are Georgia’s opponents by toughness.

12. Samford Bulldogs

Samford is the most obvious pick to bring up the rear. This FCS outfit only went 4-7 last year, though they did play a most entertaining game against Florida, losing 70-52. Even with that offensive prowess, they’ll still struggle to put anything on the board against a tough Georgia defense.

11. Vanderbilt Commodores

Dear lord, what has Clark Lea got himself into? Vanderbilt struggled their way to 2-10 last year. In terms of net yards per play, they had the worst mark in the conference by far. In total, they were 2.3 yards per play worse on average than the other team was. While they’ve brought in a decent-ish recruiting class, it’s not going to help them much this year. Look for the ‘Dores to struggle again.