Last season, Clemson shocked the world by beating Georgia in Week 1 of the college football season. They are looking to do the same against this season as both teams would like to be in the mix come time to pick the college football playoff teams. Both Clemson and Georgia enter the season ranked in the Top 25 with high expectations while having to replace NFL-drafted quarterbacks. The first game of the season can determine a lot.
Georgia needs a win. They are coming off a loss in the Gator Bowl last year, their second in a row to Nebraska. They started last year off with an 0-2 start and would like to avoid that this year as they prepare to face South Carolina in two weeks. Aaron Murray is no longer with the team, someone that is not easy to replace. however, they get a healthy Todd Gurley back. The dynamic started last season off with a 75-yard touchdown run against Clemson before suffering injuries. He had 12 carries for 154 yards and two scores in that game. Clemson's defense must be prepared to answer the running back this upcoming season.
The Tigers are replacing two very big stars. Taj Boyd is now a member of the New York Jets are leading the Tigers last season. They are also replacing No. 2 overall draft pick Sammy Watkins who is now with the Buffalo Bills. Those are two very big offensive pieces missing on the team this year. However, their front seven defensively could be a strong unit this year. Grady Jarrett, Josh Watson and Stephone Anthony will all be around to stuff the middle and slow Gurley and the Georgia rushing attack down.
The Bulldogs have a new defensive addition in the form of coordinator Jeremy Pruitt. He is coming off a National Championship with Florida State and the Bulldogs are hoping he brings that success to George. If the Bulldogs fail to make an impact this season, Mark Richt might have reached the end of his line.
