Alabama football offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan frequently used the word “excellent” to describe Georgia’s defense. In one response alone, he repeated the term four times and also used it throughout other comments.
“I think they’re excellent,” Sheridan remarked. “When you break them down, several things stand out, but above all, they have outstanding players at every level—long, fast, and explosive athletes. In addition, their coaching staff does an excellent job. They’re experienced, with a system they’ve been running together for years. So it’s a tough challenge—they’re excellent.”
Sheridan’s praise is backed by the stats. Georgia ranks fourth in total defense nationally, allowing only 202 yards per game and is the only top-10 team yet to give up a touchdown this season.
Sheridan and the Crimson Tide offense aim to break that streak when No. 4 Alabama meets No. 1/2 Georgia on Saturday (6:30 p.m. CT, ABC) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. This game marks the first meeting between the teams with Kalen DeBoer as Alabama’s head coach.
“Coach (Kirby) Smart has earned a ton of respect for what he’s achieved at Georgia,” DeBoer said, acknowledging the Bulldogs’ success.
Here’s what Alabama’s coaches had to say about Georgia’s offense and defense.