Hunker Down For Homecoming

VS.

down

hunker

homecoming!

for

Your Gateway to

Banking Made Easy

For generations, the Arch has welcomed

students to the University of Georgia. At

BankSouth, we’re proud to be your local

gateway to easy and secure banking in

the Classic City.

MARSHALL

@ ATHENS, GA

AUSTIN PEAY

@ ATHENS, GA

TENNESSEE

@ KNOXVILLE, TN

ALABAMA

@ ATHENS, GA

KENTUCKY

@ ATHENS, GA

AUBURN

@ AUBURN, AL

OLE MISS

@ ATHENS, GA

FLORIDA

@ JACKSONVILLE, FL

MISS STATE

@ STARKVILLE, MS

TEXAS

@ ATHENS, GA

CHARLOTTE

@ ATHENS, GA

GEORGIA TECH

@ ATLANTA, GA

W 45-7

W 28-6

W 44-41

L 24-21

OCT 4

12:00 PM

OCT 11

TBD

OCT 18

TBD

NOV 1

3:30 PM

NOV 8

12:00 PM

NOV 15

TBD

NOV 22

12:45 PM

NOV 28

3:30 PM

7911 MACON HIGHWAY,

WATKINSVILLE • 706.769.8200

Learn More

About Your Local

Banksouth Team

CHECKING • SAVINGS • LENDING • DIGITAL

BANKSOUTH.COM/WATKINSVILLE

LONDON HUMPHREYS

WIDE RECIEVER #16

146 E CLAYTON ST

ATHENS, GEORGIA

LANDON ROLDAN

WIDE RECIEVER #84

#1 BEST SELLING AMERICAN WHISKY

AS

VO T E D

2017

B Y TH E WO R L D

’ S

B EST B AR S

Welcome to the best

of both worlds.

Free Vaccine Clinic sponsored

by Hughes Subaru

Welcome to the best

of both worlds.

October 18, 2025

Athens Area Humane Society

1030 Mitchell Bridge Rd, Athens, GA

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid gives

you options without the compromises.The

Crosstrek Hybrid provides up to 90 MPGe and

up to 480 miles of total vehicle range. Great

for the daily driver and the adventurer!

Find out more at HughesSubaru.com

Hughes The 2023 Subaru Subaru is proud Crosstrek to partner Hybrid with gives the

Athens Area Humane Society for a day dedicated

you options without the compromises.The

to keeping your furry family members safe and

healthy! Crosstrek Hybrid provides up to 90 MPGe and

up to 480 miles of total vehicle range. Great

Free for core the daily vaccines driver for and dogs the & adventurer!

cats

Rabies, Distemper, and more

Open Find to out the more public at – HughesSubaru.com

first come, first served!

Pet goodies, giveaways, and adoption info onsite!

Why? Because at Hughes Subaru, we believe all pets

deserve love, care, and a forever home. As part of the

Subaru Loves Pets initiative, we’re helping protect the

pets in our community—one paw at a time.

HUGHESSUBARU.COM | 3010 ATLANTA HWY | ATHENS, GA 30606 | (706) 715-6300

GEORGIA VS. KENTUCKY

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

IN THIS ISSUE

VOLUME 23 NO. 7

SPORTS

THERE’S ALWAYS

A RAINBOW AFTER

THE RAIN!

PHOTO BY: ROB SAYE/BI

BULLDOGS TO WATCH | 14

WILDCATS TO WATCH | 16

THE FIVE | 18

FROM THE INTERN | 19

A VIEW FROM LEXINGTON | 20

UGA 2025 ROSTER | 21

SOCIAL

GEORGIA GIRLS: SKYE ESTROFF | 24

MIXTAPE: MELANIE HOLLIS | 26

GEORGIA VS. ALABAMA FAN PHOTOS | 27

PROUST Q&A: ALTON STANDIFER | 48

MORE SPORTS

HAMMY’S HORSESHOES | 50

JD’S TOP 12 | 51

OLD AND IN THE WAY | 52

KEVIN BUTLER’S PLAYERS OF THE WEEK | 53

STATS THAT MATTER | 54

OUR TEAM

EDITOR: Vance Leavy

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Cheri Leavy

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR: Greg Poole

CHIEF SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR: Jeff Dantzler

ART DIRECTOR: Stacey Nichols

SALES: Caroline Kinney, Hamilton Culpepper

SPORTS: Jeff Dantzler, Greg Poole, Will Hearn,

Matthew Herren, Anna Williams, Jackson Taylor,

Jane Toothaker

MULTIMEDIA SUPPORT: Hamilton Culpepper

PHOTOGRAPHY: Greg Poole, Rob Saye, Will

Hearn

COVER PHOTOS: Hairy Dawg Photo By Rob

Saye, Arch Photo By UGA Alumni

COVER DESIGN: Hamilton Culpepper,

Vance Leavy

COLUMNISTS: Jeff Dantzler, Hamilton

Culpepper, Loran Smith, Kevin Butler

DELIVERY: John Cook, Henley Cook, Win

Dyleski, Rob Freeman, Anna French, Scarlett

French, Caroline Kinney, John Kinney, Eleanor

Morgan, Henry Morgan, James Morgan, Jack

Sawyer, Cullen Sewell, Champ Vance, Jack

Roberts

ISSUE SEVEN: KENTUCKY

October 1, 2025

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 6 ISSUE SEVEN • KENTUCKY

FROM THE

EDITOR

VANCE LEAVY

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Pull your bootstraps up Dawg Nation and ‘Hunker Down for Homecoming!’

Where shall I begin for my weekly offering that I

really don’t want to write?

Despite another excruciating loss to the

mighty Crimson Tide on Saturday night, Team

BI and their Editor, like our Georgia players and coaches, had to

wake up on Sunday morning and hit the ground running. And I

assure you it was awfully difficult!

Looking back at the Bama game, you have to remain positive

to think that our Bulldogs were right there for a victory against

the elephants despite this astounding offensive stat line …

Alabama: 12-of-19 on third down … Georgia: 2-of-8 on third

down.

As Kirby Smart relayed in his post game presser, it is very hard

to beat a great team if you’re unable to get them off the field …

PERIOD!

Of course, this latest Bama loss will forever be remembered by

Kirby and Co.’s decision not to kick

the field goal in the 4th quarter,

which would have tied the game.

Call me crazy, but when your team

has somehow fought back despite

not playing its best, you take the

points.

However, I say this not at all

questioning the best coach in

college football, who led his

team to 33 consecutive home

victories, which included two

national championships. Coach

Smart went for the first down and

unfortunately for everyone that

loves the Red and Black, it didn’t

work out for the home team.

Alabama 24 Georgia 21

As you can tell by this photo

by BI’s Rob Saye, NO ONE feels

the agony of defeat more than

Kirby Smart. However, NO ONE is better than Kirby at getting

his team out of the dejection after a difficult loss. So we as

fans must follow suit, which is why this cover turns the page

asking everyone in the Bulldog Nation to ‘Hunker Down for

Homecoming!’

I do so love Homecoming week in Athens. There’s nothing

better than driving down Milledge and seeing the creative and

supportive banners hanging outside on sorority and fraternity

houses. Then on Friday night (6 p.m.), the streets of downtown

will be filled with Bulldog fans for the annual parade. Yes, some

will still be smarting from the Bama loss, but most will be there

to support our University and football team they so love, which

is beautiful. Then on game day, the smell coming from Myers

Quad and throughout campus at all the alumni group tailgates

is always mouthwatering.

This issue of BI will get you ready for Saturday’s high noon

game versus the Kentucky Wildcats. Our team needs its fans in

Sanford Stadium when the opening kickoff sails through the air.

Make them proud and don’t be late.

Beyond the awesome 125-plus fan photos (beginning on page

27) from the Bama weekend in our Social section, please be sure

to read our regular features.

This issue’s MIXTAPE (page 26) comes from 23-year Athens

Academy kindergarten teacher, Melanie Hollis. You know

Melanie keeps her classroom fun when one of her tracks is

Widespread Panic’s incredible

cover of J.J. Cale’s classic, ‘Travelin’

Light.’ Well done, Melanie and

thank you for your years of

mentoring youngsters.

This issue’s Georgia Girl (pages

24, 25) is Skye Estroff. When

your profession has earned you

the distinction of “Atlanta Food

Expert,” I think it is a must that you

try making Skye’s Caramelized

Vidalia Onion Dip with Kale. I

know Cheri will be serving this

recipe at pregame soon.

Finally, don’t miss getting to

know UGA‘s Vice Provost and

Chief of Staff, Alton Standifer

in this issue’s Proust Q&A (page


48). All you need to know about

Alton is his amazing choices for

historical figure and heroes in his

life … King David and Susan and Paul Holmes from Monticello,

Georgia. Great stuff, thanks for participating Alton.

That’s going to do it for me. As I mentioned at the very

beginning, this Editor’s Note certainly didn’t come easy.

However, I’m pretty proud that I reached 700 words, while

encouraging our readers to remain upbeat as we all ‘Hunker

Down for Homecoming!’ A new home winning streak begins on

Saturday, see you there and Go Dawgs!!


Casual,

Old-Fashioned

STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

BULLDOG BRUNCH

Airs live from Hilltop each Sunday morning from 10 am - noon

following a Georgia football Saturday. Hosts Kevin Butler,

Jeff Dantzler and Eric Zeier with producer Adam Gillespie.

DAILY SPECIALS • SUNDAY BRUNCH

2310 WEST BROAD STREET IN ATHENS

(706) 353-7667 | HILLTOPGRILLE.COM

ENJOY

GREAT FOOD

COCKTAILS

AND GOOD COMPANY ON

ATHENS BEST PATIOS

AND

DINE AND

DAWGS

WALKING

DISTANCE TO

SANFORD

STADIUM

BRINGING COASTAL CUISINE TO THE CLASSIC CITY

CORNER OF LUMPKIN AND MILLEDGE

IN THE HEART OF FIVE POINTS ATHENS

(706) 850-3451 | MARKER7COASTALGRILL.CO

FROM THE

booth

JEFF DANTZLER

@jeffdantzlerTV

Kirby Smart, the player, had some of his best moments against the Cats!

College football’s premier head

coach, future Hall of Famer,

affectionately known by a grateful

Bulldog Nation as Coach King Kirby

Smart, was a tremendous football player for

his alma mater back in the 1990s.

Smart is one of the top defensive backs

to ever play for Georgia. And that’s saying

something.

There was Joe Tereshinkski I, Charley

Trippi, Jake Scott, Bill Krug, Scott Woerner,

Jeff Hipp, Chris Welton, Mike Fisher, Terry

Hoage, Jeff Sanchez, Charlie Dean, Darryl

Jones, John Little, Ben Smith and so many

more before his playing days. For Smart’s

last three seasons at Georgia, 1996-1998,

he played with one of the greatest football

players ever, Champ Bailey. So many great

ones have donned the silver britches since,

including Thomas Davis, Sean Jones, Bruce

Thornton and Greg Blue. Then there are

the numerous dynamic players coached

by Smart: Eric Stokes, Tyson Campbell,

Lewis Cine, Chris Smith, Javon Bullard,

Derion Kendrick, Kelee Ringo, Kamari

Lassiter, Dan Jackson and Malakai Starks.

I’m going to have to issue numerous

apologies to so many tremendous

defensive backs that aren’t listed above.

And how about these five safeties for

Smart’s Bulldogs from 2021- 2024, a

championship-laden four year run: Cine,

Chris Smith, Bullard, Jackson and Starks.

Think for a moment, joyfully, of all the

enormous plays those five made in their

magnificent Georgia careers.

Trippi, Scott, Woerner, Hoage and Bailey

are all in the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Red and Black Eight Ball predicts

several more will join this illustrious group.

Smart’s 13 career interceptions puts him

inside the top ten in Georgia history, tied

with Woerner, Sanchez and Ben Smith for

the sixth most in school history.

Two of Kirby Paul Smart’s best games

as a Bulldog came against the Kentucky

Wildcats, the first of which was the first of

memorable back-to-back performances

for Jim Donnan’s outstanding 10-2, top 10

team of 1997.

Kentucky and Georgia had both been

down.

Coming off a stretch of winning six or

fewer games six times in an eight year

period between 1989 and 1996 - cue my

favorite professional wrestler of all-time, The

American Dream Dusty Rhodes …. “Hard

Times Daddy” - the Bulldogs of ‘97 sparked a

resurgence of Georgia Football. Both Robert

Edwards and Hines Ward announced they

would return for their senior seasons. Smart

and Bailey highlighted an outstanding

secondary. Linebackers Brandon Tolbert

and Orantes Grant, a stout D-Line (featuring

freshmen Richard Seymour and Marcus

Stroud), Mike Bobo, Corey Allen, Olandis

Gary, Matt Stinchcomb, Chris Terry - and

a whole bunch of other great players that

space wouldn’t allow me to list, this team

was really good.

So was Kentucky.

Hal Mumme was brought in from

Valdosta State to run the “Air Raid Offense.”

His offensive coordinator was Mike Leach,

who came with Mumme from Valdosta

State. Just a couple of years later by the

way, Smart and Will Muschamp were

on the Valdosta State coaching staff,

working for Chris Hatcher, a record setting

quarterback for the Blazers.

Well the pass happy coach had the

perfect quarterback in Tim Couch. The top

prep prospect in the country by several

recruiting services, Couch split time with

Billy Jack Haskins as Bill Curry didn’t tailor

the scheme to the talents of this elite

prospect. Kentucky did beat Georgia that

year in 1996, so I guess it worked that

night for the Wildcats.

Anyways, Kentucky also made a big

jump. With Couch the trigger man, the

Wildcats suddenly boasted one of the

most dynamic offenses not just in the SEC,

but in all of college football.

Well, on a rainy October Saturday in

Athens, the Bulldogs beat Kentucky 23-13.

Edwards broke loose on a long touchdown

run, Ronald Bailey had a pick six in the

closing seconds of the first half to give

Georgia a 14-7 intermission lead, and

Smart twice intercepted Couch.

The next week in Jacksonville, 19-point

underdog Georgia beat defending

national champion Florida by 20, 37-17.

It was the first time in the decade of the

1990s, and it would be the only time in the

decade of the ‘90s, that the Bulldogs beat

the Gators.

Edwards was tremendous with four

touchdowns. Ward was sensational, his

typical jack of all trades. And Kirby Smart,

he intercepted two more passes against

Gator quarterback Doug Johnson.

The next year in Lexington, the Bulldogs

took a 28-26 thriller, as the Wildcats

muffed the exchange on the snap for a

potential game winning field goal. Smart

was the Bulldogs defensive Most Valuable

Player, once again twice intercepting

Couch, who the following April would

become the first overall pick in the 1999

National Football League Draft.

It didn’t take long for Smart to make

an impact. The first scrimmage of his

freshman year of 1994, on a hot August

day at the Butts-Mehre practice field,

Coach Sonny Smart’s (of Bainbridge) blue

chip son went 100 yards for a touchdown.

Kirby’s dad tells the story that Kirby called

home, and said “Dad, I don’t think I’m

going to see the field, I’m behind this guy

Robert Edwards, and he’s unbelievable.”

At the time, Edwards was playing corner,

he moved to tailback in 1995.

Smart redshirted in 1994, and then made

an immediate impression across the SEC in

his first two games of 1995.

The redshirt freshman safety sacked the

mulletted South Carolina quarterback

Steve Tanneyhill three times in a 45-23

Georgia victory. Edwards ran for five

second half touchdowns that day, setting

the Bulldogs school record.

The next week in Knoxville, Edwards was

running wild but got hurt. Georgia hung

tough and was tied with Tennessee late in

the fourth quarter. That redshirt freshman

defensive back came through again,

intercepting Peyton Manning to set up a

potential winning score. Alas, victory was

not in the cards, as Tennessee won on a

last second field goal.

Manning, who you may have heard of,

went on to be the No. 1 overall pick in the

1998 NFL Draft.

That’s five picks against two record

setting QBs who went on to be No. 1s in

the draft.That’s a nose for the ball and

tremendous instincts combined with

outstanding speed and talent.

Football, especially the secondary, it’s in

his blood. Driven for excellence, winning

it’s in his blood. Before the back-to-back

national championships, three SEC crowns,

numerous record winning streaks, and an

active stretch of eight straight top seven

finishes, before his stints working for a

slew of iconic coaches, it was crystal clear

that Kirby Smart was an instant impact

Bulldog.


There are just some things

in life you shouldn’t miss.

Your mammogram is

one of them.

Schedule your mammogram today.

Insurance is accepted and financial assistance

is available to patients who qualify. For more

information, call 855-ASK-SGHS (855-275-7447)

or visit sghs.org.

Pink Out Friday,

October 10

Wear Pink

Take a Pic

Share It

#PinkOut2025

© 2025 SGHS

This ISLAND DAWG is always on the

move to find the PERFECT Golden

Isles’ PROPERTY for his clients...

When you are ready to BUY, SELL or INVEST on

St. Simons Island or Sea Island, he’s the one to know!

BULLDOGS TO WATCH PG. 14 | THE FIVE PG. 18 | FROM THE INTERN PG. 19

SPORTS

IT’S TIME TO RIGHT

THE SHIP WITH

CHAUNCEY BOWENS

LEADING THE

BACKFIELD!


GEORGIA VS. KENTUCKY

GAME TIME: NOON

CHANNEL: ABC

GEORGIA VS KENTUCKY

BY: JEFF DANTZLER

Georgia and Kentucky are both hungry to bounce back from

losses this past weekend, as the Bulldogs and Wildcats square off

on Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium. The Bulldogs enter the game

with a record of 3-1, and 1-1 in the Southeastern Conference. The

Wildcats are 2-2 overall and 0-2 in the league.

The Dogs dropped a 24-21 heartbreaker to Alabama this Saturday,

which brought to an end Georgia’s SEC record home winning

streak at 33 games. Georgia last lost in Athens back in 2019 by

three points to South Carolina in overtime. In fact, the only other

three losses at Sanford Stadium during the incredible Kirby Smart

era came in his first year - one point setbacks to Vandy and Tech,

and a three point loss to Tennessee on the Hail Mary.

So now Georgia aims to begin a new streak, while extending a

very impressive one against the tough and physical Wildcats. The

Bulldogs have won 15 consecutive meetings against Kentucky,

going back to 2010 and the Mark Richt era in Athens. Kentucky

last beat the Bulldogs in 2009, a night game in Athens. Smart

owns a perfect 9-0 record versus the Wildcats. Last year’s meeting

was the toughest of all in the series during this streak. Georgia

came back, got the lead and held on to win 13-12.

Smart’s tenure at Georgia is the second longest amongst head

coaches in the SEC to Mark Stoops, who has been Kentucky’s

head coach since the 2013 season.

Under Stoops watch, the Wildcats have chalked up numerous

big wins, including losing streak breaking wins over both Florida

and Tennessee. Now the Wildcats aim to end this stretch of losses

against the Bulldogs.

Kentucky opened this season with a 24-16 win over Toledo, then

fell at home to red hot Ole Miss 30-23. Speaking of big Stoops

wins, he led Kentucky to victory in Oxford a year ago. The Wildcats

beat Eastern Michigan 48-23, then dropped this past weekend’s

matchup against South Carolina 35-13 in Columbia.

Smart will certainly be pushing for faster starts from his Bulldogs.

Georgia fell behind Tennessee 21-7 in Knoxville in the first quarter

of the thrilling 44-41 victory over the Volunteers in Knoxville. Last

week, Alabama raced to a 14-0 lead in Athens. Even dating back to

last year, the Bulldogs trailed the Yellow Jackets 17-0 at the end of

the first half in the amazing 44-42 eight overtime victory over Tech,

and trailed both Texas in the SEC Championship Game and Notre

Dame in the Sugar Bowl at the half.

Under Smart’s watch, Georgia has finished in the top seven for

eight consecutive seasons, highlighted by back-to-back national

championships in 2021 and 2022 and three SEC titles. The

Bulldogs have not lost more than two regular season games since

2016. Georgia has not lost back to back games since the 2018 SEC

Championship Game and 2019 Sugar Bowl.


SPORTS

FOOTBALL

BULLDOGS TO WATCH

BY: MATTHEW HERREN/BI

MIKE BOBO (OC) - The Bulldogs’ offensive coordinator enters a

matchup with a Wildcats defense that gave up 35 points to Beamer

and the Gamecocks last weekend. After a lackluster offensive

showing against Alabama, Bobo’s group will need to right the ship

against Kentucky. Don’t give up on this offense just yet, and look

for this get-right game against the Wildcats to be a springboard

into a season-changing game against Hugh Freeze and the Tigers

in two weeks.

GUNNER STOCKTON (QB #14) - Stockton had another clean

game against the Tide, throwing for 130 yards and a touchdown

with no interceptions. While most of the playcalling was

conservative, he threw the ball well down the field when his

MIKE BOBO

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

PHOTO BY: WILL HEARN/BI

number was called, but some plays weren’t made. He will need to

continue his consistent play for Georgia as they search for their

second conference win.

CHAUNCEY BOWENS (RB #33) - This freshman had an

unbelievable game in the loss to Alabama, rushing for 119 yards

and a touchdown on just 12 carries. Before the season, the

spotlight in the running back room was on Nate Frazier, but his

struggles have opened the door for Bowens to be the leader of

the pack. Look for Bowens to put on another great showing this

weekend against the Cats.

COLBIE YOUNG (WR #8) - Young has emerged as a deadly

weapon for this Georgia offense, leading the team in yards and

receptions. His 38-yard touchdown against Alabama showed that

Georgia has the capability to be an explosive group, and another

big strike against Kentucky is just what the team needs to get this

season’s momentum back in favor of the Bulldogs.

GUNNER STOCKTON

QUARTERBACK

LONDON HUMPHREYS (WR #16) - Humphreys had a quiet game

last week with just one catch, but he is a sleeper in the Georgia wide


BY JEFF DANTZLER

In a pair of thrilling Georgia victories over Kentucky

in 1997 and 1998, All-SEC safety Kirby Smart twice

intercepted, in both years, future top overall NFL

Draft pick Tim Couch.

In Georgia’s 27-0 victory over Kentucky in 1980, Amp

Arnold scored on a 90-yard hookup with Buck Belue,

the second longest TD pass of the year, to improve

to 7-0 en route to the big prize.

D’Andre Swift had standout performances against

Kentucky, highlighted by a pair of sensational

scoring runs in 2018 and a dash to paydirt in the rain

for the first score in 2019.


FOOTBALL

SPORTS

receiver room. His ability to get open down the field for big gains

can be a great tool for Stockton and the Bulldogs to lean on when

things get tough. Keep an eye on Humphreys if Stoops and the

Cats put extra attention on Young and Branch.

RAYLEN WILSON (LB #5) - This junior and NFL prospect has

been one of Georgia’s best defensive players, tallying 29 tackles

right behind CJ Allen with 30. The Bulldogs were not able to put

much pressure on Ty Simpson last week, but Kentucky’s struggles

under center presents a great opportunity for the Junkyard

Dawgs to get back at it. Look for Wilson to continue his strong

play and put pressure on a sinking Wildcats team.

COLBIE YOUNG

WIDE RECEIVER

KJ BOLDEN (DB #4) - Bolden and the defensive backs did a

solid job of containing Alabama’s wide receivers, especially in the

second half. He nearly had an interception in the early parts of

the Alabama game that would have set Sanford Stadium on fire.

The Kentucky quarterback room has thrown three interceptions

this season, so keep an eye out for Bolden to record his second

pick of the year.


WE STILL LOVE KIRBY & OUR DAWGS …

STAY TOUGH GEORGIA!

Smisson Neel, Ford Neel, John

Neel, Brian Kemp, Luke Bryan

WE ARE THE BEST at what we do!

WWW.SANFORDUSA.COM | 478.471.4221


SPORTS

FOOTBALL

WILDCATS TO WATCH

BY: ANNA WILLIAMS/BI

MARK STOOPS (HC) - Stoops remains the steady hand in Lexington.

He’s been with Kentucky since 2013, leading the Wildcats through SEC

challenges and seasons of rising expectations and setbacks. His coaching

style leans on a physical defense and a ground-oriented offense, so when

his playcalling is sharp, Kentucky can keep games close. Georgia’s offense

will likely test his defense early; how Stoops adjusts could foreshadow

whether Kentucky can surprise.

CUTTER BOLEY (QB #8) - Boley is the young quarterback who’s

emerged as Kentucky’s signal-caller. Through two games in 2025, he’s

completed 13-of-24 passes for 278 yards, two touchdowns, and zero

interceptions — a strong start for a freshman in SEC play. Against South

MARK STOOPS

HEAD COACH

PHOTO BY: KENTUCKY ATHLETICS

Carolina, he struggled at times, but his potential is clear. In his prior start

against Eastern Michigan, he threw for 240 yards and two touchdowns

on 12-of-21 passing, showing flashes of what he could become. Georgia’s

defense should press him early to test his poise under pressure.

JOSH KATTUS (TE #84) - Kattus is one of Boley’s more trusted

receiving options. In the Eastern Michigan game, Kattus logged three

receptions for 61 yards and hauled in one of Boley’s touchdown throws.

Through early 2025 stats, Kattus leads Kentucky’s receiving corps — with

51 receiving yards in two games so far. In a passing offense that may

lean on shorter and safe targets, Kattus could be asked to win in tight

windows, exploit mismatches, and help Boley move the chains.

SETH MCGOWAN (RB #3) - McGowan has shown consistency and

big-play ability. Against Eastern Michigan, he carried the load: 18 rush

attempts, 104 yards, and three touchdowns. Over the season, he leads

SETH MCGOWAN

RUNNING BACK

the Wildcats in rushing. In the South Carolina matchup, he also broke

free for a 20-yard touchdown. Georgia will want to key on him early, but

McGowan’s vision and burst make him dangerous if he finds creases.


BY JEFF DANTZLER

Kentucky’s men’s basketball program had one of

the best three year runs since John Wooden’s UCLA

dynasty, as the Wildcats won the 1996 and 1998

national titles and were 1997 runners-up.

One of Kentucky’s greatest football players ever

was quarterback Babe Parilli, who was a two-time

All-American for Bear Bryant’s Wildcats and the 1950

SEC Player of the Year.

Amongst Kentucky’s greatest football players ever,

Hall of Famer Art Still was an All-Pro defensive end

for the Kansas City Chiefs, who was the 2nd overall

pick in the 1978 NFL Draft.


FOOTBALL

SPORTS

ALEX AFARI JR. (IL #3) - On defense, Afari is one to watch. He leads

Kentucky’s defense in tackles so far this season and is already playing a

key role in run fits and supporting the middle. Georgia’s offensive line

must reckon with him when trying to establish tempo on the ground.

JORDAN LOVETT (DB #25) - Lovett showed up in the South Carolina

game with six tackles — an indication that he’s active around the line

and in coverage. His versatility in coverage and willingness to play

physical against tight ends or motion receivers make him a matchup

to watch. If Georgia tries to throw behind the linebackers or to the slot,

Lovett could be challenging those throws.

KAHIL SAUNDERS (DL #92) - Saunders helps anchor Kentucky’s

defensive front. While sack numbers are limited early in the season, his

presence in the trenches and ability to disrupt interior running lanes

may slow down Georgia’s run game, particularly in short-yardage or

JORDAN LOVETT

DEFENSIVE BACK

inside-zone situations.



THE

Five

Georgia vs. Kentucky

BY: JEFF DANTZLER

1. 1977 - Arguably the most dominant football team in Kentucky

history, the Wildcats of 1977 came to Sanford Stadium and

beat the Bulldogs 33-0. That Kentucky team had some kind of

impressive hit list, defeating: North Carolina, West Virginia, Penn

State in Happy Valley, LSU at Tiger Stadium, Georgia in Athens,

Florida in Gainesville, and Tennessee. The 1977 season would be

the lone one that ended with a losing record in Vince Dooley’s

25 years at the helm. What made this game so unique was a

very famous dignitary in attendance. Prince Charles of England,

making an American visit, attended the game. Both coaches

agreed to take part in a ceremony at halftime, along with the

team captains. It was a lot to a little. Coach Dooley and linebacker

captain Jeff Lewis were probably pretty miserable. Kentucky

coach Fran Curci, trying to ease the conversation, offered Prince

Charles a stick of gum. It was a difficult but memorable day for

the Dogs.

2. 1984 NBA Draft - One of the greatest players in Georgia

basketball history is All-Southeastern Conference guard Vern

Fleming. A native of Astoria, New York, Fleming was a prized

recruit for legendary Hall of Fame coach Hugh Durham. A third

team All-American and first team All-SEC selection, Fleming was

the 18th pick in the NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers. Another

Georgia legend, and one of the program’s all-time greats, James

Banks was a third round pick of the Philadelphia 76ers. Two

Kentucky players went in the first six picks of that Draft. Sam

Bowie was taken second overall by Portland, after Houston’s

Hakeem Olajuwon and ahead of the third choice, Michael Jordan

from North Carolina. Another Tar Heel, Sam Perkins, went fourth.

Charles Barkley from Auburn was the fifth pick, then Kentucky’s

Melvin Turpin.

3. 1982 listening - That special season of 1982, it was a good

lesson for a young me not to take anything for granted, especially

in the SEC. The Bulldogs were undefeated. Kentucky was winless.

The Wildcats jumped to a 14-3 lead, but Georgia battled back.

One of my favorite Bulldog quarterbacks, John Lastinger, threw

Tom Weldon, John Ellington

PHOTO BY: Vance leavy

three touchdown passes, a 64-yarder to Heisman Herschel Walker

(his third career touchdown reception), and second half scoring

strikes to Norris Brown and Chris McCarthy. Kevin Butler booted

two field goals and the defense was dominant in the second half,

as the Bulldogs prevailed 27-14 to make it 7-0 on the season.

Larry Munson was masterful, of course adding to the angst

and drama. Two years later the Bulldogs returned to Lexington.

Munson was blasting on the speakers, and the game was on TV.

Another of my favorite Georgia quarterbacks David Dukes got

the start, and directed a tremendous performance. The Bulldogs

won 37-7. Butler, who was injured earlier in the week in practice,

hit three field goals. He told Coach Dooley, when it was unclear as

the week went on that he could kick left footed if needed.

4. The frost of 2022 - There’s no way to know officially if the

Bulldogs 16-6 victory at Kentucky in 2022 is the coldest game

in which Georgia has ever played. But it sure might be. Now this

is a pretty good bet, the Mississippi State game the week prior,

won 45-19 by Georgia, and the battle on the bluegrass have to be

the coldest back-to-back games the Bulldogs have ever played.

Windy, windy, windy and mighty cold in Starkville. Then frigid to

brutally arctic cold with wind as the sun set in Lexington for the

3:30 kickoff. The windchill was in the single digits.

5. Men’s hoops win in 2002 - I never will forget the Bulldogs

beating Kentucky in Rupp Arena in 2002. The Bulldogs all-time

record at Rupp and Memorial was 1-43 heading in. But the Dogs

had a great team, with Jarvis and Jonas Hayes, Rashad Wright,

Chris Daniels, Steve Thomas, Damien Wilkens, Ezra Williams and

Richard Wehunt headlining the cast. Jim Harrick’s team pulled off

a bunch of great victories, and this one was at the top of the list.

I teared up a bit after, I didn’t know if I’d ever see Georgia win in

Rupp. Jarvis gave me a big hug after. What a night.

MOVING DAWGS ACROSS GEORGIA SINCE 1972

lidnsey

Residential and Commercial Moving

Local and Long Distance

On-site Document Destruction

Document Data Storage

Go Mini’s Portable Storage Units

Packing Materials

DUKE LINDSAY

dlindsay@thelindsaygroup.net

706.549.8902 • 180 Trade Street • Bogart, GA 30622


FROM THE

INTERN

Anna

Williams

From the senior who had never lost a home game … until now.

On Saturday night,

Georgia’s remarkable

33-game home winning

streak came to an end when the

Bulldogs fell to Alabama, 24-21.

It was the first loss in Sanford

Stadium since 2019, a run that

spanned nearly six years, three

SEC Championship seasons, and

two national titles. For seniors

like me, who have spent their

entire college careers walking

out of Sanford to the sound of

barking and the echo of “Glory,

Glory,” it felt almost surreal to

walk back home in the dark with

the scoreboard flashing a loss.

The weekend leading up to

the game couldn’t have been

more perfect. Athens was in

full “weekend effect” mode

– parents in town, tailgates

spilling out on the streets, and

game day stickers that read

“Beat Bama” and “Tuscalosers.”

My parents drove 11 hours

from Maryland to be here. We

had the customized cups, the

charcuterie spread, and the

traditional dinner at Marker

7 the night before kickoff.

All signs pointed to a classic

Athens weekend. But what’s

no longer perfect? Our home

record – for some reason,

Georgia just cannot seem to get

past the Crimson Tide.

Of those 33 straight wins, I’ve

been lucky enough to witness

22 of them – sometimes

crammed into the student

section, sometimes working

in the press box, sometimes

downtown with friends. The

streak wasn’t just a number;

it was part of the identity

of being a Georgia student.

Sanford was the place where

you just didn’t lose.

The game itself was a

rollercoaster. The first quarter was

tough to watch – Alabama came

out fast, loud, and confident.

But typical of the Bulldogs, the

fight wasn’t over. In the second

half, we saw flashes of the team

we know: Gunner Stockton

finding space to run, finishing

with 22 rushing yards on five

carries. Colbie Young stepping

up with four catches for 59

yards and a touchdown. On

defense, linebacker CJ Allen was

everywhere, racking up a teamhigh

eight tackles. Georgia’s

defense largely held its ground,

forcing Alabama into stalled

drives.

Still, in a game like this,

the decisions become big

conversations. Walking out of

Sanford with a loss, I overheard

it all: “Why didn’t we just kick

the field goal?” “Why did we go

for it?” It felt like every fan had

a theory of what went wrong.

Combine that with the sound

of Alabama fans mocking

the Georgia faithful on the

concourse, and it was a long,

heavy walk home.

But here’s the thing: I’m okay.

Don’t get me wrong – the loss

stings. I would have loved to say

that I went my entire college

career undefeated at home. But

sitting in the stands Saturday

night as the clock wound

down, I felt something else too:

gratitude. Gratitude for the 22

home wins that I did get to

see. For the friends made while

walking to Sanford, for the lightup

wristbands and fireworks

that have become traditions of

their own, and for my parents

who drove half a day just to be

in Athens for a fall Saturday.

You can’t win them all. And

maybe, just maybe, Georgia

needed to be humbled a little.

The Bulldogs had the nation’s

longest active home winning

streak – longer than Michigan’s

Big House run, longer than

Alabama’s own Bryant-Denny

streak. To string together 33

straight wins at home in the SEC

is almost unheard of. Eventually,

something had to give.

Now, the question is what

comes next. Georgia faces

Kentucky this weekend,

another SEC test. If there’s one

silver lining to starting back

at “zero” home wins, it’s that

we get the chance to start the

streak over again. Saturday’s

game will set the tone not just

for the Bulldogs’ response, but

for how the Georgia fanbase

rallies after heartbreak.

So yes, the loss was

heartbreaking. Yes, it ended

a run that defined my college

years. But maybe this is the

lesson: streaks don’t last

forever, and that’s what makes

them so special. From now

until graduation, every win

Between the Hedges will mean

that much more. And when

I think about walking into

Sanford Stadium this Saturday,

surrounded by red and black,

I’m reminded that even in loss,

there’s nothing better than a

Saturday in Athens.

WE ARE LOCAL.

WE ARE GEORGIA.

WE ARE BULLDAWGS.

Happy Homecoming

Bulldog Nation!

706-546-8100

706-354-4000 bbga.com

Providing Personal, Commercial

and Life and Health policies

across the Southeast tailored to

fit your needs.

CAREY STEPHENS | carey.stephens@boswellgroup.org

RANDY PEARSON | randy.pearson@boswellgroup.org

CARTER GUNN | carter.gunn@boswellgroup.org

BOSWELLGROUPATHENS.COM


SPORTS

My friend Darren Headrick is one of the finest

announcers in the SEC, and he gives us some

outstanding insight for Saturday. Amongst his

many duties, Darren is the play by play voice of

Kentucky baseball and womens basketball.

BY JEFF DANTZLER

A VIEW FROM ...

Lexington

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THE

KENTUCKY TEAM?

Mark Stoops heavily invested

in his offensive line over the

off-season, returning to his

roots: strong, physical play. The

Cats have a young, dynamic QB

in Cutter Boley who loves to

push the ball up the field to his

WRs and a 1-2 punch at RB with

transfers Dante Dowdell and Seth

McGowan. Defensively, the Cats

are tough once again, beginning

with a physical front. Brad White

continues to show he’s one of the

best defensive coordinators in

the game, letting loose another

hungry group on the field.

THE SUCCESS OF MARK

STOOPS, CAN YOU TALK ABOUT

THE STABILITY AND A LOT OF

REALLY GOOD YEARS DURING

HIS TENURE?

Coach Stoops is the winningest

skipper in UK football history for a

reason. To date, he has guided the

Wildcats to two of the program’s

four 10-win seasons and eight

straight bowl appearances.

He snapped Florida’s 31-game

winning streak in the series,

and delivered the Cats’ first win

against Tennessee in Knoxville

since 1984. He has also shown

a track record of getting players

to the NFL, including the

Jacksonville Jaguars’ Josh Hines-

Allen and the Buffalo Bills’ Ray

Davis, Deone Walker and Maxwell

Hairston.

WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON

GEORGIA?

Kirby Smart has done an

incredible job molding the

Bulldogs into a national

powerhouse. You can always

expect Smart’s teams to play

sound, smothering defense and

display an overpowering offense.

WHAT DOES KENTUCKY NEED

TO DO TO WIN?

The crowd and atmosphere is

always tough at Sanford Stadium.

Getting an early lead would be

huge for the Cats. Finding a way

to establish the run game will

be paramount against a defense

that doesn’t yield much on

the ground. As always, win the

turnover battle and get the game

to the fourth quarter.

WHAT WOULD A WIN IN

ATHENS MEAN FOR THE

KENTUCKY FAN BASE?

The Cats haven’t won in Athens

since 2009 and, despite all of the

checkmarks, a win over Georgia

is the one thing eluding Coach

Stoops and Co. A win in Athens

would be massive and another

major step for the Kentucky

program.

ALRIGHT, HOW ARE THE ‘CATS

GOING TO BE IN HOOPS?

Head coach Mark Pope has

assembled another outstanding

team for the upcoming season,

bringing in dynamic freshmen

like Malachi Moreno and Jasper

Johnson, and a super-talented

portal class. Expect point guard

Jaland Lowe to lead an offense

that features returning star Otega

Oweh, Florida transfer Denzel

Aberdeen and Alabama transfer

Mouhamed Dioubate. Coming

off a Sweet 16 in Coach Pope’s

first season, the Wildcats are deep

enough to compete with anyone

and eyeing a deep run in March.

ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER

HEADRICK, DRAW UP THE SEC

9 - GAME SCHEDULES, AND TRY

HOOPS AND BASEBALL TOO!

I believe the SEC did about

as good a job one can when

creating a new 9-game format for

football. They were able to keep

long standing rivalries intact,

such as Oklahoma-Missouri,

Tennessee-Alabama, Georgia-

Florida, LSU-Ole Miss and so

on. Hopefully the new rotation

of games, coupled with three

permanent rivalries, will allow

each school to face the entire

league over the course of two

seasons. I’m fine with the hoops

schedule except the longest road

trips should be on the weekends

instead of week nights! (But that’s

just one announcer’s request.)

Baseball, you’ve got 10 series

and 15 different opponents. The

current format seems the best

way, but it’s going to be strange

losing some of those yearly

rivalries!

Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler

Our regulars will tell you, it’s

HOMECOMING everyday at George’s!

BEAT THE CATS!

420 MACON HWY | ATHENS | 706-548-3359

GEORGESLOWCOUNTRYTABLE.COM

WHERE

SMART

DAWGS

EAT AND

DRINK!


2025 georgia bulldogs numerical roster

Provided By UGA Athletics - Subject To Change

No. Name Pos. Cl. Ht. Wt. Exp. Hometown (Previous School) No. Name Pos. Cl. Ht. Wt. Exp. Hometown (Previous School)

0 Troy Bowles ILB So. 6-0 220 1VL Tampa, Fla. (Jesuit HS)

0 Gabe Harris, Jr. OLB Jr. 6-4 260 2VL Thomasville, Ga. (IMG Academy)

0 Roderick Robinson II RB RSo. 6-1 235 2VL San Diego, Calif. (Lincoln HS)

1 *Zachariah Branch WR Jr. 5-10 180 TR Las Vegas, Nev. (USC/Bishop Gorman HS)

1 Ellis Robinson IV DB RFr. 6-0 180 1VL New Haven, Conn. (IMG Academy)

2 *Zion Branch DB RJr. 6-2 210 TR Las Vegas, Nev. (USC/Bishop Gorman HS)

2 Josh McCray RB RSr. 6-0 240 TR St. Augustine, Fla. (Illinois/Enterprise HS)

3 CJ Allen ILB Jr. 6-1 235 2VL Barnesville, Ga. (Lamar County HS)

3 Nate Frazier RB So. 5-10 205 1VL Compton, Calif. (Mater Dei)

4 KJ Bolden DB So. 6-0 195 1VL Buford, Ga. (Buford HS)

4 Oscar Delp TE Sr. 6-5 245 3VL Cumming, Ga. (West Forsyth HS)

5 *Noah Thomas WR Sr. 6-5 205 TR Pearland, Tx. (Texas A&M/Clear Springs HS)

5 Raylen Wilson ILB Jr. 6-1 235 1VL Tallahassee, Fla. (Lincoln HS)

6 Daylen Everette DB Sr. 6-1 190 2VL Norfolk, Va. (IMG Academy)

6 *CJ Wiley WR Fr. 6-4 210 HS Baton Rouge, La. (Milton HS - Ga.)

7 Daniel Harris DB Jr. 6-3 195 2VL Miami, Fla. (Gulliver Prep HS)

7 Lawson Luckie TE Jr. 6-4 240 1VL Norcross, Ga. (Norcross HS)

8 Joenel Aguero DB Jr. 5-11 205 2VL Lynn, Mass. (St. John’s Prep)

8 Colbie Young WR Sr. 6-4 215 1VL Binghamton, N.Y. (Miami/Binghamton HS)

9 *Ethan Barbour TE Fr. 6-3 235 HS Alpharetta, Ga. (Milton HS)

9 Chris Cole ILB So. 6-3 235 1VL Salem, Va. (Salem HS)

10 *Zayden Walker ILB Fr. 6-2 225 HS Ellaville, Ga. (Schley County HS)

10 *Elyiss Williams TE Fr. 6-7 255 HS St. Mary’s, Ga. (Camden County HS)

11 *Darren Ikinnagbon OLB Fr. 6-5 255 HS Hillside, N.J. (Hillside HS)

11 *Talyn Taylor WR Fr. 6-1 190 HS Geneva, Ill. (Geneva HS)

12 *Jaden Harris DBR Jr. 6-0 200 TR Atlanta, Ga. (Miami/Riverwood HS)

12 Ryan Puglisi QB RFr. 6-3 210 SQ Paxton, Mass. (Avon Old Farms HS)

13 *Anthony Kruah ILB Fr. 6-1 225 HS Philadelphia, Pa. (Marietta HS - Ga.)

13 *Tyler J. Williams WR Fr. 6-2 205 HS Tampa, Fla. (Armwood HS)

14 *Adrian Maddox DB Sr. 6-1 200 TR Conyers, Ga. (UAB/Alabama State/

Heritage HS)

14 Gunner Stockton QB RJr. 6-1 215 2VL Tiger, Ga. (Rabun County HS)

15 Demello Jones DB RFr. 6-1 185 1VL Swainsboro, Ga. (Swainsboro HS)

15 *Ryan Montgomery QB Fr. 6-3 215 HS Findlay, Ohio (Findlay HS)

16 Maurice Hayes CB RFr. 6-0 180 SQ Perry, Ga. (Perry HS)

16 London Humphreys WR Jr. 6-2 200 1VL Nashville, Tenn. (Vanderbilt/Christ

Presbyterian Academy)

17 Colter Ginn QB RFr. 6-3 205 SQ Perry, Ga. (Perry HS)

17 *Jaylan Morgan DB Fr. 6-0 195 HS Murfreesboro, Tenn. (Rockvale HS)

18 Elo Modozie OLB Jr. 6-4 248 TR St. Augustine, Fla. (Army/Bartram Trail)

18 Sacovie White-Helton WR RFr. 5-9 180 1VL Cartersville, Ga. (Cass HS)

19 *Hezekiah Millender QB Fr. 6-3 205 HS Goodyear, Ariz. (Clarke Central HS - Ga.)

19 Justin Williams ILB So. 6-2 225 1VL Conroe, Texas (Oak Ridge HS)

20 Dwight Phillips Jr. RB So. 5-10 185 1VL Mableton, Ga. (Pebblebrook HS)

20 JaCorey Thomas DB Sr. 6-0 205 3VL Orlando, Fla. (Boone HS)

22 *Todd Robinson DB Fr. 5-11 205 HS Valdosta, Ga. (Valdosta HS)

23 Ondre Evans DB RFr. 6-0 195 SQ Franklin, Tenn. (Christ Presbyterian

Academy)

23 Jaden Reddell TE RFr. 6-4 240 1VL Raymore, Mo. (Raymore-Peculiar HS)

24 *Dominick Kelly DB Fr. 6-1 190 HS St. Petersburg, Fla. (IMG Academy)

24 *Bo Walker RB Fr. 5-9 210 HS Ellenwood, Ga. (Rabun Gap HS)

25 *Jontae Gilbert DB Fr. 6-1 190 HS Atlanta, Ga. (Douglass HS)

26 *Micah Bell RB RSo. 5-10 185 TR Houston, Texas (Vanderbilt/Notre

Dame/The Kinkaid School)

26 Daniel Okonkwo S Fr. 6-0 205 HS Powder Springs, Ga. (Hillgrove HS)

27 Rasean Dinkins S Fr. 5-11 190 HS Warner Robins, Ga. (Warner Robins HS)

28 Walter Blanchard WR RSo. 6-1 195 SQ Columbus, Ga. (Brookstone School)

28 Kris Jones OLB RFr. 6-2 230 SQ Stafford, Va. (Fairfax HS)

29 Luke Bennett WR RJr. 5-11 175 SQ Blackshear, Ga. (Pierce County HS)

29 *Isaiah Gibson OLB Fr. 6-4 255 HS Warner Robins, Ga. (Warner Robins HS)

30 Terrell Foster ILB RJr. 6-1 220 2VL Kennesaw, Ga. (IMG Academy)

30 Gannon Hearst RB RJr. 6-0 200 SQ Johns Creek, Ga. (Limestone Univ./

Greater Atlanta Christian School)

31 Kyron Jones DB RSo. 6-0 205 2VL Charlotte, N.C. (Charlotte Christian HS)

31 Wade Penn RB RFr. 5-10 200 SQ Atlanta, Ga. (Westminster HS)

32 Cash Jones RB RSr. 5-11 195 3VL Brock, Texas (Brock HS)

33 Chauncey Bowens RB RFr. 5-11 225 1VL Port St. Lucie, Fla. (The Benjamin School)

33 Quintavius Johnson OLB So. 6-4 255 1VL Atlanta, Ga. (Mays HS)

35 Jacob Fleming DB RJr. 5-11 190 SQ Atlanta, Ga. (Westminster School)

35 Kavon Townsend WR RSr. 6-1 215 TR Conroe, Texas (El Camino College/

Oak Ridge HS)

36 Jackson St. Clair WR Fr. 5-9 165 HS Perry, Ga. (Westfield HS)

37 Ben McElreath WR Fr. 5-11 175 HS Macon, Ga. (First Presbyterian

Day School)

37 Henry Waller DB RJr. 5-11 170 SQ Evans, Ga. (Westminster Schools

of Augusta)

38 Cole Jones ILB Fr. 6-1 210 HS Albany, Ga. (Deerfield Windsor HS)

38 Brandon Mathis RB RJr. 6-0 215 SQ Fayetteville, Ga. (West Georgia/Starrs

Mill HS)

39 Miles Thornton WR RJr. 6-0 200 SQ Tyrone, Ga. (Sandy Creek HS)

41 David Lalaian TE RSo. 6-2 225 SQ Monroe, Ga. (Monroe Area HS)

41 Denton Shamburger DB RJr. 6-0 200 SQ Atlanta, Ga. (Westminster School)

42 Patrick Hester OLB RJr. 6-5 260 SQ Johns Creek, Ga. (Army/Northview HS)

43 Ali Hall DB RSr. 6-1 205 SQ Jacksonville, Fla. (GMC/Westside HS)

44 Jordan Hall DL Jr. 6-4 320 2VL Jacksonville, Fla. (Westside HS)

45 *Eli Barrow ILB RSo. 5-10 220 TR Cedartown, Ga. (West Georgia/

Cedartown HS)

46 Danny Curran WR RJr. 6-1 190 SQ Marietta, Ga. (Lassiter HS)

47 Clayton Hood ILB Fr. 6-2 210 HS Swainsboro, Ga. (David Emanuel

Academy)

47 Will Taylor WR RSo. 6-2 195 SQ Milton, Ga. (Cambridge HS)

48 Duncan Carpenter OLB Fr. 6-3 225 HS Dalton, Ga. (Christian Heritage)

48 Cooper Johnson TE RJr. 6-4 225 SQ Cumming, Ga. (West Forsyth HS)

50 *Cortez Smith OL Fr. 6-3 320 HS Snellville, Ga. (Parkview HS)

51 Will Snellings SN RSo. 6-2 225 SQ Fayetteville, Ga. (Whitewater HS)

51 Malachi Toliver OL RFr. 6-5 320 SQ Cartersville, Ga. (Cartersville HS)

52 Christen Miller DL RJr. 6-4 310 3VL Ellenwood, Ga. (Cedar Grove HS)

52 Michael Uini OL RFr. 6-7 325 SQ Kempner, Texas (Copperas Cove HS)

54 Waltclaire Flynn Jr. OL RFr. 6-2 290 TR Grayson, Ga. (UCF/Grayson HS)

55 Bo Hughley OL RSo. 6-7 295 1VL Fairburn, Ga. (Langston Hughes HS)

55 London Seymour DT Fr. 6-4 305 HS Suwanee, Ga. (North Gwinnett HS)

56 Nasir Johnson DL RFr. 6-5 340 SQ Dublin, Ga. (Dublin HS)

56 Micah Morris OL RSr. 6-4 330 3VL Kingsland, Ga. (Camden County HS)

57 Monroe Freeling OL Jr. 6-7 315 2VL Charleston, S.C. (Oceanside Collegiate

Academy)

60 Beau Gardner SN RSr. 6-5 250 1VL San Francisco, Calif. (UCLA/St. Ignatius

College Prep)

60 Henry Peagler OL RSo. 6-3 290 SQ Blackshear, Ga. (Pierce County HS)

63 Dontrell Glover OL Fr. 6-3 320 HS Fairburn, Ga. (Langston Hughes HS)

64 Jahzare Jackson OL So. 6-10 350 1VL San Diego, Calif. (Overtime Elite)

65 *Dennis Uzochukwu OL Fr. 6-5 300 HS Lawrenceville, Ga. (Peachtree Ridge HS)

67 Clinton Barlow DL RSo. 6-4 315 SQ Charlotte, N.C. (Charlotte Catholic)

70 Daniel Calhoun OL RFr. 6-6 325 1VL Marietta, Ga. (Walton HS)

71 Earnest Greene III OL RJr. 6-4 320 2VL Los Angeles, Calif. (St. John Bosco HS)

72 Jamal Meriweather OL RSo. 6-7 305 SQ Brunswick, Ga. (Brunswick HS)

73 *Juan Gaston Jr. OL Fr. 6-7 360 HS Fairburn, Ga. (Westlake HS)

74 Drew Bobo OL RJr. 6-5 305 2VL Athens, Ga. (Auburn HS - Ala.)

75 *Mason Short OL Fr. 6-6 310 HS Evans, Ga. (Evans HS)

76 Marcus Harrison OL RFr. 6-8 330 SQ Buffalo, N.Y. (St. Francis HS)

78 Tate Nelms OL RFr. 6-3 285 SQ Woodstock, Ga. (Etowah HS)

79 Nyier Daniels OL RFr. 6-8 345 SQ Newark, N.J. (Bergen Catholic HS)

81 Jeremy Bell WR RFr. 6-0 175 SQ Homerville, Ga. (Clinch County HS)

81 Josh Horton DT RSo. 6-4 305 TR Atlanta, Ga. (Miami/Langston Hughes HS)

82 Colton Heinrich TE RFr. 6-4 235 1VL Coral Springs, Fla. (Cardinal Gibbons HS)

83 Cole Speer WR Sr. 5-11 185 3VL Calhoun, Ga. (Calhoun HS)

84 *Landon Roldan WR Fr. 6-0 185 HS Bogart, Ga. (North Oconee HS)

85 *Chase Linton OLB Fr. 6-4 230 HS Atlanta, Ga. (North Atlanta HS)

86 Dillon Bell WR Sr. 6-1 210 3VL Houston, Texas (The Kinkaid School)

88 Thomas Blackshear WR Fr. 6-1 200 HS Savannah, Ga. (Calvary Day School)

90 *Elijah Griffin DL Fr. 6-4 310 HS Savannah, Ga. (Savannah Christian)

90 Drew Miller P RFr. 6-2 210 SQ Mediapolis, Iowa (Mediapolis HS)

91 Justin Greene DE RFr. 6-4 275 SQ Dacula, Ga. (Mountain View HS)

91 Peyton Woodring PK Jr. 5-11 190 2VL Lafayette, La. (Ascension Episcopal HS)

92 Brett Thorson P Sr. 6-2 235 3VL Melbourne, Australia (ProKick Australia)

93 Carter Horton P RSo. 6-5 215 TR Perry, Ga. (LaGrange College/Perry HS)

94 Henry Bates PK RJr. 5-11 190 SQ Waycross, Ga. (Ware County HS)

94 Xzavier McLeod DL RSo. 6-4 315 1VL Camden, S.C. (South Carolina/Camden HS)

95 Nnamdi Ogboko DL RFr. 6-4 340 1VL Durham, N.C. (South Garner HS)

96 Liam Badger PK RSr. 6-0 195 SQ Cumming, Ga. (Kennesaw State/West

Forsyth HS)

96 *JJ Hanne DL Fr. 6-4 290 HS Berlin, Germany (Santa Margarita

Catholic - Calif.)

97 Jordan Thomas DL RFr. 6-5 315 1VL Hackensack, N.J. (Don Bosco Prep HS)

98 Connor Ferguson K Fr. 5-9 155 HS Savannah, Ga. (Benedictine Military)

99 Joseph Jonah-Ajonye DL RFr. 6-4 275 1VL Shenandoah, Texas (Oak Ridge HS)

*2025 Early Enrollees

PRONUNCIATIONS

JOENEL AGUERO...........JOE-NELL UH-GWARE-ROH

ETHAN BARBOUR.....................................BAR-BORE

RASEAN DINKINS...............................RAY-SHAWN

ONDRE EVANS............................................ANDRE

DAYLEN EVERETTE..................................DAY-LYNN

TERRELL FOSTER........................................ TUH-RELL

JONTAE GILBERT........................................ JON-TAY

JJ HANNE..............................................HAHN-UH

COLTON HEINRICH .................................HEIN-RICH

BO HUGHLEY...................................... HUGH-GLEE

DARREN IKINNAGBON........................I-KIN-UH-BON

NASIR JOHNSON.........................................NAZEER

JOSEPH JONAH-AJONYE.... JOAN-UH UH-JONE-YEAH

KYRON JONES...........................................KY-RUN

ANTHONY KRUAH....................................CREW-UH

DAVID LALAIAN..............................LUH-LAY-EE-IN

SINCE 1974

ON ST. SIMONS ISLAND

XZAVIER MCLEOD............................. MUH-CLOUD

HEZEKIAH MILLENDER...................HEZ-EH-KYE-UH

ELO MODOZIE....................... EL-OH MUH-DOH-ZEE

NNAMDI OGBOKO.............. NAMH-DEE OGE-BOKO

DANIEL OKONKWO.........................OH-KONK-KWO

RYAN PUGLISI .............................. PUG-GLEECE-EE

LANDON ROLDAN....................................ROLL-DAN

TALYN TAYLOR.........................................TAL-LYNN

JACOREY THOMAS................................ JUH-COREY

KAVON TOWNSEND.................................KAY-VON

MICHAEL UINI ........................................WEENIE

DENNIS UZOCHUKWU..............OOZ-O-CHOO-KWOO

SACOVIE WHITE-HELTON...................SUH-COVE-EE

ELYISS WILLIAMS..................................EE-LIE-ISS

RAYLEN WILSON.................................... RAY-LYNN

LADY DAWG HEADQUARTERS

SPORTSWEAR 0-16, 0X-2X

ACCESSORIES • SHOES • GIFTS

1616 Frederica Road | 912-638-3995

10:00 - 5:00 Mon.-Sat.

maggiesssi.com


IT’S TOUCHDOWN

SEASON

GEORGIA GIRLS: SKYE ESTROFF PG. 24 | MIXTAPE: MELANIE HOLLIS PG. 26

PROUST Q&A: ALTON STANDIFER PG. 48

SOCIAL

Abby Fenn, Paige VanGeison,

Mallory Magee, Annabelle Bowman,

Perrin Raulet, Grace Wilson,

Ali Whorthen

PHOTO BY: VANCE LEAVY/BI

ALABAMA FAN PHOTOS: PGs. 27-47


GEORGIA GIRLS

SOCIAL

Foundation:

NAME: Skye Estroff

FAMILY: Husband, Elliott and cat, Biscuit; parents, Neal and

Susan Estroff and brother, Adam Estroff

HOMETOWN: Alpharetta, Georgia

CURRENT TOWN: Atlanta, Georgia

WHAT YEARS AT UGA: 2010-2015

SCHOOL/DEGREE: College of Family and Consumer

Sciences - Major: Dietetics, Minor: Human Development and

Family Sciences

PROFESSION: I do all things food and media! I’m known as

“Atlanta’s Food Expert” on TV, radio, and podcasting. I hosted

and executive produced the Foodie Road Trip TV show and

host the weekly Skye’s The Limit Podcast. I also participate as a

regular food judge of culinary competitions and a contributor to

local, regional, and national media. More on Skye-estroff.com and

@‌skye.estroff

Accolades:

Georgia

Girls

SKYE ESTROFF

Member of Les Dames d’Escoffier; former UGA FACS Alumni Board

member; flew in the #7 Blue Angel as a media rider!; emcee for FACS

100 (UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences centennial

event). (2)

Inspo:

BOOK: Swan Song (1) by Elin Hilderbrand was my favorite recent

read, but also a big cookbook collector! I’m partial to When Southern

Women Cook because I contributed to this one. :)

MAGAZINE: Cherry Bombe or Food Network Magazine

PODCAST: Skye’s The Limit Podcast (had to!) and also have

Absolutely Not and Giggly Squad in my weekly rotation

BLOG: Ambitious Kitchen; ambitiouskitchen.com

INSTAGRAM: I’ve been enjoying following @‌alessandrabrontsema’s

for her extravagant tablescapes and seasonally-themed menus!

BRAND: East Fork Pottery! I covet their dishware and am quick to

add new colors to my collection.

FASHION DESIGNER: Zoë Chicco (Jewelry)

INTERIOR DESIGNER: My mom! And the Atlanta-based, Ilyssa

Krouse Spenello of An I for Design.anifordesign.com )

CHEF: This is so tough because of the line of work that I’m in! I have

interviewed almost 100 chefs for my podcast and dozens for TV …

Martha Stewart, Alice Waters, Anthony Bourdain and Jamie Oliver

are big figures to me. I also have a tendency to binge Diners, Driveins

and Dives on Friday nights and draw inspiration from Guy Fieri’s

compelling on-screen personality.

HISTORICAL FIGURE: Julia Child (3)

QUOTE: MY FRIENDS AND I JOKE THAT MY REAL HOUSEWIVES

TAGLINE WOULD BE, “IF I’M NOT CHEWIN’, I DON’T KNOW WHAT

I’M DOIN’!”

2.

1.

3.


TAILGATE RECIPE: This is my Caramelized Vidalia

Onion Dip with Kale that we made on my streaming

show, Foodie Road Trip (http://foodieroadtrip.com ;

streaming on many platforms) (4)

4.

Athens + UGA:

DESCRIBE ATHENS IN FIVE WORDS OR

LESS: Home away from home!

RESTAURANTS AND BARS: Marti’s at

Midday, Mama’s Boy, Last Resort, Cali n Tito’s,

Cafe Racer, Farm Cart, Independent Baking

Company, The National, Big City Bread,

Georgia Theatre Rooftop, Ted’s Most Best,

Trapeze, Little Italy …

SHOPS: Kempt, Cheeky Peach, Condor

Chocolates

ATHENS/CAMPUS LANDMARK: Athens

Botanical Gardens (The State Botanical

Garden of Georgia) - I love it so much I even

was married here!

MEMORY WHILE IN SCHOOL: Getting 2nd

place in the food garnishing competition in

my food lab class!

PROFESSOR/CLASS: I loved learning how to

present food demos in Dr. Caree Cotwright’s

class, Professor Brigman’s food lab is

something I reference all the time and taught

me how to assess food and Dr. Emma Laing

was an incredible professor and mentor to me.

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 diced Vidalia onions

¼ teaspoon sugar

¼ teaspoon sea salt

1 tablespoon dry sherry

5 sprigs thyme

1 cup kale

1 cup shredded Gruyere

½ cup sour cream

½ cup mayo

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 loaf sourdough bread

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Set pan on stovetop to medium heat. Drizzle in olive oil.

Once oil is hot, add Vidalia onions, sugar and salt. Stir

continuously for 15-20 minutes or until onions are a

caramel brown color.

Add in kale, sherry and sprinkle thyme in the mixture.

Stir for ~2 minutes.

Remove pan from heat.

In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, mayo, and cheese

then stir in the onion mixture from pan.

Transfer the mixture to a cast iron skillet and bake for

about 20 minutes.

Toast sourdough bread to serve with the dip.

GAMEDAY RITUAL/PLAN: I’m a 4th

generation UGA graduate so my family is

always prepared with a top notch tailgate.

We set up at AEPi and feed the masses with

all kinds of party mixes, fried chicken, deviled

eggs, cheese straws, cookies, drinks and

more. Everyone is welcome as long as you’re

wearing red and black and open to taking a

shot of Fireball after calling the dawgs!

Cheri Leavy’s rapport

with her favorite

tastemakers and

UGA Alumnae brings

you plenty of doggone

good inspiration!

@cherileavy | @thesouthernc

@wearebulldawgs

@guide2athens


@ameliasapparel

ameliasonmain.com

(706) 850-6373

1738 S Lumpkin Street, Athens

(706) 342-2986

172 South Main Street, Madison

M I X T A P E

playlist featured by Melanie Hollis

brought to you by BULLDAWG ILLUSTRATED + LAST RESORT GRILL

In honor of Athens’ distinction as one of the best music towns in the nation and the original

Last Resort opened as a music club in 1966. Those who can still remember the tunes of such

passionate performers as the Reverend Pearly Brown, Towns Van Zandt, Doc Watson, Jimmy

Buffett, and even Steve Martin may feel nostalgic at the mere mention of the club’s name.

Today that passion is found in Last Resort Grill’s menu and atmosphere, pulling directly from

the building’s eclectic history. - Compiled by: Cheri Leavy

MELANIE HOLLIS

NAME: Melanie Hollis

FAMILY: Husband, Steve; daughters: Anna,

Lili and husband, Rob Donnell

HOMETOWN: Ellaville, Georgia

CURRENT TOWN: Athens, Georgia

YEARS AT UGA: 1989-1992

DEGREE: Bachelors of Early Childhood

Education

PROFESSIONAL: Kindergarten teacher at

Athens Academy for 23 years

TIES TO ATHENS MUSIC: Seeing live bands

in early 90s such as Widespread Panic, Allgood,

White Buffalo and Landsharks were some of my

favorite times in college.

King of the Road - Roger Miller

Rocky Mountain High - John Denver

Melanie's Playlist

I and Love and You - Avett Brothers

Wish I Knew You - The Revivalists

Feeling Good Again - Robert Earl Keen

24 frames - Jason Isbell

King of the Road - Roger Miller

Murder in the City - Avett Brothers

Circles - Post Malone

Good Old Days - The Revivalists

The Road Goes on Forever - Robert Earl Keen

Friend of the Devil - Grateful Dead

Wagon Wheel - Old Crow Medicine Show

Easy on Me - Adele

Chilly Water - Widespread Panic

Head Full of Doubt - Avett Brothers

Hold on Loosely- 38 Special

Rocky Mountain High - John Denver

Travelin’ Light - Widespread Panic

All of My Friends - The Revivalists

Carl Perkins Cadillac - Drive by Truckers

Wildflowers - Tom Petty

Ramblin’ Man - Allman Brothers

Check out the

playlist on

FAVE BAND SEEN IN ATHENS: Avett

Brothers at the Classic Center in 2011

Wildflowers - Tom Petty

Dinner Service

SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AT 5 PM

Brunch

SERVED SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

10AM - 2PM

Friday Lunches

EVERY FRIDAY 11PM - 2PM

174/184 W. CLAYTON ST. | ATHENS, GEORGIA

706-549-0810 | WWW.LASTRESORTGRILL.COM

OWNERS KELLY AND

TOM CALL


Catey Simmons, Brian Simmons, Clay Smith, Kerry Smith Stephen

Yoder, Martin Yoder, Lauren Ray

Caroline Champion, Elizabeth Brunson, Alison Abernathy, Cheri Leavy,

Kelly Call

Ryan Dunlap, Taylor Smith, Caleb Covington, Bear Matthews,

Candler Dunlap, Mary Beth Smart

Regan Tanner, Drew Tanner, Tanner Walton, Cleary Tanner, Tiffany

Walton, Rob Walton

Lauren Fleming, Mary Grant Campbell, Hayley Brammer, Megan

Cadogan, Lindsey Sermonet, Madalyn Suits, Caroline Campbell,

Grant Campbell, Will Campbell

ULLA JOHNSON + HUNTER BELL

AMANDA UPRICHARD + STAUD

AGOLDE + DOLCE VITA + VERONICA BEARD

MOTHER + SOFTWAVES

LOVE THE LABEL + MARIE OLIVER

RAG & BONE + SEA NY + KREWE

GANNI + ENEWTON + HART

FARM RIO + CLEOBELLA + TORY BURCH

195 COLLEGE AVENUE

ATHENS, GA

706.543.0702

Vance Leavy, Chris Lanter, Rena Lanter, Hays Lanter, Devin Thomas,

Wendy Mitchell, Todd Mitchell


SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Fred Dixon, Cynthia Dixon, Ashley Dixon,

Vic Miller, Jackie Mille

GEORGIA - 21, ALABAMA - 24

Knoxie Burson, Julia Smart, Amelia Walstad, Virginia

Gaston, Ellie Gribbin, Lulu Gribbin, Pressley Burson

Woody Gayle, Andy Vance, Donn

Perno, Russell Bennett, Lane Perno

Helen Morgan, Emma Chandler,

McCall Stevenson, Katherine Moss,

Callie Davis

Archie Lowe, Michael Militello, Mark Lerdel, Jay Torchio, Pat Stevens,

Brian Satisky

Eleanor Anne Fann,

Shanna Bradley,

Scott Piltcher

GET GAMEDAY READY READY

GAAMEDAAY

GET

Welcome to all

Parents Weekend

and Homecoming

fans!

1059 Baxter Street, Athens, GA | 706.548.7246 | dickfergusons.com


You might need

a bigger closet!

Paige | Simkhai | Alice and Olivia

Mestiza | Farm Rio | Mirth

Brochu Walker | P448 | Ceceila NY

MZ Wallace and many more!

www.monkeesofathens.com

1059 Baxter St. Suite A | Athens GA 30606

706.850.8577

Follow Along!

@monkeesathens

SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Katherine Turner, Quavo

Katherine Parker

Dement, Raines Tharpe


Thomas Williams,

Savannah Williams

Caroline Hester,

Shannon Hollis

Wade Kovacs, Brendan Hartigan, Spencer Marston, Greer Armstrong, Carter

Tharpe, Jr, Mack Strickland, West Kovacs, Carter Tharpe, Matt Strickland Mitchell Hill, Smith Marks Kelly Wiedower,

Marcus Wiedower

Alexa is an Athens, Ga, based interior designer with projects

nationwide who is known for bringing a fresh perspective to traditional

design through color and pattern.

www.alexastevensonid.com | info@alexastevensonid.com |

@alexastevenson


FAN SHOTS

SOCIAL

(front) Bella Qualls, Francesca Martin, Teague Pierce, Carleigh Jurkiewicz, Kara

Purvis, Michelle Beckum, Lee Zell, Stacy Stephens, Laura Jean Leal, Jamie Walker;

(middle) Laurel McCorkle, Chad Redd, Shelby Jurkiewicz, Betty Coy, Dorothy

Walker, Carey Stephens, Jason Proctor, Brannen Wright; (back) Charles Jurkiewicz,

Robert McCorkle, Phillip Walker, Courtney Walker, Madalyn Walker, Ben Gilbert

Matt McNeely,

Wes Hogan

Jack Millians, Lily

Albright, Katie Patten

Steve Palmer, Musa Smith,

Lacey Smith Patrick Jones, Mike Hobby Kevin Butler, Leah Chapman, John Dorris, Tim Fitzgerald, Tim Chapman

1730 S. Lumpkin St. | Athens, GA 30606 | Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10-5 706-353-8251 | @apptsat5 | www.appointmentsat5.com


SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Elher Zemihret John Hana, Slok Jhaveri

Mike Edwards,

Tishara Adams,

Chris Scarbrough

Laurie Alexander, Katie Gibson,

Amanda Kirk


Charles Benjamin,

Aundra Evans

Leigh Hoke, Charlie Hoke

Roy Roberts, Chip Champion

Andy Scates, Ryan Scates

Classic Elegance And Modern Charm

Beautiful florals, home décor, and

unique gifts for every occasion

perryanderstudio.com

1093 Baxter Street | 706.227.0805 | @perryanderstudio


SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Beth Carter, C.B. Hamrick, Mary Alice Cochran, Leanna

Schulenburg, Melanie McLendon

Sony Michel, AJ Green

Rick Rodrigue, Kathryn Rodrigue,

Mitch Davis, Kelly Davis

Micki Carter, Jim Benefield, Adriana Bumgartner,

John Bumgartner, Laura Humphreys

Perry Langston, Banks Jones, Burt Jones

Drew Brunson, Trey Brunson,

Elizabeth Brunson, Patrick Brunson

Hal Greer

Managing Director/Investments

Sheri Haugabook

Senior Vice President/Investments

George Greer

Vice President/Investments

Maggie Greer

Financial Advisor

Ryan Emory, CRPC TM , WMS TM

Vice President/Investments

Mai Kulkarni

Client Relationship Manager

Lois Renfroe

Senior Registered Client Service

Associate

Mary Charles Dunn

Senior Client Service Associate

(478) 238-1195 main | (478) 238-1096 fax | www.greer-financialgroup.com

5400 Riverside Drive, Suite 201 | Macon, Georgia 31210

Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com


FAN SHOTS

SOCIAL

Torrel Williams

Jamari butler

Jessica Moore,

Henry Guynn

Hamilton Culpepper,

Rhett Reeve

Sophie Sabri, John Crawford


Malorie Wyse, Cece Gillum & McKayla Gillum

Peyton Bradford, Andy

Lipscomb, Sara Lipscomb

Sara Worley, Trey Worley, Carter Jane

Worley, Ben Worley

YOUR PROJECT’S OFFENSIVE LINE

YANCEY BROS CO.

TACKLING ALL YOUR EQUIPMENT

NEEDS IN THE ATHENS AREA

WWW.YANCEYBROS.COM 800 • 282 • 1562

RENTAL • SALES • SERVICE

50 TRADE ST.

BOGART, GA. 30622


SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

KB Baxter, Triston Chase Hardman Knox, Brennan Cox Angela Hickson, Jeff Miller Claire Mitchell, Billy Shuman

Henry Crewsy , Scott Crewsy, Jessica Crewsy

Cam Wilhoit, Mitchell Odom,

Molly Poston

Keith Marshall, Hairy Dawg,

Wade Kovacs

UNIVERSITY

TOWERS

ELEVATED LIVING

UNIT #901 PENTHOUSE

$850,000

YOUR TRUSTED

REAL ESTATE ADVISOR

HALLY

DEMENT

Athens Office, Founding Member, Realtor ®

24 YEARS

OF SERVICE

PUT MY EXPERTISE

TO WORK FOR YOU

o. 706.995.7500 | c. 404.771.1017

HALLYDEMENT@ANSLEYRE.COM


FAN SHOTS

SOCIAL

Knox Langley, Watts Allen, Sam McElreath, Andrew Smart,

Knox Ewing, William Shuler

Elizabeth Dunlap, Andrew Smart,

Lola Rooker

Katie Hashin, Lauren Johnson,

Marie Stewart


John Kinney, Jeff Dantzler

Fielding Shurling,

Weaver Shurling

Why Regions and

Why Todd Regions

Why Cowart? and

Why Regions Regions and

Todd Cowart? and

Todd Todd Cowart? Cowart?

Todd Cowart?

Will Willimon,

Elizabeth Willimon

• Competitive Jumbo rates, 100% financing options, Doctor Loan

• Competitive program, One-time Jumbo rates, close 100% Construction-to-permanent financing options, Doctor loans Loan

•• program, Competitive Servicing One-time

• Competitive retained Jumbo close rates, on most Construction-to-permanent

Jumbo

100%

rates, every financing

100% loan financing we options, originate options,

Doctor loansLoan

Doctor Loan

• Competitive

• Competitive Servicing program,

Serving program,

One-time

customers retained Jumbo One-time rates,

Jumbo on close

across most 100% Construction-to-permanent

rates, every close financing

the 100% South, Construction-to-permanent loan financing we options,

Midwest originate Doctor loans Loan

and options, Texas Doctor loans Loan

program, One-time close Construction-to-permanent loans

• program, Serving Servicing

Todd’s • Servicing customers retained One-time

a Regions’ retained

on across most close

Chairman

the on

every South, Construction-to-permanent most

loan

Club Award every Midwest loan

originate

recipient

and we Texas originate loans

• Servicing retained most every loan we originate 2014-2024 and

Servicing Todd’s Serving leading • a Serving

customers Regions’ national retained customers Chairman loan across

on producer the

most across Club South,

every Award the

Midwest

South, loan recipient Midwest

and 2014-2024 Texas

• Serving customers across the South, Midwest and Texas originate and Texas and

leading national loan producer

•• Todd’s

Todd’s

Serving He has • a

a

Regions’ Todd’s 17-year-old

Regions’

customers

a Chairman Regions’

Chairman

triplets! across

Chairman Club

Club Award

the Award South,

Club recipient

recipient

Award

Midwest 2014-2024 recipient

2014-2024

and

2014-2024 and

and

Texas

and

• leading He leading has national 17-year-old national

leading loan national

loan triplets! producer

producer

loan producer

• He Todd’s He has has

• 17-year-old a He Regions’ has 17-year-old triplets triplets! Chairman and triplets! needs Club every Award loan recipient he can get! 2014-2024 and

leading national loan producer

• Contact He has 17-year-old Todd right triplets! here in Athens today. It would be a pleasure to help.

Contact Todd right here in Athens today. It would be a pleasure to help.

Contact Contact Todd right Todd here right in here Athens in Athens today. today. It would It would be a pleasure be a pleasure to help. to help.

Todd

Todd

Cowart

Cowart

Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS 310972

Contact Todd right Mortgage Todd here Cowart Loan

c - 678.488.5308

Todd in Cowart Athens Officer | NMLS today. 310972 It would be a pleasure to help.

c Mortgage - 678.488.5308

Mortgage

Loan Officer

Loan

|

Officer

NMLS 310972

| NMLS 310972

todd.cowart@regions.com

c - 678.488.5308

c - 678.488.5308

regions.com/mlo/toddcowart




Todd regions.com/mlo/toddcowart

Cowart

Regions Regions Bank. Bank. The The LifeGreen LifeGreen color color is a trademark is Mortgage a trademark of Regions of Regions Bank. Bank. (08/25) Loan (08/25) Officer | NMLS 310972

Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark c - 678.488.5308

of Regions Bank. (08/25)

Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank. (08/25)




Tyler Eith, Camden Trammell

© 2025 © 2025 Regions Regions Bank. Bank. NMLS# NMLS# 174490. 174490. All loans All loans subject subject to qualification, to qualification, required required documentation, documentation, and credit and approval. credit approval. Certain exclusions Certain exclusions may apply. may Loan apply. terms and Loan availability terms and subject availability to change. subject | Regions to change. and the | Regions and logo the are Regions registered logo trademarks are registered of trademarks of

© 2025 Regions Bank. NMLS# 174490. All loans subject to qualification, required documentation, and credit approval. Certain exclusions may apply. Loan terms and availability subject to change. | Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of

© 2025 Regions Bank. NMLS# 174490. All loans subject to qualification, required documentation, and credit approval. Certain exclusions may apply. Loan terms and availability subject to change. | Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of

SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Oliver Pryor, John Kinney, Will Haley, Henley

Cook, Bennett Marti, Shep Pryor, John Cook

Lilly Rutherford,

Ryan Rutherford,

Melissa

Rutherford, Peter

Herbstreit

Paul Lycett, Mary Beth Smart, Michael

Toothaker, Will Taylor

Claire Smith, Carrie Shepherd,

Lacy Sinkwich, Amy ONeill


The Grateful Dads – Paul Hardin, Spence Johnson,

Russell Bennett, Sarah Bennett, Graham Blanks,

Stephen Simmons, Jason Fuller

The Grateful Dads

St. Simons

FOR RESIDENT AND NON RESIDENT

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION CONTACT

Brian Albertson PGA, CMAA | General Manager

Past President Georgia PGA

Briana@brunswickcountryclub.com

brunswickcountryclub.com

MENSWEAR | LEATHER GOODS | GOLF APPAREL

LUGGAGE | KNIVES | CANDLES & UNIQUE MENS GIFTS

See our complete collection at Bullington SSI or stevebullington.com

36oo Frederica Road | 912.771.8457 | SteveBullington.com

Monday -Saturday 10am - 5pm


Zachary

Powell,

DMD

Show Us Your

Bulldawg Bite!

Give our office a call today to schedule personalized time with one of our experienced professionals!

Implant Dentistry | Cosmetic Dentistry | Preventive Dentistry | Family Dentistry

288 Redfern Village, SSI | 9 1 2 . 6 3 8 . 9 0 9 0 | Monday - Thursday 8am - 4pm | WELCOMING NEW SMILES


SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Jacob Mancil, John Wise

Long, Vic Long, West Downey

Jeff Ramsey, Grant Campbell, Matt Cadogen, Jim Sermonet,

Ben Johnson, Jeff Suits, Jeff McWhorter

Ron Yabroudy, Meredith

Kahlstorf, Lacy Sinkwich,

Frank Sinkwich

Paige Robinson,

Holland Robinson

Ellen Cole, Tamaine Jordan


Price West, William Parker

Thornton Hester,

Timothy Furlow

GO DAWGS!

Interiors Industrial

Retail Healthcare

Storage

Hospitality

Higher

Education

Religious

Restaurant

Specialty

Milestone-gc.com | Athens | Augusta | Southeast


FAN SHOTS

SOCIAL

Shelby Day, Jon Day Charlie Fiveash, John Fiveash Meredith Eidson, Ava Arrington Alex Hill, Israel Machovec

Tim Jamieson, George Jamieson,

Henry Jamieson, Peter Nemer

Tanya Seymour, Vassa Cate,

Richard Seymour, Adrian Cate

Chris Champlin, Kendall Champlin, Jill Champlin,

Ginny Tally, Jim Tally, Jacob Tally

athens

Tucker

gainesville

steelmartatlanta.com

steelmartatlanta.com

GO DAWGS!

++


++

SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Sam Woodrow, AJ Yuhas,

Will Green, Ryan Leung

Amy Cox, Gavin Cox

Taylor Boswell, Sarah

Parker Boswell

Tammi Oliva, John Oliva

Cedric Evans,

Corliss Gresham

Joseph Rice, Ted Bailey,

Chuck Stines

Chris Glover, Michael Thompson, Ranse Partin,

Luke Davis, Rob Davis

Mimi Culpepper, Meredith Kahlstorf,

Madeline Tebeau

H O M E

is where the dawgs are.

BONNIE DUNN

(706) 614-7360

LISA M. LANGFORD

(706) 340-2242

U G A T e r r y C o l l e g e o f B u s i n e s s G r a d u a t e s | U G A R e d c o a t A u x i l i a r y A l u m n i

6 0 + Y e a r s o f R e a l E s t a t e & F i n a n c i a l E x p e r i e n c e

B u l l d a w g s B a t t l i n g B r e a s t C a n c e r S u p p o r t e r s

G l o b a l L u x u r y S p e c i a l i s t s


FAN SHOTS

SOCIAL

Al Hickson, Steve Ratley, Ryan Rutherford

Greg Sankey, Josh Brooks, Jere Morehead, Brian Kemp

Jack Spalding, Norman Dupree,

Kellie Spalding, Charlie Spalding

Paul Hammes,

Matthew Hammes

Weston Theus,

Demetria Theus,

John Theus

Stacey Kitchens, Kate Kitchens, Kate Kitchens,

Gray Kitchens, Ava Kitchens, Lila Kitchens

Hamp Thompson,

William Leavy


Since 1997, Georgia Based OneSource has

specialized in Employee Benefits Pooling, saving

an average of 20% … WOOF, WOOF, WOOF!!!

BOTTOM-LINE

SAVINGS ...

OneSource PEO (Professional Employer

Organization) creates economies of scale by

pooling thousands of employees into one

payroll system.

The end result is less headaches and more

savings for your business!

Bulldog owned and operated …

serving all of SEC country!

102 Mary Alice Park Road | Suite 701 | Cumming, GA 30040

Sales: 470-253-7120 | info@onesourcepeo.com

Go to onesourcepeo.com for more info


SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

John Shepherd, Margaret Siegel, Claire Smith, Carrie Shepherd,

Cortni Farmer, Will Farmer

Brad David, Sidney David,

Elizabeth Peterson, Hugh

Peterson

Mandy Underwood, Katherine

Culpepper, John Underwood,

John Culpepper, Ellen Cole

Tyler Brabenec, Matt Griffies, Robert Wolfe,

Jimmy Rector

Cope Smith, David Wilson


Jon Pannell,

Kimberly Pannell

Jack Vendetti, Ashley Cudd,

Mike Cudd

Need MVP Talent?

Trust the Experts.

Just like Gunner trusts

Oscar in the biggest

moments…

Companies trust Elliott

International to find

their next MVPs.

OSCAR

DELP

GUNNER

STOCKTON

COOPER

JOHNSON

ELLIOTTINT.COM


FAN SHOTS

SOCIAL

McKenzie Blevins,

Georgia Lea Waters

Reggie Carter (#45),

Kevin Butler (#5)

Betty Woolbright,

Lee Woolbright

Heard Galis, David Cochran

Brian Satisky, Aly Satisky

Caroline Kinney, Stella NeSmith, Louise Scruggs

John Shepherd, Grace Mason,

Steve Mason, Scott Shepherd

Keith Newberry, Ellen Newberry,

Flynn Miller, Brooklyn Miller,

Beau Terrell


SOCIAL

FAN SHOTS

Lauren Fried, Amy Kingman,

Joseph Fried

Rodney Close,

Melonese Close Lilly McNeill, Joie Jackson Rohan Mane , Preethika

Spence Johnson,

Cress Johnson

Hadley Cullars,

Anna Grace Sertl

Cheri Leavy, Molly Poston,

Katie Lloyd

Paul Collar, Natalie Collar, Hans Carter

Carson Ratley, Traci Ratley,

Steve Ratley

Located In Beautiful North Georgia Mountains

Tallulah Falls

CAMP

Established in 1933

CHATTOOGA

Camp FOR Chattooga

GIRLS

FOR GIRLS

GEORGIA

Established in 1898

A

C

FOR BOYS

Athens Y Camp

FOR BOYS

DROP BY FOR

SOME OF OUR

FAMOUS

SOFT SERVE

ICE CREAM

Compounding Now Available

Emphasis on Christian values

Located on 600 acres

Separate boys and girls facilities

One week sessions

Resident & Day Camps

Traditional & Adventure programs

“Where God and good times

are friends”

www.ayccamps.org

Not

JUST

a pharmacy

• Easy Prescription Refills

• Simple prescription transfers

• Express delivery

• Immunizations (flu, new COVID

boosters, and more)

• $0.99 Soft Serve Ice Cream Cones

• Medical equipment

• Pet care

• EzPzPak pouch packaging

• Boutique clothing & accessories

• Gifts with Free gift wrapping

Monday-Friday: 9a.m.-7p.m. • Saturday: 11a.m.-5p.m. • Sunday: Closed

3603 Frederica Rd. • SSI, GA 31522 • 912-357-2357

fredericapharmacy.com


FAN SHOTS

SOCIAL

Tripp Beaty, Mary Wallace Champion,

Tommy Bryan

Barrett McLanahan, Susanna Drennen,

Sam Drennen

Delaney Bass, Kaden Bass, Ava Edwards,

Kenna Thomsen

Uzo, Diribe, Ngozi Uzo-diribe,

Hana Uzo-Diribe

Jon Olmstead,

Jay Ferguson

James Wiant,

Winston Wiant

Fred Victor, Henry Victor

LaNorris Nixon, Iris Nixon


The only thing I love more than

Real Estate is GEORGIA FOOTBALL!

Let’s game plan your

REAL ESTATE needs

together!


PROUST

Q&A

COMPILED BY: HAMILTON CULPEPPER

NAME: Dr. Alton M. Standifer

FAMILY: Wife - Brittany B. Standifer (2016). Son - AJ Standifer.

HOMETOWN: Monticello, Georgia

CURRENT TOWN: Athens, Georgia

WHAT YEARS AT UGA: 2016-2021

SCHOOL/DEGREE: SPIA – Ph.D. Public Administration and

Policy

ACCOLADES: UGA 40 Under 40, Georgia Southern 40 Under

40, Leadership Georgia Class of 2022.

WHAT LIFE LESSONS DID YOU LEARN WHILE AT

UGA? The importance of relationships. I have heard multiple

UGA presidents say that the future of the state of Georgia flows

through this university. When I look at our alumni and the

opportunities that the Bulldog network creates, it emphasizes

that the people are what make UGA such a special place.

WHAT PROFESSOR DID YOU ADMIRE MOST? Dr.

Brian Williams taught me Urban Policy and the manner in which

he instructed was so informative and impactful. Dr. Williams

is also from a rural Georgia town and he navigated the course

so well, not introducing his biases but facilitating spirited

discussions that forced students with varying beliefs on the

issues and opportunities in both urban and rural communities

to consider the intended and unintended implications of

their policy decisions, to value your own thoughts while

respecting and hearing those of others, and recognizing that

“wicked problems” don’t have simple solutions. He and his wife

eventually left UGA for Charlottesville where Dr. Brian Williams

is on the UVA faculty and Dr. Carla Williams serves as Athletic

Director.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST

ACHIEVEMENT?

Before a year and 10 months ago I would’ve said earning a

Ph.D., an achievement that the University of Georgia afforded

to me. I was the first in my family to achieve this feat, and it has

opened so many doors for me. However, being a dad to AJ and a

husband to Brittany are achievements that I do not deserve and

are only achieved by God’s grace. AJ is the coolest kid I know

and Brittany is way out of my league – sometimes it’s better to

be lucky than good!

WHAT HISTORICAL FIGURE DO YOU MOST

IDENTIFY WITH? King David in the Bible was a man after

God’s own heart. He was called from lowly beginnings to do

great things. He was not without failures and shortcomings but

was a deeply faithful leader whose legacy endured. I hope to

limit the shortcomings and show others around our state who

come from small towns and large cities, that with hard work,

an open mind, and a positive attitude, you can have a lasting

positive impact on the world.

WHO ARE YOUR HEROES IN REAL LIFE? Mr. Paul

Holmes has been an enduring example of how you treat people,

all people. When I was kid working in our local grocery store he

encouraged me and his support of me has never wavered. He

and his late wife, Mrs. Susan Dykes Holmes always reminded me

that people

have the right

to their own

beliefs and

decisions that

you may or may

Alton Standifer

not agree with,

but people’s heart

and their work

ethic is what you want to consider them by. This led them, two

republican elected officials, to support a lifelong democrat as

mayor of our hometown, who happened to be my uncle and the

first Black mayor of Monticello, Georgia. Mr. Paul remains one of

my heroes, role models, and greatest supporters to this day. (Mr.

Paul and Mrs. Susan were both UGA grads)

QUOTE TO LIVE BY: “Education is the most powerful

weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Nelson

Mandela

WHAT IS YOUR IDEA OF PERFECT HAPPINESS?

Other than the Dawgs and the Georgia Southern Eagles never

losing another game… Or Tiger Woods somehow winning

another major! Our friends have a farm that sits along the Flint

River. Spending a weekend there with family and friends has

been the source of great joy, a place to clear my mind and

consider major decisions, it’s as close to perfection on this side

of heaven.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST MARKED CHARACTERISTIC?

I always want to make people feel seen, valued, alive!

WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST IN YOUR FRIENDS?

Honesty, loyalty, care for others, the ability to keep it real, and

fun!

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT

YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Make me as intelligent and as good of a leader as President

Morehead! The ability to eat as many sweets as I wanted

without health implications would be close second. Especially

my Aunt Cat’s Pound Cake and Cinnamon Rolls from Anne

Thompson who serves as President Morehead’s Executive

Assistant

WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE WRITERS?

Biggie Smalls - Juicy is an all-time favorite track! Mitch Album -

Tuesdays with Morrie is one of my favorite books. Emphasizes

the importance of mentorship. Malcolm Gladwell - Outliers is

book I often return to. Chris Whipple - Gatekeepers: How the

White House Chiefs of Staff Define Every Presidency. A friend

bought me this book when I got the job as Deputy Chief of

Staff to President Morehead, and I have referenced it many

times. It was a fun read, and it included a chapter on a few of

Georgia’s own.

FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA AND WHO TO FOLLOW?

Twitter, currently known as X, and Instagram. I mainly looked to

this for news and insights so my recommendation is to follow

people with similar and opposing views for the best experience.


HAMMY’S HORSESHOES PG. 50 | JD’S TOP 12 PG. 51 STATS THAT MATTER PG. 54

HEARTBREAKING! BUT

KIRBY SMART AND THE

DAWGS MUST KEEP

WORKING IN THE RIGHT

DIRECTION!


MORE

SPORTS


make the Summit? Let the warmth and light of The Southern C

Can’t

uplift and inspire you all year through membership.

community

MORE SPORTS

FOOTBALL

BY: HAMILTON CULPEPPER

Air Force @ Navy (-10.5) | O/U 49

Saturday, Oct. 4, Noon

We love a service academy matchup. Those who fight for our

country in two divisions of the United States military get the

chance to duke it out on the gridiron this Saturday. For a game

like this, how can you not root for the over. Air Force is averaging

nearly 38 PPG while giving up nearly 39 PPG. Navy, on the other

hand, is averaging over 38 PPG, garnering a 4-0 record. These two

squads are ready to light up the Annapolis sky! Hunker down with

over 49 points!

Washington (-5.5) @ Maryland | O/U (52.5)

Saturday, Oct. 4, 3:30PM

Washington put up a decent fight with the Buckeyes in Seattle

last weekend. Prior to the loss, the Huskies were wrongfully

kept out of the AP Top 25. Despite the loss, I’m a believer in this

Washington team with head coach Jedd Fisch at the helm. After

staying in Seattle for the Ohio State date, the Huskies travel across

the entire U.S. to College Park, Maryland. Despite the jet lag, this is

a get-right game for Washington. Hunker down with the Huskies

to cover 5.5!

Texas (-6.5) @ Florida | O/U 43.5


The battle of disappointments. Florida entered the season with a

Heisman hopeful at quarterback and playoff aspirations. Oh wait,

Texas did too. While Florida’s record shows they are nowhere near

a playoff berth, Texas is still very much alive. However, Texas was

projected to be some juggernaut, asserting dominance week in

and week out. It hasn’t exactly been that way with Arch Manning

at QB. Hunker down with under 43.5! These two defenses are the

only promising facets of these teams.

Syracuse @ SMU (-16.5) |

O/U (58.5)


The ‘Cuse might be my most

bet upon team this season. They

betrayed us early in the year, but

redeemed themselves with their win

over Clemson. I’m hopping off the

wagon though. I can’t trust back-up

quarterback Rickie Collins, filling in

for starter Steve Angeli. I hate to leave

KENTUCKY @

GEORGIA

SAT. NOON ABC

‌KENT STATE @

OKLAHOMA

SAT. 4PM SECN

my guy Fran Brown in the dust, but this Rhett Lashlee Pony Express

with Kevin Jennings under center at home is an ACC title contending

team, and I can’t go against them. Hunker down with SMU -16.5!

Vanderbilt @ Alabama (-9.5) | O/U 57


Well, well, well. Doesn’t this story ring a bell? Alabama beats Georgia

in an emotional win. Then, they get Vanderbilt, the worst program in

the SEC, historically. Last year, the Commodores did the unthinkable,

taking down Alabama 40-35. This year, it wouldn’t be unthinkable if

Vandy won. With Clark Lea at the helm and Diego Pavia at QB, this

Vanderbilt squad is not your grandmother’s Vanderbilt. They are for

real. Not so fast… This Vandy team completed the upset in Nashville

last year. This Vandy team is not getting it done in Tuscaloosa.

Revenge for Alabama! Hunker down with the Tide at -9.5!

Mississippi State @ Texas A&M (-14) | O/U (57.5)


Jeff Lebby and his Bulldogs nearly shocked the world last

weekend, taking Tennessee to overtime. I really like these

Bulldogs; furthermore, I really like what Mike Elko has done with

Texas A&M. Both head coaches are in their second years with their

respective schools. This would be program-defining for Lebby

and Mississippi State if they were to pull the upset over a top 10

team. This win over an SEC foe would be just one step closer to

an SEC Championship appearance and CFP berth for Elko and

the Aggies. Hunker down with Mississippi State to cover the two

touchdown spread, but I think A&M pulls out the victory.

All betting lines are courtesy of BetOnline.ag. All lines

are subject to change before kickoff of each game. Lines

recorded on 9/29/2025.

Tune into The Hammy Show on Spotify or YouTube

and listen/watch Hammy’s full analysis.

Radiate #connectcollaboratecreate

CONNECT COLLABORATE CREATE WITH A CONSTELLATION

OF BOLD AND BRILLIANT WOMEN

Tickets for #TSCSUMMIT on Sea, Island now on sale.

VISIT THESOUTHERNC.COM + @THESOUTHERNC TO LEARN MORE


MORE SPORTS

FOOTBALL

TOP 12

JD’S

BY: JEFF DANTZLER

It was the biggest collection of games thus far this season in college football, as

the first month of the regular season is in the rear view mirror. The winners of the

big battles this past weekend bought themselves a lot of margin for error in the

race for those 12 coveted spots in the College Football Playoff. A reminder, in these

rankings, the 12th place team is the group of five front-runner.

1. OHIO STATE - The Buckeyes were very

impressive in a 24-6 win over Washington in Seattle.

That is a tough place to play, and the defending

champs delivered to remain undefeated. The tough Golden

Gophers of Minnesota head to Columbus Saturday.

2. OREGON - The Ducks went into Happy Valley

and took a double overtime thriller from Penn State.

That was mighty big, and buys Oregon some of that

margin for error. Oregon is off this week, then hosts another big

one in conference against Indiana.

3. MIAMI - The Hurricanes have a bunch of talent

and look very strong. Their hit list includes Notre

Dame, South Florida and the Gators. Off an open date,

it’s off to Tallahassee, where the Seminoles, smarting

from a double OT loss at Virginia, await.

4. OLE MISS - The Rebels picked up an enormous

win over LSU this past weekend in a matchup of

old rivals. Lane Kiffin once again has the offense

humming and the defense has playmakers. Ole Miss is

5-0, 3-0 in the SEC with this coming week off.

5. OKLAHOMA - The Sooners had this past weekend

off to enjoy their big win over Auburn. They should

handle Kent State this weekend, then the schedule gets

ramped right back up, as Oklahoma will battle Texas in Dallas.

They’re hoping to get healthy at QB.

6. TEXAS A&M - The Aggies held off Auburn for a

16-10 at Kyle Field. Texas A&M is 4-0, and 1-0 in the

SEC. Next up is one of the surprise teams not just

in the league, but all of college football, as resurgent

Mississippi State will visit College Station.

7. TEXAS - The Longhorns are 3-1, with three easy

wins since falling in the opener to the Buckeyes. Texas

heads to Florida this weekend, where the Gators will be

looking for that signature win. They’ll have to be careful not to be

looking ahead to the Sooners.

8. TECH - The Yellow Jackets got quite a scare from

Wake Forest, tying the game in the closing seconds

then winning 30-29 in overtime. Brent Key’s team is

now 5-0 and 2-0 in the ACC. They’ll have this week off and then

host struggling Virginia Tech.

9. ALABAMA - The Crimson Tide went into Athens

and beat Georgia 24-21 to make it 3-1 on the season.

Now Alabama turns its attention to Vanderbilt,

which beat the Crimson Tide a year ago. Ty Simpson is having an

excellent season at quarterback for Alabama.

10. GEORGIA - It was a heartbreaking loss for the

Bulldogs at home against Alabama. The Bulldogs

are now 3-1 on the season and the SEC record 33

game home winning streak comes to a close. The Bulldogs host

Kentucky Between the Hedges on Saturday.

11. TEXAS TECH - The Red Raiders look like the

class of the Big XII and they are dreaming about the

College Football Playoff. Texas Tech is 4-0 and scoring

a bunch of points. Next up is a big one at Houston, which is

undefeated after an OT win over Oregon State.

12. MEMPHIS - The Tigers rolled past Florida Atlantic

55-26 on Saturday night, following up the win over

Arkansas. Memphis is a perfect 5-0 and they’ll play

under the lights Saturday night against Tulsa, which has a big win

over Oklahoma State.

Tune into the Bulldog Brunch every Sunday at 10AM with Jeff Dantzler,

Kevin Butler and eric zeier to catch the best game recap!

Extra Value Meals are back … just in time

for Homecoming and the Cats!

athens • watkinsville

auburn • lawrenceville


Old & In The Way

BY GREG POOLE

The upcoming matchup with Kentucky

is not just another game; it’s a pivotal

moment. It’s a chance for Georgia to

bounce back from the Alabama loss and

prove their resilience. This game holds

significant importance in the context of

the season and the team’s performance.

The matchup with Alabama was always

going to carry more emotional weight than

most regular-season contests. Every time

Kirby Smart lines his Bulldogs up against

his old employer, it becomes more than a

football game; it becomes a referendum

on Georgia’s place in the sport’s hierarchy.

This time, Alabama reminded everyone

that even in the post-Saban era, it remains a

formidable measuring stick.

Saturday night in Athens ended with a

familiar sour taste: another Bulldog defeat

at the hands of the Crimson Tide. The

frustration is not about the final score; it’s

more about the recurring script. Georgia’s

defense, typically the backbone of the

program, found themselves stretched thin

against Alabama’s offensive balance. The Tide

hit explosive plays in key moments, mixing a

power run game with timely downfield shots

that tilted momentum their way.

The Bulldogs had chances. They clawed

within striking distance multiple times, but

mistakes—whether it was a missed block

on third down, a poorly timed penalty, or

a dropped ball in the red zone—kept the

door cracked just enough for Alabama to

slam it shut. By the time the fourth quarter

wound down, Georgia fans were left

staring at the scoreboard with that same

hollow frustration: close, but not quite

good enough against the Tide.

Kirby Smart has built Georgia into a

machine, but even machines misfire. This

wasn’t a collapse; it was death by paper

cuts, the kind of game where every small

error grew into an insurmountable weight.

For Georgia, it was a reminder that the

margin for error against Alabama remains

razor-thin. When you play your old mentor’s

program … there’s no room for stumbles,

and Georgia stumbled just enough.

Despite the loss, it’s important to

keep things in

perspective. This

was a September

defeat to a top-tier

opponent, not a

season-ending

disaster. Kirby

smart and his team

have shown time

and again their

ability to bounce

back. The Bulldogs

weren’t broken;

they were simply

outplayed. In the

tough grind of an

SEC season, one

stumble doesn’t

define the journey.

If Alabama is the

program that keeps

Georgia humble,

then Kentucky is

the program that

keeps Georgia

hungry.

Looking ahead,

the Dawgs get

the Wildcats, and

the matchup lines

up far better for

Georgia. Where

Alabama stressed

the Bulldogs with

explosive balance, Kentucky doesn’t carry

the same arsenal. The Wildcats will try to

pound the ball with their offensive line

and backs, but Georgia’s defensive front

is better suited to stop a team that plays

more straight-ahead than side-to-side.

Against Alabama, Georgia had to defend

both the sideline fades and the slants over

the middle; against Kentucky, the challenge

is much more predictable: win the line of

scrimmage and choke off the run game.

Georgia’s offense, too, should breathe

easier. Alabama’s secondary has athletes

who can erase receivers in one-on-one

matchups, but Kentucky doesn’t have

the same depth. This is where Georgia’s

wideout rotation—long on speed and

length—can finally stretch the field. If

the Bulldogs establish rhythm early, they

can force the Wildcats to backpedal into

uncomfortable coverages, opening up

room for the run game.

There’s also a psychological edge.

Alabama is Georgia’s nemesis; Kentucky is

more of a tune-up. That doesn’t mean the

Wildcats are a pushover—they’ve proven

they can bloody the noses of the league’s

giants on the right Saturday—but Georgia

has consistently handled them under

Smart. After the bitter taste of Alabama,

this game gives the Bulldogs a chance to

reassert their identity. Georgia’s consistent

success against Kentucky under Smart

provides a psychological advantage for

the Bulldogs in this matchup.

What should fans expect? Look for the

coaching staff to simplify the game plan.

Georgia will likely lean on efficiency:

run the ball with purpose, hit highpercentage

throws, and let the defense

suffocate Kentucky’s one-dimensional

attack. The Dawgs don’t need to win

pretty; they need to win convincingly, and

this matchup offers that path.

The Alabama game may still sting

emotionally, but it’s not a lingering issue

on the schedule. Georgia still has the

potential to win out, with the SEC title

within reach and the playoff chase still

alive. The upcoming Kentucky game is a

crucial step in the team’s journey forward,

and there’s every reason to be confident

in their ability to rebound.

Fans may grumble that Smart still hasn’t

solved the Alabama riddle, but the truth

is, most of college football hasn’t either.

What Georgia has solved, though, is the

art of bouncing back. In recent seasons,

this team has turned setbacks into fuel for

its success. Kentucky happens to be the

next opponent in the path of that fire.


KEVIN BUTLER’S

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

COMPILED BY HAMILTON CULPEPPER

OFFENSIVE PLAYER

Chauncey Bowens - The freshman from Port St. Lucie Florida had a breakout

debut as the featured RB on the biggest stage of his career vs. Alabama.

Coming on the field at 5’11”, 225 pounds, Bowens was a load for defenders

and has the speed to match his strength. That is one deadly combination.

After a first half fumble put Nate Frazier on the sideline, Chauncey took over

the running game against a very stingy Alabama defense. Bowens had 12

carries for 119 yards with an explosive run of 43 yards that kept Alabama

on their heels. Not only is Chauncey a factor running the ball, but his four

receptions for 22 yards helped the Bulldogs climb back into the game. To see

your freshman running back produce like Chauncey did Saturday is certainly

exciting to witness as a star just might have been born against one of the

toughest defenses in all of college football.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Chris Cole - The one way to keep up with the Alabama‘s of the world is to

keep developing young talent that the Bulldogs sign out of high school.

Saturday was proof that these young Bulldogs are developing into topnotch

SEC level players. Chris Cole is one of those players developing at

a very rapid pace. The Salem, Virginia native brings a lot of talent to the

Bulldog defense. At 6’3”, 235 pounds, Chris is a force on the field. Saturday

against Alabama, Chris recorded five tackles, three solos, two assists and

one sack. He made a huge difference in the second half with the Bulldogs

defense getting much more aggressive. Chris is an athletic monster that

uses his speed and strength to out-maneuver talented offensive lineman

and that makes a big difference for the Bulldog defense. Chris is a young

gun, and it’s fun to watch him play. He’s only going to get better as the

season gets longer.

SPECIAL TEAM PLAYER

In an SEC battle you always expect special teams to play a very important

role in the outcome of the game. Saturday’s game against Alabama was

no different, but special teams made little noise in a game filled with a

lot of noise. Alabama was 1-for-2 on field goal tries and Georgia never

attempted a field goal. Rather, I turned to Brett Thorson once again for

a very consistent punting performance, pinning the crimson elephants

inside their 20-yard line three times. Thorson‘s consistent performance is

very comforting to have back in the fold. Brett might win this award this

week solely on being the one specialist that was on the field the most,

performing at a high level when his name was called. Flipping the field is

a valuable weapon, and we will need it in every game from here on out.

UNSUNG HERO OF THE GAME

Well, the one winner in this game was the Bulldog Nation. Coach Kirby

Smart asked for and received a loud, crazy stadium that truly creates a

home-field advantage. Though the Bulldogs did not pull this one out, the

crowd brought them back from behind and gave the team the energy to

play like the Bulldogs in the second half. The lights, the flashing bracelets,

the fireworks and most of all 100,000 Bulldog fans created an atmosphere

that every team in the nation wishes they could play in front of at each

home game. I know the victory is what we shoot for, but when defeat

happens, and it doesn’t happen much in Georgia, we know we can count

on our fans to show up and win that battle each week.


STATS THAT

MATTER


BY: MATTHEW HERREN/BI

A look back at what decided the game between Georgia and Alabama.

2,177 - DAYS SINCE GEORGIA HAD PREVIOUSLY

LOST IN SANFORD STADIUM

Georgia’s heartbreaking loss to the Tide was the first time the

Bulldogs lost a game Between the Hedges since October 12,

2019. The once 33-game streak is now only a memory. While

the loss to Alabama certainly stings, it feels like it was only a

matter of time before someone took down the Bulldogs on

their home turf.

13 - FIRST DOWNS CONVERTED BY ALABAMA

Ty Simpson and the Tide converted 13 third downs, which is

the most ever given up by a defense in the Kirby Smart era. The

Bulldogs did a solid job of putting Alabama into third down

situations, but ultimately could not deliver the final punch to force

punts. This stat was ultimately why Georgia lost the game when

the Tide converted on third and five to seal the deal.

1 - SACK BY THE GEORGIA DEFENSE

The Georgia defense was only able to get home for one sack in

the loss to Alabama. It felt like Simpson had all day in the pocket.

When you give a quarterback with receivers such as Bernard and

Williams that much time, those players are going to find holes in

the secondary.

7 - TIMES SMART HAS LOST TO ALABAMA

With this loss, Coach Smart has now lost to Alabama seven

times in eight tries. When Nick Saban retired, it seemed like

Georgia would finally be able to get Alabama off their back.

REAL DAWGS

Read

Darrell Huckaby ONLINE …

Twice weekly—straight to your inbox!

The wit and wisdom of the last Southerner!

Darrell Huckaby

The Wit and Wisdom of the Last Southerner

You have to give credit to Coach DeBoer and his staff for

somehow keeping Smart in the Tide’s rearview mirror. Sooner

rather than later Georgia needs to beat this team or Bulldog

Nation will continue to live in a dark shadow that looms

from Tuscaloosa. While Georgia currently has Tennessee and

Florida’s number, Alabama for whatever reason doesn’t lose to

Georgia, regardless of the venue.

119 - RUSHING YARDS BY CHAUNCEY BOWENS

This freshman back had a career-day against Alabama, rushing

for 119 yards and a touchdown. It seems like he might become

the RB1 if he hasn’t already. Nate Frazier’s fumble problems

continued last week, and he did not have another carry after that

turnover. With Stockton coming into form as the starter, Bowens

will certainly be relied on as the Bulldogs try and rally back to the

top of the standings this season.

0 - POINTS SCORED BY ALABAMA IN THE

SECOND HALF

Once again, Georgia found themselves behind after Alabama

stormed to a 14-0 lead. Coach Smart and his staff made

incredible adjustments at halftime though, allowing zero points

in the second half. While Georgia still fell short, a lot of credit

goes to Smart for keeping his team focused and not letting

things get out of hand. If there’s one thing Georgia fans have

learned, the Bulldogs are never out of it, and it showed against

the Tide.

Last year over 100,000

people died from drug

overdoses driven by

fentanyl and the fastest

growing group is under

age 19. Fentanyl

poisoning by fake pills

and powders is the

most important

conversation you need

to have with your kids

right now.

Scan QR code or go to …

www.darrellhuckaby.net/subscribe


PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

Crown Royal Blended Canadian Whisky. 40%Alc/Vol. The Crown Royal Company, Norwark, CT.

Hunker Down For Homecoming

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?