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LAWSON LUCKIE
TIGHT END #7
ON LAWSON:
STANDING BULLDOG YEAGER
PERFORMANCE PULLOVER
LORAN SMITH: ON LAWSON LUCKIE
Lawson Luckie, a 6-4, 240 tight end from Norcross,
loves basketball although his interest is confined to being
a spectator. His favorite subject is history: “I love learning
about previous leaders and philosophers and their great
influence on society; a degree is of great significance for
him because “college is something that I started (with great
anticipation) and a degree confirms that I finished what I
started.”; his favorite artist is OutKast “because I enjoy rap
music which I grew up listening to and OutKast reminds me
of my dad.”; the most interesting thing he has done in his life
is traveling in Europe and learning about the customs and
traditions “over there.”; the person he would like to meet is
Mercedes Lewis: “I look up to him a lot. Really respect the
career he has put together, and I really admire how he carries
himself off the field.”
LORAN SMITH
Assoc. Director,
UGA Athletic Association
PR & Development

#1 BEST SELLING AMERICAN WHISKY
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GEORGIA VS. GA TECH
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED
IN THIS ISSUE
VOLUME 23 NO. 14
GUNNER WILL BE
READY FOR THE BEES!
PHOTO BY: ROB SAYE/BI
SPORTS
BULLDOGS TO WATCH | 14
YELLOWJACKETS TO WATCH | 16
THE FIVE | 17
FROM THE INTERN | 18
A VIEW FROM THE FLATS | 19
OUR TEAM
SOCIAL
GEORGIA VS. CHARLOTTE FAN PHOTOS | 22
UGA TEE OFF CLUB – 2025 DAWG FIGHT PHOTOS | 28
PROUST Q&A: STEVE MALOOF | 32
MORE SPORTS
HERREN’S HOT LOCKS | 34
JD’S TOP 12 | 35
OLD AND IN THE WAY | 36
KEVIN BUTLER’S PLAYERS OF THE WEEK | 37
STATS THAT MATTER | 38
EDITOR: Vance Leavy
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Cheri Leavy
MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR: Greg Poole
CHIEF SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR: Jeff Dantzler
ART DIRECTOR: Stacey Nichols
SALES: Caroline Kinney
SPORTS: Jeff Dantzler, Greg Poole, Will Hearn,
Matthew Herren, Anna Williams, Jane Toothaker
MULTIMEDIA SUPPORT: Will Hearn,
Matthew Herren, Anna Williams
PHOTOGRAPHY: Rob Saye, Will Hearn
COVER PHOTO: Rob Saye
COLUMNISTS: Jeff Dantzler, Loran Smith,
Kevin Butler, Greg Poole
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 FOURTEEN: GEORGIA TECH
November 25, 2025
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 6 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

FROM THE
EDITOR
VANCE LEAVY
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Tying ‘The Drought’ will require getting ‘Down and Dirty in the Benz!’
Attention Bulldog fans … I hate to
interrupt your Thanksgiving quality
time with family and friends, but
there is some real business at hand
coming up Friday in Atlanta.
For the third time since 1956, our University
of Georgia football team has the opportunity
to tie the disastrous “The Drought” that the
Georgia Institute of Technology inflicted on
our beloved Dawgs from 1949-1956. That’s
right for the math challenged out there
… Tech beat Georgia eight straight times
during these years, which represents the
longest winning streak by either team in the
series that goes back to 1893.
I will stop there in my attempt to make
all diehard Dawgs embrace the historic
opportunity that is before us all at 3:30 p.m.
on Friday. However, I do encourage you to
immediately read Jeff Dantzler’s column
on page 10. There are two things in JD’s
existence that represent his kryptonite …
Tech and onions. He loathes them both with
equal hate.
While my bride is occasionally able to hide
onions in her wonderful cooking (without
JD knowing), there’s no fooling Jeff Dantzler
when it comes to Tech. A win Friday to tie
the “The Drought” would be a banner day
for our best bud, JD. A loss … my goodness,
I don’t even want to think about it. Needless
to say, there will be no Christmas tree at
his house. And I promise you, I’m 100% not
kidding!
Enter Kirby Smart …
His record against Georgia’s rivals during
his 10-year tenure has been beyond pristine,
which is why he earned this issue’s cover.
And as JD likes to say … “there’s nothing
clean about the Georgia-Georgia Tech game
being called ‘Clean Old-Fashioned Hate!’”
It is time for our football team to get
‘Down and Dirty in the Benz.’ Yes, it was
fun watching the Bees get embarrassed
on Grant Field this past weekend versus
the Pittsburgh Panthers. However, in my
opinion, that was not the ideal occurrence
for Friday’s game. Book it, Brent Key and his
Jackets are going to give our Bulldogs all
they want in Mercedes-Benz. So buckle your
chinstraps, it’s definitely about to get down
and dirty … may the best team win the State
Championship!
This issue will definitely get you ready.
However, it won’t make the game get
here any sooner. With that being said, I
encourage everyone in the Bulldog Nation
to enjoy the upcoming days with your
family. There is so much to be thankful for,
so embrace that through the last football
game on Thanksgiving night. Then, on Friday
morning, rise up and be ready for the 2025
Georgia-Georgia Tech game.
It’s going to be a war!
My time and space are short, so I must
now bid farewell. However, please be sure
to read this issue’s Proust Q&A with Steve
Maloof. The Ansley Golf Club in Atlanta is full
of awesome Dawgs and Jackets, so it was a
must that this issue’s Q&A be represented
by Ansley GC. Thanks so much Steve. I will
see you and the rest of the Bulldog Nation
on Friday. It’s time to tie “The Drought” and
get ‘Down and Dirty in the Benz,’ … Happy
Thanksgiving and Go Dawgs!!
FOR RESIDENT AND NON RESIDENT
MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION CONTACT
Brian Albertson PGA, CMAA | General Manager
Past President Georgia PGA
Briana@brunswickcountryclub.com
brunswickcountryclub.com
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 8 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

BULLDOG BRUNCH
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FROM THE
booth
JEFF DANTZLER
@jeffdantzlerTV
The story line is simple … Tie ‘the Drought’ on attempt No. 3 or not!
This is the third time Georgia has
been in this spot. As fate would
have it, the first two times, the
season ended with the number
8. Both times Georgia had a double digit
lead. Both times, Georgia lost.
Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs carry a seven
game winning streak into Friday
afternoon’s mega showdown at
Mercedes-Benz Stadium against the best
Yellow Jackets team since 1990. There
are College Football Playoff ramifications
on the line in this colossal clash, which is
one of the most historically significant in
Georgia football history. The seven game
winning streak matches the longest ever
for the Bulldogs in the series. Georgia
won seven in a row from 1991 through
1997 and 2001 until 2007.
But the longest streak in the series is
eight in a row … the Jackets, in the most
dismal era in Georgia football history,
beat the Bulldogs eight consecutive times
from 1949-1956. The infamous drought.
Thank God I wasn’t alive for that.
In 1998, it was Kirby’s final game as a
player Between the Hedges. Georgia had
a 19-7 second half lead but the Jackets
came back. Joe Hamilton fumbled, but
was ruled down. There was no replay
then. The Yellow Jackets made a field goal
on the final play to upend the Dogs 21-
19, a heartbreaking streak-breaker.
Fast forward to 2008, the Bulldogs led
28-12 in Sanford at halftime. But Paul
Johnson’s triple option got on track in the
second half, and the Yellow Jackets rallied
to beat the Bulldogs 45-42.
Twice, a chance to match the drought.
Twice at home. Twice with double digit
second half leads. Twice, lost.
I was convinced after the loss in 2008 that
it would never happen. I just told myself
to get over it. The two things I dreamed
and yearned for when it came to Georgia
football was to see my beloved Bulldogs
win multiple national championships, and
to get to (at least) a nine game winning
streak against the Yellow Jackets to break
the record of the drought.
It was such a dark time for Georgia in
the 1950s …
The fact that Georgia scheduled some
home games to be played in Atlanta at
Grant Field, hoping to help attendance,
ouch. The eight game losing streak was
the lowlight of a dismal decade filled
with losing seasons and bottom of the
Southeastern Conference standings.
When Georgia beat the Yellow Jackets
7-0 in 1957 … Thundering Theron Sapp
scored the game’s lone touchdown, and
there was such joy that his No. 40 was
retired. The Drought Breaker joined Frank
Sinkwich (No. 21) and Charley Trippi (No.
62) as the lone Georgia football players to
have their jerseys retired. No. 34 Herschel
Walker later joined this exclusive club.
That’s two Heisman Trophy winners and
a Heisman runner up, all of whom were
part of Bulldog national championships
and the drought breaker.
That 1957 campaign ended with a
3-7 record. Georgia went 4-6 in 1958,
a fourth consecutive losing season.
Then in 1959, the Bulldogs won the
Southeastern Conference championship
and the Orange Bowl, in what was the
lone outstanding season for the program
between the 1948 SEC title and Vince
Dooley’s arrival in 1964. Dooley led
Georgia to the SEC championship in 1966.
So here we are again.
A third chance, and this is one of the
biggest Georgia versus Jackets games ever.
In 1942, the fifth ranked Bulldogs beat
the unbeaten, second-ranked Yellow
Jackets 34-0 Between the Hedges. The
victory clinched Georgia’s first ever SEC
title and sent the Bulldogs to the Rose
Bowl. Trippi and Sinkwich led the Wally
Butts’ Bulldogs to 9-0 win over UCLA
and Georgia was the consensus national
champion.
In 1946, third-ranked Georgia was
undefeated, and topped the once-beaten
(they lost their opener at Tennessee
13-9 and carried an eight game winning
streak to Athens) Jackets 35-7 at Sanford
Stadium. The 1946 SEC champion
Bulldogs went on to beat North Carolina
20-10 in the Sugar Bowl and finish with
a perfect 11-0, winning every game by
double digits. Though the Dawgs were
voted No. 1 by a pair of organizations,
Georgia finished No. 3 behind Notre
Dame and Army, who played to a 0-0 tie,
in the two major polls.
Twenty years later (1966), in Vince
Dooley’s third season at the Georgia
helm, the Bulldogs were 8-1 and SEC
champions, losing only to Miami by a
score of 7-6. The Yellow Jackets, who
had left the SEC, were undefeated. In
what turned out to be Bobby Dodd’s
final game as the Jackets coach, Georgia
emerged triumphant 23-14 at Sanford
Stadium, then went on to beat SMU in
the Cotton Bowl 24-9 to finish 10-1 and
No. 4 in the nation.
Dooley’s record against Dodd was a
perfect 3-0.
Now here we are, with all that Coach
King Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs have
accomplished in this glorious dynasty,
the chance to make one of the most
important historical victories in
program history. Eight straight years in
the top seven, back-to-back national
championships, three SEC titles, and
a cumulative 33-2 record against the
Jackets, Florida, Auburn and Tennessee
since 2017. Now a chance at eight
straight against “The Enemy” - so coined
by the great Dan Magill.
Since 2001, Georgia is 20-3 against the
Yellow Jackets. The Jackets probably
caught a break in 2020 - though you never
know what could happen, especially in
that awful Covid year - by not playing. The
SEC decided to play conference games
only. Georgia went 8-2 and won the Chick-
Fil-A Peach Bowl to finish No. 7 nationally.
The Yellow Jackets were 3-7. Again, you
never know, but Georgia would have been
a substantial favorite.
The odds of ever having this
opportunity again are long. For this
Bulldog, a win Friday to make it eight in
a row would rank just a notch below the
national championships. To quote the
great Larry Munson … “I know I’m asking
a lot of you guys … but Hunker Down
One More Time. “
And we may see each other in the
College Football Playoff …
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 10 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

the
BRIDGE
RUN
SATURDAY, FEB. 14, 2026
The Southeast Georgia Health System Foundation Bridge Run
across the scenic Sidney Lanier Bridge in Brunswick, Georgia,
has been certified by the U.S. Track and Field Association as
“the toughest 5K in Georgia.”
The Bridge Run also includes a walk and a family-friendly
festival, featuring vendors, food and drinks, entertainment
and children’s activities. Proceeds benefit the Health System’s
cancer and cardiac care programs.
THE-BRIDGE-RUN.ORG
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THE FIVE PG. 17 | FROM THE INTERN PG. 18 | A VIEW FROM THE FLATS PG. 19
SPORTSBO WALKER
WITH THE
THREE
TOUCHDOWN
HOIST!
PHOTO BY: WILL HEARN/BI
GEORGIA VS. GEORGIA TECH
GAME TIME: 3:30 P.M. ET
CHANNEL: ABC
GEORGIA VS GEORGIA TECH
BY: JEFF DANTZLER
The stage is set for one of the biggest battles ever between
in-state arch rivals, as Georgia battles the Yellow Jackets at
Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta. There are major
stakes on the line, with a historic streak, College Football
Playoff and conference championship game intrigue.
Georgia heads in with a record of 10-1, coming off a 35-3 win
over Charlotte Between the Hedges. The victory over the 49ers
served as a bit of a buffer on the schedule, following eight
straight Southeastern Conference games and with the Yellow
Jackets lurking.
Tech is 9-2, coming off a tough 42-28 loss at Grant Field to
Pittsburgh. The Yellow Jackets fell behind 28-0 in the first half,
but had a tremendous comeback. A second half pick six was
critical, a potential 14-point swing, but the Yellow Jackets still
fought to within seven points at 35-28. A long Panther scoring
run late in the fourth quarter proved decisive, and was the
lone touchdown the Yellow Jackets defense allowed in the
second half.
Quarterback Haynes King leads an explosive offense, one of
the country’s best. A veteran offensive line and standout skill
position personnel compliment the Yellow Jackets Atlantic
Coast Conference Player of the Year front-runner.
The Bulldogs seem to be in good shape for the College
Football Playoff, even if the Jackets win Friday. Advancing
to the SEC Championship Game the next week and losing a
second straight week at Mercedes Benz Stadium would be the
scenario that would likely put Georgia’s chances in the most
peril. For Georgia to go to the league title tilt for the eighth
time in nine years, there are various scenarios in play with
Alabama playing Auburn, Ole Miss battling the Mississippi
State and Texas A&M tangling with Texas.
Tech could certainly boost its resume. The Yellow Jackets
would have clinched a berth in the ACC Championship Game
with a win over Pitt. They could still advance to Charlotte, but
would need some help.
All of this is secondary to the glory and bragging rights of the
Governor’s Cup and State Championship. Last year’s battle in
Athens was an instant classic, one of the most memorable in
this rivalry that goes back to 1893. Heavily favored Georgia fell
behind the Yellow Jackets 17-0 in the first half, and trailed 27-
13 late in the fourth quarter. But the Bulldogs rallied back and
sent the game to overtime.
Battling past midnight, the Bulldogs prevailed 44-42 in eight
overtimes, which punched a playoff ticket which would later
be solidified the next week in just overtime against Texas in
the SEC Championship Game.
Last season’s win in Athens marked Georgia’s seventh straight
in the series. Georgia has won 20 of the last 23 meetings since
2001 (the two did not play in 2020 due to Covid scheduling).
But the longest winning streak in the series still belongs to
the Yellow Jackets, who beat Georgia eight straight times
from 1949-1956, “the infamous drought,” as it’s known in
Athens. This is the third time Georgia has carried a seven game
winning streak in the series.
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 13 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

SPORTS
FOOTBALL
BULLDOGS TO WATCH
BY: ANNA WILLIAMS/BI
KIRBY SMART (HC) - Head coach Kirby Smart enters the Georgia Tech
rival game with the consistency that has defined his decade in Athens.
Saturday’s win over Charlotte marked the eighth time in his 10 seasons
that Georgia has hit double-digit victories, a benchmark that reinforces
both the stability of the program and Smart’s ability to keep the Bulldogs
sharp deep into November. With rivalry week ahead and the postseason
looming, Smart’s emphasis on physicality, discipline, and complementary
football becomes even more pivotal. This group, under Smart, looks
prepared for its final regular-season test.
GUNNER STOCKTON (QB #14) - Quarterback Gunner Stockton
continued his steady rise with one of his cleanest outings of the year.
Before giving way to Ryan Puglisi in the third quarter, Stockton completed
17-of-21 passes for 196 yards, spreading the ball around to 10 different
receivers in the win over Charlotte. He operated the offense with
command, moving through progressions efficiently and keeping drives
alive with accurate short-to-intermediate throws. As Georgia turns its
attention to Georgia Tech, Stockton’s poise and ability to distribute the
ball will be crucial. His growth each week gives the Bulldogs flexibility in
the passing game and presents new challenges for defenses preparing to
contain him.
ZACHARIAH BRANCH
WIDE RECEIVER
PHOTO BY: WILL HEARN/BI
ZACHARIAH BRANCH (WR #1) - Zachariah Branch remains one of the
most dynamic pieces in Georgia’s offense, and he added another solid
outing with four receptions for 55 yards against Charlotte. Branch now
sits at 63 receptions on the season, a testament to both his reliability
and explosiveness in space. This week marks his first matchup against
rival Georgia Tech, a stage well suited for a playmaker with his speed and
elusiveness. Whether stretching the field vertically or creating separation
underneath, Branch provides a spark the Bulldogs will look to tap into
early and often.
LAWSON LUCKIE (TE #7) - Tight end Lawson Luckie delivered one of
the first defining plays of last Saturday’s game with his 29-yard catch from
Stockton to the 2-yard line, setting up Georgia’s first touchdown. Luckie
continues to show soft hands, strong route-running, and resilience after
the catch–traits that make him a valuable piece. His ability to exploit
mismatches, especially against linebackers and safeties, could play a
key role against a Georgia Tech defense that has struggled at times with
defending tight ends.
CASH JONES (RB #32) - Cash Jones brings a change-of-pace element
to Georgia’s backfield with his burst, vision, and ability to create in
space. Jones has earned trust through his versatility–whether working
the tackles, bouncing runs outside, or contributing as a pass catcher. As
Georgia looks to keep the ground game steady heading into rivalry week,
Jones’ reps offer a spark and help maintain depth at the position.
KJ BOLDEN (DB #4) - Defensive back KJ Bolden continues to impress
with his range, instincts and physicality. Bolden brings an edge to the
defense, showing growth each week in both coverage responsibilities
and tackling efficiency. His ability to anticipate routes and close windows
quickly will be critical against Georgia Tech’s passing attack. Bolden’s
emergence has added valuable depth and playmaking ability to the
defense, which thrives on cohesion and communication.
LAWSON LUCKIE
TIGHT END
PHOTO BY: WILL HEARN/BI
GABE HARRIS JR. (LB #0) - Linebacker Gabe Harris Jr. has steadily
carved out a role defensively with his high motor and ability to set the
tone. Harris’ physical style of play fits well within Georgia’s front seven, and
his comfort level in run-stopping situations continues to grow. As Georgia
Tech leans heavily on misdirection and perimeter action, Harris’ discipline
and pursuit will be essential. His development gives the Bulldogs another
dependable rotational option as the defense sharpens for the postseason.
BY JEFF DANTZLER
Georgia beat the Jackets 44-7 to cap off the 1981
regular season in Atlanta as Lindsay Scott raced 80
yards for a touchdown on a Buck Belue aerial on the
first play from scrimmage.
In the Bulldogs 38-18 victory over the Jackets to
cap a perfect 11-0 regular season in 1982, eventual
Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker broke loose
for a 59-yard touchdown run.
Georgia defeated the Jackets 45-21 Between the
Hedges to cap an 11-1 regular season in 2018, with
quarterback Jake Fromm leading the Bulldogs to
seven consecutive scoring drives.
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 14 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

SPORTS
FOOTBALL
YELLOWJACKETS TO WATCH
BY: MATTHEW HERREN/BI
BRENT KEY (HC) - Since being hired by his alma mater in November
of 2022, Coach Key has brought Georgia Tech back into college football
relevancy. With the devastating loss to Pittsburgh last weekend, the
Jackets will need to beat Georgia if they want to have any chance
at making the College Football Playoff for the first time in program
history. Key will be looking to get Tech past Georgia for the first time
since 2016 and end what has been a dominant stretch for the Bulldogs
in this heated rivalry.
HAYNES KING (QB #10) - King has been one of the nation’s top
players with over 3,000 total yards of offense and 24 touchdowns.
His mobility will present the Georgia defense with a challenge, as the
Jackets will likely dial up designed runs and options for King to get
down the field. The Jackets’ offense lives and dies on his performance,
so look for King to have to make big plays on the ground and through
the air to pull off the upset.
BRENT KEY
HEAD COACH
PHOTO BY: DANNY KARNIK/GTAA
MALACHI HOSLEY (RB #0) - The junior has been Tech’s most
productive player at the running back position with 625 yards and
seven touchdowns. Though Georgia has one of the stoutest rush
defenses in the country, Hosley and the Jackets will need to establish a
run game if they want to find production on offense. Hosley should be
involved early in the run game alongside King.
ERIC RIVERS (WR #3) - The transfer from FIU leads the Georgia Tech
offense with 516 yards on 38 receptions. Rivers has four games this
season with at least 70 receiving yards and will likely need another
impactful game out wide if the Tech defense cannot contain Stockton
and the Bulldogs’ offense.
MALIK RUTHERFORD (WR #8) - Rutherford is wrapping up his
fifth season for the Jackets and has 323 receiving yards and three
touchdowns. With the transfer portal being an easy way for players
to leave struggling programs, he has stuck it out in Atlanta and will
be looking to beat Georgia for the first time in his career. Look for
Rutherford to give the Bulldogs’ defense his best shot one last time in
this year’s Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate.
OMAR DANIELS (DB #9) - The senior has 38 total tackles on the year,
but his ability to force turnovers has been one of his best traits. In the
Jackets’ win over Clemson, Daniels had seven tackles along with an
interception and forced fumble. If Georgia Tech wants to slow down a
hot Georgia offense, Daniels will need to step up like he did against the
Tigers and force a turnover or two.
HAYNES KING
QUARTERBACK
PHOTO BY: DANNY KARNIK/GTAA
CLAYTON POWELL-LEE (DB #5) - Powell-Lee is another senior that
will be looking to upset the Bulldogs for the first time in his career. He
has stepped up during Tech’s bigger games and seems to be one of the
leaders on the defensive side of the ball. Look for the Atlanta native to
force key stops and allow King and the offense to get back on the field
to put up points.
BY JEFF DANTZLER
The Yellow Jackets advanced to the College World
Series and played for the 1994 national title, led
by two of their all time greats - shortstop Nomar
Garciaparra and catcher Jason Varitek.
The outstanding Yellow Jackets basketball team of
1990, which made it to the Final Four was led by
Lethal Weapon 3 - the guard trio of Kenny Anderson,
Dennis Scott and Brian Oliver.
In 2004, the Yellow Jackets made it to the Final Four
and the National Final, taking all five of their NCAA
Tournament victories by single digit points, before
falling in the title game to UConn.
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 16 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

THE
Five
Georgia vs. GA Tech
BY: JEFF DANTZLER
1. Haynes King - One of the top quarterbacks in the nation, Haynes
King is the engine for this outstanding “Helluva Engineers” football
team. A high school sprint champion in the state of Texas, King has
the speed. He’s also got the instincts, the cuts and the ball handling
skills that make him a dynamic runner. King is a tremendous passer
as well. When he’s running well and the backs are chewing up
yardage, the passing attack is lethal and this offense is borderline
unstoppable. Georgia must be physical and find a way to get some
stops. That means getting the Yellow Jackets behind the chains.
Easier said than done. But it starts with penetration and forcing
King’s hand. If he can pick and choose whether to run or throw, and
which direction to go, defenses are on their heels and in big trouble.
Backup quarterback Aaron Philo is also an outstanding player.
2. Brent Key - What a job the Yellow Jackets head coach has done.
Very public with his hatred for Georgia, this Jacket alum is ‘Old Gold’
through and through. He played offensive line for George O’Leary
on the Flats in the late 1990s, a very successful era for the Jackets. A
member of Geoff Collins’ staff, he got the call to be the interim head
coach after a 1-3 start to the 2022 season. Their program was at a
very low point. Key led them to a 4-4 finish and then bowl games
the next two seasons. The three previous times Georgia has taken
on a Key-coached team, the games have been extremely tough.
Especially last year’s eight overtime Georgia triumph. Now he has
the Jackets playoff and ACC championship hunting. Offensive
coordinator Buster Faulkner, who was previously an analyst for
Georgia, is a hot commodity on the coaching carousel.
3. Mercedes-Benz Mix - From the lowest of lows to some incredibly
high highs, Mercedes-Benz Stadium has been a house of heartbreak
and joy. Amongst the most memorable victories, Georgia’s 28-7
triumph over Auburn in the 2017 SEC Championship Game, which
sent the Bulldogs to the College Football Playoff, and the Chick-Fil-A
Peach Bowl CFP Semifinal victory over Ohio State, which helped
Kirby Smart’s powerhouse Dogs to the 2022 National Championship.
No need to go through the lows in that building and its predecessor
the Georgia Dome. We remember them all too well … Bama, Bama,
Bama. Now the Dogs have a chance to make some all-time great
Boone Bruce, Heather Schlabach,
Caroline Schlabach, Jane Schlabach,
Mark Schlabach
history against the Yellow Jackets, who have their best team since
arguably 1990, in one of the biggest showdowns in the history of
this rivalry and amongst the most impactful showdowns on this
Thanksgiving Weekend of college football.
4. Dawgs at Grant Field - Georgia has been on a great run at Grant
Field. With the Jackets opting to host this season at Mercedes-Benz
Stadium, the next time these two meet on the Flats will be 2027. The
Bulldogs have won 12 straight times on Grant Field at Bobby Dodd
Stadium (now also called Hyundai Field), dating back to 2001. The
last time the Jackets beat Georgia there was in 1999, the infamous Al
Ford/Jasper Sanks non-fumble called a fumble which it should have
then been a safety because they picked it up and went backwards
into the end zone play. Georgia had won four in a row at Grant Field
prior. So that makes 16 out of the last 17 in the win column for the
Bulldogs on the Jackets’ campus.
5. Baseball Magic - Through the years, the Bulldogs and Yellow
Jackets have played in some incredible NCAA Tournament baseball
regionals and superregionals. The Bulldogs won the 1987 NCAA
Regional at Russ Chandler Stadium, beating the Jackets in an
elimination game along the way. The same thing happened at
Foley Field in 2001, as the Dogs clipped the Yellow Jackets in the
loser’s bracket of the Athens Regional, then went on to win and top
Coastal Carolina (Jeff Keppinger) to go to the College World Series.
Georgia swept the 2004 Super Regional on the Flats to go to Omaha
in 2004, and came through the losers bracket twice defeating the
Jackets in 2008 en route to the College World Series. Most recently,
in 2024 Georgia won an extra innings instant classic at Foley Field
to clinch the Athens Regional. Along with my broadcast partner
David Johnston and our SID Chris Lakos, getting to call the victories
of 2001, 2004, 2008 and 2024 remain some of my most cherished
Bulldog baseball memories.
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 17 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

matthew
herren
FROM THE
INTERN
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The Bulldogs took care
of business in their
final home game of
the season with a 35-3 win
over the Charlotte 49ers.
Nate Frazier and Bo Walker’s
combined five touchdown
runs were enough to put the
game away early and allow
the depth of the roster to see
quality playing time.
Before the game, Coach
Smart embraced a senior
class that won two SEC
Championships and a
national title during their
time in Athens. Though there
is certainly still a lot to play
for this season, it was great to
step back for a moment and
acknowledge just how much
this class has accomplished.
As Bulldog Nation heads
home for Thanksgiving,
Coach Smart and his staff
are preparing for a matchup
with the Georgia Tech
Yellow Jackets. This rivalry
weekend of college football
never seems to disappoint,
as we’ve seen classic games
over the past few years in
the Dawgs-Jackets game
and the Iron Bowl. Georgia
has dominated their in-state
rival under Coach Smart, with
seven straight wins over the
Jackets. However, this is one
of the best Tech teams that
we’ve seen in quite some
time. Not that Coach Key
needs any extra motivation
to get his team ready for
Georgia, but his team now
needs a desperate win over
the Bulldogs to have any
chance at making the College
Football Playoff. As we saw
last season, the Jackets aren’t
scared of Georgia and were
a two-point conversion away
from stunning a packed
Sanford Stadium.
With these teams playing in
separate conferences, it can
be easy to forget about this
non-conference game at the
end of the season. However,
I think it’s safe to say that
we are all reminded why this
game is known as a Clean,
Old-Fashioned Hate once
both teams meet between
the lines and in the stands.
Whether it be the eight
overtime victory for Georgia
last season or Tech’s stunning
28-27 win in Sanford Stadium
back in 2016, both fanbases
have some of their best and
worst memories as a college
football fan when they think
back on this rivalry. Georgia
Tech might be my least
favorite team in football,
but it is truly good to see
this rivalry get back on the
map with some national
recognition. It’s going to be a
great matchup in Mercedes-
Benz this weekend in front
of an angry Georgia Tech fan
base, so don’t sleep on this
game.
HOT TAKE OF THE WEEK:
One of the biggest
talking points with this
year’s matchup between
Georgia and Georgia Tech
is the quarterback matchup
between Gunner Stockton
and Haynes King. Both
players have been atop the
Heisman conversation, with
the winner of this game
likely jumping the other
in most analysts’ power
rankings. However, my Hot
take of the Week is that Nate
Frazier takes the reins of the
Georgia offense and rushes
for over 100 yards and two
touchdowns. The Georgia
Tech defense is giving up
166 rushing yards per game
and just allowed Pittsburgh
running back Ja’Kyrian Turner
to rush for over 200 yards and
a touchdown. I see a world
where Bobo leans on a strong
rushing attack to dismantle
the Jackets in the trenches
and leaves Atlanta with a
strong win.
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 18 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

Alex Morton, one of my co-horts
from the Superstations radio
network is our analyst and Yellow
Jackets expert this week.
BY JEFF DANTZLER
A VIEW FROM THE... FLATS
COULD EVEN THE MOST
OPTIMISTIC OF TECH FANS
HAVE ENVISIONED JUST A
FEW YEARS AGO WHAT BRENT
KEY HAS ACCOMPLISHED ON
THE FLATS?
I don’t think so because the
end of the Paul Johnson era
ended not necessarily on a
sour note but it was just time
to move on. And then we all
know what happened in the
years that followed where Tech
just flat out hired the wrong
guy to be the coach. Personally,
I believe that he was just
focused on the wrong things
from the beginning and I don’t
think that I’m alone in saying
that. Then Key took over and
everything has been a steady
improvement each season.
PLEASE TALK ABOUT
COACH KEY’S IMPACT ON
THE PROGRAM?
Coach Key’s impact has been
tremendous on the program
as a whole. Just like with Kirby
at UGA, Key is coaching at his
alma mater. He loves Tech. He
cares about his players and
holds them to a high standard.
Since Key has taken over, Tech
has made or is in the process
of making upgrades to the
facilities. The Fanning Center
which is right there at Bobby
Dodd Stadium will open
in the spring of 2026. Also
Bobby Dodd Stadium itself is
set to be renovated and be
done by the end of 2026 and
the beginning of 2027. Key
obviously hasn’t done it by
himself. You have to have an
administration that is behind
the program in order to make
a commitment to it. And that’s
a huge credit to former AD J.
Batt, current AD Ryan Alpert
and President Angel Cabrera.
WHAT ABOUT BUSTER
FAULKNER, AND THE JOB
HE’S DONE AS OC?
Buster has done a great job
as the OC. As mentioned
earlier, it’s night and day from
the previous regime that
was at Tech. He’s been able
to call plays to each of his
playmakers’ strengths. It’s all
about execution at the end of
the day. When plays go right,
everyone looks like geniuses.
When plays go wrong, fans
and people in general will
have questions or concerns
about things.
HAYNES KING IS ONE
OF THE BEST JACKET
QUARTERBACKS OF ALL
TIME AT TECH, WHERE
DOES HE RANK FOR YOU
AS FAR AS STANDOUTS IN
YOUR LIFETIME?
King is definitely up there
as one of the Tech greats.
I would put him behind
Joe Hamiliton. One of the
similarities between King and
Hamilton is that they are/were
great dual threat quarterbacks
who have/had great control
of the offense. One other
similarity is that they both
started at quarterback coming
off some down years in the
history of the program. If I had
to have a Mount Rushmore
of Tech quarterbacks in my
lifetime I would have to say
Hamilton, George Godsey,
Justin Thomas and King. Out
of those four, King does have
the most rushing touchdowns,
the highest completion
percentage in the fewest
games played.
WHAT DOES TECH NEED TO
DO TO BEAT GEORGIA?
For Tech to beat Georgia,
they will need to protect the
football and to put it, plain
and simple, tackle on defense.
Key said after the Boston
College game, “We need to
stop waiting around for things
to happen. We need to go
make plays. When you sit back
and try not to mess up, you’re
going to get beat. You got to
go attack.” Tech allowed 537
yards in the 36-34 win over
the Eagles on November 16.
WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON
THE BULLDOGS OF 2025?
The Bulldogs have been
impressive all season long. It
seems like they are clicking on
all cylinders right now. They
are a team that requires all
60 minutes of your attention.
We’ve learned in the last
couple of seasons that when
teams have them down early
they tend to let the foot off
the gas a little bit. It’s like
UGA’s opponents play not
to lose more than to play to
win. But that’s also a credit
to Georgia’s never give up
attitude and the belief in the
team and Kirby’s staff.
WHAT IS YOUR SCORE
PREDICTION?
I think we are in for another
classic in Mercedes-Benz …
GT 35 UGA 31
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 19 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

IT’S TOUCHDOWN
SEASON

UGA TEE OFF CLUB 2025 DAWG FIGHT PHOTOS PG. 28 | PROUST Q&A: STEVE MALOOF PG. 32
Ed Sterry, Lindsay Sterry, Henry Sterry,
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SOCIAL
CHARLOTTE FAN PHOTOS: PGs. 22-26
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 21 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

SOCIAL
FAN SHOTS
Fran Hargarten Jr,
Fran Hargarten III,
Fran Hargarten IV
Hairy Dawg, Kevin Butler,
Mila Abubakari, Savannah
Abubakari, Sadik Abubakari Uga XI and Mila Abubakari Rob Saye, Jett Siniard, Will Hearn
Paul Carling, Joel Turry,
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Olen Anderson, Brian Satisky,
Jack Zampi
Sarah Williams, Anna Williams
Brett Thorson, Kevin Butler
GEORGIA - 35, CHARLOTTE - 3
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 22 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

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Susan Jones, Mindy Horn,
Jeff Dantzler
GEORGIA - 35, CHARLOTTE - 3
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Sarah Miller, Will Miller, Joanne Miller, Allen Miller, Zack Miller,
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 23 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

SOCIAL
FAN SHOTS
Allison Doan, Lucy Hagan, Jodi Hagan
Nash Gibson, Meredith Gibson,
Georgia Gibson
Paul Vella, Reggie Collins, Luke Rosier,
Collier Daniel
Mark Toner, Sally Toner
Terrence Bruno,
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Arthur Edwards,
Peyton Edwards,
Eleanor Edwards
William Brown, Mack Brown
GEORGIA - 35, CHARLOTTE - 3
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 24 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

FAN SHOTS
SOCIAL
Scarlett Moore, Parker Moore
Eric Atkinson, Corey Dortch Frank Bishop, Chris Strickland Jonathan Roldan, Bob Odum
Ryley Hampton, Haley Herron, Jerricka Ambus, Zach Goldstein, Ryann Powell, Matt
Brachowski, Anna Highsmith, Christie Purks, Colby DeCesare, Carolyn Wallace,
Brock Pellegrino, Timothy Blount Jr., Matt Hess, Tanner Stines, Stephen Dudley,
Emily Kogan, Katelyn Hardwick, Sonja Sutcavage, Megan Holmes
Josh Vining, Evan
Vining, Adrienne
Vining, Eli Vining
Kevin Butler, John Straughan
John Neel, Ford Neel, Sanford Caroline Neel,
Summer Dawn Neel, Smisson Neel
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 25 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

SOCIAL
FAN SHOTS
Brad Townsend, John Maxwell, Cliff Bratcher,
Maria Knight, Mark Knight
Brian Williams, Meagan Williams,
Brayden Williams, Makaylen Williams
Corky Warner, Catherine Warner,
Ashley Connell, George Connell
Terry Allen, Lisa Allen
Kim Lewis, Mark Lewis,
Jamie Lewis Saye
Rhett Belue, Braden Belue
Karen Allen, Ken Allen, Jill Willis,
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 28 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

FAN SHOTS
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Stafford Davis, Phillip Davis, Tyler Davis,
Andrew Gabrielsen, JD Culbreth
Gray Kitchens, Ben Brass
Russell Henley, Buck Brumlow, Brendon Todd, DavisThompson, Harris English, Hairy Dawg, Chris Kirk,
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 29 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

SOCIAL
FAN SHOTS
Johnny Nix, Will Hearn Owen Guest, Keith Guest, Hayward Guest Emory Kindaid, Chip Champion
Woody Gayle, John Rooker, Mary Beth Smart, Brad Lastinger
Crosby Smith,
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 31 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

PROUST
Q&A
COMPILED BY: CHERI LEAVY
NAME: Steve Maloof (UGA/BBA 1992)
FAMILY: Wife Karen (UGA/BBA 1993) and children Maggie
(UGA/BS 2025) and George (UGA/BBA 2028 expected). Go Dawgs!
HOMETOWN: Atlanta
CURRENT TOWN: Atlanta
WHAT YEARS AT UGA: 1988-1992
SCHOOL/DEGREE: Terry, BBA – Risk Management and
Insurance
PROFESSION: Insurance Broker, Managing Partner @ The
Baldwin Group. Formerly Tanner, Ballew and Maloof, Inc.
ACCOLADES: Voted best Dad by my kids and Trophy
Husband by my wife … at least that is what the coffee cups say.
WHAT LIFE LESSONS DID YOU LEARN WHILE AT UGA?
As a walk on football player, I learned about humility and hard
work. I never made it into a varsity game but was on the 1st
team scout defense so got to play against some of the best
players in the country every week preparing for the upcoming
opponent. That taught more about the value of effort than
talent and that stuck with me through my life. If you aren’t born
with it then work your ass off and you can close the gap a little
… but if you are born with it, congrats! lol
WHAT PROFESSOR DID YOU MOST ADMIRE? Dr. Rob
Hoyt. Dr. Hoyt was a student’s professor as he cared not only
about you as a student but also as a professional in the business.
He stays in touch with his students that came through the Risk
Management program and is always available to advise and assist.
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST
ACHIEVEMENT? I would say, from a personal standpoint, my
children as they have both turned out to be exceptional human
beings that work hard and care greatly about others. But also,
the success of the business I built with my business partners
and colleagues at TBM.
WHICH HISTORICAL FIGURE DO YOU MOST
IDENTIFY WITH? I would say Ronald Reagan. I appreciated
his integrity and his connection with people. He also took
strong positions and stood by those positions and accepted the
consequence
of his decisions
and those of his
administration.
The Great
Communicator …
I love listening to
old Reagan sound
clips, he said it like
it was!
Steve Maloof
WHO ARE YOUR HEROES IN REAL LIFE? My Mom. She
touches people in a way that makes everyone feel special. She is all
about kindness and love with no conditions. That’s not easy.
QUOTE TO LIVE BY: “Just do it” not very deep but it speaks
to trying new things. You never know unless you try.
WHAT IS YOUR IDEA OF PERFECT HAPPINESS? Sunny,
70 degrees and playing golf at Ansley Golf Club on Friday in The
Swindle with all my buds.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MARKED CHARACTERISTIC? I
asked my daughter and she said “compassion” … I will take that!
WHAT DO YOU MOST VALUE IN YOUR FRIENDS? I love
hanging with my friends, laughing and carrying on. It generally
revolves around golf or football and having a drinks but I value
the connection and loyalty of old friends the most.
IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT
YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE? My hair thickness!
WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE WRITERS? John Grisham
probably because its good, easy reading but my favorite book is
The Match by Mark Frost. It is a supposed true story about a golf
match between Ben Hogan and Bryon Nelson vs two amateurs,
Ken Venturi and Harvie Ward at Cypress Pointe. Great read!
FAVE SOCIAL MEDIA AND WHO TO FOLLOW? A
good friend of mine has a podcast called “Reasonably Happy”
which was formerly called “Crazy Money”. Paul Ollinger and I
went to high school together and he is now a stand up comic
(after a successful biz career with Facebook and others) and
really smart guy. His podcast is great with great guests and
relatable topics … highly recommend!
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 32 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

JD’S TOP 12 PG. 35 | OLD AND IN THE WAY PG. 36 | KB’S PLAYERS OF THE WEEK PG. 37
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 33 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

SOCIAL MORE SPORTS FAN SHOTS FOOTBALL
Herren’s HOT LOCKS!
BY: MATTHEW HERREN
Michigan +11.5 over Ohio State Saturday, Nov. 29
12:00 P.M.
Ohio State has looked like the best team in the nation for
most of the season, but Ryan Day cannot seem to shake
off the Buckeyes’ biggest rival. Believe it or not, but a win
for Michigan could get them to the Big Ten Championship
or a possible berth in the CFP as an at-large. The Big
House will be rocking for this one, so Michigan keeps
this one very close if they don’t win outright. Roll with
Michigan +11.5 over Ohio State.
Texas A&M -2.5 over Texas Friday, Nov. 28 7:30 PM
Texas A&M got a free pass last weekend with an easy 48-0
win over Samford, while the Longhorns had to fight for their
life against Arkansas. Coach Elko and the Aggies need this
win for an SEC Championship berth, and I see them getting
the huge victory in Austin. Manning and the Longhorns are
overwhelmed by another team that is simply better than
them. Roll with Texas A&M -2.5 over Texas.
Clemson +2.5 over South Carolina, Saturday, Nov. 29
12:00 PM
Dabo and the Tigers clinched a bowl game with their
45-10 win over Furman last weekend. South Carolina got
back on track after their improbable loss to Texas A&M a
few weeks ago with a huge victory over Coastal Carolina.
Though Beamer has won two of the last three in this
rivalry, Clemson has not lost in Columbia since 2013. Dabo
beats Beamer for some momentum into their bowl game.
Roll with Clemson +2.5 over South Carolina.
‌Kentucky +3.5 over Louisville Saturday, Nov. 29 12:00 PM
Kentucky was smoked by Vanderbilt last weekend 45-17,
but Louisville has lost all of their CFP hopes after losing
three straight. The Wildcats are one win away from a bowl
game, and Coach Stoops might need a win over their
in-state rival to keep his job. I think Kentucky plays a little
bit more inspired football this weekend and at least keeps
things interesting on the road. Roll with Kentucky +4.5
over Louisville.
Tennessee -3.5 over Vanderbilt Saturday, Nov. 29 3:30 PM
The Volunteers dominated Florida in Gainesville for
the program’s first road win in the rivalry since 2003.
Vanderbilt comes into Neyland Stadium with everything
to play for, as they sit just outside of the projected CFP
bracket. Coach Heupel has never lost to the Commodores,
and I don’t think that changes this weekend. The
Volunteers play spoiler and crush Pavia’s hopes at a
playoff berth. Roll with Tennessee -3.5 over Vanderbilt.
Auburn +4.5 over Alabama Saturday, Nov. 29 7:30 PM
Since the Tide fell to Oklahoma a few weeks ago, all eyes
have been on the Iron Bowl. Auburn’s new quarterback
Deuce Knight had six total touchdowns in their win over
Mercer last weekend. I’m not an Auburn fan, but I have a
feeling that they would love nothing more than to keep
Alabama out of the CFP. Jordan-Hare at night allows
Auburn to win in classic fashion and clinch a spot in bowl
season. Roll with Auburn +3.5 over Alabama.
OLE MISS @ MISSISSIPPI
STATE
FRI. 12:00 PM
ABC
‌GEORGIA @ GEORGIA TECH
FRI. 3:30 PM
ABC
‌LSU @ OKLAHOMA
SAT. 3:30 PM
ABC
MISSOURI @ ARKANSAS
SAT. 3:30 PM
SEC NETWORK
‌FLORIDA STATE @ FLORIDA
SAT. 4:30 PM
ESPN2
All Betting lines are courtesy of https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/navigation/ncaaf. All lines are subject to change before kickoff of each game. Lines recorded on 11/23/25.
athens
Tucker
gainesville
steelmartatlanta.com
steelmartatlanta.com
GO DAWGS!
++
++
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 34 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

MORE SPORTS
FOOTBALL
TOP 12
JD’S
BY: JEFF DANTZLER
The final weekend of the regular season has arrived and there are enormous stakes
and circumstances for a slew of classic rivalry games here on Thanksgiving Week.
Three Big Ten teams seem locks for the playoff. The SEC and ACC races are tight
and tough. How many will the SEC get in? Remember a Group of Five team and all
the major leagues get a berth. This is it for the regular season. Enjoy the ride.
1. OHIO STATE - The Buckeyes were awesome
once again, taking down Rutgers 42-9. Ohio State
heads into the Michigan game with an 11-0 mark. The
defense has been awesome all season long. The Scarlet and Gray
have lost four in a row to the Wolverines.
2. TEXAS A&M - The Aggies took care of Samford
48-0 and are 11-0 on the season. Their offense
is electric, and the defensive line is stout. A win
over Texas in Austin would clinch A&M’s first ever berth in the
Southeastern Conference Championship Game.
3. INDIANA - The Hoosiers are in the midst of a
dream season. Indiana is a perfect 11-0 and bound
for the Big Ten Championship Game and the College
Football Playoff. They were off this past Saturday,
tuning up for the in-state battle against Purdue in West Lafayette.
4. GEORGIA - The Bulldogs took care of business
against Charlotte Between the Hedges, downing the
49ers 35-7 to make it 10-1 on the season. Now comes
the biggest game of them all for Georgia, as the Dogs
battle the Yellow Jackets at Mercedes-Benz.
5. OLE MISS - The Rebels have most likely punched
their playoff ticket. Lane Kiffin’s high octane attack has
led the way to a 10-1 campaign, the program’s best
since the Johnny Vaught era. Now comes the Egg Bowl
and Mississippi State Friday in Starkville.
6. TEXAS TECH - The Red Raiders are at their best
since Mike Leach patrolled the sidelines in Lubbock.
Texas Tech is 10-1, and putting up big numbers. They
are hungry for a playoff berth. Next up though is West
Virginia in Morgantown, which could be tricky.
7. OREGON - The Ducks picked up a massive 42-27
victory over Southern Cal, improving to 10-1, and
most likely wrapping up a playoff berth. Dan Lanning
has done an outstanding job in Eugene. The regular
season comes to an end Saturday at Washington.
8. OKLAHOMA - The Sooners defense was
outstanding in a 17-6 victory over Missouri,
improving to 9-2. The schedule has been very tough
for Oklahoma. There’s one more big test, as the LSU
Tigers head to Norman with the Sooners aiming for 10-2.
9. ALABAMA - The Crimson Tide had no problems
with Eastern Illinois, rolling to a 56-0 win over Eastern
Illinois. Now comes the Iron Bowl, and you never
know in this one. Auburn will give Bama a good shot.
The Tide are 9-2 and still in the hunt for Atlanta.
10. NOTRE DAME - The Fighting Irish rolled past
Syracuse 70-7, hitting that point total for the first time
since 1932. Notre Dame has won nine in a row since
an 0-2 start. Struggling Stanford is next up, as the Irish
head to the farm hunting a 10-2 mark and CFP berth.
11. TECH - The Yellow Jackets fell behind Pittsburgh
and rallied back to get within seven. The Panthers
prevailed 42-28. A second half pick six proved costly.
Tech has a shot to finish the regular season 10-2, as
arch rival Georgia awaits Friday at Mercedes-Benz.
12. JAMES MADISON - The Dukes are a fantastic
story, making the steady climb in Division 1-A (FBS).
James Madison is 10-1, and 7-0 in the Sun Belt. The
Dukes topped Washington State 24-20 this past weekend. They
head to Coastal Carolina Saturday.
Tune into the Bulldog Brunch every Sunday at 10AM with Jeff Dantzler,
Kevin Butler and eric zeier to catch the best game recap!
A Great Place to
Celebrate yet another
Victory over Tech!
athens • watkinsville
auburn • lawrenceville
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 35 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

Old & In The Way
BY GREG POOLE
BULLDOGS HANDLE CHARLOTTE, NOW ALL EYES TURN TO TECH!
Georgia’s 2025 win over an
overmatched Charlotte team wasn’t
about drama; it was about control. The
Bulldogs walked into a game they were
supposed to dominate and did exactly
that, treating the afternoon like a livespeed
lab more than a spectacle. The
outcome was never in doubt, and more
importantly, Georgia got out clean and
sharper for what really matters next:
Georgia Tech in Atlanta.
Now we find out what all those clean,
low-stress reps were really for. The
rivalry game against Georgia Tech at
Mercedes-Benz Stadium isn’t just another
nonconference finale; it’s a temperature
check on where this Georgia team actually
stands heading into the stretch run.
Charlotte was about staying on schedule.
Tech is about sending a message.
This matchup carries weight in three
different rooms: the playoff committees,
high school living rooms across the state
and every office where a Georgia or Tech
fan is waiting to talk trash on Monday
morning. Georgia doesn’t just need
to win; it needs to look like the better
program in every phase—disciplined,
explosive and relentless for four quarters.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium has gradually
morphed from “neutral site” into something
that feels suspiciously like Sanford West.
Georgia fans show up, they’re loud, and
they’re very comfortable under that roof.
The fast track suits the Bulldogs’ roster,
especially on the perimeter and in the front
seven on defense.
Offensively, it’s a perfect stage for
Gunner Stockton to look like the steady
hand of a veteran quarterback. With
playmakers like Zachariah Branch and
Dillon Bell out wide and tight ends
giving Georgia matchup leverage in the
middle of the field, the Bulldogs have
the tools to stretch Tech horizontally and
vertically. The real question is whether
the offense can stay ruthless once it
builds a lead rather than drift into cruise
control.
Up front, this is the kind of game the
offensive line has to own. With its big
bodies in the mix, Georgia has the size
and talent to lean on Tech’s front until it
breaks. If the Bulldogs start grinding out
first downs with power runs, this can get
lopsided in a hurry.
On defense, the assignment is
unforgiving and straightforward: choke
off Tech’s rhythm before it ever settles in.
Georgia can roll out an imposing rotation
on the defensive line. At the same time,
edge threats bring heat. If Tech is living
in third-and-long, that stadium noise is
going to tilt heavily red and black.
The secondary has the talent to make
that front even more dangerous. With
Ellis Robinson IV, KJ Bolden, and a deep
group of defensive backs, Georgia can
tighten coverage, challenge throws
outside, and sit on routes if the pass rush
forces hurried decisions. One or two
early takeaways could flip this from a
rivalry game into a showcase.
For Georgia, this isn’t just “Beat Tech
Week.” It’s an opportunity to plant a
flag in Atlanta—again—and walk out
of Mercedes-Benz Stadium looking like
a team built for bigger stages still to
come. Charlotte handled the timing and
the tune-up. Now comes the test that
actually echoes.
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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 36 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

KEVIN BUTLER’S
PLAYERS OF THE GAME
COMPILED BY VANCE LEAVY
OFFENSIVE PLAYER
Noah Thomas - the transfer from Texas A&M has developed into quite
the Bulldog over the last year. Saturday against Charlotte, NOAH made his
presence felt with his yaks. Targeted five times with with four catches NOAH
wrapped up 68 total yards and continues to define his role as the go-to
big receiver for the Dawgs. Noah’s three previous seasons at Texas A&M,
he racked up 63 catches for 900 and is continuing that production at the
University of Georgia. In the last three games, Noah Thomas has 11 catches
for 178 yards and three TDs. One thing Bulldogs should know about Noah,
he has a pretty successful uncle named Mike Singletary, who is a Hall Of
Fame NFL player from Baylor. That’s a good bloodline and that bloodline is
good for the Bulldogs.
DEFENSIVE PLAYER
Chris Cole – the linebacker from Salem, Virginia is a monster not a
witch. Chris stands 63 and weighs 235 pounds and is an elite athlete
at the linebacker position for the University of Georgia Bulldogs. The
sophomore linebacker brings tremendous athletic ability, the long
reach and the never quit attitude that has become the foundation for
Georgia linebackers. As the season gets deeper, Chris’ performance gets
more impressive. This year Chris has racked up 43 tackles (25 solos),
four sacks and two pass deflections. That, to say the least, is impressive.
Friday’s challenge against Georgia Tech will test Chris and his ability to
stop the run and defend the pass. I have all the confidence in Chris Cole
as Georgia heads towards another playoff run.
SPECIAL TEAM PLAYER
Brett Thorson – coming off of one of his tougher games in his career at
Georgia, Brett bounced back in the “Ray Guy Way” and delivered for the
Bulldogs with another Thorson patented flip of the field. Three punts
for a 51.3 yard average made for the perfect finish in his last game
Between the Hedges (on his long journey from Australia). Bret has
not only produced on the field but his smile and personality have
brought so much joy to the Bulldog Nation. He will be dearly missed
and always a Bulldog. In his last game, he netted 44.7 yards per punt
and laid two inside the 20. Now he gets his chance to go 4-0 against
the hated Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Friday. There is nothing more
fun than being a Bulldog on Friday night after winning the state
championship. Thanks for all you do and have done Brett. You are a
true Bulldog!
UNSUNG HERO OF THE GAME
When the Dawg Nation is looking for something special to magnify
the Georgia Bulldog experience, just witness Senior Day at the last
home game in Athens this year. Saturday was Seniors Day and that
brings families together, players together, coaches together and
exemplifies what it is all about to be a Georgia Bulldog. Seniors have
become an extinct creature in many ways. When a player makes it to
his senior year, it is a very special thing to be recognized with your
family, your friends, and the support group that helped you on your
journey. As the journey comes to an end for this senior class, there
is still much that lies in front of them. This senior class has won a
national championship and two SEC championships, and that gives
them all a special place in the University of Georgia football history
book. Every senior wants to win their last game Between the Hedges
and as we all know, there are no guarantees until the last whistle
blows. Congratulations to this senior class for finishing the drill on
Dooley Field in Sanford Stadium. You all are Damn Good Dawgs!
Land More Memories
Brunswick Golden Isles Airport is your shortcut to
a longer vacation with daily first-class round-trip flights to and
from Atlanta in just an hour. Skip the traffic delays and enjoy
the convenience of free parking right in front of the terminal.
With a quick security check and baggage claim just steps
away, you’ll find more time to make the most of your visit.
It’s easy going from here.
Visit FlyGCAirports.com
or call 800.221.1212.
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 37 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

STATS THAT
MATTER
GEORGIA - 35, CHARLOTTE - 3
BY: ANNA WILLIAMS/BI
A look back at what decided the game between Georgia and Charlotte.
3-TOUCHDOWNS
Freshman running back Bo Walker delivered the breakout
performance Georgia fans have been waiting for, recording the
first three touchdowns of his career against Charlotte. Walker ran
with confidence and urgency, showcasing his acceleration and
physicality to finish runs in the red zone. His emergence added
another layer of depth to Georgia’s backfield rotation, and his
ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities highlighted just how
valuable he can be.
10-WINS
Georgia’s victory over Charlotte pushed the Bulldogs to 10 wins on
the season, marking the eighth time (five in a row) in Kirby Smart’s
10 years at the helm that the program has reached double-digit
victories. The consistency speaks for itself. Smart’s teams not only
win, they sustain excellence through injuries, depth chart shifts,
and year-to-year challenges. This milestone continues to reinforce
the program’s national standard and sets the tone as Georgia
approaches the final stretch of the regular season.
33.6-AVERAGE PPG
Georgia finished the Charlotte matchup averaging 33.6 points
per game, a number that aligned well against a Charlotte defense
allowing 37.4 points on average. The Bulldogs matched this
expectation, moving the ball with balance and efficiency throughout
the game against Charlotte. This statistical edge was evident early
as Georgia controlled possession and maintained pressure on a
Charlotte defense that struggled to limit explosive plays.
54-YARDS FROM FRAZIER
Running back Nate Frazier paced the Bulldogs on the ground
with 54 yards on 12 carries, leading the team in rushing. He
continues to stand out on the field, and his reliability in earlydown
situations helps Georgia stay on schedule offensively.
Frazier’s performance complements the growing depth of the
running back room, which was evident against the 49ers.
68-YARDS FROM THOMAS
Senior Noah Thomas made his presence felt in the passing game
with 68 yards receiving on four catches, highlighted by a 59-
yard explosion that ignited Georgia’s offense. Thomas’ ability to
separate downfield and stretch coverage gave Stockton a trusted
option on the field. His big gain set the momentum against
Charlotte and continues to show how valuable his experience
and deep-threat capability are within this offense.
‌449-TOTAL YARDS
Georgia’s offensive output against Charlotte was both balanced
and methodical, totaling 449 yards–192 rushing and 257
passing–across 75 plays. The Bulldogs sustained drives, spread
the ball effectively, and maintained control of the game’s pace
from start to finish. That level of distribution underscores how
well the offense is operating, with contributions coming from
a wide range of playmakers. The efficiency on both sides of the
ball offers a promising indicator as Georgia transitions into its
rivalry matchup with Georgia Tech.
BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED 38 ISSUE FOURTEEN • GEORGIA TECH

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