Smart wants No. 3 Georgia to run the ball like champions in opening game against Tennessee State

Coach Kirby Smart of No. 3 Georgia stressed that his team must focus on running the ball and defending against the run during their first preseason practice. Smart reiterated that this emphasis will remain constant throughout the season. Georgia’s ability to establish a strong ground game is crucial, as evidenced by their fourth-place rushing average of 182.1 yards per game in the 2025 season, which included a Southeastern Conference championship.

The Bulldogs' defense, ranked second in the SEC with an average of 81.5 rushing yards allowed per game, will face a key test in their season opener against Tennessee State, who currently have a 0-1 record. Georgia's ground attack, led by junior Nate Frazier, will be assisted by returning running backs Chauncey Bowens, Bo Walker, and Dwight Phillips Jr. The loss of their top five receivers, including Zachariah Branch and Colbie Young, will be a significant challenge for the team.

Quarterback Gunner Stockton will rely on top returning target London Humphreys, who had 18 catches for 276 yards last season.

Tennessee State, who lost their top defensive player Xzavier McLeod, sees Georgia’s upcoming visit as an opportunity to gauge their performance against SEC opponents. Georgia's defensive line suffered another setback with the retirement of Xzavier McLeod. Senior tight end Elyiss Williams, described by Smart as a "really hard worker" and a "really physical blocker," will join Lawson Luckie, Ethan Barbour, and Jaden Raddell in forming Georgia's deep tight end corps.

The Bulldogs will debut an all-white alternate uniform for their home game against Western Kentucky on September 12.