
Score - Georgia: 41 Appalachian State: 0
Game Recap
Things couldn’t have gone much better for Georgia in this game. The Dawgs jumped out to quick 10-0 lead in the first quarter and it was 20-0 at halftime, which gave Appalachian State virtually no confidence of hanging around and pulling the upset.
It was a dominant performance by the defense, and a very efficient job by the offense.
Marshall Morgan kicked a 42-yard field goal on the game’s opening drive, and then Georgia’s defense immediately followed by forcing Appalachian State to a three-and-out. UGA then marched down the field for a drive that ended with Aaron Murray finding Michael Bennett in the end zone for a six-yard touchdown pass.
Georgia took control of the game early and was clearly the superior team.
The offense put up 28 first downs and nearly 500 yards of total offense in a balanced attack. Aaron Murray threw for 257 yards and four touchdowns while the Dawgs also ran the ball for 216 yards. Todd Gurley also appears to be working his way back into top shape, rushing for 117 yards and one touchdown on 17 carries.
Michael Bennett had a great day against the Appalachian State secondary. Bennett caught nine passes for 96 yards and two touchdowns. If he and Murray can get into a rhythm over the last few weeks of the season, it will give the UGA offense a big lift.
The defense forced two turnovers and also came up with two big stops in the red zone. It may have only been against Appalachian State, but it’s still a good sign for a young unit that appears to be finding its way.
Key Performer
Aaron Murray
Aaron Murray did exactly what you expect an experienced senior leader to do in a game like this. He helped his team jump on the opponent early and they took care of business the way they should. Murray picked apart the Appalachian State defense the entire day, completing 23 of 28 passes and throwing four touchdown passes.
Looking Ahead
Georgia now sits at 7-2 and is ranked No. 7 in the country. The Bulldogs still control their own destiny in the SEC East and have a shot to reach the national championship game, though it will require some help. Now, the Dawgs travel to the Plains to take on a very dangerous Auburn team. They’ll need to bring their A-game, because the Tigers will be hungry for the upset.