Georgia Ends Alabama’s SEC Dominance with 28-7 Victory

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ATLANTA — No. 3 Georgia finally broke Alabama’s grip on their long-standing rivalry, defeating the 10th-ranked Crimson Tide 28-7 in the SEC Championship Game on Saturday. Quarterback Gunner Stockton threw three touchdown passes, earning MVP honors after completing 20 of 26 passes for 156 yards and rushing for 39 yards. The victory also secured a first-round bye for Georgia in the College Football Playoff. “It was just another game for us, we didn’t make it bigger than it was,” Stockton said, reflecting on the Bulldogs’ focused approach. The win marked the first time fourth-year Georgia players, including Stockton, beat Alabama in the SEC title game. Georgia, now 12-1, had previously gone 0-4 against Alabama in SEC Championship matchups and 1-7 under coach Kirby Smart. With the victory, the Bulldogs earned their fourth SEC title under Smart and 16th overall. “It hit right between the eyes of doing it for the seniors,” Smart said, emphasizing the significance of the win. Alabama (10-3), which had moved up in last week’s CFP rankings, now faces uncertainty regarding its playoff chances. “We fell short today, but I’m proud of our season,” said Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer. The Crimson Tide must wait for Sunday’s College Football Playoff rankings to determine their postseason fate. Georgia dominated early, building a 21-0 lead before Alabama scored a fourth-quarter touchdown. The Bulldogs capitalized on key plays, including Cole Speer’s punt block and Daylon Everette’s interception, which each set up first-half touchdowns. Additional contributions came from Nate Frazier and Roderick Robinson II, who both scored after critical plays.

The Bulldogs also demonstrated depth and resilience, executing crucial fourth-down conversions despite missing center Drew Bobo. Conversely, Alabama struggled to establish its running game, finishing with minus-3 rushing yards and only 209 total yards, as injuries limited key contributors like running back Jam Miller.

With the SEC championship secured, Georgia will advance to a College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, while Alabama’s playoff hopes remain uncertain.