Georgia's Narrow Win Over Tech: PFF Grades Reveal Offensive Struggles

What’s Happening

Last Saturday, November 25th, the No. 1 ranked Georgia Bulldogs secured a hard-fought 16-9 victory over their in-state rival, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, in the annual “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate” matchup.

While the win extended Georgia’s impressive winning streak to 29 games, the performance, particularly on offense, left many analysts and fans with more questions than answers.

The Bulldogs’ potent offense, usually a hallmark of their dominance, appeared uncharacteristically sluggish, especially in the passing game. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades released post-game, Georgia’s defensive unit largely excelled, showcasing their characteristic strength.

Defensive tackle Nazir Stackhouse, for instance, earned an impressive 88. 7 overall grade, leading all Bulldogs. Linebacker Smael Mondon Jr.

also stood out with an 84. 2 grade, contributing significantly to holding the Yellow Jackets to just nine points.

These high marks underscore the defense’s ability to consistently perform at an elite level, even when the offense falters. However, the PFF analysis highlighted significant concerns on the offensive side, particularly regarding the aerial attack.

Quarterback Carson Beck, despite the win, received a season-low 52. 3 passing grade, reflecting struggles with accuracy, decision-making, and overall rhythm. Wide receiver Ladd McConkey, often a reliable target, also registered a surprisingly low 54.

9 receiving grade, indicating that the issues weren’t solely on the quarterback. This collective dip in passing game performance against an unranked opponent is a red flag as Georgia heads into the most critical part of its season.

Why This Matters

The PFF grades, especially the poor marks for the passing game, are more than just numbers; they represent a tangible concern for Georgia’s aspirations of a third consecutive national championship.

A 16-9 victory against a rival is a win, but the manner of it suggests vulnerabilities that elite playoff teams will exploit. The Bulldogs cannot afford offensive lulls against top-tier competition, particularly when facing teams with equally strong defenses.

For quarterback Carson Beck, this performance raises questions about his consistency under pressure. While he has largely impressed in his first season as a starter, a sub-par outing in a rivalry game, even a winning one, can impact confidence and perception.

As the stakes escalate in the SEC Championship and potential College Football Playoff, Beck’s ability to elevate his game will be paramount.

The offensive coordinator, Mike Bobo, will undoubtedly be scrutinizing these grades to identify specific areas for improvement, from play-calling to route concepts and pass protection. Furthermore, this showing impacts the team’s overall narrative and playoff seeding.

While an undefeated record keeps them at No. 1, dominant performances are often favored by the playoff committee.

A narrow win with clear offensive struggles, even against a rival, could subtly shift perceptions, potentially affecting their path to the national championship if other top teams finish with stronger resumes.

The team’s identity as an unstoppable force becomes slightly less assured when the offense sputters like this.

The Bigger Picture

Georgia’s recent performance against Georgia Tech isn’t an isolated incident but rather part of a subtle trend showing less offensive explosiveness in the latter half of the season.

While they still boast a perfect record, the offensive output against Missouri (30 points), Florida (43 points, but with some defensive scores), and now Tech (16 points) has lacked the consistent, overwhelming dominance seen in earlier games.

This contrasts sharply with their 2021 and 2022 championship seasons, where the offense often complemented a stifling defense with high-efficiency scoring drives, even if not always high-volume passing.

Historically, rivalry games like the “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate” can be unpredictable, often bringing out the best in the underdog. Georgia Tech, under coach Brent Key, played with significant intensity and executed a strong defensive game plan.

However, true championship contenders are expected to overcome such challenges with a higher level of offensive execution.

Experts like ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit have begun to vocalize concerns about Georgia’s ability to consistently move the ball through the air against elite defenses, especially compared to the explosive offenses of teams like Michigan or even Ohio State.

This also puts the spotlight on the offensive line and receiving corps. While individual PFF grades provide snapshots, a struggling passing game is often a collective failure. Is the offensive line giving Beck enough time?

Are receivers consistently getting open and making contested catches?

These are questions that will be dissected by coaching staff and analysts alike as Georgia prepares for its next formidable challenge. The team’s offensive identity, once defined by dominant run game and efficient play-action, now faces pressure to prove its versatility.

What To Watch

The immediate focus for Georgia shifts to the SEC Championship game on December 2nd, where they will face a formidable Alabama team. This will be a true test of whether the offensive struggles against Georgia Tech were an anomaly or a symptom of deeper issues.

All eyes will be on Carson Beck and the passing game; can they rebound and perform at an elite level against a Nick Saban-coached defense known for exploiting weaknesses?

Expect Georgia’s coaching staff to prioritize improving pass protection, refining route concepts, and emphasizing timing and rhythm in practice this week.

The Bulldogs must demonstrate an ability to consistently threaten defenses through the air to maintain their top ranking and secure their spot in the College Football Playoff.

Will Georgia’s offensive coordinator make significant adjustments to unlock the passing game’s potential, or will they rely heavily on their dominant run game and defense? Can Georgia fix its passing game woes in time to conquer Alabama and secure their path to a third consecutive national title?