In this episode of Saturday vs Sunday, John Barban and Geoff Dover take a deep dive into the football landscape of the Peach State in their latest “State of Affairs” installment. Georgia might not have the sheer number of big programs as Texas or Florida, but with the Georgia Bulldogs, Atlanta Falcons, and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, it’s home to some of the sport’s most compelling storylines heading into 2025.
The conversation kicks off with the reigning kings of the SEC—the Georgia Bulldogs. The hosts debate whether new starting quarterback Gunnar Stockton will need to carry the offense or simply avoid mistakes while Kirby Smart’s NFL-factory defense dominates. They revisit last year’s offensive inconsistency, from dropped passes to Jekyll-and-Hyde performances, and dissect Georgia’s 2025 schedule—highlighting the critical matchups with Alabama and Texas, both at home, and early-season tests against Tennessee. With no shortage of blue-chip talent, the consensus is clear: Georgia is reloaded and primed for another double-digit win season.
From Athens, the discussion shifts to the NFL and the Atlanta Falcons, where the arrival of rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. has energized the fanbase. Barban and Dover explore the rare luxury of having both Penix and veteran Kirk Cousins on the roster, debating whether this unique setup is genius roster building or a risky investment. They break down the Falcons’ aggressive defensive draft strategy—two first-round edge rushers and two safeties—and whether these moves can fix a defense that struggled last season. Early-season division games against the Buccaneers and Panthers could set the tone for a potential playoff run in a wide-open NFC South.
Finally, the spotlight turns to Georgia Tech, the ACC’s potential dark horse. Returning quarterback Haynes King and running back Jamal Haynes give the Yellow Jackets continuity and firepower, making them a legitimate challenger in the conference. The hosts revisit Tech’s near-upset of Georgia last season and their early-season trip to Colorado, a matchup that could establish Tech as a serious contender before conference play even begins. With a schedule that avoids Miami and SMU, the path to a 10-win season is there—if they can stay healthy and consistent.
Throughout the episode, Barban and Dover weave in their trademark mix of data, humor, and candid opinion, comparing Georgia’s programs to national contenders and calling out the players who could define the season. Whether it’s Kirby Smart’s relentless recruiting, Penix’s poise under pressure, or Georgia Tech’s smash-mouth run game, this episode delivers a full-scope look at why the state of Georgia will be at the center of football conversations in 2025.
If you’re a Bulldogs loyalist, a Falcons die-hard, or just love seeing an underdog like Georgia Tech shake up the standings, this episode breaks down the matchups, rosters, and storylines you’ll be following all season long.
