5 preseason questions for Kirby Smart's Georgia Bulldogs in 2024
The Georgia Bulldogs missed the postseason last season after winning back-to-back national titles. While they had eight players selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, they will return much of their lineup from last season.
Georgia was the top-ranked team in the nation in the preseason Coaches Poll. Take a look at five questions for the Bulldogs ahead of the 2024 season.
Five preseason questions for Georgia Bulldogs
#1 Can they bounce back to reach the postseason?
The Georgia Bulldogs appeared poised for a third consecutive trip to the College Football Playoff last season, as they got off to a 12-0 start.
A 27-24 loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship Game ended those hopes, though. The Bulldogs will look to reach the postseason for the fourth time under Kirby Smart. They have won two national titles and are the betting favorites to win a third.
#2 How will they handle a tough schedule?
The Georgia Bulldogs face a tough schedule that includes five teams ranked in the preseason Coaches Poll.
That includes matchups with the No. 4-ranked Texas Longhorns, No. 5-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide, No. 6-ranked Ole Miss Rebels, No. 14-ranked Clemson Tigers and the No. 15-ranked Tennessee Volunteers. Their ability to navigate the tough schedule will be key for their title hopes.
#3 Can they replace the talent that left for the NFL?
The Georgia Bulldogs lost eight players to the NFL Draft, with Brock Bowers - who was selected 13th overall by the Las Vegas Raiders - being the first off the board.
Georgia has had a top-three recruiting class in the past eight seasons, including the top-ranked class in 2024.
#4 Can Carson Beck take the next step?
Carson Beck had a great season in 2023, his first year as a starter. He threw for 3,941 yards, 24 touchdowns and six interceptions.
He completed 72.4% of his passes while adding 116 rushing yards and four touchdowns. Beck is among the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy in 2024. If he turns into a legitimate Heisman candidate, the Bulldogs could be in great shape.
#5 Will they have a top-10 offense and defense for the fourth straight season?
The Georgia Bulldogs have had a top-10 unit on both offense and defense in the past three seasons. While they have had plenty of turnover during that span, they have continued to perform at a high level. If they do so once again, they could return to the postseason.