The Georgia Bulldogs opened the 2026 season exactly how many expected them to — with a dominant performance from start to finish.
No. 3 Georgia cruised past Tennessee State 56-3 Saturday at Sanford Stadium, overwhelming the Tigers on both sides of the football and giving Kirby Smart’s team an emphatic opening-day victory.
Georgia Comes Out Firing
The Bulldogs wasted no time taking control.
Georgia scored touchdowns on its first four possessions, racing out to a 28-0 lead during a spectacular first quarter. The Bulldogs piled up 358 yards of total offense before halftime and entered the break with a commanding 35-3 advantage.
It was one of the most explosive quarters Georgia has produced in recent years, immediately showing that this offense has plenty of firepower.
Gunner Stockton Looks Comfortable
Quarterback Gunner Stockton looked confident in his first game of the new season.
Stockton connected with Elyiss Williams, Talyn Taylor and Lawson Reddell for first-half touchdowns as Georgia consistently moved the ball through the air. The Bulldogs’ quarterback entered 2026 with major expectations after throwing for 2,894 yards and 24 touchdowns while rushing for 10 more scores in 2025.
With Stockton back as the starter, Georgia appears to have plenty of stability at the most important position on the field.
The Running Game Joins the Party
Georgia wasn’t simply relying on Stockton.
Nate Frazier added a rushing touchdown in the third quarter, while the Bulldogs continued to wear down Tennessee State with their physical rushing attack. Georgia’s ability to move the football both through the air and on the ground made it nearly impossible for the Tigers to slow the offense.
The Bulldogs continued adding points even after building a massive advantage, eventually pushing the score to 56-3.
A Statement From the Bulldogs
Georgia’s defense also delivered exactly what Kirby Smart wanted.
Tennessee State managed only three points, while Georgia’s defense consistently forced the Tigers to work for every yard.
There will obviously be much tougher competition ahead, but this was the perfect way for Georgia to begin a season filled with championship expectations.
The Bulldogs didn’t just win.
They dominated.
Georgia is now 1-0, and after a 56-3 demolition of Tennessee State, the Bulldogs have already reminded the rest of the SEC that they’re coming for another championship.
