3 reasons why Alabama will defeat Georgia in Week 5, 3 reasons they won't

This Saturday night, the Alabama Crimson Tide and Georgia Bulldogs will meet yet again, this time coming in Athens from Sanford Stadium.

Two of college football's top programs, Georgia enters this Week 5 contest as the favorite over Alabama, but have in fact struggled recently against the Crimson Tide, leaving many to believe that either team could win this game, even despite the game taking place in Athens.

Taking a deep look at that question as well, could Alabama actually come into Athens to hand the Bulldogs a home loss in what is a massive game for both teams? If so, what does the Crimson Tide have to do, and if Georgia ends up winning, what could be some reasons why?

Here are three reasons why Alabama will defeat Georgia in Week 5, as well as three why the Crimson Tide might not get the win.

Why: Alabama has owned series vs. Kirby Smart

It is likely no secret across college football than Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has struggled head-to-head when playing Alabama since arriving in Athens, with the Crimson Tide owning a 6-1 record dating back to 2016. Formerly the long-time Alabama defensive coordinator under Nick Saban, Smart owned a 1-5 record against his former boss, and is currently 0-1 against Kalen DeBoer, with this conversation set to continue being the talking point until results change for the Bulldogs.

Why Not: Alabama's recent road struggles

One of the biggest storylines from an Alabama standpoint going into this game will be the Crimson Tide's struggles on the road recently, and rightfully so. Under head coach Kalen DeBoer, Alabama is 2-4 in true road games dating back to the 2024 season, as well as 0-1 this year following a Week 1 loss at Florida State.

Why: Alabama offense back at full strength

In the Bulldogs' win at Tennessee, Georgia's defense surrendered 496 yards of total offense to the Volunteers, 371 of which came via the passing game. Georgia will now have to face an Alabama offense that is back to full strength for the first time this season with the return of Jam Miller and potentially Danny Lewis Jr., and the Crimson Tide are likely to see some success offensively in this contest, especially in the passing game.

Why Not: Georgia rarely loses at home

Entering this Saturday, Georgia has not lost a game inside of Sanford Stadium since the 2019 season. It will be a tall task for Alabama to defeat Georgia in Athens, but it is something that the Crimson Tide have done in their two most recent trips to Sanford Stadium.

Why: Alabama has real difference makers at receiver

As for the final reason why, Alabama, sticking on the offensive side of the ball, has some players at the wide receiver position who can be difference makers such as a year ago in Ryan Williams and Germie Bernard, both of which had a touchdown last season against Georgia. Georgia focusing on those two could potentially open up opportunities for the likes of Isaiah Horton and Lotzeir Brooks, as well as tight end Josh Cuevas who has two touchdowns so far this fall.

Why Not: Georgia's special teams play

In conclusion, Georgia's special teams unit is one of the best in all of college football, headlined by a very reliable kicker in Peyton Woodring who has yet to miss a kick this season. The Bulldogs also have one of college football's top punters in Brett Thorson, as well as a difference maker in returner Zachariah Branch, with each likely to make an impact this Saturday in a game where special teams play will be key for both teams.

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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Why Alabama football will, will not win vs. Georgia Bulldogs in Week 5