There was a time not long ago when Georgia football sat firmly atop the college football world. Back-to-back national championships in the 2021 and 2022 seasons turned the Bulldogs into the modern standard for dominance. Greg McElroy is not among the skeptics.
Greg McElroy Names Historic College Football Program Still Among America’s Best originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
There was a time not long ago when Georgia football sat firmly atop the college football world. Back-to-back national championships in the 2021 and 2022 seasons turned the Bulldogs into the modern standard for dominance.
But after falling short in the College Football Playoff the last two seasons, some wonder if Georgia’s reign is already past its peak.
Greg McElroy is not among the skeptics. During a recent episode of his "Always College Football" podcast, the former Alabama quarterback ranked Georgia at No. 6 in his preseason top 10.
That may seem like a drop, but McElroy made clear that he still views the Bulldogs as one of the most dangerous and complete teams in the country.
Georgia’s Golden Era Might Not Be Over Yet
McElroy opened his breakdown of Georgia by highlighting what he called “offensive weaponry,” praising the depth and explosiveness of the team's skill talent across the board.
Redshirt junior quarterback Gunner Stockton will take over full-time after a promising finish to 2024 and brings a dual-threat element that McElroy compared to Riley Leonard’s style at Notre Dame.
While Stockton may not rack up huge rushing stats, his ability to extend plays and convert in short-yardage situations could unlock new layers for offensive coordinator Mike Bobo.
The receiving corps features a loaded mix of returners and transfers. Colbie Young, who missed most of last year due to suspension, is back and expected to lead the group. Dillon Bell and London Humphreys add versatility and depth, while Texas A&M transfer Noah Thomas brings size and downfield ability.
Perhaps the biggest wild card is Zachariah Branch, a dynamic five-star return man from USC who McElroy expects to thrive in Georgia’s screen-heavy passing game.
The Bulldogs also return tight ends Oscar Delp and Lawson Luckie, as well as running back Nate Frazier, who showed game-breaking potential but struggled with ball security and pass protection in 2024.
Offensive Line Concerns Could Shape Georgia’s Ceiling
McElroy’s biggest concern with Georgia is the offensive line. Despite having three All-SEC selections last year in Tate Ratledge, Dylan Fairchild and Jared Wilson, the unit finished 102nd in rushing offense and 95th in explosive run plays. All three of those linemen were selected within the first 100 picks of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Bulldogs now face major questions across the interior. Center Drew Bobo is a veteran, and Monroe Freeling returns at left tackle, but there’s little continuity. Ernest Greene III, last year’s left tackle, shifts to the right side.
The talent is elite, but McElroy emphasized that chemistry and consistency will determine whether this group reaches its potential. If the offensive line falters again, it could limit just how far Georgia goes.
Even with those concerns, McElroy believes Georgia has a championship-caliber roster. Whether or not they re-enter the national title conversation will depend on how quickly the offense gels.
Related: Greg McElroy Names No. 1 Team in Preseason College Football Rankings
Related: Greg McElroy Names an Elite SEC QB 'Poised For Stardom'
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 7, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
