4. Which team can handle adversity after blowout wins last week?
Okay, so the Georgia Bulldogs were way more impressive. They faced a top 10 team in the Auburn Tigers and were supposed to struggle, but they shut down Gus Malzahn’s team from the start en route to a comfortable 27-6 win. However, Tennessee football did beat the Missouri Tigers by more than the Alabama Crimson Tide did, so they have something to brag about.
The first week, though, both teams struggled at times. UT fell behind early to the South Carolina Gamecocks and was locked in a battle with them through the fourth quarter. Georgia, meanwhile, trailed the Arkansas Razorbacks 10-5 in the third quarter before reeling off an epic run of total dominating to pull away for a 37-10 win.
Taking both things into account, each team has handled some adversity, but neither had any last week. As a result, composure when things go wrong in this game will play a huge factor. Both teams have shown a mild ability to handle it but nothing too special yet. If this game gets close down the stretch, whose palms get sweaty first?
You have to think the Vols are more experienced at this because they weren’t sure they were good enough to beat South Carolina when that game was close. Georgia always knew it could get going eventually against Arkansas. Also, Rocky Top has far less to lose and much more to gain in this game. Because of that, the pressure might favor them.