As the 2024 college football season approaches, Georgia is generating significant buzz as one of the top teams in the nation. The Bulldogs are projected to dominate the Southeastern Conference and make a deep run in the expanded College Football Playoff, potentially securing a spot in the national championship game.

Georgia has one of the deepest, most talented rosters in the country. Returning some of the sport’s top players at premium positions and not defending a title for the first time in a while, the Bulldogs are widely viewed as the No. 1 team. Quarterback Carson Beck leads a high-powered offense under head coach Kirby Smart, and the defense remains one of the best in college football.

“With [Nick] Saban retired, this is the best overall program in college football right now,” an anonymous SEC coach said in an Athlon Sports article in May when asked about Georgia. “If the current Ohio State staff had a national title, you might make an argument there, but entering ‘24, this is the standard.”

Offense

Georgia received a significant boost in January when Beck decided to return for another season, giving the Bulldogs one of the top returning quarterbacks in college football. Beck is coming off one of the most prolific passing seasons in school history, with 3,941 yards in his first season as Georgia’s starter, and he has an array of weapons at his disposal.

Senior slot receiver Dominic Lovett had a tremendous spring, generating buzz with his performance.

Fifth-year speedster Arian Smith also had a standout spring, while Miami, Florida transfer Colbie Young made a huge impression during spring drills.

Additionally, Georgia fans should be excited about Florida transfer Trevor Etienne at running back, who brings a missing element to the offense from last season.

The offensive line is another strength, with four starters returning, along with two other players who saw significant playing time last season. This depth and experience will be crucial in maintaining the high-powered offense that Georgia fans expect.

Defense

The defense is anchored by the return of Nazir Stackhouse and Warren Brinson, who bring invaluable experience to the line. Mykel Williams is transitioning from the defensive line to a stand-up outside linebacker role in his third season, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Inside linebacker will be a strong point for the Bulldogs again, with Smael Mondon Jr. returning for his senior season, joined by Jalon Walker, C.J. Allen and Raylen Wilson, all of whom gained valuable experience in 2023.

The secondary, despite losing three starters, remains a formidable unit. True freshmen Ellis Robinson IV and KJ Bolden, both five-star additions in the 2024 class, are in contention for starting positions at cornerback and safety, respectively.

Georgia safety and First Team All-American Malaki Starks returns after a standout 2023 season with 52 tackles, three interceptions and seven pass breakups.

Specialists

Georgia’s kicking game remains intact, with Brett Thorson returning for his third season as one of the league’s most consistent punters over the past two years. The Australian was a finalist for the Ray Guy Award last season, so look for him to pick up where he left off.

Peyton Woodring, who earned the place-kicking job as a true freshman in 2023, found his groove midway through the season, and that should continue. The return game is still developing, with speedster Anthony Evans III likely to take on a more significant role.