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When Georgia and Alabama face off on Saturday, it will mark their first encounter in Tuscaloosa since 2024. The contest also represents the fourth meeting between head coaches Kirby Smart and Kalen DeBoer; DeBoer won the first two regular-season matchups, but Smart's Bulldogs finally broke through against Alabama last December in Atlanta, capturing the SEC Championship. That victory was Georgia's first over the Tide in five conference title game meetings over the past 15 years.
Both programs have undergone significant changes since their last meeting 10 months ago. Below are several Alabama players to keep an eye on in this highly anticipated showdown.
Lotzeir Brooks, Wide Receiver
Following Germie Bernard's departure to the NFL, Lotzeir Brooks has stepped up as a key target for quarterback Ty Simpson. With Ryan Coleman-Williams back to his dangerous 2024 form, Brooks has become his new partner in crime. The slender sophomore possesses the speed to stretch defenses, and quarterback Keelon Russell frequently looks for him deep. Brooks leads the Crimson Tide with 21 receptions for 352 yards and a touchdown. He has recorded a 40-yard, 75-yard, and 50-yard catch in each of the last three games, producing at least one explosive play in every contest this season. Georgia's secondary will have its hands full, as Alabama boasts two legitimate No. 1 receivers.
Yhonzae Pierre, Linebacker
Yhonzae Pierre is arguably Alabama's most talented edge rusher. Similar to Chris Cole, Pierre is utilized in multiple roles. As the most experienced returner in the front seven, he has already notched 1.5 sacks, two pass deflections, and returned an interception for a touchdown. He is one of the primary disruptors, and all eyes should be on No. 0.
Traeshawn Brown and EJ Crowell, Running Backs
True freshmen Traeshawn Brown and EJ Crowell have made a significant impact for Alabama. Last year, the Tide averaged a mere 104 rushing yards per game; this season, they have boosted that number to 186.4 yards through five games, largely due to the addition of these two freshmen. While Daniel Hill leads the team in rushing, Brown and Crowell have provided explosive plays. Brown has carried the ball 42 times for 211 yards and a team-leading five touchdowns, stepping up last week against Mississippi State when Hill fumbled twice early. Crowell has been the most explosive of the three, averaging 7.8 yards per carry and recording Alabama's longest run by a tailback this season at 39 yards, despite dealing with injuries.
Originally reported by newspub_live.