ESPN computers catch up with Georgia, Bulldogs’ schedule eclipses other CFP teams

Smael Mondon Jr. (2) and Tykee Smith (23) Georgia inside linebacker Smael Mondon Jr. (2) and Georgia defensive back Tykee Smith (23) during the Bulldogs 27-13 win over top-ranked Tennessee in a game played November 5, 2022, at Sanford Stadium at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA. Photo credit Perry McIntyre. (Perry McIntyre/© 2022 Perry McIntyre)

May 26, 2023 at 3:10 p.m. UTC

By Mike Griffith, DawgNation

ATHENS — It took ESPN’s “SP+” computer model a couple of years to catch up, but it finally has Georgia as its preseason No. 1 team entering into a season.

The formula, which takes into consideration returning production, recent recruiting and recent team history — many of the same things poll voters do — had Georgia No. 2 last year and No. 6 entering the 2021 season.

Breaking things down even further in the most recent “Post-Spring College Football SP+ Rankings” pay-site article, the Bulldogs offense is rated as the ninth-best in the nation, while the defense is No. 3.

That might explain why an active Internet poll reflects more UGA fans would like to see the Bulldogs play the Trojans than other elite programs.

The USC offense, featuring Heisman Trophy winner and Georgia recruiting target Caleb Williams, is ranked No. 1.