The Georgia Bulldogs have claimed a major Southeastern Conference victory, defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide 20–17 on Saturday, October 10, to secure their first regular-season win over Alabama in Tuscaloosa since 2007. The second-ranked Bulldogs improved to 6–0, handing the sixth-ranked Crimson Tide their first loss of the 2026 season.
Georgia’s victory came down to a tense fourth quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Kicker Peyton Woodring delivered the decisive blow with a 23-yard field goal with 5:25 remaining, putting the Bulldogs ahead for good. Georgia’s defense then held firm as Alabama attempted to mount a late response.
Quarterback Gunner Stockton played a central role in the win, throwing for 249 yards and a touchdown while adding a rushing score. His performance helped Georgia overcome a difficult stretch in the first half and regain control after Alabama entered halftime with a 14–10 lead.
Running back Dwight Phillips Jr. also made a significant impact, rushing for a career-high 120 yards. Georgia finished with 455 total yards of offense despite being without leading rusher Nate Frazier, demonstrating its ability to find production from other players in a high-pressure road matchup.
Alabama responded after falling behind 10–0, scoring twice before halftime to take the lead. Quarterback Keelon Russell threw for 185 yards and a touchdown, while the Crimson Tide added a third-quarter field goal. However, Alabama was unable to score in the final period as Georgia protected its narrow advantage.
The result carries particular significance for Georgia head coach Kirby Smart, who spent years trying to secure a regular-season victory over his former program in Tuscaloosa. The Bulldogs’ win also strengthens their position in the SEC race and adds a defining result to their undefeated start.
Georgia’s triumph came on a weekend when top-ranked Texas also suffered a loss to Oklahoma, increasing the possibility of major movement in the national rankings. The updated Associated Press Top 25 poll is expected to reflect the impact of the weekend’s results.
For Georgia, the 20–17 finish represents more than another win on the schedule. It ends a nearly two-decade wait for a regular-season victory in Tuscaloosa and gives the Bulldogs an important boost as the season moves deeper into conference play.
