Missouri vs. Georgia 2017: Preview, TV schedule, how to watch online, odds and more

Who: Missouri Tigers vs. No. 4 Georgia Bulldogs

When: Saturday, October 14, 2017

Where: Sanford Stadium, Athens, Ga.

Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

TV: SEC Network

Radio: Georgia Bulldog Sports Network, Missouri Tigers Sports Network

How to watch online: WatchESPN

Odds: Georgia is currently 30 1/2-point favorites, via OddsShark

Series history

Since the Missouri Tigers entered the SEC back in 2012, they’ve won the SEC East on two occasions. In that same time period, the Georgia Bulldogs have represented the East in the SEC Championship Game on one occasion and that was in 2012. However, in head-to-head matchups since becoming division rivals, the ‘Dawgs hold a 4-1 advantage over Mizzou.

This weekend, Missouri heads to Athens to face No. 4 Georgia as massive underdogs.

What does Missouri need to pull off the upset?

Georgia’s defense presents major problems for anyone in the country. It is a deep, talented and experienced group. And that begins up front. For the Tigers to keep up with the ‘Dawgs, they’ll need to be able to run the ball. Missouri doesn’t need to rush for huge numbers against UGA, however, it will need to be consistent on the ground in order for quarterback Drew Lock to stretch the field in the passing game. Missouri will not be able to line up and just beat Georgia. Things such as play-action and misdirection will be vital for Mizzou to have a chance.

On the season, Lock has completed 53 percent of his passes for 1,470 yards. He’s passed for 13 touchdowns while being picked off six times. He’s capable of big days in the passing game. He will need to have a huge game on Saturday for his team to have a shot.

Georgia’s offense poised for a huge day

Missouri’s defense may be the worst in the SEC. The Tigers are allowing 40 points per game. This means Nick Chubb and Sony Michel both could be set for big days. The Bulldogs average over 268 yards rushing per game, No. 11 in the country. Chubb is now seventh in SEC history with over 4,000 yards rushing and continues to climb that historic list.

If the ‘Dawgs get out to a big lead, look for Kirby Smart to get Jacob Eason more reps at quarterback. Freshman Jake Fromm will start, but for this team to truly reach its potential, Eason may be the right guy down the stretch. Saturday could present the perfect opportunity to give Eason some much-needed game reps.

So, who wins?

Georgia should win this one pretty easily. The talent discrepancy between these two schools is wide. The ‘Dawgs are also much more experienced on both sides of the ball and are competing for a spot in the College Football Playoff. This one should be over before halftime.

Prediction: Georgia 41, Missouri 13