Where Will Georgia Be in CFB Playoff Bracket? Fresh Predictions After Win vs. Ga Tech

No. 4 Georgia avoided an upset on Friday, taking down No. 23 Georgia Tech by the final score of 16-9 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The Yellow Jackets had a final opportunity for a game-tying touchdown, but a deep pass into the end zone on the last play of the fourth quarter was batted down.

While the Bulldogs still would have been College Football Playoff contenders with a loss, they boosted their chances of securing a first-round bye in the CFP as well as a potential appearance in the SEC Championship Game by emerging victorious.

Now, head coach Kirby Smart's squad needs Auburn to beat No. 10 Alabama or No. 16 Texas to defeat No. 3 Texas A&M in order to receive an opportunity to compete for a conference title.

Fans, pundits and former players discussed Georgia's CFP outlook following Friday's win.

While the Bulldogs entered Friday's contest with a scoring average of 33.7 points per game, they dealt with some offensive inconsistency to open the matchup.

Georgia was held scoreless in the first quarter, as the team's first drive came to an end after Gunner Stockton was picked off at the Bulldogs' 47-yard line.

The Yellow Jackets led 3-0 entering the second quarter, but were outscored 13-0 by Georgia before the first half came to a close.

Friday's clash was largely a defensive battle in the second half, as neither team was able to find the end zone over the final two quarters.

Both teams traded field goals, allowing Georgia Tech to pull to within seven points as just under four minutes remained in the fourth quarter. A late comeback attempt fell just short, though.

The Bulldogs' defensive performance was impressive, holding the Yellow Jackets to just 250 total yards and 14 first downs. Georgia Tech also averaged a mere 3.0 yards per rush, converting four of 11 opportunities on third down.

Georgia was able to earn a win despite a rough performance from Stockton, who finished 11-of-21 for 70 yards and a touchdown to go along with the interception. He also rushed for 42 yards.

Still, the Bulldogs improved to 11-1 with the win and will begin preparing for their fifth CFP appearance.