The acclaim for Georgia football continues to pour in following their remarkable 30-15 victory over No. 1 Texas. After this win, the Bulldogs have finally earned national respect, and it feels great after so many people doubted this team.
Kirk Herbstreit, a member of the ESPN College GameDay crew, did not make a prediction for the game because he was calling it on TV, but he has compensated for his teams’ failings by awarding Georgia three honors following their victory.
Kirk Herbstreit’s decision to name Georgia as his top-performing team for Week 8 isn’t surprising given their impressive road victory over the No. 1 team in the country. What likely stood out to Herbstreit wasn’t just the win, but the manner in which Georgia asserted its dominance. The Bulldogs showcased their elite level of play by controlling key moments and outclassing their opponent, reaffirming their position as a national powerhouse. Their performance in such a high-stakes game earned them recognition as the standout team of the week.
Kirk Herbstreit’s choice of Georgia as his top-performing team in Week 8 is well justified, especially after the Bulldogs’ dominant road win over the No. 1 team. While Tennessee and Indiana also put in impressive performances, Georgia’s execution and preparedness, particularly in the first half when they held a commanding 23-0 lead, set them apart. Herbstreit’s recognition of Georgia’s coaching staff, including head coach Kirby Smart and defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann, highlights how crucial their preparation and in-game adjustments were in securing the win.
When Texas cut into Georgia’s lead to make it 23-15, Smart and his staff remained calm and found a way to reassert control, which speaks volumes about the team’s resilience and coaching acumen. Georgia’s ability to withstand pressure and finish strong is a testament to their championship mentality.
Linebacker Jalon Walker’s standout performance also earned him a spot on Herbstreit’s top-performing players list. With eight tackles and three sacks, Walker was a key factor in Georgia’s defensive dominance, especially in the first half. His contributions helped the Bulldogs’ offense find its rhythm after a slow start, and while he may not have been Herbstreit’s top player, his performance was historic—doing something no college player had done in the last 20 years. Despite not being the top selection, Walker’s inclusion on the list highlights how crucial he was to Georgia’s victory.