Tennessee vs Georgia Football: Bulldogs Prevail in 2025 SEC Overtime Thriller

The Tennessee vs Georgia football rivalry delivered an instant classic on September 13, 2025, as the Bulldogs escaped Neyland Stadium with a heart-pounding 44-41 overtime victory. This SEC opener featured seven lead changes, explosive plays, and a dramatic missed field goal that ultimately decided the outcome. Georgia extended its winning streak against Tennessee to nine games, but the Volunteers showcased their most competitive performance against Kirby Smart’s squad in years.

This Tennessee vs Georgia clash had everything football fans crave: stellar quarterback performances, defensive stands, and last-minute drama. Whether you bleed red and black or orange and white, this game exemplified why SEC football remains the nation’s premier conference. Let’s break down the key moments, standout players, and implications from this unforgettable SEC overtime thriller.

Game Recap: How Tennessee vs Georgia Unfolded

First Half: Offensive Fireworks Ignite Neyland Stadium

Tennessee started explosively, scoring touchdowns on their first three possessions. Quarterback Joey Aguilar marched the Volunteers downfield, capping the opening drive with a 4-yard rushing touchdown. Georgia responded immediately as quarterback Gunner Stockton answered with a 6-yard rushing score, tying the game 7-7.

The shootout continued as Aguilar connected with receiver Chris Brazzell for a spectacular 72-yard touchdown. Tennessee extended their lead to 21-7 when Aguilar completed an 18-yard touchdown pass. Georgia narrowed the gap when Stockton found Zachariah Branch for a 37-yard touchdown, making it 21-14. The Bulldogs added a field goal before halftime, trailing 21-17.

Second Half: Momentum Swings and Lead Changes

Georgia seized momentum after halftime. Running back Josh McCray powered in for a 1-yard touchdown run, giving Georgia its first lead at 24-21. The Bulldogs extended their advantage with a 48-yard field goal from Peyton Woodring.

Tennessee responded dramatically as Aguilar launched a 56-yard touchdown pass to Brazzell, reclaiming the lead 28-27. The teams exchanged scores throughout the fourth quarter, with Tennessee building a 38-30 advantage. Georgia tied the game with 2:32 remaining when Stockton connected with London Humphreys for a 28-yard touchdown, followed by a successful 2-point conversion.

Overtime: Dramatic Finish Secures Georgia Victory

Tennessee struck first in overtime with a field goal, taking a 41-38 lead. Georgia responded with McCray’s 1-yard touchdown run, clinching the 44-41 victory after officials confirmed the score upon review. The win preserved Georgia’s perfect record while handing Tennessee a heartbreaking defeat.

Key Statistics from Tennessee vs Georgia 2025

This table highlights the statistical battle that defined this epic contest:

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Standout Performances in Tennessee vs Georgia Matchup

Tennessee Volunteers’ Stars

• Joey Aguilar (QB): The transfer quarterback delivered a phenomenal performance, completing 24-of-36 passes for 371 yards and four touchdowns. His deep throws kept Tennessee competitive throughout.
• Chris Brazzell (WR): Dominated with six receptions for 177 yards and three touchdowns, including explosive plays of 72 and 56 yards.
• Braylon Staley (WR): Added nine receptions for 97 yards and a crucial fourth-quarter touchdown.

Georgia Bulldogs’ Standouts

• Gunner Stockton (QB): Accounted for three total touchdowns (2 passing, 1 rushing) while passing for 304 yards in his first road start.
• Zachariah Branch (WR): His 37-yard touchdown reception sparked Georgia’s comeback.
• Nate Frazier (RB): Rushed for 73 yards on 14 carries, providing balance to Georgia’s attack.

Historical Context: Tennessee vs Georgia Rivalry

Georgia’s victory extended their dominance in this series to nine consecutive wins. The last Tennessee victory came in 2016 on a Hail Mary pass from Josh Dobbs to Jauan Jennings. This 2025 matchup marked the first time these teams met in September since 2018 .

Despite the lopsided recent results, this game demonstrated Tennessee’s growth under coach Josh Heupel. The Volunteers’ 496 total yards represented their best offensive output against Georgia during Heupel’s tenure. This performance suggests the rivalry may be evolving toward more competitive matchups.

Implications for Both Programs

Georgia Bulldogs (3-0)

The Bulldogs enter their bye week with an unblemished record but significant concerns. Coach Kirby Smart acknowledged his team “didn’t play our best game” and has “a lot of work to do”. The offensive line struggled in pass protection, while the secondary allowed multiple explosive plays.

Georgia hosts Alabama next in a highly anticipated matchup that could define their season. The Bulldogs will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities before facing the Crimson Tide’s potent attack.

Tennessee Volunteers (2-1)

Despite the loss, Tennessee gained confidence from competing with the nation’s elite. Coach Heupel stated his team “deserved to win” and demonstrated they can compete at the highest level. The emergence of Aguilar at quarterback provides optimism for the remainder of SEC play.

Tennessee hosts UAB before traveling to Mississippi State for their next conference matchup. Their performance against Georgia suggests they remain capable of reaching the College Football Playoff.

The Human Element: Stories Behind the Game

This Tennessee vs Georgia matchup featured compelling personal narratives. Aguilar’s journey from community college quarterback to SEC standout exemplified perseverance. His performance against Georgia validated Tennessee’s decision to start him following Nico Iamaleava’s transfer.

Meanwhile, Stockton answered questions about his capability as Georgia’s starting quarterback. His clutch fourth-quarter touchdown drive and overtime composure demonstrated growth since last season’s College Football Playoff.

Conclusion: What This Game Means for College Football

The Tennessee vs Georgia showdown delivered one of 2025’s most memorable games. It showcased offensive brilliance, defensive resilience, and the emotional rollercoaster that defines college football. While Georgia preserved their winning streak, Tennessee announced themselves as legitimate SEC contenders.

This game reinforced why the SEC remains college football’s premier conference . The intensity, talent, and dramatic moments provide fans with unforgettable experiences. As both programs advance through their schedules, this epic clash will undoubtedly influence the conference championship and playoff picture.

Relive every thrilling moment of Tennessee vs Georgia by watching highlights on SEC Network and follow both teams as they continue their quest for championship glory!

FAQs

1. What was the final score of Tennessee vs Georgia 2025?

Georgia defeated Tennessee 44-41 in overtime after the Volunteers missed a potential game-winning field goal at the end of regulation.

2. How did Joey Aguilar perform for Tennessee?

Aguilar delivered an outstanding performance, passing for 371 yards and four touchdowns while adding a rushing score.

3. What is Georgia’s winning streak against Tennessee?

Georgia has won nine consecutive games against Tennessee, with the Volunteers’ last victory coming in 2016.

4. What’s next for both teams after this game?

Georgia has a bye week before hosting Alabama, while Tennessee hosts UAB before traveling to Mississippi State.

5. How did this game affect SEC championship implications?

Georgia remains the East Division favorite, while Tennessee demonstrated they can compete with the conference’s elite teams.

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