Georgia vs Notre Dame: Why this game was more than just a victory.

Kirby Smart and his crew pick up a key win against a Notre Dame squad that was more than up for the challenge in one of the toughest environments.

When the smoke cleared and the clock officially struck 0 the #3 ranked Bulldogs walked off of Dooley field victorious. It wasn't the "kirbstomping" that a lot of fans wanted. What we got was a hard fought victory that we needed.

Kirby Smart and his crew overcame many obstacles on their way to defeat the #7 ranked team in the country. Over the course of the game we were down at least 3 starters in very key positions. Playing from behind in the depth chart is just as challenging as playing from behind on the scoreboard at times.

I've seen the naysayers talking about Book and his ability to complete passes, and he did complete his fair share. But how meaningful were they? If games were won in the box score those completions may have been a real issue. It isn't and they were not. I saw a defense that felt like Notre Dame would be forced to make big plays to win. We eliminated those. Book was not able to find wide open receivers streaking down field. In stead he found 10 yard drag routes that resulted in very little outside of that pesky box score.

Injuries were not the only obstacle we faced. In fact there were several more.

Special teams hurt. A muffed punt gifted Notre Dame 7 points. The defense held their ground but it's hard to keep a top 10 team from scoring when given the ball inside the 10 yard line. Those 7 points could have easily have been erased. We also survived 2 punts that could have been detrimental. This will be heavily addressed during the bye week so don't get overly concerned.

Georgia QB, Jake Fromm

We also survived Brian Kelly's creativity. Who knew drama and football went hand in hand when creating a game plan. It must be a challenge to fine tune the skills of high level D-1 athletes while also giving a crash course in acting. From phantom injuries to eye cramps that required a special dose of eye drops. The Georgia Bulldogs overcame.

This game provided everything UGA needed as they approach SEC play. This team showed me exactly what I needed to see moving forward. Patience, restraint, perseverance, and a big TEAM, little ME attitude. All the ingredients to make the playoff run that we are all looking for. This bye week comes at an opportune time. Let's rest, heal, and sharpen our skills. I'll see you guys at 7:00 PM in Knoxville next Saturday and as always Go Dawgs!