SEC Power Rankings: Week 4

Sep 13, 2014; Columbia, SC, USA; Georgia Bulldogs place kicker Marshall Morgan (13) makes a field goal as Georgia Bulldogs punter Adam Erickson (97 holds in the second quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

9. Georgia Bulldogs (1-1, 0-1)

Last Week’s Result: Lost to South Carolina 38-35

Well, the Georgia Bulldogs were in everyone’s playoff projections for about 13 days. Following the 45-21 victory over Clemson, the squad was idle last week and watched South Carolina struggle for a 33-23 win over East Carolina. The betting public poured money on Georgia and pushed the line up to -7 over South Carolina, despite the Gamecocks playing at home.

It all came crashing down after the Dawgs failed to convert a first-and-goal late in the fourth quarter that was set up by an interception and personal foul penalty. A questionable play call on first down resulted in a Hutson Mason intentional grounding penalty, and Marshall Morgan missed a chip shot field goal on fourth down.

The Gamecocks converted a fourth-and-1 at midfield by millimeters – literally – to secure the 38-35 win. Now, Georgia has not only fallen out of the national championship discussion, they have lost control of the SEC East. If Carolina wins out, Georgia will have to watch the SEC Championship on television.

Next Week: vs. Troy