When UGA has ball

The Bulldogs’ offense got back on track last Saturday against Arizona State, with Knowshon Moreno rushing for 149 yards and Matthew Stafford throwing for a career-high 285 yards. Georgia has plenty of firepower and several different scoring avenues, but it’ll also be up against a defense that is allowing a paltry 55 rushing yards per game and 188.2 yards through the air.

The key will be to keep the Alabama defense guessing, which Clemson and three other foes have failed to do in 2008. Still, as effective as the Crimson Tide resistance has been this year, it hasn’t faced a club with the arsenal the Bulldogs possess.

Edge: UGA

When Alabama has ball

John Parker Wilson has come of age as quarterback for the Tide, and with freshman sensation Julio Jones at his disposal he could have a big year throwing the ball.

But Nick Saban still subscribes to the “smash-mouth” offensive approach, and thus far his team has not disappointed. A improved offensive line has done a solid job opening holes for the likes of Glen Coffee, Mark Ingram and Roy Upchurch, and Alabama has the ability to wear down defenses, which it will certainly try to do Between the Hedges.

Edge: Alabama

Special teams

UGA kicker Blair Walsh is now 5 for 7 on field goal tries while punter Brian Mimbs is making a name for himself with a strong leg, averaging 52.2 yards per kick against USC — including a 77-yarder that flipped the field.

From a return standpoint Asher Allen has been impressive, and Mark Richt might even put Moreno back to field one or two punts if needed.

For Alabama Javier Arenas has been phenomenal returning punts, racking up 224 yards on 12 returns with a touchdown.

Leigh Tiffin has been good on six of eight treys and is 16 of 16 on extra points, while punter P.J. Fitzgerald averages 41.4 yards.

Edge: Even

Bottom line

Last year’s game in Tuscaloosa went into overtime with the Bulldogs getting the best of the Tide, 26-23. Few would be surprised if this one also didn’t feature some free football since both teams appear to be evenly matched and might have to go more than 60 minutes to settle the issue.

Georgia hopes donning the black jerseys will give it a psychological edge, but after a few hits it’ll all come down to which squad makes the most plays.

Playing at home could be the advantage the Bulldogs need to stay undefeated.

Prediction: Georgia 17, Alabama 13

— Scott Adamson