Heading into the 2012 season, defending SEC East champion and sixth-ranked Georgia was widely viewed as one of the top teams in the country and viewed as a potential threat to possibly sneak into the BcS title picture.
Based on the first 30 minutes of the season at least, expectations may be tempered just a bit.
After jumping out to a 24-6 lead midway through the second quarter, the Bulldogs allowed MAC member Buffalo to score 10 straight points to close the gap to 24-16 with two quarters to play. Perhaps most concerning was a look at the stat sheet; the Bulls, which won just three games in 2011, outgained UGA 243-188, including an astounding 147-51 edge in rushing yards for the visitors.
Nearly a third of the Bulls’ yardage came on its second touchdown, a 94-yard drive that lasted nearly six minutes late in the half.
It should be noted defensively, however, UGA is dealing with a handful of players missing the game due to suspensions/injuries. With Missouri and the SEC opener on the road on tap next weekend, however, and with at least a couple of those suspensions extending beyond this weekend, there may be a bit of concern in Athens and the surrounding areas this afternoon. Pending how the second half plays out, of course.
UPDATED 3:59 p.m. ET: So much for hanging in. After the so-so first half, UGA dropped Buffalo 45-23 to win going away.