The Georgia Bulldogs won 26-22 at Missouri. Georgia’s four-point margin of victory is the same number of points freshman defensive back Malaki Starks saved with a clutch, high-effort tackle.
Starks chased down a Missouri running back to prevent a second quarter touchdown. Missouri quickly lined up following the play, but was called for a false start penalty. The Tigers failed to score a touchdown thanks to Georgia’s stout red zone defense. Missouri settled for field goal to take a 16-3 lead.
— CFB over all (@PickettsPool) October 2, 2022
This was a pivotal point in the game. If Georgia fell behind by three possessions, the Dawgs would have been in many more obvious passing situations for the remainder of the night. Instead, Georgia tacked on another field goal before halftime and never trailed by more than 13.
In the second half, Georgia used a stronger rushing attack to help cut into the Tigers’ lead. Eventually, the Dawgs took the lead and didn’t look back from there.
Starks, a former five-star recruit, is a standout for the Bulldogs. The true freshman already has a pair of interceptions. Starks’ interception against Oregon was a special play. Additionally, the Jefferson High School graduate had 17 total tackles entering the Missouri game.