The Georgia Bulldogs present unrivaled depth at the running back position heading into the College Football Playoff. Tasking the likes of Nick Chubb and Sony Michel to produce consistently, the program racked up 263.54 rushing yards per game on 45.46 attempts. Complimenting one another perfectly, the Chubb led attack ranks second in the SEC and tenth nationally. Clearly the strength of this offense lies within the running game.
In order to find success in the Rose Bowl, the Oklahoma Sooners must force Jake Fromm to throw the ball more frequently. Needless to say, this assignment is much easier said than done. However, two programs may have laid the blueprint throughout the course of the season.
Throughout the duration of the year, the Bulldogs attempted an average of 18.8 throws per game. Completing 63% of his attempts, Fromm remains average at best as a freshman. The numbers drastically change when forced to play from behind. While trailing — against Notre Dame and Auburn — the number of pass attempts balloons to 29 on average. Yet, the completion percentage dropped to roughly 50% in combination with a 2-1 touchdown to interception ratio.
Of course, forcing UGA to throw the ball has been a challenge for opponents all season long. But, when it’s possible, the strategy allowed opponents to find success. It all starts with limiting the rushing attack and building a lead.
Lincoln Riley should remain confident is his programs ability to score quickly and put Georgia in a hole early. The only question that remains is: can the Sooners stop the runaway train of Chubb and Michel to put the pressure on a freshman quarterback?