Georgia defeats Alabama after late fouls and controversial non-call

Second-ranked Georgia defeated sixth-ranked Alabama 20-17 on Saturday night, according to CBS Sports, The Red & Black, and The New York Times. The game ended after late fourth-quarter incidents sealed the win for Georgia. CBS Sports reported that Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer reacted furiously after a potential pass interference went uncalled late in the final quarter. [1][2][9][12]

With under four minutes remaining and Alabama trailing 20-17, the Crimson Tide reached field goal range, according to CBS Sports. Quarterback Keelon Russell targeted receiver Rico Scott in the end zone on second-and-10, but officials did not call pass interference when Scott attempted to make a play on the ball. [2]

Fox News reported that Alabama defensive back Dijon Lee later committed a personal foul with just over two minutes remaining. Lee grabbed a Georgia player by the jersey and struck him in the face twice with an open hand, drawing a flag that gave Georgia an automatic first down. The New York Times also noted that the personal foul helped Georgia hold on for the victory. [1][9]

Because Alabama had no timeouts left, Georgia was able to kneel out the clock to secure the win, Fox News reported. DeBoer has served as the head football coach at the University of Alabama since 2024. Georgia entered the game 5-0 overall and 3-0 in the SEC, while Alabama had also been undefeated before the matchup, according to CBS Sports. [1][3][13]