SEC championship game update: Kirby Smart's Georgia awaits opponent as Bulldogs eligible for title game post Alabama defeat

No. 8 Georgia (9-2, 6-2 SEC) completed its conference schedule with a win against No. 10 Tennessee (9-2, 5-2 SEC) in Week 12. The Bulldogs played a non-conference game against UMass on Saturday while waiting for clarity on their eligibility for the SEC championship game.

Following the conclusion of Week 13 action in the conference on Saturday night, it has become clear where Kirby Smart and his team stand regarding the conference title game.

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Is Georgia in the SEC championship game?

Georgia will once again be heading to Atlanta. The Bulldogs’ path to the SEC Championship game cleared on Saturday night following the games of contending teams. The conference made a confirmation later following the conclusion of Week 13 action.

The Bulldogs secured a spot in the conference championship game, thanks to a pair of shocking upsets in the conference games. Oklahoma dominated Alabama in a 24-3 stunner, while Auburn edged out Texas A&M in a thrilling 43-41 victory that stretched into four overtimes.

Georgia facse the winner of next Saturday’s showdown between Texas and Texas A&M in the SEC Championship Game. The Bulldogs have beaten Texas this season, securing a 30-15 road victory, while they didn't face Texas A&M during the regular season.

It marks the fourth consecutive season the Bulldogs are heading to Atlanta for the SEC championship game. It's also the seventh time in eight years Kirby Smart will lead his team to compete for the conference crown.

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Increased stakes for the Lone Star Showdown

The stakes have become as high as ever heading into next Saturday's highly anticipated in-state rivalry matchup between Texas and Texas A&M in College Station. The winner will secure qualification for the SEC title game, giving the game increased importance

Following the win against Kentucky on Saturday, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian outlined the team’s goal regarding the conference championship game.

“What are we trying to accomplish to win that game to get to the SEC Championship Game?” Sarkisian said.

“But, I’m not naive to know the rivalry is the rivalry, and what this game means to the entire state of Texas, and households being divided Thanksgiving weekend.”

It marks the first time the rivalry series is being played after more than a decade. It’s also the first time they are meeting as a conference rival in the SEC. Adding to the excitement, ESPN's College GameDay will be on-site to cover the monumental matchup.