JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — In a tense showdown at Everbank Stadium on November 1, Georgia narrowly edged out Florida, securing a 24-20 victory.

Georgia made a strong start when Gunner Stockton connected with Dillon Bell for an 8-yard touchdown on their first drive, putting them ahead 7-0 early in the game.

Florida soon responded, evening the score at seven. However, after a turnover by Stockton—his second interception of the season—Florida took possession deep in Georgia’s territory for the second time that day.

Though Florida capitalized on their first opportunity with a touchdown, this time they settled for a field goal, taking a 10-7 lead over the fifth-ranked team in the nation with just three minutes left in the first quarter.

Georgia managed to level the score before halftime, with Peyton Woodring successfully kicking a 39-yard field goal, sending both teams into the break tied at 10.

In the third quarter, Georgia’s offense found the end zone for the second time. Stockton and Noah Thomas connect for a 22-yard touchdown. Georgia goes up 17-10 early in the third quarter.

Florida responded on its next possession. The Gators, aided by two pass interference penalties committed by Georgia, scored on the first play after the second infraction. The 2-yard run tied the game at 17, which was the score at the end of the third quarter.

To start the fourth, Florida takes the lead on a field goal. Georgia’s 20-17 deficit marks the first time Georgia has trailed in the fourth quarter since the Alabama game in late September.

The play of the game came with eight minutes in the fourth quarter. Florida had the ball on fourth and one. Savannah native Elijah Griffin comes up with the stop to force a turnover on downs. Georgia takes over its own 18-yard line.

Seven plays later, Chauncey Bowens goes 36 yards for the score to give the Bulldogs a 24-20 lead with 4:36 remaining in the game.

Florida got the ball back, but could not convert on fourth and four. It was the second turnover on downs in the quarter for the Gators.

Georgia was able to run the clock out. Georgia improves to 7-1 overall and 5-1 in the SEC. Florida drops to 3-5 over and 2-3 in the conference.

Next, Georgia goes on the road to Starkville for a date with Mississippi State on Nov. 8 at noon.