ATLANTA — In a decisive victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, Georgia claimed its third SEC Championship in four years, showcasing their dominance in college football.

The Bulldogs triumphed over Alabama with a 28-7 win, marking a significant milestone as it was the first time Georgia defeated the Crimson Tide in an SEC Championship game. Previously, Georgia had fallen short in all four of their past championship encounters with Alabama.

This win also bolstered Georgia head coach Kirby Smart’s record against Alabama, bringing it to 2-8, a notable improvement given the historic challenges his teams have faced against the Tide.

Georgia set the tone for the game with a pivotal play midway through the first quarter. Cole Speer executed a crucial punt block, allowing the Bulldogs to gain possession at Alabama’s 21-yard line.

Just four plays later, Georgia capitalized on this advantage. Gunner Stockton connected with Roderick Robinson, who had limited playtime before this game, for a one-yard touchdown pass, putting Georgia ahead 7-0 early in the contest.

Later in the first quarter, Bama made another mistake. This time Ty Simpson threw an interception to Daylan Everette, last year’s SEC Championship game MVP who now has three career interceptions in this contest.

Just like the first mistake, Georgia would take advantage. Stockton threw his second touchdown of the game. Dillon Bellon was the recipient of a five-yard pass as the Dogs extended their lead to 14-0.

In the third quarter, Georgia had another short field to work with thanks to Zachariah Branch’s 24-yard punt return. The Dogs took over at Alabama 40. They needed just five plays to add the lead. Nate Frazier rushed in from nine yards out. Georgia took a commanding lead, 21-0.

The play of the game came in the fourth quarter. Alabama elected to go for it on fourth-and-two trailing 21-7. The ball rested on their own 12-yard line. Ty Simpson’s pass was incomplete and Georgia took over on the turnover on downs.

Georgia needed just three plays to cash in on the short field. Stockton threw his third touchdown of game to Brach. The score was 28-7 in favor of Georgia.

Georgia secures an automatic berth in the 12-team College Football Playoff with the win. The Dogs most likely will be a top-four seed and get a first-round bye.