Georgia Prepares for Key Showdown with Texas, Nate Frazier Expected to Lead Running Attack

The No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs are set to face No. 10 Texas in a crucial Week 12 matchup, with both teams ranked in the top 10 and vying for College Football Playoff positioning. Georgia enters the game with a 10-1 record, while Texas is 9-2, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash between two SEC powerhouses.

Georgia’s lone loss this season came at the hands of Alabama, but Kirby Smart’s squad has since reeled off five straight victories, including a 43-35 win over Ole Miss. The Bulldogs have relied on balanced offensive play to maintain their position among the nation’s elite.

Quarterback Gunner Stockton has stepped up as a capable replacement for Carson Beck, who transferred to Miami, throwing for 2,040 yards and 15 touchdowns. Meanwhile, Texas quarterback Arch Manning has found his rhythm after a slow start, making this game critical for the Longhorns’ playoff hopes.

While Stockton’s performance will be key, the biggest X-factor for Georgia may be running back Nate Frazier. With a breakout game against Mississippi State recently, Frazier has emerged as a potential difference-maker in Georgia’s rushing attack.

1. Frazier Emerges as Offensive Leader

Georgia’s rushing attack has averaged 197.2 yards per game, ranking 44th nationally. Nate Frazier has led the backfield with 575 yards and three touchdowns on 101 carries, while Chauncey Bowens has added 474 yards and six scores on 86 attempts. Frazier’s potential was on full display in the Bulldogs’ victory over Mississippi State, where he rushed 12 times for 181 yards and a touchdown. It marked his first 100-yard game of the season and his first score since Week 2 against Austin Peay. Kirby Smart lauded Frazier’s effort, emphasizing the shared workload with Bowens and highlighting the contributions of the offensive line and key blockers. Smart told Kelsey Kramer of AtoZSports, “He’s been awesome. He works really hard. He and Chauncey both share the load… Nate had a great day, man. What a great day he had, and he was deserving.” Frazier’s ability to break long runs, such as his 59-yard touchdown against Mississippi State, underscores his explosive potential. Even discounting that play, he still surpassed 100 yards, signaling his readiness for bigger challenges.

2. Texas Defense and Rushing Opportunities

Georgia’s rushing attack faces a Longhorns defense that has had mixed results against the run. Mississippi State’s Davon Booth gained 99 yards on 24 carries, while Vanderbilt’s rushing game was largely contained by Texas. Other SEC backs have had moderate success against the Longhorns as well. Kentucky ran for 137 yards, and Florida’s Jadan Baugh posted 107 yards and a score on 27 carries earlier this season. These performances indicate that Texas’ run defense can be challenged under the right circumstances. For Frazier, this matchup represents an opportunity to solidify his status as Georgia’s RB1, particularly if the Bulldogs prioritize a run-heavy approach. His recent performances suggest he has the talent to exploit gaps and make significant contributions against a top-10 opponent. Game flow will remain an important factor. If Georgia falls behind early, the offense may rely more heavily on Stockton’s passing game. Conversely, Frazier’s breakout ability could allow the Bulldogs to control tempo and sustain drives on the ground.

3. Offense Strategy and Playmaking

Kirby Smart’s offensive game plan will likely balance passing and rushing based on Texas’ defensive tendencies. While Stockton has provided stability at quarterback, Georgia’s rushing attack could be the key to maintaining offensive balance. Frazier’s emergence allows the Bulldogs to diversify play-calling, keeping defenses off balance with both explosive runs and play-action passes. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact adds a dynamic element to the offense. Chauncey Bowens’ contributions also remain critical, as sharing the workload can keep both backs fresh and sustain drives over four quarters. Effective blocking from the offensive line and tight ends like Oscar Delp will be essential to open lanes and protect against aggressive defensive fronts. Ultimately, the Georgia-Texas matchup will test the Bulldogs’ ability to execute a balanced offense. Frazier’s role could define the game, providing both a short-term scoring threat and a long-term solution in the backfield.