Georgia impresses in victory

Two weeks into the season and it is already tempting to ponder another Georgia-Alabama game in Atlanta with big stakes.

The loudest statements are made on the road and No. 3 Georgia made quite a racket Saturday, coasting past No. 24 South Carolina in a game that was supposed to represent the toughest test among East Division competition for the Bulldogs.

If that is the case, just pencil in Georgia for the SEC championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Dec. 1. The Bulldogs have their annual rivalry game against No. 7 Auburn in November and that trip to Death Valley to face No. 11 LSU in mid-October could prove tricky. But if Saturday was any indication, Georgia has a gear that few will be able to match.

The Bulldogs come with waves of talent and speed everywhere. Receiver Mecole Hardman here. Running back D’Andre Swift there. Cornerback Deandre Baker returning a pick for six. Safety Richard LeCounte hitting everything.

Georgia’s performance seemed even more impressive compared with how No. 2 Clemson had to fight and claw to win at Texas A&M. That’s not a knock at the Tigers. They showed their championship mettle against a team that was making one remarkable play after another. Clemson has now won 23 of its last 28 one-possession games since 2011.

But when you make it look easy in hostile territory the way Georgia did, it is notable.

Any thought Georgia might take a step back — even just a small one — after its breakout 2017 should be dismissed.