Every Saturday morning, college football fans eagerly tune in to ESPN’s “College GameDay,” where the excitement of the upcoming matchups is dissected live from a different college campus each week. For Week 12, the spotlight will shine brightly on Athens, Georgia, as the show prepares for a thrilling SEC showdown between the No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers and the No. 12 Georgia Bulldogs.
What to expect from College GameDay in Athens
The “GameDay” panel, which includes well-known personalities like Rece Davis, Desmond Howard, Pat McAfee, Nick Saban, Lee Corso, and Kirk Herbstreit, will once again be joined by a special guest picker. This week, fans can look forward to the presence of WWE star Cody Rhodes, who brings his unique flair to the show.
Who is Cody Rhodes?
Cody Rhodes, 39, is not just a household name in professional wrestling; he is also the current Undisputed WWE Champion. After claiming the WWE championship at WrestleMania 40 in April, he recently added the inaugural Crown Jewel Championship to his accolades during an event in Saudi Arabia earlier this month. With such a strong presence in the wrestling world, it’s no wonder he’s been chosen as the guest picker for this highly anticipated game.
Rhodes has a connection to the world of sports commentary, as he often collaborates with Pat McAfee during the college football and NFL offseason. Before his successful wrestling career, he was involved in acting and production, showcasing his diverse talents.
Rhodes’ Georgia roots
Born and raised in Marietta, Georgia, Rhodes is a lifelong fan of the Bulldogs. His passion for the team was evident during a recent appearance on McAfee’s daily show, where he reminisced about his childhood experiences. “I’m a Georgia guy,” he stated with pride. “That’s my life, is the ‘Dawgs.” He even shared fond memories of attending Georgia football camp as a kid and taking a picture with the beloved bulldog mascot, Uga. It’s clear that Rhodes’ heart beats in rhythm with the Georgia football spirit.
Given his deep ties to the team, fans can expect Rhodes to make a spirited pick for Saturday’s game. The excitement surrounding his selection adds another layer of anticipation to the “GameDay” experience.
Previous celebrity guest pickers on GameDay
Rhodes isn’t the first WWE star to grace the “GameDay” stage. Earlier this season, Sheamus served as the guest picker when the show originated from Dublin, Ireland, ahead of the Georgia Tech-Florida State game. In 2022, Bianca Belair made her appearance as a guest picker when Tennessee hosted Florida. The show has also welcomed iconic figures like Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and Roman Reigns, making it a star-studded affair that fans look forward to each week.
Excitement builds for Tennessee vs. Georgia
As the Volunteers and Bulldogs prepare to clash, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This SEC matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams looking to solidify their standings as the season approaches its climax. The energy in Athens will be palpable, and with Rhodes as the guest picker, the atmosphere will be electric.
Fans tuning in to “College GameDay” will not only get insights from the expert panel but also the unique perspective of a celebrity who embodies the spirit of college football. Rhodes’ enthusiasm for the Bulldogs will undoubtedly resonate with viewers, making this episode a must-watch.
So, mark your calendars and set your alarms! The excitement of “College GameDay” is just around the corner, and with a guest picker like Cody Rhodes, fans can expect a memorable morning filled with analysis, predictions, and plenty of college football passion.
Why College GameDay matters
For many fans, “College GameDay” is more than just a pre-game show; it’s a tradition that brings together communities, ignites rivalries, and celebrates the love of college football. Each week, the show travels to a different campus, highlighting the unique culture and spirit of college towns across the nation. The camaraderie among fans, the lively atmosphere, and the expert insights create an unforgettable experience that resonates with viewers far and wide.
As we gear up for the Tennessee vs. Georgia showdown, the anticipation is building. With the combination of a fierce rivalry, a passionate guest picker, and the ever-engaging “GameDay” crew, this week promises to be one for the books. Will Rhodes’ loyalty to the Bulldogs shine through in his pick? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: college football fans are in for a treat this Saturday morning!
