WWE Champion ‘The American Nightmare’ Cody Rhodes is set to take center stage as the celebrity guest picker on ESPN’s College GameDay during Week 12. This exciting announcement has fans buzzing, especially in the heart of college football country.
Rhodes’ Connection to Georgia Football
Cody Rhodes, known in the wrestling world as Cody Runnels, has deep roots in the Atlanta area. Growing up as a dedicated fan of the Georgia Bulldogs, his enthusiasm for the team is palpable. This Saturday, he will join the GameDay crew in Athens for a highly anticipated showdown between UGA and the Tennessee Volunteers. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with Rhodes bringing his larger-than-life personality to the pregame festivities.
GameDay History in Athens
This matchup marks the third time the Bulldogs have hosted College GameDay. Previously, they welcomed the marquee pregame show against Alabama and Texas, splitting those two encounters. Hosting College GameDay for the 39th time, Georgia ranks sixth among all teams in GameDay history. With an 18-20 record in those games, the Bulldogs will be looking to improve their standing in front of a home crowd that is sure to be fired up.
WWE Superstars on GameDay
Rhodes isn’t the first WWE superstar to grace the GameDay set this season. Earlier, Sheamus joined the crew in Dublin for the Georgia Tech vs. Florida State matchup, where he picked the Yellow Jackets to win—and they did! Fans are eager to see if Rhodes can replicate that success for his beloved Bulldogs. The excitement is building, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Impact of Recent Performances
Both Georgia and Tennessee enter this crucial game coming off contrasting results in Week 11. Georgia faced an unexpected setback, suffering an upset on the road against Ole Miss with a score of 28-10. Meanwhile, Tennessee secured a strong victory over Mississippi State, winning 33-14 and maintaining their position near the top of the SEC. This weekend’s clash could be pivotal, potentially shaping the playoff aspirations of both teams.
The Stakes Are High
This game is a must-win for both sides. A loss for Georgia would mark their third defeat of the season, a scenario they desperately want to avoid. For Tennessee, the stakes are equally high; a loss could jeopardize their chances of making it to the SEC Championship game. With both teams vying for supremacy, fans can expect a fierce battle on the field.
Historical Context: Georgia vs. Tennessee
In recent years, Georgia has dominated the rivalry, having not lost to Tennessee since 2016. The Bulldogs now hold the all-time series lead over the Volunteers with a record of 28-23-2. This historical advantage adds an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup, as Tennessee looks to reclaim some lost ground.
GameDay Crew and Atmosphere
Cody Rhodes will join a star-studded panel that includes Pat McAfee, who has experience with WWE both in the ring and at the commentary table. The GameDay crew, featuring Rece Davis, Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit, Nick Saban, and Desmond Howard, will be on hand to provide insights and analysis. The combination of Rhodes’ charisma and the expertise of the crew promises to make for an entertaining broadcast.
The Fan Experience
For fans attending the game, the atmosphere is bound to be unforgettable. The energy in Athens will be electric, with die-hard Bulldogs supporters rallying behind their team. With Rhodes as the guest picker, fans can expect a lively pregame show filled with excitement and anticipation. The chance to see a WWE Champion in a college football setting adds a unique twist to the day, making it a must-watch event for sports enthusiasts.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to kickoff continues, both teams are preparing for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The implications of this game extend beyond just a win or loss; it could significantly impact the College Football Playoff landscape. With both teams eager to prove themselves, fans can expect a hard-fought battle filled with passion, strategy, and unforgettable moments.
In summary, the upcoming game between Georgia and Tennessee, highlighted by Cody Rhodes’ appearance on College GameDay, is shaping up to be one of the most exciting matchups of the season. With playoff implications on the line and a storied rivalry at stake, this is one game you won’t want to miss!
