5 Interesting facts about Georgia vs. Florida rivalry ahead of Week 10 CFB Matchup

No. 2 Georgia (6-1, 4-1 SEC) made a strong comeback two weeks ago, defeating then-top-ranked Texas 30-15. Now, after a timely bye week, the Bulldogs aim to keep their momentum as they take on longtime rivals Florida Gators (4-3, 2-2 SEC) in a high-powered showdown.

The Gators, also coming off a bye, impressed with a 48-20 win over Kentucky, as freshman quarterback DJ Lagway shined both passing and running. This marked Florida’s best performance of the season after a slow 1-2 start.

The Georgia vs. Florida rivalry, famously called the “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party,” has lasted over 100 years and is filled with memorable matchups and unforgettable moments. Georgia leads the all-time series 56-44-2, but both teams have experienced periods of dominance and controversial games.

Here’s a look back at some unique facts that highlight just how special this rivalry has become

5 Interesting Facts About the Georgia vs. Florida Rivalry

1. World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party

The Georgia-Florida game remains legendary, partly due to the fan experience. Thousands of fans from both schools converge on Jacksonville each year, filling up bars and restaurants and tailgating in full force. It’s a celebrated event in college football that many fans consider a must-attend gathering.

2. The Okefenokee Oar: A Trophy of Tradition

In 2009, the Okefenokee Oar became the official trophy for this fierce rivalry. The oar, which measures around 10 feet long, is carved from a cypress tree originating in the Okefenokee Swamp, a natural border between Georgia and Florida.

3. A long-standing rivalry

The history between Georgia and Florida goes back more than a century. The two teams have battled each other in Jacksonville for decades.

4. Rivalry Has Its Own Hall of Fame

Few rivalries can claim to have a dedicated Hall of Fame, and Georgia vs. Florida is one of them. Players and coaches who have left a lasting mark on the rivalry are inducted and recognized for the unforgettable performances they brought to the field.

5. A Debate Over the Rivalry’s Start Date

One unique twist in this rivalry is the disagreement on when it began. Georgia claims the first game was in 1904, while Florida disputes this, asserting it had no team until later. They both agree that their first official meeting took place in 1915, with Georgia winning in Jacksonville, 37-0.

Georgia vs. Florida Football Head-to-Head

The Georgia-Florida game has been a fixture since the early 1900s. According to their record book, Georgia currently leads the series 56-44-2 (or 55-44-2 by Florida’s records). Since 2010, Georgia has won nine of the last 14 games, underscoring the Bulldogs’ recent dominance.

Notable records in the Georgia vs. Florida Football Series

This year marks the 94th meeting between the teams in Jacksonville and the 89th since the game was permanently moved there in 1933. Georgia’s coach Kirby Smart has a 6-2 record against Florida, while Florida’s Billy Napier is 0-2.

The Bulldogs have outscored the Gators 40-15 over their last three matchups. Georgia’s most significant victory was a 75-0 win in 1942, a record that still stands.

When was the last time Georgia defeated Florida?

Last year, Georgia claimed a 43-20 victory over Florida, marking their third consecutive win and sixth in the previous seven meetings. Bulldogs quarterback Carson Beck, a Jacksonville native, had a stellar game, completing 19 of 28 passes for 315 yards and two touchdowns.

Who is favored in Georgia vs. Florida?

Heading into this year’s game, Georgia is the favorite with a 14.5-point spread, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

The over/under is 51.5 points, with Georgia’s money line at -630 and Florida’s at +460.