Florida Gators' 2026 SEC slate highlighted as top matchup vs Georgia

Athlon Sports named Florida vs Georgia the SEC’s top Week 9 game for 2026.

Which SEC game tops Athlon’s 2026 list?

Athlon Sports picked Florida-Georgia as one of the SEC’s best matchups next season. The annual rivalry moves to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta while Jacksonville’s stadium undergoes renovations. The Gators open at home vs Florida Atlantic on Sept. 5.

Why Florida-Georgia stands out

The Gators and Bulldogs have battled since 1904 in a clash of blue-blood programs. Georgia, Texas, Alabama and LSU each appear multiple times on Athlon’s weekly list. Florida faces several post-season favorites including Georgia, Texas and Oklahoma in 2026.

What else matters in the SEC

The SEC added a ninth conference game this season. Georgia’s slate includes Alabama in Week 6 and Ole Miss in Week 10. LSU hosts Clemson in Week 1 and later meets Texas in Week 11.

What’s next for Florida Gators football

Florida opens the 2026 season at home vs Florida Atlantic on Sept. 5. The Gators then face a tough early stretch vs Texas, Georgia and Oklahoma. Jon Sumrall enters his second season as Florida’s head coach with dark-horse playoff buzz.