USA TODAY Sports' seven-person expert panel unanimously picked Georgia to beat Florida on Saturday.

The SEC showdown in Week 9 pits the No. 20 Gators against the No. 3 Bulldogs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The two programs will meet in Atlanta instead of Jacksonville due to renovations to EverBank Stadium.

Rivalry games often produce unpredictable results, but recent history favors Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs, who have won eight of the previous 10 meetings; Georgia also has topped Florida five straight times. Smart and Co. are looking to rebound from an upset loss to Auburn before the bye week.

Meanwhile, Sumrall's squad has an opportunity to change the trajectory of its season. A victory would give the Gators another signature win after upsetting Texas in Week 7.

Both teams are eyeing College Football Playoff contention and this marquee matchup carries implications beyond bragging rights. Florida has already proven it can compete with nationally-ranked opponents, having knocked off Ole Miss and Texas. Ending Georgia's streak of dominance in the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" would represent a compelling argument to the committee.

USA TODAY Sports Week 9 Florida vs. Georgia predictions

  • John Brice — Georgia
  • Matt Hayes — Georgia
  • Jordan Mendoza — Georgia
  • Paul Myerberg — Georgia
  • Erick Smith — Georgia
  • Eddie Timanus — Georgia
  • Blake Toppmeyer — Georgia

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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: USA TODAY Sports experts unanimously pick Georgia over Florida

Source: Yahoo Sports