Georgia has unveiled the kickoff times for the opening trio of its 2026 football campaign, setting the stage for a season that will begin with a home clash against Tennessee State on September 5 at 3 p.m. Eastern, followed by a home game against Western Kentucky a week later at noon Eastern, and a road trip to Arkansas on September 19 at noon Eastern.
Projected Prime‑Time Slots
Analysts have already begun projecting the likely slots for the marquee contests, drawing on past network preferences and the inherent draw of certain opponents. The much‑anticipated showdown with Oklahoma is expected to air at 3:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC, while the meeting with Vanderbilt should land at 7 p.m. Eastern on ESPN. A trip to Alabama is projected for a 7:30 p.m. start on ABC, and the rivalry game against Auburn is slated for a 3:30 p.m. slot on the same network.
Further predictions place the Florida game at 3:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC, the Ole Miss matchup at 7 p.m. on ESPN, and the Missouri contest at 7:45 p.m. on the SEC Network. The season‑opening game against South Carolina is forecast for noon Eastern on ABC, and the in‑state rivalry with Georgia Tech is expected to conclude the regular‑season slate at 3:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC.
These projected times reflect a blend of network strategy and traditional scheduling patterns, aiming to maximize viewership while honoring the cultural significance of each opponent. Fans can begin to map out their viewing plans, knowing that the early‑season windows are likely to be anchored around prime‑time evening slots for the most high‑profile opponents.