Vanderbilt Seeks End to Losing Streak Against Georgia

The No. 25 Vanderbilt Commodores are looking to halt a two-game losing streak as they prepare to face the Georgia Bulldogs in Southeastern Conference play on Wednesday. Vanderbilt's recent games have been decided by the narrowest of margins, including a 69-65 loss to Tennessee and an 81-80 defeat against Missouri, where a half-court buzzer-beater narrowly missed forcing overtime.

Coach Mark Byington expressed frustration over the team's inability to finish close games. Vanderbilt has seen the return of Duke Miles, their second-leading scorer, who is recovering from a knee injury. Tyler Tanner, another key player, has been battling the flu but still delivered a strong performance against Missouri.

Georgia, currently at 19-8 overall, has found its rhythm with a recent two-game winning streak after a five-game skid. Their recent victories include an 86-78 win at Kentucky and a 91-80 home triumph over Texas. The Bulldogs have faced their own challenges, with leading scorer Jeremiah Wilkinson returning from a shoulder injury, and head coach Mike White emphasizing the team's competitive edge.

Both teams' depth and the performance of secondary scorers will be crucial. Vanderbilt will need contributions from Tyler Nickel and A.K. Okereke, while Georgia boasts several reliable scorers. The interior presence of Georgia's Somto Cyril, who has been an X-factor but also prone to foul trouble and ejections, presents a matchup challenge for Vanderbilt, which has struggled against size this season.