No. 3 Georgia ends No. 10 Alabama’s hold on rivalry, beats Crimson Tide 28-7 to win SEC championship

ATLANTA (AP) — Gunner Stockton and Georgia finally put an end to Alabama’s mastery of the rivalry between Southeastern Conference powers.

Stockton threw three touchdown passes as the third-ranked Bulldogs solidified their position for a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff and beat Alabama in the SEC championship game for the first time, pounding the 10th-ranked Crimson Tide 28-7 on Saturday.

Stockton, who completed 20 of 26 passes for 156 yards and rushed for 39 yards, was named the game’s MVP. It was the first victory over Alabama for Georgia’s fourth-year players, including Stockton.

“We approached it the same, like it was a big game, and didn’t make it bigger than it was,” Stockton said.

Georgia (12-1, No. 3 CFP) had been 0-4 against Alabama in the SEC title game and 1-7 against the Crimson Tide under coach Kirby Smart. Playing in their fifth straight league championship game, the Bulldogs earned their fourth title under Smart and 16th overall.

During a team meeting at the start of the week, Georgia players who had a win over Alabama were asked to stand up.

“None of them stood up,” Smart said.

Now the Bulldogs can stand. They also can brag about winning back-to-back SEC championships.

“I thought it hit ri...