Why Was Georgia vs Austin Peay Suspended Today, September 6?

The Georgia Bulldogs’ second game of the 2025 season against Austin Peay was suspended in the second quarter on Saturday, September 6. The stoppage came as play was halted due to lightning detected near Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia. At the time, Georgia was leading 14-3.

The delay was frustrating for fans and players, but safety rules are strict in college football. The SEC requires play to be paused if lightning strikes within eight miles of the stadium. Officials confirmed play would not resume until 30 minutes after the last detected strike.

Lightning Forces Suspension of Georgia vs Austin Peay

The Bulldogs’ official X account reported the suspension shortly after the second quarter began. According to the update, lightning was spotted within the restricted radius, forcing an immediate stoppage.

Weather delays are common early in the college football season, especially in the Southeast. On the same day, Clemson’s game against Troy was also interrupted due to storms. Reports noted that heavy rain and thunderstorms were affecting several states along the coast.

For Georgia, the timing of the suspension came just as the team was finding rhythm. Gunner Stockton, starting quarterback for the Bulldogs, had already faced criticism for appearing uncomfortable behind his offensive line. Still, Georgia had control of the game before the stoppage.

Impact on Teams and Season Outlook

For Austin Peay, the delay came as a welcome breather. They were trailing by double digits and struggling to stop Georgia’s pace. The break gave their defense extra time to reset against one of the nation’s strongest rosters.

For Georgia, the delay was less helpful. The Bulldogs had begun the season with a dominant 45-7 win over Marshall and looked ready to push past Austin Peay. Head coach Kirby Smart has bigger challenges ahead. His team will open SEC play against Tennessee on September 13 in Knoxville. A highly anticipated home matchup with Alabama will follow soon after.

Delays like this are disruptive, but they are also routine. Player safety and fan security are always the top priority. Severe weather in the South makes lightning delays a regular risk during September games.

Georgia vs Austin Peay was suspended today due to lightning near Sanford Stadium. The game will resume once conditions are safe, following NCAA and SEC safety rules.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why was Georgia vs Austin Peay suspended today?

The game was stopped in the second quarter after lightning was detected within eight miles of Sanford Stadium. Rules require a pause of at least 30 minutes after each strike.

Q2: What was the score when play was suspended?

Georgia was leading Austin Peay 14-3 when the suspension was announced in the second quarter.

Q3: Did other college football games face delays today?

Yes. Clemson vs Troy also faced a delay due to storms. Other games along the Southeast coast were impacted by bad weather.

Q4: When is Georgia’s first SEC game this season?

The Bulldogs will face Tennessee on September 13 in Knoxville. They will then host Alabama in a marquee matchup.

Q5: How did Georgia perform in their season opener?

Georgia opened the 2025 season with a 45-7 win against Marshall, showing strong form heading into conference play.