The Georgia-Tennessee football rivalry continues to be a hot topic, even in the offseason. While Georgia emerged victorious in their 2022 clash en route to a national championship, offensive lineman Tate Ratledge recently stirred the pot with comments about the two teams' respective stadiums.

Ratledge, a junior who has experienced both Sanford Stadium and Neyland Stadium firsthand, sparked discussion on the "Real Talk Georgia" podcast. He praised Neyland Stadium's unique bowl design and riverside location, suggesting its structure contributes to a more intense atmosphere. "112,000 and it’s a bowl? Right on the river?" Ratledge remarked, adding, "Imagine if our fans were in that stadium how loud it would have gotten." He specifically highlighted how Neyland's enclosed design seemingly contains the crowd noise better than Sanford Stadium.

A general view of the field after a Georgia Bulldogs score in the second half against the Auburn Tigers at Sanford Stadium on Oct. 8, 2022 in Athens, Georgia. (Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

General view of the Tennessee Volunteers team running through the "T" before the game against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium on Sept. 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee won the game 38-33. (Donald Page/Getty Images)

A general view of Sanford Stadium during the game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on Nov. 24, 2018 in Athens, Georgia. (Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)

Following the podcast, Ratledge took to Twitter to clarify his remarks. He emphasized that his comments were solely about stadium design, not a criticism of Georgia fans or their gameday atmosphere. This clarification came after some interpreted his words as a slight against Sanford Stadium's home-field advantage.

The stadium debate adds another layer to the already intense rivalry. Former Tennessee quarterback Erik Ainge previously weighed in on the topic, claiming that playing at Sanford Stadium was "overrated." The two teams will face off again at Neyland Stadium on November 18, 2023, giving Georgia another opportunity to experience the environment Ratledge praised.