Saturday night will offer a classic showdown between two Southeastern Conference teams rich in tradition, guided by superstar coaches and rosters full of blue-chip talent.

The anticipation for the top 10 matchup of No. 3 Georgia and No. 8 Alabama between the hedges is palpable – even before it was announed the “Sunshine Scooter” would be rolling into town.

For the first time in a decade, ESPN’s “College Gameday” will be live in Athens.

In addition, Georgia head coach Mark Richt announced the Bulldogs would wear their black uniforms for the second time in the regular season and encouraged Bulldog Nation to “blackout” Sanford Stadium.

Between ESPN and the black jerseys, the atmosphere should be second to none.

The “Gameday” gang of Chris Fowler, Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit and Desmond Howard will be broadcasting live from the Myers quad on Saturday morning beginning at 10 o’clock.

A 22-3 loss to Tennessee in 1998 was the last time the show was in Athens, and after the decade-long absence, some fans questioned if the show would return.

“I’m excited they are actually bringing the show this year,” Thomas Raybon, a student majoring in business said. “I was mad last year when they didn’t do the Auburn game.”

Others are excited to get the chance to see Corso and Herbstreit, former college football players themselves and celebrities in the college football media.

“After hearing their voices on NCAA Football 09, I can’t believe they’re actually coming here,” student Jonathon Pawlowski said.

With “Gameday” airing nationally at 10 a.m. on ESPN, many students and fans are happy for the added attention, drowning out the conspiracy theorists who believe ESPN intentionally ignores Georgia.

“I think ‘Gameday’ will bring more national coverage, and it will get everyone even more pumped for the game,” junior Sean Spade said. “The increase in exposure will help with recruiting, and could ultimately ensure powerhouse status in the future.”

Part of the fun for fans on the “Gameday” set is being so close to the action.

Most sets feature the fans in the background, giving a perfect opportunity for humorous signs and chants to be seen and heard.

If an SEC match-up between two top-10 opponents with “Gameday” in attendance was not enough, the blackout will push the intensity of the crowd into frenzy.

“Last year against Auburn was the most awesome game I’ve ever been too,” said Pawlowski. “I know the Alabama players and coaches said they are not going to let it bother them but it will help out our performance and make Alabama feel intimidated.”

This story can be viewed at collegegameday.com.