Georgia and North Carolina are the latest SEC and ACC schools to get together for a big nonconference matchup, as it was announced Thursday that the pair will open the 2016 season in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game in Atlanta.
"This will undoubtedly be one of the best games of the 2016 opening weekend and a long-overdue renewal of an old ACC vs. SEC rivalry," Gary Stokan, president and CEO of Peach Bowl Inc., said in a release. "Both programs have a rich tradition, devoted fan base, top-notch players and elite coaches."
The game will be played Sept. 3, 2016, in the Georgia Dome.
The schools have played each other 30 times, with the Bulldogs holding a 16-12-2 edge. This will be the first meeting between the schools in 45 years.
"I know our team, coaches, and fans will be looking forward to playing a quality opponent like North Carolina in Atlanta," Georgia coach Mark Richt said in a release. "It will be a national stage for a season opener and generate a lot of excitement for fans not only of both schools but college football fans around the country."
The 2015 Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game will feature Auburn and Louisville.