Georgia didn’t waste any time responding to Kirby Smart’s challenge in the third quarter.

Ladd McConkey took an end around 70 yards on the second play of the second half to make it 24-12.

UGA sideline reporter and ESPN color commentator D.J. Shockley reported moments earlier that Smart had sent an urgent message in the locker room.

“He said the team that runs the ball better in the second half will win the game,” Shockley said. “He put a personal challenge to the offensive line and said, ‘You must control this game in the second half.’ "

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McConkey added a second touchdown on Georgia’s next drive to make it 31-12 with 9:19 left in the third quarter.

McConkey set up his second score by drawing a pass interference penalty.

It’s the second game this season the redshirt sophomore has had a touchdown run and touchdown reception, accomplishing the same feat in the season-opening 49-3 win over Oregon.

The Bulldogs will clinch a spot in the SEC Championship Game with a win over Mississippi State on Saturday.

LSU awaits the East Division champ in the game that will take place at 4 p.m. on Dec. 3 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.