Georgia finished second in the final AP Poll that was released Tuesday, the morning after the Bulldogs lost to Alabama 26-23 in overtime in the National Championship Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The second-place finish will sting for some, especially after Georgia appeared so close to winning its first national title since 1980. The Bulldogs led 20-7 in the second half before the Crimson Tide’s offense awakened behind a standout performance from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Georgia, which won the SEC, finishes the season with a 13-2 record.

Expectations should be high again in Athens heading into next season. The Bulldogs return many of the key faces from their strong run this fall, including quarterback Jake Fromm. Georgia has enjoyed recruiting momentum under coach Kirby Smart, who has completed his second season in Athens. The Bulldogs have the No. 1-ranked recruiting class in the nation, according to the 247Sports composite.

Click here to view the complete poll.