With the Sugar Bowl matchup now official, Georgia is shifting into high gear as it prepares for a College Football Playoff quarterfinal rematch against Ole Miss. The Dawgs are eyeing redemption and a deep postseason run, but one of the biggest questions looming over their New Year’s Day showdown in New Orleans is the health of starting defensive end Gabe Harris.
Head coach Kirby Smart confirmed that Harris is currently dealing with a turf toe injury - a frustrating setback for a player who’s been a consistent presence on Georgia’s defensive front all season.
“We’re hoping to have him available,” Smart said on Monday.
That’s about as much clarity as we’ll get for now. The College Football Playoff will release official availability reports closer to game day, which should give a clearer picture of Harris’ status. But if he’s not able to suit up, it would be a significant blow to a Georgia defense that thrives on depth and disruption up front.
Harris, a 6-foot-4, 260-pound junior out of Thomasville, has started every game this season and has been a major contributor across the board. He ranks second on the team in tackles for loss with 6.5 and is fourth in quarterback pressures with 19.
Add in 26 total tackles and a sack, and it’s clear Harris has been a key piece of Georgia’s defensive identity. According to Pro Football Focus, he’s logged 443 snaps this year - the ninth-most among all Georgia defenders.
If Harris isn’t able to go, expect redshirt freshman Joseph Jonah-Ajonye to see an uptick in playing time. The young defensive lineman has flashed potential throughout the year, and this could be his moment to step into a bigger role under the Sugar Bowl spotlight.
Smart also gave an update on nickel back Joenel Aguero, who missed the SEC Championship Game due to a wrist injury. While he didn’t offer a definitive timeline, Smart noted that Aguero is staying engaged and working to get back on the field.
“Joenel is with us every day,” Smart said. “He’s trying to get healthy and get better and make himself available.”
Georgia’s defense has been a hallmark of its success in recent seasons, and heading into a high-stakes postseason matchup, the health of key contributors like Harris and Aguero could play a pivotal role. With Ole Miss’ explosive offense on deck, every snap, every pressure, and every defensive stop will matter - and Georgia’s depth will be tested in a big way.