As Georgia gears up for its Sugar Bowl clash against Ole Miss on New Year’s Day, there’s a potential boost coming for the Bulldogs' offense - and it could arrive just in time for this College Football Playoff quarterfinal.
Offensive coordinator Mike Bobo shared on Sunday that two key pieces - freshman tight end Ethan Barbour and senior wide receiver Colbie Young - are working toward a return for the New Year’s showdown in New Orleans. Neither is confirmed for game action just yet, but both are trending in the right direction.
“He’s worked extremely hard to get back and possibly play. We’re still day-to-day,” Bobo said about Barbour, who’s been sidelined since August with a fractured leg. While the freshman hasn’t taken a snap this season, his return could add another layer to Georgia’s already versatile tight end group - a unit that’s long been a cornerstone of the Bulldogs' offensive identity.
As for Young, his potential return carries a bit more weight in terms of proven production. The senior wideout - who transferred from Miami - has been out since suffering a fractured leg in Georgia’s 42-35 win over Ole Miss back on October 18.
Despite missing time, Young still ranks second on the team in receiving, with 23 catches for 336 yards and a touchdown. His size, experience, and ability to stretch the field could be a valuable asset against a Rebels defense that’s been vulnerable to big plays through the air.
Getting either player back would be a timely lift for a Georgia offense looking to reassert its rhythm after a month-long layoff. The Bulldogs have had time to heal, retool, and refocus since their last outing - and now, they’re eyeing a return to the national title conversation.
This Sugar Bowl matchup also carries a bit of historical weight. Georgia and Ole Miss have met 49 times, dating back to 1940, with the Bulldogs holding a 34-14-1 edge in the all-time series. But this will mark the first time the two SEC programs face off in a postseason game - and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, and if Barbour and Young are cleared to suit up, don’t be surprised if Georgia’s offense looks a little more dynamic than expected.