College Football Playoff Preview: Ole Miss, Georgia Set for Sugar Bowl Clash with High Stakes and Familiar Faces
The College Football Playoff is officially rolling into its quarterfinal stage, and one of the most intriguing matchups on the slate has all the makings of a heavyweight showdown in New Orleans. No.
6 Ole Miss and No. 3 Georgia are set to square off in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1 at 7 p.m.
CT, and if their first meeting was any indication, fans should buckle up.
Back on October 18, Georgia handed Ole Miss its only loss of the season in a 43-35 shootout that featured 78 total points and just two punts. Now, the Rebels get a second crack at the Bulldogs-this time with everything on the line.
A New Era in Oxford
Ole Miss enters this game riding high after a dominant 41-10 win over Tulane in the opening round of the CFP. That victory marked the debut of new head coach Pete Golding, who was elevated from defensive coordinator following Lane Kiffin’s departure to LSU after the Egg Bowl. It’s been a whirlwind transition, but Golding’s squad hasn’t missed a beat.
At the center of Ole Miss’ rise is quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, a transfer from Division II Ferris State who has quickly become one of the most compelling stories in college football this season. Chambliss took over the starting job early in the year and has led the Rebels to a 12-1 record, showing poise, athleticism, and a knack for big plays.
However, there’s some concern heading into the Sugar Bowl. Star running back Kewan Lacy suffered an injury during the Tulane game, and his status remains uncertain. If he’s unable to go, that could shift more of the offensive burden onto Chambliss’ shoulders.
Georgia: Built for This Stage
On the other side, Georgia is no stranger to the playoff spotlight. Head coach Kirby Smart has built a program defined by physicality, depth, and consistency-and this year’s team is no different. The Bulldogs are anchored by a top-10 defense that allows just 15.9 points per game, good for ninth nationally.
Quarterback Gunner Stockton has emerged as a difference-maker, especially in the earlier win over Ole Miss, where he tossed four touchdown passes. His chemistry with Georgia’s receiving corps and command of the offense have only improved since then.
Georgia comes into this game playing arguably its best football of the season, and with Smart having extra time to prepare, the Bulldogs are expected to be dialed in from the opening snap.
What to Expect in Round Two
The first meeting between these two teams was a high-scoring affair, but don’t be surprised if the rematch plays out differently. Both defenses have had time to adjust, and with so much at stake, expect a more tactical battle.
Ole Miss will need Chambliss to be at his best, especially if Lacy is limited or unavailable. Georgia, meanwhile, will look to impose its will on both sides of the ball, leaning on its defensive front to contain the Rebels’ explosive offense while letting Stockton manage the game with efficiency and confidence.
Predictions
It’s tough to beat a good team twice, but Georgia has the tools to do just that. Still, Ole Miss isn’t the same team it was back in October. Chambliss has grown, the defense has tightened up, and the Rebels are playing with a chip on their shoulder.
Some expect a lower-scoring game this time around-something closer to 30-21 or 30-26 in Georgia’s favor. But if Chambliss gets hot and the Rebels can force a turnover or two, don’t count out the upset.
Sugar Bowl Details
- Matchup: No. 6 Ole Miss vs.
No. 3 Georgia
- Date: Jan. 1
- Time: 7 p.m. CT
- Location: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans
- Broadcast: ESPN
CFP Quarterfinal Schedule (All Times CT)
Wednesday, Dec. 31
- Cotton Bowl: No. 2 Ohio State vs.
No. 10 Miami | 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 1
- Orange Bowl: No. 4 Texas Tech vs.
No. 5 Oregon | 11 a.m.
- Rose Bowl: No. 1 Indiana vs.
No. 9 Alabama | 3 p.m.
- Sugar Bowl: No. 3 Georgia vs.
No. 6 Ole Miss | 7 p.m.
Looking Ahead
Winners from the quarterfinals will advance to the CFP semifinals on Jan. 8 and Jan. 9, with the national championship game set for Jan. 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
For Ole Miss, this is a chance to make history. For Georgia, it’s another step toward reclaiming national dominance. One thing’s for sure-when the lights come on in New Orleans, we’re going to learn a lot about both of these teams.