College Football Playoff scores: Notre Dame handles Georgia in Sugar Bowl, advances to face Penn State in semifinal
The College Football Playoff semifinals are officially set, with Notre Dame securing the final spot after a commanding victory over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. The Irish will now face Penn State in the Orange Bowl on January 9 at 7:30 PM ET, while Texas will take on Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl the following day at the same time.
The Sugar Bowl, originally scheduled for January 1, was delayed by a day due to a tragic terrorist attack on Bourbon Street that left 15 dead and many injured. Despite the somber atmosphere and a reduced crowd, the game proceeded smoothly on Thursday.
Key Moments from the Sugar Bowl
Notre Dame Seals the Win
A dominant defensive effort by Notre Dame ended with a sack, securing their spot in the Orange Bowl.
Final Push by Notre Dame
With less than two minutes remaining, the Irish managed to bleed precious time off the clock, making a Georgia comeback virtually impossible.
Trick Play Pays Off
Facing a fourth-and-1, Notre Dame used clever trickery to draw a Georgia defender offside, earning a crucial first down and maintaining possession.
Georgia Falls Short on Fourth Down
The Bulldogs' final efforts to score fell short as Gunner Stockton’s fourth-down pass at the 9-yard line fell incomplete, handing possession back to Notre Dame.
Bulldogs’ Late Red Zone Push
Georgia briefly showed life after benefiting from a fourth-and-13 pass interference penalty, but they were ultimately unable to capitalize.
Notre Dame Extends Lead with Field Goal
Mitch Jeter nailed a field goal early in the fourth quarter, pushing Notre Dame’s lead to 23–10.
Third Quarter Summary
Notre Dame closed out the third quarter leading 20–10 and continued their momentum with a strong ground game.
Defensive Stops Define the Game
Both teams had crucial fourth-down stops, but Notre Dame’s defense outshined Georgia’s, repeatedly halting drives and keeping the Bulldogs off balance.
The Irish will now carry their momentum into the Orange Bowl, while Georgia’s season ends in disappointment after coming up short against a dominant Notre Dame team.
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