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Notre Dame delivered a commanding defensive performance to defeat Georgia 23-10 in the College Football Playoff Sugar Bowl. A stunning 17-point surge spanning the final seconds of the first half and the opening kickoff of the second half sealed the Fighting Irish’s victory and a trip to the Orange Bowl semifinal against Penn State.
College Football Playoff: Notre Dame’s Defense Shines in Sugar Bowl Victory Over Georgia
Georgia's Offense Without Carson Beck
Georgia entered the game relying on backup quarterback Gunner Stockton to replace the injured Carson Beck. Pre-game analysis expected Notre Dame's opportunistic defense, ranked third nationally in turnover margin, to capitalize on any mistakes.
Game Outcome: Notre Dame's defense rose to the occasion, forcing two turnovers, including a critical strip-sack that led to a touchdown. Stockton, in his first career start, had moments of brilliance, throwing for 234 yards and a touchdown, but he struggled under pressure, with Notre Dame recording four sacks and nine tackles for loss.
Key Moments
Defensive Battle Early
The first quarter ended scoreless, marking the first CFP game without first-quarter points since 2018. Georgia’s first promising drive ended with Trevor Etienne fumbling deep in Notre Dame territory, his first career fumble in 425 touches.
Notre Dame’s 17-Point Surge
The game turned in 54 seconds spanning halftime:
Late First-Half Touchdown: With 43 seconds left in the second quarter, RJ Oben strip-sacked Stockton, and Notre Dame capitalized with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Riley Leonard to Beaux Collins.
Second-Half Kickoff Return: Jayden Harrison returned the opening kickoff of the third quarter 98 yards for a touchdown, extending the lead to 20-3.
Georgia’s Missed Opportunities
Georgia’s offense crossed into Notre Dame territory multiple times but failed to score touchdowns, going 0-for-2 in the red zone. A pass interference penalty on a 67-yard completion and two failed fourth-down attempts further hampered the Bulldogs.
Player of the Game: Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame
Leonard showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 80 yards and leading the Irish with timely plays. He also threw a crucial touchdown before halftime, finishing 15-of-24 for 90 yards. His leadership and poise were instrumental in Notre Dame’s victory.
Postgame Insights
Notre Dame’s Opportunistic Defense
The Irish defense held Georgia to 62 rushing yards and stifled the Bulldogs’ attempts to establish offensive rhythm. Key plays included multiple sacks and a relentless effort to pressure Stockton, forcing quick decisions and errant throws.
Georgia’s Missed Chances
Despite outgaining Notre Dame 294-244 in total yards, Georgia’s self-inflicted mistakes—penalties, turnovers, and missed fourth-down conversions—proved costly.
Key Stats
Notre Dame: 244 total yards (154 rushing, 90 passing)
Georgia: 296 total yards (234 passing, 62 rushing)
Turnovers: Notre Dame 0, Georgia 2
Sacks: Notre Dame 4, Georgia 1
Red Zone Efficiency: Notre Dame 1-for-2, Georgia 0-for-2
Looking Ahead
Notre Dame: The Fighting Irish advance to the Orange Bowl to face Penn State. Their defense will need to replicate this dominant performance against a potent Nittany Lions offense.
Georgia: The Bulldogs’ season ends with questions about their offensive consistency and depth. Carson Beck’s absence highlighted the challenges of adapting without a proven starter.