The Ole Miss Rebels secured a thrilling victory over the Georgia Bulldogs, winning 39-34 in the Sugar Bowl and advancing to the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals. This remarkable turnaround continues Ole Miss’s surprising season, particularly under the leadership of new head coach Pete Golding, who took over after Lane Kiffin departed for LSU.
The game, held in New Orleans on January 2, 2026, saw the No. 6 Rebels defy expectations against the No. 3 Bulldogs, the reigning Southeastern Conference (SEC) champions. Georgia had entered the game as the favorite, but Ole Miss’s resilience shone through as they battled back from a halftime deficit of 21-12.
The first half featured a pivotal moment when Georgia’s Daylen Everette returned a fumble 47 yards for a touchdown. The Bulldogs appeared to be in control, but the Rebels regrouped after halftime. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, a Division II transfer, delivered an impressive performance, completing 30 of 46 passes for 362 yards. His leadership helped shift the momentum, allowing Ole Miss to seize a 34-24 lead.
Georgia responded quickly, launching a touchdown drive that culminated in a field goal by Peyton Woodring, leveling the score at 34-34 with just 56 seconds remaining. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the game headed toward a dramatic conclusion.
With the clock winding down, Ole Miss executed a crucial play on a third-and-5. Chambliss connected with De’Zhaun Stribling, who broke free from the Georgia defense for a 40-yard gain to the Georgia 30-yard line. This pivotal moment set the stage for the game-winning field goal.
Kicker Lucas Carneiro, who had already successfully converted field goals of 55 and 56 yards earlier in the game, stepped up for a 47-yard attempt. The kick sailed through the uprights, sending the Ole Miss fans into a frenzy and putting the Rebels ahead 39-34 with just six seconds left.
Although Georgia attempted a final play, the ensuing kickoff led to a safety that consumed the remaining time. Officials added one second back to the clock, giving Georgia one last untimed down. However, a series of laterals failed to advance the ball, sealing the Bulldogs’ fate.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Ole Miss, allowing them to advance to the CFP semifinals where they will face No. 10 Miami. The Rebels’ unexpected success, particularly under new management, has captured the attention of college football fans and analysts alike.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Ole Miss to see if they can continue their remarkable journey through the playoffs.
