The Georgia Bulldogs will begin their play-off run tonight against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The Bulldogs are coming off of a much-needed three weeks of rest following a gritty 22-19 overtime win against the Texas Longhorns in the SEC championship, earning them a first-round bye in the playoffs. As for the Irish, they began their playoff play a little over a week ago against the Indiana Hoosiers. Notre Dame dominated the Hoosiers throughout the game for the 27-17 win, as they were the more physical and overall better team. Tonight’s game has a scheduled viewing time of 8:45 p.m. ET, with kickoff likely taking place at 9:00. Buckle up, Dawg fans; it’s going to be a late night.
Gunner Stockton vs. Notre Dame defense
Gunner Stockton will make his first collegiate start tonight for the Dawgs as the Redshirt Sophomore will take over for the injured Carson Beck for the rest of the season. Stockton showcased his toughness and capabilities in the second half of the SEC championship following Beck’s injury, leading the Dawgs to the come from behind win. Other than the late-game interception, Stockton played a heck of a game, using his arm and legs to make crucial plays for the Georgia offense. Throughout the second half, it was apparent that the rest of the Dawgs’ offense was elevating their game, with many players stepping up and rallying around Stockton to get the win.
Georgia’s offense should look slightly different, with Stockton now at the helm. The Dawgs will likely avoid trying to aggressively push the ball downfield, putting Stockton in a position to take what the defense gives him. Stockton should lean heavily on his tight ends and running backs, with both position groups having true playmakers, as we should also see more rollouts and quarterback runs.
In terms of the Notre Dame defense, Stockton will have his work cut out for him. The Irish defense is one of the best in the country, as they pride themselves on physicality. The Notre Dame defense ranks 3rd in Opponent Points Per Game with an average of 13.8 points given up while also ranking 4th in Opponent Yards Per Play with 4.4. While the Irish have a solid d-line, it’s their linebackers and secondary that really lead the charge for this group. Led by linebacker Jack Kiser and safety Xavier Watts, this defense has been a quarterback’s nightmare all season long, ranking within the top three in Opponent Completion Percentage and Opponent Pass Yards Per Play.
Notre Dame Offense vs. Georgia Defense
The Notre Dame offense is a group that also prides itself on physicality. Unfortunately for them, the Dawgs defense feels the same way. Senior quarterback Riley Leonard leads the Irish offense; Leonard has totaled 2,293 yards through the air with 17 touchdowns and six interceptions. While Leonard is a solid passer, he is very athletic for a quarterback of his frame as he is an impressive runner, totaling 751 yards on the ground with 15 touchdowns.
Leonard isn’t the only threat for this Georgia defense; Sophomore running back Jeremiah Love will also look to trouble this Dawgs’ team. Love has totaled 1,057 rushing yards on 142 carries for the season, averaging 7.2 yards per carry.
Georgia’s D-line and linebackers will have to step up against an excellent Notre Dame O-line, as whoever wins the trenches wins this game. Expect leaders of this defense, such as Malaki Starks, Dan Jackson, Mykel Williams, and Butkus Award winner Jalon Walker, to have this defense ready to play.
Prediction UGA-24 Notre Dame-21
I expect this one to be close as both teams are physical and will lean heavily on their defenses while being very methodical on offense. As mentioned earlier, the trenches will be where this game is won. Georgia’s O-line has to get the run game going early in order to take pressure off Stockton. Stockton has to stay composed in the pocket and take what the defense gives him while avoiding turnovers, as his decision-making will be a major factor in Georgia’s offensive success. Georgia’s defense has to limit the Irish run game, putting more pressure on Leonard to make throws while keeping his legs at bay. With that being said, I think we’re in for a classic. As always, Go Dawgs!!!