Ole Miss holds off Georgia in College Football Playoff instant classic to reach semifinal

One day into 2026, and we already have an entry for game of the year.

Ole Miss staved off a furious Georgia comeback to win, 39-34, to win the Sugar Bowl and move on to the College Football Playoff semifinal.

After allowing the Bulldogs to score 15 points — and tie the game on a field goal with 55 seconds left in the fourth quarter — the Rebels drove back down the field before kicker Lucas Carneiro drilled a 47-yarder for the win.

Trinidad Chambliss #6 of the Ole Miss Rebels reacts after a first down during the second quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs during the 2025 College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl at Caesars Superdome on January 01, 2026 Getty Images

A safety on the ensuing kickoff added to what already felt like an inevitable Ole Miss win.

Ole Miss Trinidad Chambliss delivered a performance to remember, throwing for 320 yards and two touchdowns.

Now, Ole Mis will face Miami for a date in the national title game at stake.