New Orleans, LA – As the new year rang in, the city of New Orleans experienced a tragic event in the downtown French Quarter, killing at least 14 and injuring an additional 35. This caused the 2025 Sugar Bowl to be postponed a day.
First Half
The game started with plenty defense as the only action in the first quarter was a red zone fumble by Georgia recovered by Jaiden Ausberry. The Irish couldn’t capitalize on the turnover and were forced to punt from deep in their own territory.
This punt was immediately followed by a 67-yard pass from Gunnar Stockton to Arian Smith, putting the Bulldogs in scoring position. But a sideline warning penalty pushed them back and led to a field goal for the first points of the semifinal.
The Irish’ next drive was led by a 29-yard by Riley Leonard, ending with field goal to tie the game 3-3 midway through the second quarter.
After a couple of punts, Notre Dame hit another field goal to take a 6-3 lead. On the first play of Georgia’s next drive, a strip sack gave the Irish the ball back at the 13-yard line. This was followed by a touchdown from South Florida native Jordan Faison to put the Irish up 13-3 going into the break.
Second Half
To start the second half, Jayden Harrison took the opening kickoff 98 yards. This extended the Irish lead to 17, with all 17 points coming in a span of 54 seconds. Georgia’s first touchdown finally came midway through the second quarter from Cash Jones on a 32-yard catch and run. After 4th down stops by both teams, Mitch Jeter hit his third field goal. 23-10 Irish.
Georgia came up short on their next drive, giving the ball back to Notre Dame. The Irish were able to seal the game behind smart play calling and big short-yardage conversions. The drive took over 5 minutes and the Bulldogs took over with just 1:49 to no avail.
One last stop game Notre Dame the 23-10 win and their first 13-win season in school history.
Notre Dame advances to the Orange Bowl Semifinals next Thursday, January 9th at Hard Rock Stadium. They’ll face Penn State for a spot in the National Championship.
Photo Via Notre Dame Football
