Ole Miss achieved a remarkable upset on January 2, 2026, defeating No. 3 Georgia 39-34 in the Sugar Bowl, thereby securing a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals. This victory marks a significant moment for the No. 6 Rebels, who have defied expectations throughout the season. Georgia, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) champion and a favorite heading into the matchup, faced a bitter end for the second consecutive year in the CFP quarterfinals.
The game unfolded in dramatic fashion, with the lead changing hands multiple times. Georgia initially took control, heading into halftime with a 21-12 advantage, bolstered by a 47-yard fumble return touchdown from Daylen Everette. Following the break, Ole Miss rallied, powered by the impressive performance of quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, who completed 30 of 46 passes for 362 yards. The Rebels surged ahead, claiming a 34-24 lead in the second half as Georgia’s offense struggled to respond.
As the clock wound down, Georgia found new life, executing a swift touchdown drive to tie the game at 34 with only 56 seconds remaining. However, the tension escalated when Ole Miss executed a crucial play with less than a minute left. On a pivotal third-and-5, Chambliss connected with De’Zhaun Stribling for a 40-yard gain, positioning the Rebels at the Georgia 30-yard line.
With time running out, kicker Lucas Carneiro, who had already made 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 crowd into a frenzy and putting the Rebels ahead with just six seconds left on the clock.
The subsequent kickoff resulted in a safety for Georgia, but officials later added a second back onto the clock. This allowed the Bulldogs one final untimed play, trailing 39-34. However, a series of laterals failed to reach the end zone, sealing Georgia’s fate and leading to a jubilant celebration for Ole Miss.
The Rebels, now under the leadership of new head coach Pete Golding, will face No. 10 Miami in the Fiesta Bowl next week, continuing their surprising journey through the playoffs. This season has transformed from improbable to extraordinary, with Ole Miss proving that resilience and determination can lead to unexpected triumphs on the football field.
