Chambliss, Carneiro Propel Ole Miss to 39-34 Win Over Georgia, Reach CFP Semifinals
In a thrilling College Football Playoff quarterfinal, the Ole Miss Rebels secured a dramatic 39-34 victory over the Georgia Bulldogs. The game took place at the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. This win not only showcased the Rebels’ determination but also propelled them to the CFP semifinals.
Key Performers
- Trinidad Chambliss: Passed for 362 yards, two touchdowns.
- Lucas Carneiro: Kicked the game-winning field goal and set Sugar Bowl records with field goals of 55 and 56 yards.
- Harrison Wallace III: Caught nine passes for 156 yards and one touchdown.
- Kewan Lacy: Rushed for 98 yards and scored two touchdowns.
Game Overview
The game unfolded with each team exchanging leads. Ole Miss started strong, leading 6-0 thanks to two long field goals by Carneiro. However, Georgia responded and took a 7-6 lead with Gunner Stockton’s 12-yard rushing touchdown.
Chambliss quickly regained control for Ole Miss, connecting with De’Zhaun Stribling for a key long gain and later finding Luke Hasz for a touchdown. Yet, the Bulldogs struck back, with Stockton rushing for another touchdown after a crucial completion despite a hard hit.
Final Moments
As the game neared its conclusion, Georgia turned a 34-24 deficit into a tie with an 18-yard touchdown pass from Stockton to Zachariah Branch, followed by a short field goal to level the score.
With 6 seconds remaining, Chambliss made a pivotal 40-yard pass to Stribling, setting up Carneiro for the winning field goal. The dramatic finish sent Ole Miss into the semifinals against Miami.
Statistics and Highlights
| Team | Yards Gained | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|
| Ole Miss | 473 | 5 |
| Georgia | 343 | 4 |
Although Ole Miss faced challenges and changes, with their coach Lane Kiffin moving to LSU, they persevered under new head coach Pete Golding. This victory marks their first appearance in the College Football Playoff semifinals, promising an exciting matchup against the Miami Hurricanes.
The Bulldogs, on the other hand, faced disappointment as they had entered the 2026 season with high hopes but exited the playoff early again. They will look to rebound in the next season opener against Tennessee State.
