Buckeye Rosters

Recap

Atlanta, GA — In a pulsating Peach Bowl that lived up to its billing, the Georgia Bulldogs rallied late to defeat the Ohio State Buckeyes 42-41 on December 31, 2022, securing their place in the College Football Playoff National Championship game.

The contest, played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, featured high-scoring offensive fireworks, but it was the defensive stands, and one crucial missed field goal, that proved decisive.

Georgia quarterback Stetson Bennett delivered a spectacular performance, throwing for 398 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Bulldogs to overcome a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Bennett connected with tight end Brock Bowers for two touchdowns, including a 10-yard reception late in the fourth quarter that gave Georgia a 42-41 lead with 54 seconds remaining.

Ohio State, led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, had the lead heading into the final moments of the game after a remarkable performance that included 348 yards and four touchdown passes. Stroud’s connection with wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. was particularly lethal, with Harrison finishing the game with 106 yards and two touchdowns. However, it was Ohio State’s defense that ultimately fell short in the game’s final minutes.

The Bulldogs’ defense, which had been under pressure throughout the game, made a critical stop on Ohio State’s final drive, setting up a dramatic sequence. Ohio State’s kicker, Noah Ruggles, had an opportunity to win the game with a 50-yard field goal attempt in the dying seconds, but his kick sailed wide left, allowing Georgia to escape with the narrow victory.

Georgia’s defense had struggled early, as Stroud found success connecting with Harrison and running back Miyan Williams. Ohio State’s offense, with Stroud’s quick releases and Ohio State’s offensive line providing ample protection, seemed poised to secure a victory. But the Bulldogs’ defense stiffened in the second half, with linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson leading the charge. Dumas-Johnson registered seven tackles and was a disruptive force in the middle of the field, while defensive linemen Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith pressured Stroud, forcing several off-target throws.

In the third quarter, Georgia cornerback Kelee Ringo came up with a key interception, giving the Bulldogs a chance to close the gap after trailing by 11 points at halftime. The defense’s timely turnover was a game-changer, setting up Bennett and the offense for another shot at the lead.

Ohio State’s defense, despite a solid start, couldn’t stop Georgia in the closing moments, as Bennett orchestrated a 15-play, 75-yard drive that culminated in the game-winning touchdown. The Buckeyes were unable to slow down the Bulldogs’ pace, as Georgia’s offensive line opened up holes for running back Kenny McIntosh, who rushed for 70 yards and a touchdown.

Ohio State’s defensive effort wasn’t without highlights. Defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau was disruptive throughout, registering two sacks and forcing a fumble that was recovered by the Buckeyes. Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg also had a strong performance, totaling 10 tackles, while safety Ronnie Hickman recorded an interception in the first half.

Ultimately, Georgia’s resilience, combined with clutch plays from Bennett and timely defensive stops, allowed the Bulldogs to escape with a dramatic 42-41 victory. They now head to the national championship game with a chance to defend their 2021 title.

For Ohio State, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow, as they came within seconds of securing a trip to the national title game. The Buckeyes, despite their offensive fireworks, were left to rue missed opportunities and a heart-wrenching final field goal attempt.