Rise of the Bluegrass Empire: A Kentucky Wildcats Dynasty

[jasontoddwhitt]

Illinois CB Devon Witherspoon jumps this Will Levis pass for his fourth interception of the season and races 71 yards for the touchdown.

Citrus Bowl Showdown: Illinois Triumphs as Kentucky Faces Struggles and Farewells

ORLANDO, FL - In a dramatic finale to the college football season, the Citrus Bowl witnessed a gripping showdown between the #22 Illinois Fighting Illini and the #13 Kentucky Wildcats. The final score of 24-17 in favor of Illinois illuminated the clash between these two powerhouse teams. However, this game was not merely about the numbers but the intensity, resilience, and passion displayed on the field.



The opening quarter set the stage for the tense competition to follow. Illinois surged ahead with a 12-yard touchdown run by Reggie Love III, swiftly answered by a 3-yard run from Kentucky's Jutahn McClain, resulting in a 7-7 tie.

The momentum shifted dramatically in the second quarter when Illinois' Devon Witherspoon intercepted a pass, returning it 71 yards for a touchdown. This sudden turn of events put the Fighting Illini in the lead, setting the tone for a nail-biting match ahead.

The Wildcats attempted to bridge the gap in the third quarter with a 20-yard field goal by Matt Ruffolo. Yet, Illinois widened their lead when Brian Hightower made an 84-yard reception from Tommy DeVito, propelling the Fighting Illini to a 21-10 advantage.


Brian Hightower burns Jordan Lovett to break Kentucky's back in the third quarter.

Entering the fourth quarter, the Wildcats clawed back with determination. Despite Illinois' Caleb Griffin landing a 22-yard field goal, Kentucky's Kavosiey Smoke drove through with a 1-yard run, bringing the score to 24-17. Kentucky opted to kick it deep to Illinois, placing faith in their defense to get a stop. Unfortunately, the Illini were able to get a first down and run the clock out.

The scoreboard didn’t solely mark the battleground. A notable turn came when Chris Rodriguez Jr., a prominent figure for the Wildcats, exited the game early in the second half due to a foot injury. X-rays later confirmed a fracture, a heart-wrenching conclusion to his collegiate journey.

Head Coach Mark Stoops expressed his thoughts after the game, primarily addressing the trenches where Kentucky faced substantial struggles. "We couldn't protect Will [Levis] today, and that's on us," said Stoops. "We've been solid all year, but today, we fell short, allowing four sacks. That's not how we wanted this to end."


Levis was beat up in this game and contributed to both of Kentucky's turnovers (one interception and one fumble).

Indeed, the Wildcats' offensive line found itself unable to shield their quarterback, Will Levis, who faced immense pressure, having been sacked four times in this critical matchup, a stark contrast to the mere ten sacks endured throughout the season. The inability to create running lanes and the absence of a pass rush from their defense posed significant hurdles for Kentucky.

For Levis and Rodriguez, this game marked the end of their journey with the Wildcats. Levis commented on the tough loss: "It's not how we wanted to end, but I'm proud of this team. We fought hard." Reflecting on his unfortunate exit due to injury, Rodriguez expressed gratitude for his time at Kentucky, saying, "It's been an incredible journey. I'll always bleed blue. Thank you, Wildcat Nation."

Illinois Fighting Illini at Kentucky Wildcats
Jan 1, 2023	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#22 Illinois Fighting Illini (10-3)	7	7	7	3	24
#13 Kentucky Wildcats (9-4)	7	0	3	7	17

Team Stats Comparison
	ILL	UK
Total Offense	302	309
Rushing Yards	97	24
Passing Yards	205	285
First Downs	15	15
Punt Return Yards	32	21
Kick Return Yards	88	94
Total Yards	422	424
Turnovers	1	2
3rd Down Conversion	5/14 (35%)	6/12 (50%)
4th Down Conversion	2/3 (66%)	0/0
2-Point Conversion	0/0	0/0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	3-1-1 (66%)	3-2-1 (100%)
Penalties	3-15	8-77
Possession Time	16:20	15:40

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		ILL	UK
5:20	(ILL) TD: R. Love III, 12 Yd run (C. Griffin kick)	7	0
0:51	(UK) TD: J. McClain, 3 Yd run (M. Ruffolo kick)	7	7
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		ILL	UK
6:13	(ILL) TD: D. Witherspoon, returned interception 71 Yds (C. Griffin kick)	14	7
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		ILL	UK
4:53	(UK) FG: M. Ruffolo, 20 Yd FG	14	10
4:39	(ILL) TD: B. Hightower, 84 Yd pass from T. DeVito (C. Griffin kick)	21	10
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		ILL	UK
6:53	(ILL) FG: C. Griffin, 22 Yd FG	24	10
2:09	(UK) TD: K. Smoke, 1 Yd run (M. Ruffolo kick)	24	17

Illinois Fighting Illini PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Tommy DeVito 18/30 205 1 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Chase Brown 24 65 2.7 0 Tommy DeVito 3 12 4.0 0 Reggie Love III 2 12 6.0 1 Casey Washington 1 8 8.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Brian Hightower 4 95 23.7 1 Chase Brown 4 9 2.2 0 Casey Washington 2 24 12.0 0 Miles Scott 2 35 17.5 0 Pat Bryant 2 18 9.0 0 Tip Reiman 1 5 5.0 0 Luke Ford 1 5 5.0 0 Jonah Morris 1 7 7.0 0 Isaiah Williams 1 7 7.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Tarique Barnes 5 0 0 0 Seth Coleman 5 1 (1 tfl) 0 0 Jartavius Martin 5 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Devon Witherspoon 4 0 1 1 Calvin Hart Jr. 4 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Tyson Rooks 4 0 0 0 Sydney Brown 4 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Jer'zhan Newton 4 1 (1 tfl) 0 0 Keith Randolph Jr. 3 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Gabe Jacas 3 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Calvin Avery 2 0 0 0 Luke Ford 2 0 0 0 Tahveon Nicholson 2 0 0 0 Bryce Barnes 2 2 (2 tfl) 0 0 J Kretuz 1 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Caleb Griffin 1/1 3/3 6 22 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Hugh Robertson 4 164 41.0 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Pat Bryant 3 63 21.0 0 Isaiah Williams 1 25 25.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Miles Scott 3 32 10.6 0

Kentucky Wildcats PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Will Levis 20/28 285 0 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Chris Rodriguez Jr. 11 30 2.7 0 Jutahn McClain 7 18 2.5 1 Will Levis 5 -25 -5.0 0 Kavosiey Smoke 2 2 1.0 1 Dane Key 1 0 0.0 0 Tayvion Robinson 1 -1 -1.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Chauncy Magwood 6 106 17.6 0 Jordan Dingle 3 43 14.3 0 Tayvion Robinson 3 34 11.3 0 Dane Key 3 24 8.0 0 Izayah Cummings 2 64 32.0 0 Chris Rodriguez Jr. 2 12 6.0 0 Jutahn McClain 1 2 2.0 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Jeremy Flax 0 2 Kenneth Horsey 0 2 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Jordan Lovett 7 0 (2 tfl) 0 0 Tyrell Ajian 7 0 0 (1 pd) 0 Jacquez Jones 5 0 (3 tfl) 0 (1 pd) 0 Kobi Albert 5 0 1 0 J.J. Weaver 5 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Keidron Smith 4 0 (2 tfl) 0 0 Deone Walker 4 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Jordan Wright 4 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Deandre Square 3 0 (1 tfl) 0 0 Carrington Valentine 1 0 0 (2 pd) 0 Taj Dodson 1 0 0 0 Keaten Wade 1 0 0 0 Zion Childress 1 0 0 0 Alex Afari 1 0 0 0 Tre'vonn Rybka 1 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Matt Ruffolo 1/1 2/2 5 21 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Colin Goodfellow 5 229 45.8 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kevoisey Smoke 2 46 23.0 0 Jutahn McClain 2 48 24.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Tayvion Robinson 2 21 10.5 0

Freshman Kobi Albert gets his first career interception as the Wildcats tried to claw back in the second half.

[jasontoddwhitt]

Stetson Bennett finds Brock Bowers on this 62-yard bomb as Georgia manhandles Coastal Carolina.

Georgia Conquer Coastal Carolina 52-11 in Dominant Peach Bowl Display

ATLANTA, GA - In an awe-inspiring showcase of their reigning champion prowess, the #1 Georgia Bulldogs unleashed an unrelenting offensive display, bulldozing the #4 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers 52-11 in the highly anticipated Peach Bowl matchup. The resounding victory propels Georgia to the doorstep of yet another National Championship Game appearance as they await the winner of the Michigan/Alabama semifinal in the Fiesta Bowl.


Nolan Smith returns this fumble on the game's opening play for a touchdown to set the tone for this CFP Semifinal.

From the game's outset, Georgia set the tone with unwavering determination and a relentless spirit, dominating the contest in all facets. The Bulldogs' monumental win showcased a remarkable blend of defensive prowess, offensive firepower, and unyielding determination, securing their place as the team to beat in the race for the coveted national title.

The Bulldogs' defense proved impenetrable, stifling Coastal Carolina's offense at every turn, limiting their yards to a mere 269 compared to Georgia's staggering 473-yard offensive explosion. Robert Beal Jr., Christopher Smith, and Javon Bullard spearheaded Georgia's defensive onslaught, displaying a collective effort that left Coastal Carolina struggling to find any foothold.


Stetson Bennett did it all for Georgia, throwing three touchdowns and rushing for two more scores.

Georgia's offensive orchestra, led by the ever-commanding Stetson Bennett, orchestrated a symphony of scoring drives, showcasing versatility and precision. Bennett's virtuoso performance was exceptional, amassing 312 yards and three touchdowns through the air while contributing two rushing touchdowns on 55 yards rushing, underscoring his multifaceted role in Georgia's offensive dominance.


Coastal Carolina had absolutely zero response to Brock Bowers.

Brock Bowers emerged as a beacon of brilliance in the Bulldogs' offensive ensemble, notching eight receptions for 160 yards and two touchdowns, displaying impeccable route running and hands that sliced through Coastal Carolina's defense.

Their special teams' excellence equally matched the Bulldogs' defensive prowess. Kearis Jackson shone brightly in both kick and punt returns, amassing 144 return yards and providing the Bulldogs with favorable field position throughout the game.


Grayson McCall was beat up in this game, getting sacked four times, and had to leave the game for a couple of series with a sprained ankle.

Despite entering the matchup with an impressive 13-0 record, Coastal Carolina was overwhelmed by Georgia's sheer dominance. Grayson McCall, the Chanticleers' heralded quarterback, struggled against Georgia's relentless pressure, completing 25 of 42 passes for 211 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.

The Bulldogs' imperious performance underscores their championship pedigree and unwavering determination to reclaim college football's ultimate prize. With this commanding victory, Georgia marches forward to face the Michigan/Alabama semifinal winner in the National Championship Game, poised and resolute in their pursuit of collegiate football's most coveted honor.

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at Georgia Bulldogs
Dec 31, 2022	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#4 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (13-1)	0	8	3	0	11
#1 Georgia Bulldogs (13-1)	17	21	7	7	52

Team Stats Comparison
	CCAR	UGA
Total Offense	269	473
Rushing Yards	39	161
Passing Yards	230	312
First Downs	16	17
Punt Return Yards	16	83
Kick Return Yards	93	78
Total Yards	378	634
Turnovers	2	1
3rd Down Conversion	6/16 (37%)	7/12 (58%)
4th Down Conversion	0/1 (0%)	0/0
2-Point Conversion	1/1 (100%)	0/0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2-1-0 (50%)	6-4-1 (83%)
Penalties	7-55	5-53
Possession Time	18:54	17:06

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		CCAR	UGA
8:53	(UGA) TD: N. Smith, returned fumble 19 Yds (J. Podlesny kick)	0	7
3:13	(UGA) TD: B. Bowers, 6 Yd pass from S. Bennett (J. Podlesny kick)	0	14
0:46	(UGA) FG: J. Podlesny, 29 Yd FG	0	17
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		CCAR	UGA
7:17	(UGA) TD: S. Bennett, 33 Yd run (J. Podlesny kick)	0	24
2:41	(CCAR) TD: T. Roberts, 15 Yd pass from G. McCall (2-Pt)	8	24
0:40	(UGA) TD: S. Bennett, 1 Yd run (J. Podlesny kick)	8	31
0:00	(UGA) TD: K. Lassiter, returned interception 53 Yds (J. Podlesny kick)	8	38
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		CCAR	UGA
3:32	(UGA) TD: K. Jackson, 18 Yd pass from S. Bennett (J. Podlesny kick)	8	45
1:09	(CCAR) FG: K. Hensley, 37 Yd FG	11	45
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		CCAR	UGA
4:24	(UGA) TD: B. Bowers, 6 Yd pass from S. Bennett (J. Podlesny kick)	11	52

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Grayson McCall 25/42 211 1 1 Jarrett Guest 1/3 19 0 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Grayson McCall 15 3 0.1 0 C.J. Beasley 5 31 6.2 0 Jarrett Guest 4 -6 -1.5 0 Reese White 4 11 2.7 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Tyson Mobley 8 76 9.5 0 Tyler Roberts 5 48 9.6 1 C.J. Beasley 3 14 4.6 0 Sam Pinckney 3 42 14.0 0 Kyre Duplessis 2 7 3.5 0 Jacob Jenkins 2 14 7.0 0 Reese White 2 24 12.0 0 Braydon Bennett 1 5 5.0 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Antwine Loper 0 3 Donnell Wilson 0 2 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Manny Stokes Jr. 7 0 0 0 Jahmar Brown 7 0 0 0 Shane Bruce 6 0 0 0 Adrian Hope 5 0 0 0 D'Jordan Strong 4 (1 tfl) 0 0 0 Lance Boykin 3 0 1 (2 pd) 0 Tobias Fletcher 3 0 0 0 J.T. Killen 3 (1 tfl) 0 0 (1 pd) 0 Kennedy Roberts 2 0 0 0 Jamar Darboe 2 0 0 0 Matthew McDoom 2 0 0 0 Braylon Ryan 2 0 0 0 Jerrod Clark 2 (1 tfl) 0 0 0 Josaiah Stewart 1 0 0 0 Aaron Diggs 1 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Kade Hensley 1/1 0/0 3 37 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Evan Crenshaw 7 269 38.4 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Matthew McDoom 4 93 23.2 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Jared Brown 1 16 16.0 0

Georgia Bulldogs PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Stetson Bennett 22/29 312 3 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Kenny McIntosh 14 75 5.3 0 Daijun Edwards 7 22 3.1 0 Stetson Bennett 5 55 11.0 2 Marcus Rosemy 1 6 6.0 0 Kearis Jackson 1 3 3.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Brock Bowers 8 160 20.0 2 Ladd McConkey 7 110 15.7 0 Kenny McIntosh 3 17 5.6 0 Darnell Washington 1 4 4.0 0 Marcus Rosemy 1 3 3.0 0 Kearis Jackson 1 18 18.0 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Robert Beal J. 8 (5 tfl) 2 0 0 Christopher Smith 6 0 0 (2 pd) 0 Kelee Ringo 6 (1 tfl) 0 0 0 Javon Bullard 5 (1 tfl) 0 0 (2 pd) 0 Tykee Smith 5 0 0 (1 pd) 0 Jamon Dumas-Johnson 5 (1 tfl) 0 0 0 Malaki Starks 4 0 0 0 Nolan Smith 3 (2 tfl) 0 0 0 Nazir Stackhouse 3 (1 tfl) 0 0 0 Nyland Green 2 0 0 0 Kamari Lassiter 2 0 1 1 Jalen Carter 2 (1 tfl) 1 0 1 Brock Bowers 1 0 0 0 Mykel Williams 1 (1 tfl) 1 0 0 Warren Brinson 1 (1 tfl) 1 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Jack Podlesny 1/1 7/7 10 29 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Brett Thorson 4 177 44.2 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kearis Jackson 3 78 26.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kearis Jackson 6 66 11.0 0 Dominick Blaylock 1 17 17.0 0

[studbucket]

I was excited for the Chanticleers to cause some problems. Unfortunately they were outclassed from the first kick.

[jasontoddwhitt]

Quote: Originally Posted by studbucket

I was excited for the Chanticleers to cause some problems. Unfortunately they were outclassed from the first kick.

Quite literally. Their first play from scrimmage was an option play, and Georgia blew it up. McCall tried to make the hero pitch, and the ball deflected off a Georgia defender. Nolan Smith scooped it off the turf and rumbled to the end zone.

The coin toss was the high water mark for the Chanticleers.

[studbucket]

Ooof. That last sentence is savage ☠☠

[jasontoddwhitt]

Kook-Aid McKinstry's 71-yard punt return TD crushes Michigan's spirit.

Alabama Blanks Michigan 44-0 in Fiesta Bowl Rout
Secures Spot in National Championship Rematch with Georgia

GLENDALE, AZ -- In a College Football Playoff Semifinal that turned into a resounding showcase of dominance, the #3 Alabama Crimson Tide delivered a stunning shutout performance, decimating the #2 Michigan Wolverines with a commanding 44-0 victory at the Fiesta Bowl. Alabama's emphatic win propels them into a highly anticipated rematch with the #1 Georgia Bulldogs in the National Championship game, setting the stage for a gripping showdown of SEC titans.

From the first whistle to the final moments, Alabama orchestrated a masterclass display, showcasing an exceptional blend of offensive prowess and defensive fortitude that left Michigan reeling and struggling to find a foothold in the contest.


Milroe rushed for a touchdown and threw for three more in a far cry from his struggles in the SEC Championship.

Alabama's offensive engine, led by the freshman quarterback Jalen Milroe, operated at peak efficiency, amassing an impressive 452 total yards, including 315 yards through the air. Milroe, who faced challenges in his earlier start against Georgia in the SEC Championship, appeared in his element against Michigan, orchestrating the Crimson Tide's offense with surgical precision. He completed an outstanding 29 of 34 passes for 315 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing maturity beyond his years and leaving the Wolverines' defense baffled.


Will Anderson recorded one of Alabama's four sacks on J.J. McCarthy.

The Crimson Tide's defensive unit mirrored their offensive counterparts' excellence, stifling Michigan at every turn and limiting them to 152 total yards. Led by standout performances from Will Anderson Jr. and Brian Branch, Alabama's defense forced four crucial interceptions that halted any momentum Michigan sought to gather.


Jordan Battle makes an insane grab on one of four interceptions thrown by Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy.

Special teams also played a pivotal role in Alabama's dominant victory, with Kool-Aid McKinstry's remarkable 185 punt return yards, including a dazzling 71-yard return for a touchdown, adding to the Wolverines' woes.

Despite entering the matchup with a commendable 11-2 record, Michigan was overpowered and outmatched by Alabama's sheer dominance in every aspect of the game. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy struggled to find a rhythm, completing 15 of 32 passes for a modest 142 yards while enduring four interceptions.

The Crimson Tide's commanding victory sets the stage for an eagerly awaited rematch against Georgia in the National Championship game. Having claimed victory over Alabama in last year's National Title and this year's SEC Championship, Georgia will face an Alabama team eager to avenge its previous losses and claim collegiate football's ultimate honor.

With a statement-making win under their belt, Alabama sets its sights firmly on redemption, hoping to turn the tables on Georgia and again secure its place as the nation's preeminent college football program. The stage is set for a colossal clash that promises to captivate fans and etch another chapter in the storied history of college football rivalries.

Alabama Crimson Tide at Michigan Wolverines
Dec 31, 2022	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#3 Alabama Crimson Tide (12-2)	3	28	6	7	44
#2 Michigan Wolverines (11-3)	0	0	0	0	0

Team Stats Comparison
	ALA	MICH
Total Offense	452	152
Rushing Yards	137	10
Passing Yards	315	142
First Downs	20	9
Punt Return Yards	185	25
Kick Return Yards	26	206
Total Yards	663	383
Turnovers	1	4
3rd Down Conversion	9-16 (56%)	5-16 (31%)
4th Down Conversion	0-1 (0%)	0-0
2-Point Conversion	0-0	0-0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	4-3-1 (100%)	1-0-0 (0%)
Penalties	5-25	0-0
Possession Time	20:36	15:24

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		ALA	MICH
4:58	(ALA) FG: W. Reichard, 49 Yd FG	3	0
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		ALA	MICH
8:14	(ALA) TD: J. Milroe, 13 Yd run (W. Reichard kick)	10	0
6:50	(ALA) TD: K. McKinstry, returned punt 71 Yds (W. Reichard kick)	17	0
0:45	(ALA) TD: C. Latu, 12 Yd pass from J. Milroe (W. Reichard kick)	24	0
0:01	(ALA) TD: J. Burton, 20 Yd pass from J. Milroe (W. Reichard kick)	31	0
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		ALA	MICH
7:10	(ALA) FG: W. Reichard, 48 Yd FG	34	0
5:49	(ALA) FG: W. Reichard, 43 Yd FG	37	0
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		ALA	MICH
5:15	(ALA) TD: C. Latu, 11 Yd pass from J. Milroe (W. Reichard kick)	44	0

Alabama Crimson Tide PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Jalen Milroe 29/34 315 3 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Jahmyr Gibbs 17 52 3.0 0 Jalen Milroe 8 37 4.6 1 Jase McClellan 6 35 5.8 0 Roydell Williams 1 3 3.0 0 Jermaine Burton 1 5 5.0 0 Jacorey Brooks 1 5 5.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Jermaine Burton 8 102 12.7 1 Jacorey Brooks 7 62 8.8 0 Traeshon Holden 6 89 14.8 0 Cameron Latu 3 22 7.3 2 Isaiah Bond 2 33 16.5 0 Roydell Williams 1 5 5.0 0 Kobe Prentice 1 1 1.0 0 Jahmyr Gibbs 1 1 1.0 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Emil Ekiyor Jr. 1 0 Darrian Dalcourt 0 2 Tyler Steen 0 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Will Anderson Jr. 8 (3tfl) 1 0 0 Demarcco Hellams 5 0 1 0 Brian Branch 5 (2tfl) 0 2 (1pd) 0 Jordan Battle 4 (1tfl) 0 1 (1pd) 0 Khyree Jackson 4 0 0 0 Terrion Arnold 4 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Jaylen Moody 3 0 0 (1pd) 0 Malachi Moore 3 0 0 0 Eli Ricks 2 0 0 (1pd) 0 Chris Braswell 2 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Dallas Turner 1 (1tfl) 1 0 0 Byron Young 1 (1tfl) 0 0 0 D.J. Dale 1 (1tfl) 1 0 0 Kool-Aid McKinstry 1 0 0 (2pd) 0 Tim Smith 1 (1tfl) 1 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Will Reichard 3/3 5/5 14 49 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 James Burnip 3 130 43.3 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kool-Aid McKinstry 1 26 26.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kool-Aid McKinstry 8 185 23.1 1

Michigan Wolverines PASSING C/A YDS TD INT J.J. McCarthy 15/32 142 0 4 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Blake Corum 14 30 2.1 0 J.J. McCarthy 9 -14 -1.5 0 Donovan Edwards 1 -5 -5.0 0 Cornelius Johnson 1 -1 -1.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Cornelius Johnson 5 67 13.4 0 Roman Wilson 3 20 6.6 0 Ronnie Bell 2 24 12.0 0 Andrel Anthony 2 10 5.0 0 Blake Corum 2 17 8.5 0 Luke Schoonmaker 1 4 4.0 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Trente Jones 0 1 Ryan Hayes 0 1 Olusegun Oluwatimi 0 1 Zak Zinter 0 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Junior Colson 10 (4tfl) 0 0 0 Rod Moore 6 0 0 0 Michael Barrett 6 0 0 0 Mike Morris 5 (1tfl) 1 0 0 Will Johnson 5 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Mason Graham 5 (1tfl) 1 0 0 R.J. Moten 5 0 0 0 D.J. Turner 4 0 0 0 Mike Sainristil 4 0 0 0 Jaylen Harrell 3 (1tfl) 1 0 0 Mazi Smith 3 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Caden Kolesar 2 0 0 0 George Rooks 2 (2tfl) 1 0 0 Gemon Green 2 0 0 0 German Green 1 0 0 0 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Brad Robbins 9 396 44.0 1 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Roman Wilson 5 108 21.6 0 A.J. Henning 4 98 24.5 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD A.J. Henning 2 25 12.5 0

Jermaine Burton's 102-yard receiving day was highlighted by this 20-yard TD pass from Jalen Milroe.

[jasontoddwhitt]

Kirby Smart lifts the crystal football for a second consecutive year.

Georgia Claims Back-to-Back National Titles, Defeating Alabama 19-10 in a Thrilling Showdown

LOS ANGELES, CA -- In a captivating clash at SoFi Stadium, the #1 Georgia Bulldogs secured their second consecutive National Championship and third overall by prevailing over the #3 Alabama Crimson Tide with a resilient 19-10 victory. This highly anticipated matchup showcased a ferocious battle between two college football powerhouses, culminating in a thrilling contest that will echo through the annals of collegiate sports history.


Jalen Milroe connects with Traeshon Holden for a 23-yard TD on the Tide's opening drive.

The Bulldogs were in an early 10-0 deficit due to Alabama's swift offensive maneuvers. Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe connected with Traeshon Holden for a 23-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful Will Reichard field goal from 31 yards out. However, Georgia swiftly rallied back, closing the gap before halftime when Stetson Bennett connected with Ladd McConkey for a 46-yard touchdown pass, shifting the momentum toward the Bulldogs.


Alabama had all the momentum until Stetson Bennett hit Ladd McConkey on this 46-yard bomb following a failed Alabama fake punt.

The second half was a testament to Georgia's resilience and determination. Kicker Jack Podlesny emerged as a pivotal figure, booting crucial field goals from 47, 26, 43, and 22 yards out, contributing immensely to Georgia's scoreboard domination in the latter half of the game. The Bulldogs' defensive unit exhibited exceptional prowess, holding Alabama's offense at bay and limiting their scoring opportunities.

While the game showcased stout defensive performances from both teams, Georgia's ability to capitalize on crucial moments tilted the scales in their favor. Alabama's offense, helmed by Milroe, struggled to break through Georgia's staunch defensive lines, failing to mount a comeback in the second half.


Milroe shrugs off Mykel Williams, but Jamon Dumas-Johnson cleans up for the sack.

The Bulldogs' offensive efforts were led by Bennett, who completed 14 of 19 passes for 158 yards and a pivotal touchdown, proving instrumental in steering Georgia's offensive strategies. The rushing game, led by Kenny McIntosh and Daijun Edwards, contributed 96 yards, providing crucial yardage to keep the Bulldogs' offense moving.

Defensively, Georgia's standout performances were evident across the board. Players like Jamon Dumas-Johnson, Robert Beal Jr., and Nolan Smith demonstrated resilience, securing key sacks and tackles, while the secondary, anchored by Tykee Smith and Kamari Lassiter, effectively disrupted Alabama's passing game.


Georgia rattled Alabama's freshman QB, sacking Milroe six times.

The victory cemented Georgia's status as the reigning college football powerhouse and marked a historic moment in the Bulldogs' storied legacy. Head Coach Kirby Smart's squad, which faced adversity and setbacks throughout the season, exhibited unwavering determination and tenacity on the grandest stage, solidifying their place in collegiate football history.

The Bulldogs and their legion of fans celebrated the triumph fervently, affirming Georgia's place atop the college football landscape for the second consecutive year. As confetti rained down at SoFi Stadium, Georgia embraced the sweet taste of victory, savoring a remarkable achievement in a season filled with trials and triumphs, etching their names once more in the annals of college football greatness.

Alabama Crimson Tide at Georgia Bulldogs
Jan 9, 2023	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#3 Alabama Crimson Tide (12-3)	10	0	0	0	10
#1 Georgia Bulldogs (14-1)	0	7	6	6	19

Team Stats Comparison
	ALA	UGA
Total Offense	261	254
Rushing Yards	61	96
Passing Yards	200	158
First Downs	16	13
Punt Return Yards	40	38
Kick Return Yards	75	63
Total Yards	376	355
Turnovers	0	1
3rd Down Conversion	5-15 (33%)	3-13 (23%)
4th Down Conversion	0-4 (0%)	0-0
2-Point Conversion	0-0	0-0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2-0-1 (50%)	2-0-2 (100%)
Penalties	1-5	3-25
Possession Time	17:54	18:06

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		ALA	UGA
6:34	(ALA) TD: T. Holden, 23 Yd pass from J. Milroe (W. Reichard kick)	7	0
0:44	(ALA) FG: W. Reichard, 31 Yd FG	10	0
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		ALA	UGA
1:20	(UGA) TD: L. McConkey, 46 Yd pass from S. Bennett (J. Podlesny kick)	10	7
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		ALA	UGA
5:58	(UGA) FG: J. Podlesny, 47 Yd FG	10	10
1:05	(UGA) FG: J. Podlesny, 26 Yd FG	10	13
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		ALA	UGA
7:59	(UGA) FG: J. Podlesny, 43 Yd FG	10	16
2:18	(UGA) FG: J. Podlesny, 22 Yd FG	10	19

Alabama Crimson Tide PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Jalen Milroe 25/40 200 1 0 James Burnip 0/2 0 0 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Jahmyr Gibbs 14 39 2.7 0 Jalen Milroe 10 11 1.1 0 Roydell Williams 4 8 2.0 0 Jacorey Brooks 1 3 3.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Traeshon Holden 10 101 10.1 1 Cameron Latu 5 25 5.0 0 Jahmyr Gibbs 4 23 5.7 0 Amari NiBlack 2 17 8.5 0 Jacorey Brooks 2 20 10.0 0 Kobe Prentice 1 10 10.0 0 Jermaine Burton 1 4 4.0 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Tyler Booker 0 1 Emil Ekiyor Jr. 0 1 J.C. Latham 0 1 Tyler Steen 0 1 Cameron Latu 0 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Jaylen Moody 9 0 0 0 Henry To'oto'o 8 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Will Anderson Jr. 7 (3tfl) 0 0 0 Brian Branch 5 (2tfl) 0 0 0 Dallas Turner 4 (3tfl) 1 0 0 Jordan Battle 4 (2tfl) 0 0 (1pd) 0 Kool-Aid McKinstry 4 0 0 0 Demarcco Hellams 4 (1tfl) 0 0 (1pd) 0 Terrion Arnold 2 0 0 0 Tim Smith 2 0 0 0 Eli Ricks 2 0 0 0 Khyree Jackson 2 0 0 0 Byron Young 2 0 0 0 Justin Eboigbe 1 0 0 0 Jaheim Oatis 1 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Will Reichard 1/1 1/1 4 32 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 James Burnip 5 193 38.6 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kool-Aid McKinstry 2 48 24.0 0 Jermaine Burton 1 27 27.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kool-Aid McKinstry 3 40 13.3 0

Georgia Bulldogs PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Stetson Bennett 14/19 158 1 0 Daijun Edwards 0/1 0 0 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Kenny McIntosh 14 52 3.7 0 Stetson Bennett 11 19 1.7 0 Daijun Edwards 11 26 2.3 0 Darnell Washington 2 -1 -0.5 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Ladd McConkey 6 93 15.5 1 Kearis Jackson 3 31 10.3 0 Marcus Rosemy 2 14 7.0 0 Kenny McIntosh 2 4 2.0 0 Brock Bowers 1 16 16.0 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Broderick Jones 0 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Jamon Dumas-Johnson 11 (2tfl) 1 0 0 Robert Beal Jr. 5 (4tfl) 2 0 0 Nolan Smith 4 (3tfl) 1 0 0 Jalen Carter 4 (1tfl) 0 0 0 Christopher Smith 4 0 0 0 Tykee Smith 4 0 0 (1pd) 0 Malaki Starks 4 0 0 (1pd) 0 Smael Mondon Jr. 3 0 0 0 Kelee Ringo 3 0 0 0 Mykel Williams 2 (1tfl) 1 0 0 Tramel Walthour 2 (1tfl) 1 0 0 Nazir Stackhouse 1 0 0 0 Javon Bullard 1 0 0 0 Kamari Lassiter 1 0 0 (1pd) 0 Dan Jackson 1 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Jack Podlesny 4/4 1/1 13 47 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Brett Thorson 5 231 46.2 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kenny McIntosh 2 40 20.0 0 Kearis Jackson 1 23 23.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Kearis Jackson 4 38 9.5 0

[jasontoddwhitt]