As the Georgia Bulldogs gear up for their Sugar Bowl matchup, they hope to continue their tradition of success on New Year’s Day. This marks their third appearance in the College Football Playoff in four seasons, a testament to their dominance in college football. After securing a spot with a victory in the SEC Championship over the Texas Longhorns, Georgia will face either Notre Dame or Indiana in the Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2025.
The Bulldogs have become accustomed to playing on New Year’s Day, a date that has provided some unforgettable moments during the Kirby Smart era. One of the first memorable occasions came in 2017 when Georgia staged an incredible comeback against Oklahoma in the Rose Bowl. Trailing by 17 points, the Bulldogs rallied to win in double overtime, earning their first national championship appearance in over three decades.
Another standout New Year’s Day moment occurred in 2021, when Georgia defeated Cincinnati in a thrilling game decided by a last-second field goal. That victory also marked the last time the Bulldogs wore their iconic “blackout” jerseys. The win prevented Cincinnati from completing an undefeated season and further solidified Georgia’s reputation for clutch performances.
Perhaps the most iconic New Year’s moment came on New Year’s Eve in 2022 during the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, when Georgia faced Ohio State in the College Football Playoff. The Bulldogs had trailed by two scores for much of the game, but as the Buckeyes lined up for a game-winning field goal attempt, the clock struck midnight, and the kick veered wide left. This allowed Georgia to hold on for the win and advance to the national championship, where they ultimately claimed their second consecutive title.
Looking ahead to 2025, Georgia will aim to replicate their “New Year’s Magic” in the Sugar Bowl. The Bulldogs will take on either Notre Dame or Indiana, with kickoff scheduled for 8:45 p.m. on January 1. As they continue to chase another national championship, the Bulldogs hope to add yet another thrilling chapter to their New Year’s Day legacy.
