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Georgia Favored Over Ole Miss in 2026 Sugar Bowl Clash

Updated :  Friday, January 2, 2026 12:26 AM

Key Points

  • Georgia Bulldogs enter the College Football Playoff quarterfinal as 6.5-point favorites over Ole Miss.
  • The Sugar Bowl matchup takes place on January 1, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET in New Orleans.
  • Georgia leads the all-time series 34-14-1, including a 43-35 win earlier this season.
  • The over/under is set at 55.5 points, slightly down from the opening line of 56.5.
  • Both teams come in with 12-1 records, making this one of the most anticipated CFP quarterfinals.

Bulldogs Enter as Favorites

The Georgia Bulldogs are favored to advance in the College Football Playoff after being listed as 6.5-point favorites against the Ole Miss Rebels in the 2026 Sugar Bowl. The game, held at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, is part of the CFP quarterfinal round and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

Series History and Recent Matchup

Georgia holds a commanding 34-14-1 lead in the all-time series against Ole Miss. The two teams last met on October 18, 2025, when Georgia secured a 43-35 victory in Athens. That win showcased the Bulldogs’ defensive resilience and offensive firepower, while Ole Miss demonstrated its ability to keep pace with one of the nation’s top programs.

Betting Lines and Expectations

Sportsbooks have set the spread at Georgia -6.5, with the total points line at 55.5, down slightly from the opening 56.5. The implied score projection suggests a 31-24 Georgia win, giving the Bulldogs a 70.8% chance of victory based on moneyline probability.

Context: Why It Matters

This matchup carries high stakes, as the winner advances to the CFP semifinal. For Ole Miss, it represents a chance to make history with their first-ever semifinal berth. For Georgia, it’s another opportunity to reinforce their dominance under head coach Kirby Smart, who has turned the Bulldogs into perennial playoff contenders.

What Happens Next?

The winner of the Sugar Bowl will move on to face the Miami Hurricanes in the Fiesta Bowl semifinal on January 8, 2026. With both teams riding strong seasons, the Sugar Bowl promises to be one of the most competitive and entertaining games of the playoff.

Paul McCann

Paul McCann is a passionate sports writer with a keen eye for global and American athletics. With years of experience covering major leagues and international tournaments, he brings insightful analysis, engaging stories, and fresh perspectives to readers worldwide. Paul’s writing captures the excitement, strategy, and human spirit behind every game — from the NFL and NBA to global football and beyond.