The Sugar Bowl between Notre Dame and Georgia, a College Football Playoff quarterfinal, has been postponed by a day following the tragic New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans. Originally slated for Wednesday, the game will now kick off on Thursday, Jan. 2, at 4 p.m. ET, providing fans with a much-anticipated showdown amidst the city’s somber atmosphere.
Adjusted Schedule Brings Challenges
The rescheduled game places both teams in a unique predicament. With less rest than anticipated, the winner will head to the Orange Bowl to face Penn State, who benefits from a full week of recovery. The adjustment also affects travel and preparation, creating logistical hurdles for the teams and their coaching staffs.
Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard will lead the Fighting Irish against a resilient Georgia team missing its starting quarterback, Carson Beck. Stepping in for Georgia is Gunner Stockton, tasked with guiding the Bulldogs through this high-stakes matchup.
Broadcast and Streaming Information
Football fans can catch all the action on ESPN or stream it through the ESPN app. Fubo also offers live streaming with a free trial option, ensuring fans won’t miss a moment of this playoff thriller.
Game Details:
- Date: Thursday, Jan. 2
- Time: 4 p.m. ET (3 p.m. local)
- TV Channel: ESPN
- Livestream: ESPN app | Fubo
Paths to the Playoff
Both teams have fought hard to reach this stage, showcasing their strengths throughout the season.
Notre Dame’s Journey:
The Fighting Irish entered the playoffs after a stellar 12-1 season, highlighted by decisive wins over Florida State and Army. Their first-round victory against Indiana, with a 27-17 score, secured their place in the Sugar Bowl.
Georgia’s Campaign:
Georgia, the SEC champion, earned a bye as the No. 2 seed. With an 11-2 record, their season included memorable victories, such as the eight-overtime thriller against Georgia Tech and a narrow SEC Championship win over Texas. However, the absence of Carson Beck will test their depth and resilience.
What’s at Stake
The Sugar Bowl holds more than just bragging rights; it’s a gateway to the College Football Playoff semifinals. The winner will face Penn State on Thursday, Jan. 9, in the Orange Bowl, with a chance to advance further into the postseason.
While this game is crucial for both teams, the tragic events leading to its rescheduling remind everyone of the greater challenges facing New Orleans. For fans, players, and the city alike, the game represents resilience and a moment of solidarity.
