Georgia dominated Ole Miss 42-7 on Saturday night at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, a statement win that could help the No. 2 Bulldogs claim the top spot in the College Football Playoff rankings. Coach Kirby Smart said Georgia practiced differently this week to slow Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, who had taken over two games against the Bulldogs last season. The preparation paid off as Georgia built a 21-0 lead after scoring touchdowns on each of its first three possessions.
Georgia's defense held Chambliss to 170 passing yards on 18-of-34 passing, the first time in 22 games he was held without a passing touchdown. Defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann called more aggressive blitzes and pressured Chambliss consistently. Chambliss was sacked four times, threw an interception and lost a fumble before being replaced by backup Deuce Knight with about nine minutes left. Georgia safety KJ Bolden credited a unit-wide rush that kept Chambliss in the pocket.
Offensively, the 295 rushing yards and a strong offensive line set the tone. Tailback Nate Frazier ran for 46 yards on the first play from scrimmage. Quarterback Gunner Stockton threw four touchdowns, three to sophomore Talyn Taylor, and ran for another score. Georgia went 7-for-12 on third down and held the ball for nearly 35 minutes.
The game was briefly stopped in the second quarter when fans threw bottles and other items onto the field after a roughing the passer penalty wiped out an Ole Miss interception. Ole Miss coach Pete Golding said he believed the hit on Stockton that was penalized was legal. Miami's 31-24 loss at Notre Dame could also help Georgia's playoff position when the committee releases its rankings Tuesday.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing