Sports Betting Picks

Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs Georgia Bulldogs – Sugar Bowl Preview – Jan 1, 2025

Notre Dame and Georgia face off in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. Notre Dame, the seventh seed at 12-1, looks to extend its 11-game winning streak against the second-seeded Bulldogs, who hold an 11-2 record. This is the first postseason meeting between the two programs since Georgia’s 23-17 victory in 2019.

The Bulldogs have had extra time to prepare following their SEC Championship win, but they enter the game with a major question mark at quarterback. Gunner Stockton will take over for the injured Carson Beck, who was lost for the season in Georgia’s overtime win against Texas. Notre Dame, meanwhile, overcame Indiana in the first round and brings a balanced offensive attack to the matchup.

Notre Dame Preview – Fighting Irish Seek 12th Straight Victory

Notre Dame has been dominant during its 11-game winning streak, averaging 38.8 points per game. Quarterback Riley Leonard has been efficient, throwing for 2,293 yards and 17 touchdowns against six interceptions. Running back Jeremiyah Love has been a standout, rushing for 1,057 yards and 16 touchdowns while averaging 7.4 yards per carry.

The Irish defense has been solid despite injuries to key players like defensive tackle Rylie Mills. They’ve allowed just 20.4 points per game and have consistently controlled the line of scrimmage. With a balanced offense and a disciplined defense, Notre Dame will aim to exploit Georgia’s inexperience at quarterback.

Coach Marcus Freeman emphasized the importance of quick adjustments following the playoff format’s back-to-back games. Notre Dame’s ability to stay sharp and focused will be critical against Georgia’s physical style.

Georgia Preview – Bulldogs Look to Overcome Quarterback Question

Georgia enters the game with a stout defense allowing only 20.4 points per game and ranking among the top 40 nationally in most defensive categories. Their offense, however, faces uncertainty with sophomore quarterback Gunner Stockton stepping in for the injured Carson Beck. Stockton has played sparingly this season, completing 25 of 32 passes for 206 yards and one interception.

The Bulldogs’ running game will need to carry the load, led by freshman Nate Frazier, who has rushed for 634 yards and eight touchdowns. Georgia’s offensive line will need to protect Stockton and open up running lanes to control the clock and limit Notre Dame’s possessions.

Coach Kirby Smart has prepared Stockton with added reps during the extended break. However, the team’s ability to maintain rhythm after an extended layoff could be a deciding factor in this high-stakes matchup.

Betting Prediction

Georgia is a slight favorite at -1.5, with the total set at 46.5 points. Notre Dame’s balanced offense and consistency throughout the season make them a strong contender to pull off the upset. Georgia’s inexperience at quarterback could be the difference, especially if Notre Dame forces the Bulldogs into passing situations.

A predicted final score of 27-24 in favor of Notre Dame keeps the total over while giving the Fighting Irish the win. Expect Notre Dame’s offense to sustain drives and capitalize on Georgia’s quarterback challenges.

Pick: Notre Dame +1.5, Over 46.5

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