For the third time this season, the Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs clashed — and for the second straight time, Florida reigned supreme. In a hard-fought College Football Playoff quarterfinal, the Gators edged Georgia 24-21, continuing their postseason surge and solidifying their dominance over their SEC rival.
Just weeks after defeating the Bulldogs in the SEC Championship Game, Florida once again found a way to come out on top. The game was a showcase of efficiency, discipline, and clock management — hallmarks of this Florida team all year.
Heisman winner DJ Lagway delivered another poised performance under pressure, completing 182 yards through the air with 2 touchdown passes while adding 89 yards and a rushing score on 10 carries. Lagway’s dual-threat ability kept Georgia’s defense guessing all night, especially on key third downs where his legs extended drives and controlled the pace.
Running back Jadan Baugh contributed in clutch moments as well, tallying 20 yards on 6 carries and making 3 receptions for 7 yards — none bigger than a late third-down conversion that helped seal the victory.
The true story of the game, however, was Florida’s ball control. The Gators dominated time of possession, holding the ball for 19 minutes and 20 seconds compared to Georgia’s mere 4 minutes and 40 seconds. Florida’s methodical drives kept Georgia’s explosive offense off the field and wore down the Bulldog defense.
Meanwhile, Georgia relied on quick-strike scoring, but two timely interceptions by the Florida defense proved to be the deciding factor. Grayson Howard set the tone early with a first-drive interception that gave Florida an extra possession and early confidence. Then, in the fourth quarter, Jordan Castell came up with a massive interception that allowed the Gators to drain the clock and put the game away for good.
It wasn’t flashy, but it was gritty, efficient, and clutch — everything the gators could ask for in playoff football.
With the 24-21 win, Florida now advances to the CFB Playoff Semifinals, where they’ll face the winner of Texas Tech vs. Oregon. One thing is certain: the Gators are locked in, battle-tested, and just two wins away from a national championship.
