By Darin The 2018 Rose Bowl wasn't just another College Football Playoff semifinal; it was an instant classic that redefined the word "thriller." On January 1, 2018, the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs staged a historic and unforgettable comeback against the No. 2 Oklahoma Sooners, resulting in a dramatic 54-48 double-overtime victory. This monumental game had everything: high stakes, record-breaking offensive fireworks, and a heart-stopping finish worthy of the Granddaddy of Them All.
The Historic Comeback
Georgia found itself in a deep, discouraging hole, trailing 31-14 late in the first half. The monumental turnaround was powered almost entirely by the relentless performance of the Bulldogs’ dynamic backfield duo, Sony Michel and Nick Chubb.
The pair of legendary Georgia Bulldogs running backs delivered a performance for the ages. Together, they amassed an incredible 326 rushing yards and combined for five crucial touchdowns, relentlessly pounding the Oklahoma Sooners defense to chip away at the deficit. This ground-and-pound strategy completely flipped the script of the CFP Semifinal.
Drama, Redemption, and the 2OT Finish
The fourth quarter escalated the Rose Bowl 2018 drama to an unbearable level. The tension peaked when Sony Michel fumbled, and the ball was returned for an Oklahoma touchdown, giving the Sooners a 45-38 lead late in the game. But Georgia’s response was immediate and heroic: Nick Chubb powered into the endzone for a touchdown with just 55 seconds left, forcing the game into double overtime.
After trading field goals in the first overtime, Michel seized his chance for redemption. Shaking off his earlier mistake, he broke free for a decisive, spectacular 27-yard touchdown run in the second overtime. This game-winning score secured the 54-48 victory and sent the Georgia Bulldogs to the national title game.
Article from Jan 2, 2018 The Atlanta Constitution (Atlanta, Georgia)
A College Football Playoff Benchmark
The 2018 College Football Playoff semifinal remains a benchmark for postseason drama. It showcased the power of a resilient running game and cemented Michel and Chubb’s status in college football lore. For high-stakes, unforgettable action, this epic Georgia vs. Oklahoma duel is required viewing.
