In a thrilling SEC Championship Game, Georgia triumphed over Texas 22-19 in a closely contested overtime match. This victory came just six weeks after Texas handed Georgia its only loss of the regular season. Despite the Longhorns’ late-game resilience, they fell short as the Bulldogs secured the win with a decisive four-yard touchdown run by Trevor Etienne in overtime.
Texas initiated the game strong, taking an early 6-0 lead, but their offensive errors allowed Georgia to capitalize and stay competitive. Starting quarterback Quinn Ewers participated in the match, completing 27 of 46 passes for 358 yards, while also contributing one touchdown and two interceptions. The Longhorns’ ground game struggled significantly, managing a mere 31 yards. Ewers’ only touchdown connection came in the fourth quarter with a 41-yard pass to DeAndre Moore that tied the game at 13.
Georgia’s offense saw significant changes due to the injury of their starting quarterback, Carson Beck, at the end of the first half. Gunner Stockton stepped in, completing 12 of 16 passes for 71 yards with one interception. The Bulldogs relied heavily on their defense and special teams as both squads faced tremendous pressure throughout the match.
The game progressed to overtime after a tense fourth quarter that saw Bert Auburn, the Texas kicker, convert a crucial field goal to tie. Although Texas pushed into overtime, their offense faltered, settling for a field goal. Georgia, however, capitalized on the opportunity, sealing their SEC championship with a touchdown.
Georgia’s victory not only avenged their earlier loss to Texas but also ensured their place among the top four seeds in the College Football Playoff. As for Texas, they’ll await their fate from the playoff selection committee, but the Longhorns demonstrated improvement and tenacity throughout the game, hinting at a bright future ahead.
This exciting match highlighted the competitive spirit in college football, where even in defeat, teams like Texas showed growth and resilience—qualities that will serve them well in their upcoming playoff aspirations.