In an impressive display of football prowess, the 6th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs delivered a resounding defeat to the 4th-ranked Florida State Seminoles in the Orange Bowl, marking a stunning 63-3 victory. The match, held in Miami Gardens, Fla., showcased Georgia’s dominance, particularly noteworthy given both teams’ absence from the College Football Playoff.
Quarterback Carson Beck led the charge for Georgia, throwing for 203 yards and two touchdowns. His performance was complemented by backup QB Gunnar Stockton, who contributed two additional touchdowns. The Bulldogs’ offense was relentless, scoring on nine of their twelve drives and accumulating a staggering 673 total yards.
Florida State, grappling with a significantly depleted roster due to opt-outs and transfers, struggled to match Georgia’s intensity. Key absences in their lineup included five starting defenders, their primary running backs, and leading receivers. This left the Seminoles at a distinct disadvantage, which was evident in the game’s outcome.
The Bulldogs’ recent history has been marked by championship pursuits, with two national titles in the preceding years. However, a loss to Alabama in the SEC championship game saw them miss a spot in the CFP rankings. This game served as an opportunity for Georgia to reassert their prowess, which they did emphatically, setting a record for the largest halftime lead in the Orange Bowl’s 90-year history.
The Bulldogs’ offense was not the only highlight; their defense also shone, intercepting Florida State quarterback Brock Glenn twice and recovering two fumbles. This stifling defense limited the Seminoles to a mere 63 yards rushing.
Looking ahead, Georgia is set to open the 2024 season against Clemson in Atlanta, with Carson Beck returning for his senior year. Meanwhile, Florida State will commence their season against Georgia Tech in Dublin, Ireland, a notable international opener for two ACC teams.