Oklahoma, Georgia meet for 1st time at Rose Bowl

By AP
Published

No. 2 Oklahoma (12-1, 8-1 Big 12) vs. No. 3 Georgia (12-1, 7-1 SEC)

LOCATION: Pasadena, California

TOP PLAYERS

Oklahoma: QB Baker Mayfield. The Sooners' electrifying signal-caller is the odds-on favorite to win the Heisman Trophy after passing for 4,340 yards with 41 touchdowns while rushing for another 310 yards and five scores. The senior has all but mastered the college game in Lincoln Riley's offense, and he could play his way toward a first-round NFL draft spot in Pasadena.

Georgia: RB Nick Chubb. The senior became the second-leading rusher in SEC history in the conference championship game after going for 77 yards against Auburn. Although injuries have slowed him at times, he should be rested and ready for the biggest game of his career.

NOTABLE

Oklahoma: Won three straight Big 12 titles. Is appearing in the College Football Playoff for the second time in three years. They lead the nation in total offense with 583.3 yards per game, including a whopping 8.44 yards per play.

Georgia: Won first SEC title since 2005 under second-year coach Kirby Smart. Haven't won a national title since 1980. They field the nation's fourth-best defense, giving up just 270.9 yards per play.

LAST TIME

First meeting.

BOWL HISTORY

Oklahoma: The Sooners are appearing in their 19th consecutive bowl game and have gone 29-20-1 overall in bowl appearances. They've appeared in the Rose Bowl just once before, beating Washington State 34-14 on Jan. 1, 2003.

Georgia: The Bulldogs have made a bowl game in 21 straight seasons, but this is their biggest stage since the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1, 2008. They appeared in one previous Rose Bowl, beating UCLA 9-0 on Jan. 1, 1943.

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