3. CJ Stroud’s amazing performance
Stetson Bennett had the better game.
Bennett threw for more yards on the same 23-of-34 day, and he ran for a score – and he got the win,
However, Stroud ran for 34 yards and kept a slew of big drives alive, threw four touchdown passes to Bennett’s three, and didn’t throw a pick.
The arm strength, direction of the attack, and all that makes Stroud a special passer came through. Emeka Egbuka caught eight passes for 112 yards and a score, and Marvin Harrison Jr. caught five passes for 106 yards and two touchdowns.
Stroud didn’t spread it around like Bennett did, but he was under a lot more pressure – Stroud got sacked four times – and he still kept firing. Just as important for the NFL types, it’s what he didn’t do.
He didn’t turn the ball over, he didn’t put the ball in harm’s way, and he was trusted enough in key spots to not make the bad read.
This was almost his moment. This was almost his game to make his mark in a crowded field of tremendous college quarterbacks. He wasn’t any less terrific because the final kick went the wrong way.
Peach Bowl College Football Playoff 5 Thoughts
5. Ohio State had it, but …
4. Stetson Bennett’s big final drive
3. CJ Stroud’s great performance
2. This one was special
1. Georgia possibly making history