Senior Running Back Al Pollard’s Game-Changing Two-Point Conversion Propels Georgia Bulldogs to a 36-24 Comeback Victory over Cal Bears in 1976 Season Opener

The 1976 college football season opener between the University of Georgia Bulldogs and the California Golden Bears at Sanford Stadium became an instant classic, marked by a thrilling series of events that would define the season for the Bulldogs. At the heart of the drama was senior running back Al Pollard, whose game-changing two-point conversion catch from quarterback Matt Robinson turned the tide in favor of the Bulldogs, leading them to a 36-24 comeback victory after trailing by 12 points in the third quarter. It was a moment that not only showcased Pollard’s athleticism and Robinson’s poise but also signaled a promising season for the Georgia football program, one that would leave fans buzzing for weeks.

The stage was set for a memorable showdown under the hot Georgia sun on September 11, 1976. The Bulldogs, led by head coach Vince Dooley, were hungry to prove themselves after a solid 1975 campaign that had narrowly missed out on a bowl appearance. California, under the leadership of head coach Mike White, was coming into the game with high expectations after a strong showing the previous year. The matchup was full of intrigue, as the Bears had a high-powered offense and a defensive unit that was known for its toughness. But what would transpire that afternoon in Athens would surpass any expectations.

The game began with the Bears striking first, putting up points on the board with an efficient drive that showcased their balanced attack. Quarterback Joe Roth, known for his arm strength and precision, found his receivers with ease, leading California to an early 10-0 lead. Georgia’s offense, initially slow to get going, struggled to match the Bears’ tempo. The Bulldogs’ first series ended in a quick punt, and by the time they had mounted any significant drive, they were already trailing by two touchdowns.

But Georgia was no stranger to adversity, and under the leadership of Matt Robinson, they began to claw their way back into the contest. Robinson, the seasoned senior quarterback who had started in the previous season’s finale, showed his maturity and calm demeanor in the pocket, making crucial throws to keep the offense moving. A strong run game, led by Pollard and fellow running back Robert McClendon, began to find its rhythm as the offensive line found its footing.

Despite the early struggles, the Bulldogs were starting to chip away at the Bears’ lead. By halftime, the score was 17-10 in favor of California, but Georgia had shown enough resolve to suggest that a comeback was within reach. Robinson’s leadership and the tenacity of the Bulldogs’ defense were beginning to tilt the momentum in their favor. The halftime locker room was filled with anticipation, as Dooley encouraged his players to stay calm and continue fighting. His words, as usual, were a mixture of hope and pragmatism, emphasizing that a single play could swing the game in their favor.

In the second half, the Bulldogs’ defense came out with renewed vigor. Defensive coordinator Ernie Sims had made some key adjustments, focusing on containing Roth and pressuring him more consistently. The defensive line, led by future NFL players like Jimmy Payne and Eddie Weaver, began to break through California’s offensive line. This pressure allowed the Georgia secondary to cover Roth’s deep ball attempts, which had burned them early in the game.

Still, California managed to extend their lead to 24-12 early in the third quarter. The situation looked grim for Georgia. The Bulldogs had been sluggish in the first half, and they now faced the daunting task of overcoming a two-score deficit with only a quarter and a half remaining. The fans in Sanford Stadium, though, were not about to give up on their team. They roared in support, urging their team to make a push.

With the Georgia defense continuing to stifle the Bears’ offense, the Bulldogs’ offense came alive. Robinson found wide receiver Gene Washington for a key 25-yard gain, and Pollard, who had been quietly effective on the ground, started to show his versatility. The running back was used in a variety of ways, from power runs up the middle to catching passes out of the backfield. It was on one of these passes that the Bulldogs made their most pivotal play of the game.

With Georgia trailing 24-18, they faced a critical moment: a touchdown could tie the game, but a two-point conversion was necessary to take the lead. Dooley, ever the strategist, dialed up a daring play in what would turn out to be a game-defining moment. Robinson, cool and collected, took the snap and rolled out to his right. Pollard, running an angle route toward the sideline, found a pocket of space in the defense and turned sharply toward his quarterback. Robinson saw him, zipped a perfect pass into Pollard’s hands, and the running back did the rest. Pollard caught the ball in stride and sprinted into the end zone for the two-point conversion, giving Georgia a 27-24 lead.

The crowd erupted in jubilation, the momentum fully shifted, and the Bulldogs had seized control of the game. For Pollard, the play was not just a testament to his skill but also his unshakeable focus in one of the most intense moments of the game. His ability to catch the ball under pressure and quickly turn upfield for the conversion was a glimpse of the mental toughness that defined the 1976 Bulldogs. Pollard was a senior leader, and his contribution that afternoon was symbolic of his entire career—steadfast, reliable, and always willing to do what it took to win.

From that moment on, the Bears were rattled. California, now trailing by three, could never regain the rhythm they had earlier in the game. Georgia’s defense, having found its groove, continued to stymie Roth and the Bears’ offense, forcing a series of punts and turnovers. The Bulldogs, having gained the lead, knew they had to strike decisively to finish the job.

And they did. Robinson, now in command of the game, orchestrated a final scoring drive that sealed the victory. A series of well-executed plays, including a 45-yard touchdown pass to Washington, put the game out of reach. The final score, 36-24, was a result of stellar teamwork and resolve. Pollard’s two-point conversion had set the stage, but it was the collective effort of the entire team—offense, defense, and special teams—that brought the win home.

For the Bulldogs, the victory over California was more than just a season opener; it was a statement. It showed that they could come from behind, overcome adversity, and win games in the most dramatic of fashions. Pollard’s two-point conversion became one of those moments in Georgia football history that would be talked about for years to come. It was a microcosm of the kind of gritty, determined play that would define the Bulldogs’ season as they marched forward into the competitive Southeastern Conference.

In the weeks that followed, Georgia would build on this momentum. Pollard continued to be a key contributor, his leadership on the field helping to galvanize the team in the most crucial moments. Robinson’s relationship with his receivers, particularly Washington, blossomed as the season progressed, and the Bulldogs found themselves climbing the rankings with each passing week. Ultimately, their thrilling comeback victory in the season opener was the perfect start to what would be a memorable and successful season.

Al Pollard’s two-point conversion against the Cal Bears in 1976 remains one of the most iconic plays in Georgia football history. It exemplified the never-say-die attitude of the Bulldogs and set the tone for a season full of excitement, drama, and triumph. Even decades later, fans of the Georgia Bulldogs continue to celebrate that unforgettable moment, a testament to the enduring legacy of Pollard, Robinson, and the 1976 team.