The Georgia Bulldogs and Notre Dame Fighting Irish finally faced off in the Sugar Bowl, a College Football Playoff quarterfinal, after a tragic incident on Bourbon Street caused a postponement. The game, initially scheduled as the final game of a three-game playoff series, was pushed back to 4 p.m. ET on Thursday. Both teams had arrived in New Orleans on Sunday and were reportedly in close proximity to the devastating attack.

The attack's impact rippled through the city and disrupted the plans of fans eager to witness the game. Lisa Borrelli, a Notre Dame alumna, and her fiancé, faced flight change difficulties and significant financial losses on their tickets. Despite the disappointment, Borrelli acknowledged the necessity of the postponement.

Another fan, Darrell Huckaby, a Georgia resident, opted to return home, forfeiting the cost of his tickets. He described a chilling scene from his hotel room overlooking the attack site, emphasizing the emotional toll of the event. Huckaby also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the rescheduling, which complicated travel decisions for many.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill advocated for further postponing the game to Friday, citing the ongoing crime scene investigation. She stressed the need for additional time to process the aftermath of the tragedy.

Both Georgia and Notre Dame players remained on lockdown, primarily confined to their hotels. Georgia managed a brief walk-through practice at the Superdome, while Notre Dame players spent time with family watching the Rose Bowl. Some members of the Notre Dame band chose to return home early.

Tragically, a University of Georgia student was among the injured, prompting a statement of condolence and support from University President Jere W. Morehead. Both universities confirmed the safety of all team members and official travel parties.

Security measures for the game were significantly enhanced, with an expanded perimeter and increased police presence around the Caesars Superdome, also the venue for Super Bowl LIX. This heightened security echoed the precautions taken after the 2001 terrorist attacks when the Superdome hosted the Super Bowl.