The 2024 college football season kicked off with a bang as the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets pulled off a stunning upset of the No. 10 Florida State Seminoles in their season opener in Ireland. The Yellow Jackets, who were 10.5-point underdogs, emerged victorious with a thrilling 24-21 win, sealed by a 44-yard field goal by Aidan Birr as time expired.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout. Georgia Tech’s quarterback, Haynes King, played a pivotal role in leading his team to victory. King completed 11 of 16 passes for 146 yards and added 54 rushing yards to his impressive stat line. Running back Jamal Haynes also had a standout performance, rushing for 75 yards and scoring two crucial touchdowns for the Yellow Jackets.
In a game that came down to the wire, it was Georgia Tech’s resilience and composure that ultimately secured the win. Despite facing adversity on the game-winning drive, including a botched shotgun snap that pushed them back to the FSU 38-yard line, the Yellow Jackets remained composed. King connected with Eric Singleton on a crucial 11-yard gain on third-and-long to put them back in field goal range for Birr’s game-winning kick.
On the other side, FSU’s quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei put up a valiant effort in his debut for the Seminoles, completing 19 of 27 passes for 193 yards. Uiagalelei orchestrated a late-game drive that tied the score midway through the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win as Georgia Tech’s offense controlled the clock and sealed the victory.
The win marked a statement victory for Georgia Tech and set the tone for what promises to be an exciting college football season. The Yellow Jackets proved that they are a force to be reckoned with and are capable of competing with some of the top teams in the country.
As the college football season continues, fans can look forward to more thrilling matchups and exciting moments on the gridiron. With a full slate of games scheduled for the day, including matchups between FBS teams like McNeese, Tarleton State, and North Alabama, there is no shortage of action for football enthusiasts to enjoy.
Overall, Georgia Tech’s upset win over Florida State served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college football and the excitement that comes with every game. It was a memorable start to the season and a sign of things to come for the Yellow Jackets and their fans.
