Georgia Tech made history in Dublin, Ireland, pulling off a stunning upset against No. 10 Florida State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. The Yellow Jackets emerged victorious, defeating the Seminoles 24-21, thanks to a last-second field goal by kicker Aidan Birr. This win marks Georgia Tech's third victory in the last four matchups against Florida State, and extends their winning streak against ranked ACC opponents to 5-0 in the Brent Key era.
Key Takeaways from the Upset
The victory was a testament to the Yellow Jackets' resilience and the key contributions of several players. Here are some of the most impactful moments that contributed to this improbable win.
Aidan Birr's Game-Winning Field Goal
Aidan Birr's game-winning 44-yard field goal was a testament to his composure under pressure. It was not an easy feat, especially after missing a 51-yard field goal earlier in the game. Birr showed resilience, stepped up when it mattered most, and nailed the field goal that secured the monumental upset. This was Birr's first-ever game-winning field goal in his career, a feat that will surely be remembered.
Haynes King's Leadership
The Aer Lingus Classic MVP, Haynes King, exhibited toughness and made crucial plays throughout the game. King finished with 146 passing yards and 54 rushing yards for a total of 200 yards of offense. While those numbers might not seem flashy, King was efficient and consistently stepped up in key situations. One crucial play that didn't receive much attention occurred when Georgia Tech fumbled in Florida State territory. King reacted quickly and batted the ball away from a Florida State defender who was about to recover the fumble. These heady plays showcased King's leadership and helped keep his team in contention for victory.
The Georgia Tech Defense's Rise
The Yellow Jackets' defense, led by Tyler Santucci, played lights out after a shaky start. They held Florida State to just six points in the second and third quarters, preventing the Seminoles from gaining a significant lead. The defense showed speed and physicality, keeping DJ Uiagalelei off balance. A key statistic that highlights the defense's dominance is their ability to hold Florida State under 100 yards rushing. Roydell Williams and Toafili, the Seminoles' star running backs, were limited to 38 and 32 yards respectively. Santucci's defense looks faster, more explosive, and better coached. If the Yellow Jackets can replicate this defensive performance consistently, they could be a force to be reckoned with.
Jamal Haynes' Consistency
Jamal Haynes, a consistent performer, delivered another stellar performance in a big game. He rushed for 75 yards and two touchdowns on just 11 carries, averaging seven yards per carry. Haynes showcased his ability to break tackles and find open space. His performance reinforces his reputation as one of the better running backs in the ACC.
The Yellow Jackets' Physical Offensive Line
The offensive line for Georgia Tech, often overlooked, proved their worth with a dominant performance. They paved the way for nearly 200 rushing yards and three touchdowns, consistently pushing for extra yardage. Coming into the game, there was a lot of anticipation to see how they would perform against one of the best defensive fronts in the ACC. The line, with 179 combined collegiate games and 128 starts, delivered. Their dominance ensured King remained protected throughout the game, never being sacked. The offensive line's performance reflects the coaching style of Brent Key, a former offensive lineman for the Yellow Jackets.
A Well-Rounded Win
The significance of this win cannot be overstated. It was a well-rounded performance, with both sides of the ball contributing to the victory. When the defense struggled early, the offense responded with a touchdown drive to cut the deficit. When the offense faltered, the defense stepped up and prevented points. This game was a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Georgia Tech.
The Irish Connection to American Football
Georgia Tech's victory in Dublin is just another example of the growing connection between Ireland and American football. The game showcased the growing popularity of the sport in Ireland, evidenced by the packed crowd at Aviva Stadium, eager to witness this historic matchup.
Beyond the fan base, there's a growing number of Irish players making their mark on the American football scene. David Shanahan, a punter for Georgia Tech, became the first Irishman to earn a full scholarship to play college football. Shanahan, a native of County Kerry, played a crucial role for the Yellow Jackets, kicking a tactical 44-yard punt. This growing talent pool further underscores the growing influence of American football in Ireland.
A Look Ahead
The win over Florida State is a major boost for Georgia Tech, setting a strong foundation for the rest of their season. The Yellow Jackets have a legitimate chance of achieving great things this year, especially with the impressive performance of their offense and defense. With their victory in Dublin, the Yellow Jackets have proven they are a force to be reckoned with in the ACC and beyond.
