Georgia Tech Looks to Remain Undefeated Against Syracuse

The #23 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (2-0, 1-0 ACC) are looking to stay perfect on the season as they take on the Syracuse Orange (1-0, 0-0 ACC) at the JMA Wireless Dome. The game kicks off at noon ET on the ACC Network.

Georgia Tech has been a surprise to start the season, opening with a 24-21 upset win over #10 Florida State in Dublin, Ireland. They followed up that performance with a 35-12 victory against Georgia State. Their offensive firepower is led by running back Jamal Haynes, who has already amassed 159 yards rushing this season, averaging almost six yards per carry. They’ll also look to exploit Syracuse’s secondary with wide receiver Malik Rutherford, who has 11 receptions for nearly 200 yards.

Syracuse Leans on Kyle McCord's Talent

Syracuse enters the game after a convincing 38-22 victory against Ohio, thanks in large part to the offensive prowess of quarterback Kyle McCord. McCord, a transfer from Ohio State, threw for over 350 yards and four touchdowns against the Bobcats, showcasing the talent that made him a highly sought-after recruit. The Orange are hoping for another strong showing from their quarterback, but they will need to overcome some key defensive losses, including linebacker Marlowe Wax, who suffered an injury in the Ohio game. The lack of Wax’s presence on the field could be a significant issue against a Georgia Tech offense that thrives on the ground.

Pre-Game Analysis and Predictions

The College Gameday crew was split on who would win the game. Stanford Steve had Syracuse +3 as one of his top plays of the day, but the rest of the crew, including Michael Phelps, Nick Saban, Pat McAfee, and Kirk Herbstreit picked Georgia Tech. Desmond Howard and Lee Corso were the only ones who picked the Orange to pull off the upset.

The line has remained pretty consistent throughout the week, with Georgia Tech opening as a 2.5-point favorite and holding steady at that mark. Despite playing on the road, Georgia Tech is the favorite in this ACC matchup.

The Yellow Jackets are likely to have their hands full against a Syracuse offense that has the potential to be explosive with McCord at the helm. However, if they can manage to contain the Orange’s passing game and establish a strong rushing attack, they might be able to make it three wins in a row.

How to Watch the Game

TV: ACC Network

Streaming: WatchESPN.com

Radio: Georgia Tech Sports Network

Betting Odds

The oddsmakers at FanDuel Sportsbook have Georgia Tech favored by 2.5 points, with the over/under set at 60.5. The spread is likely to remain relatively stable, but keep an eye out for any shifts in the line as kickoff approaches.

Conclusion: Yellow Jackets to Win Close Encounter

While Syracuse's offense is capable of putting up points, their defense is vulnerable, especially without Wax. This could allow Georgia Tech to exploit its rushing attack and control the clock. While the Yellow Jackets have yet to face a truly challenging opponent, Syracuse's offense should provide a tougher test. Nevertheless, we predict that Georgia Tech will ultimately come out on top in a close game.

Georgia Tech to Secure Victory

With a strong rushing attack and a capable quarterback in Haynes King, Georgia Tech looks to continue its hot start to the season. While Syracuse's offensive talent will make for a competitive matchup, the Yellow Jackets have the edge in this game. We expect to see a high-scoring affair, but Georgia Tech will emerge victorious, keeping their undefeated streak alive.