No. 6 Georgia Rallies to Beat Georgia Tech 44-42 in Eighth Overtime, Bolsters Playoff Hopes

In a game for the ages, the No. 6 Georgia Bulldogs defeated in-state rival Georgia Tech 44-42 in a staggering eight-overtime thriller on November 29, 2024. The game, played under the bright lights of Sanford Stadium, entered the history books as the longest Southeastern Conference (SEC) game ever, and it came just one overtime shy of surpassing the all-time FBS record. This heart-pounding victory not only electrified fans but kept Georgia's College Football Playoff hopes very much alive.

Game Summary: A Tale of Two Halves and Marathon Overtimes

For Georgia fans, the first half was nothing short of a nightmare. Rival Georgia Tech stormed out to a commanding 17-0 halftime lead, showcasing offensive firepower and defensive dominance. The Yellow Jackets racked up an impressive 307 total yards in the first half, starkly outmatching Georgia’s meager 137 yards. Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King delivered a standout performance, running for three touchdowns while throwing for two more.

But the Georgia Bulldogs weren’t willing to let their home-winning streak end without a fight. Quarterback Carson Beck came alive in the second half, throwing five touchdown passes, including two critical strikes in overtime. The game ultimately came down to the eighth overtime, when freshman Nate Frazier capped an exhausting night by running in the deciding 2-point conversion for Georgia’s historic victory.

Impact on Playoff Hopes

The victory has significant implications for the College Football Playoff. Winning such a dramatic and high-stakes rivalry game bolsters Georgia’s resume and positions them strongly for playoff selection, regardless of the outcome of next week’s SEC Championship Game. If Georgia can maintain their momentum, it’s hard to imagine the playoff committee overlooking them.

Head coach Kirby Smart was visibly emotional after the game, calling the battle “epic” and lauding his team's unrelenting grit: “These guys fought until the very last play. This is why we love college football.”

For Georgia Tech, the heartbreaking loss marked their seventh consecutive defeat to the Bulldogs. Despite the bittersweet finish, Yellow Jackets coach Brent Key expressed pride in his players: “Tonight proved that this team has heart. We’ll build on that.”

Key Moments and Turning Points

• With 5:37 remaining in regulation, Haynes King broke loose for an 11-yard touchdown run, giving Georgia Tech a 27-13 cushion. However, the Bulldogs quickly responded with a methodical 75-yard, 8-play drive that tied the game.
• In a pivotal moment late in regulation, King fumbled under pressure. The ball was recovered by Georgia linebacker Chaz Chambliss, swinging momentum in Georgia’s favor and allowing the Bulldogs to equalize.
• Overtime after overtime tested the physical and mental endurance of both teams, but the decisive blow came in the eighth extra period. After Frazier’s game-winning 2-point conversion, Sanford Stadium erupted in celebration.

Conclusion: History Made in Athens

This unforgettable clash not only marked a new chapter in Georgia’s storied rivalry with Georgia Tech but also extended their school-record 31-game home winning streak. It was a testament to determination, grit, and the magic of college football. The Bulldogs will now turn their attention to bigger challenges, but their narrative this season wouldn’t be complete without this marathon showdown.

Meanwhile, Georgia Tech leaves Sanford Stadium with a tough but inspiring performance. For all the heartbreak, Brent Key and his Yellow Jackets proved that they’re ready to compete at a high level.

Watch the Highlights

Further Reading and Analysis

For more details and post-game analysis, check out the following resources:

• KSAT: Georgia’s Epic Victory Over Georgia Tech
• CBS Sports Recap of Georgia Tech vs. Georgia
• ESPN: Full Game Recap and Highlights

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