What a spectacle it was! The 2024 edition of ‘Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate’ between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets captivated audiences, peaking at an astounding 8.5 million viewers during Week 14, as reported by ESPN. This thrilling matchup not only drew in viewers but also set a record as the largest audience for a UGA-GT game in history.
Historic Ratings on Black Friday
The excitement didn’t stop there. This nail-biting contest achieved the best ratings for a college football game on Black Friday since 2011, with a remarkable peak of 11.5 million viewers during the broadcast. Isn’t it incredible how college football can unite fans and create unforgettable moments? This game was certainly one for the ages!
Rivalry Week Highlights
In a week filled with fierce competition, the showdown between the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets stood out. Alongside other classic rivalries like Texas vs. Texas A&M and Auburn vs. Alabama, ABC and ESPN delivered three of the top five most-watched games of rivalry week. A total of nine games across both networks surpassed 2 million viewers, showcasing the immense popularity of college football during this thrilling time of year.
An Epic Eight Overtimes
What made this game truly unforgettable was its intensity. The matchup went into an astonishing eight overtimes before a victor was determined. Many fans and analysts alike hailed it as the game of the week across all of college football in Week 14. Can you imagine the tension, the excitement, and the sheer joy of witnessing such a monumental clash? It was a rollercoaster of emotions!
A Comeback for the Ages
During the contest, Georgia mounted a massive comeback, ultimately defeating Georgia Tech 44-42 in this eight-overtime thriller. After the game, ESPN’s Katie George interviewed Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart. He was likely caught off guard by the intensity of the game, and his response reflected the unexpected nature of this classic. “No, I have not,” Smart said, reflecting on the extraordinary experience. “They got a really good football team, really physical football team, and they really out-physicaled us tonight.”
Resilience and Respect
Smart went on to express his admiration for Georgia Tech’s performance, particularly praising their quarterback. “But, our kids, they are resilient. They never quit. Never say die. It was sloppy. These fans stayed with us. It’s a great game… We’re all out of two-point plays.” His words encapsulated the spirit of college football, where perseverance and respect for the opponent shine through, no matter the outcome.
Looking Ahead: SEC Championship
The thrilling victory not only showcased the Bulldogs’ tenacity but also secured their spot in the SEC Championship game against Texas on Saturday. This game is set to take place on December 7 at 4 p.m. ET and will air live on ABC. With Texas entering as a 2.5-point favorite, fans are eagerly anticipating another electrifying showdown. Will Georgia continue their momentum, or will Texas prove to be too formidable? The stakes couldn’t be higher!
Why College Football Matters
This game was more than just a contest between two teams; it was a celebration of college football’s rich traditions and rivalries. The passion of the fans, the intensity of the players, and the drama of the game all came together to create a memorable experience that fans will talk about for years to come. Isn’t that what college football is all about? The thrill, the heart, and the unforgettable memories made on the field.
As we look forward to the SEC Championship and the College Football Playoff, one thing is certain: the excitement of college football is alive and well. With each game, we witness the resilience, skill, and passion that define this beloved sport. So, gear up, fans! The best is yet to come in this exhilarating season of college football!
