Clean, old-fashioned hate. That’s the essence of the fierce rivalry between Georgia Tech and Georgia. On Friday, November 29, the stage is set for another electrifying chapter in this storied matchup. The Yellow Jackets will invade Athens to face the Bulldogs, and you can bet that tempers will flare as the two sides clash in one of the nation’s most anticipated games of ‘Rivalry Week’. With emotions running high, the Yellow Jackets have already fired off some strong statements aimed at Kirby Smart’s Dawgs.
The stakes are high
The Bulldogs are riding high as the top team in the SEC, and they look like a near lock to make the College Football Playoffs. However, a loss to the unranked Yellow Jackets could spell disaster for Smart’s program. The stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams: Georgia Tech has the chance to spoil their archrival’s season, and they are fully aware of the significance of this upcoming clash.
A rivalry steeped in history
This rivalry has not been particularly balanced over the years. The series record stands at 71-41-5 in favor of the Bulldogs, which only intensifies the disdain the Yellow Jackets feel toward their state rivals. Every encounter between these two teams is charged with tension, and this Friday’s showdown promises to be no different, even with a short week of preparation.
Georgia Tech embraces the villain role
Georgia Tech is ready to take on the role of the villain as they step into Athens with the intent to disrupt Georgia’s aspirations. Players from Brent Key’s squad have been vocal about their feelings toward the Bulldogs, and they are not holding back. Offensive lineman Weston Franklin made his feelings clear, emphasizing a strong dislike for the Georgia program.
Franklin’s fierce sentiments
“When I think of Georgia, it’s a strong dislike of that program,” Franklin stated. “I’ve never liked it. Never wanted to be there. Where I grew up, all was different for me. Everybody around me was a Georgia fan, and I just didn’t like it. It wasn’t me. I never liked red. For us as a program, it’d be a huge goal checked off for us. That’s a goal we have every year and that’s what we plan to do.”
Defensive standouts prepare for battle
On the defensive side, linebacker Kyle Efford leads Georgia Tech with 61 tackles and 3 sacks. He is aware of the challenge that lies ahead and has sent a wake-up call to Georgia’s quarterback, Carson Beck, and the Bulldogs’ explosive offense. “They’re an explosive offense,” Efford said. “I mean, per usual, we just gotta come out there and play our brand of football and notice, but we’ll be able to stop them, play our best.”
Respect amid rivalry
Efford also touched on the emotional complexity of the rivalry, saying, “I think of hate, of rip. But I mean, really and truly, it’s still a football team. It’s still guys that fell in love with the sport that we love. So, at the end of the day, it’s hate, but there’s still a little bit of respect there because it’s still the game that we love.”
What to expect on game day
As game day approaches, the excitement in the air is palpable. Fans from both sides are gearing up for a showdown that promises to be filled with intensity, passion, and the kind of football that makes college sports so thrilling. With Georgia Tech looking to play the role of spoiler and Georgia aiming to solidify their playoff position, this rivalry game is set to be a must-watch.
In this battle of wills, it’s not just about the scoreboard; it’s about pride, tradition, and the desire to come out on top in a rivalry that has defined college football in the South. As the Yellow Jackets and Bulldogs prepare to clash, fans can expect an unforgettable game filled with drama, emotion, and the relentless pursuit of victory. Get ready for a showdown that promises to deliver on all fronts!
