In a thrilling season opener, Georgia Tech kicker Aidan Birr nailed a game-winning field goal as time expired, leading the Yellow Jackets to a 24-21 upset over the 10th-ranked Florida State Seminoles in Dublin, Ireland.
In a pulsating battle that marked the return of college football, Georgia Tech's Aidan Birr emerged as the hero, drilling a 41-yard field goal with just seconds remaining to snatch a memorable victory from the jaws of defeat. The Yellow Jackets' triumph over the favored Florida State Seminoles sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, kicking off the season with an unexpected upset.
The game kicked off with Florida State asserting their dominance, swiftly moving the ball downfield for the first touchdown of the 2024 season. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei led an impressive 84-yard drive, converting two crucial fourth downs to tie the score at 21. It seemed as if the Seminoles had regained control, but fate had a different plan in store.
Georgia Tech Shocks Florida State with Last-Second Field Goal in Dublin
Undeterred by Florida State's resurgence, Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King orchestrated a meticulous 12-play drive, meticulously burning down the game clock. With the Yellow Jackets facing fourth and nine, Birr had missed a previous attempt from 52 yards, but this time he found redemption. The 41-yard kick sailed through the uprights, slicing just inside the left goalpost to secure a famous victory for Georgia Tech.
The Seminoles had stormed out of the gates, seemingly unstoppable on their opening drive. Lawrance Toafili's 28-yard touchdown run gave them an 8-0 lead, which was soon extended to 10-0 after a successful trick play on the extra point. However, Georgia Tech's response was swift and decisive.
Georgia Tech Shocks Florida State with Last-Second Field Goal in Dublin
Backup quarterback Zach Pyron took the reins of the offense at the one-yard line and charged into the end zone to ignite the Yellow Jackets' comeback. King showcased his versatility throughout the game, completing 11 of 16 passes for 146 yards while also rushing for 54 yards on 15 carries.
Running back Jamal Haynes played a pivotal role for Georgia Tech, amassing 75 yards on 11 carries and scoring two crucial touchdowns. His contributions proved invaluable in helping the Yellow Jackets overcome the adversity they faced against a formidable opponent.
Georgia Tech Shocks Florida State with Last-Second Field Goal in Dublin
Florida State's loss marked their first as a double-digit favorite since 2021. It also extended their losing streak to two games after their humiliating 63-3 defeat to Georgia in the Orange Bowl last season.
The Yellow Jackets will relish the momentum of this stunning upset as they prepare to host Georgia State in their home opener on August 31. For the Seminoles, the focus will shift to regrouping and rectifying their errors when they welcome Boston College to their campus on September 2.
As the college football season unfolds, Georgia Tech's victory in Dublin serves as a testament to the unexpected and thrilling nature of the sport. The Yellow Jackets have set the tone for an exciting and unpredictable season, while the Seminoles have been given a stark reminder that even the most talented teams can be humbled by the underdog.
