Georgia Tech's Upset Win Over Florida State Highlights Opening Week of College Football

College Football
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 25: Head coach Brent Key of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets brings his team onto the field during the third quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs at Bobby Dodd Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

Georgia Tech vs. Florida State:

In a stunning upset, Georgia Tech toppled No. 10 Florida State in a dramatic finish during the opening weekend of the 2024 college football season. The game, held in Dublin, Ireland, showcased the Yellow Jackets’ tenacity and resilience, culminating in a 24-21 victory sealed by a last-second 44-yard field goal from Aidan Birr.

Georgia Tech’s offense was balanced, amassing 336 total yards, with 190 coming on the ground. Jamal Haynes was instrumental, scoring two rushing touchdowns and providing consistent pressure on Florida State’s defense. Quarterback Haynes King played a pivotal role, passing for 146 yards and rushing for an additional 75, using his dual-threat capabilities to keep the Seminoles off balance.

Florida State, though favored and ranked in the top ten, struggled to find a rhythm against Georgia Tech’s defense. Despite DJ Uiagalelei’s respectable 193 passing yards in his first start for the Seminoles, Florida State’s offense faltered at critical moments, managing only 291 total yards. The Yellow Jackets’ defense held firm in the face of the Seminoles’ final drive, setting up Birr’s game-winning kick as time expired. This unexpected victory for Georgia Tech has not only shaken up the ACC but has also set the stage for what could be an unpredictable college football season.

Montana State vs. New Mexico:

In another captivating game of the opening weekend, Montana State, an FCS powerhouse, pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat FBS opponent New Mexico 35-31. Down 31-14 entering the fourth quarter, the Bobcats engineered an impressive rally, scoring 21 unanswered points to shock the Lobos in their season opener.

New Mexico had started strong, building a commanding lead early in the game, aided by key defensive plays including fumble return touchdowns that seemingly put the game out of reach. However, Montana State’s offensive unit found its stride in the second half, particularly in the fourth quarter where they outplayed and outscored New Mexico.

The Bobcats’ offense was spearheaded by a dominant ground game, racking up 362 rushing yards with an impressive average of 7.7 yards per carry. Adam Jones led the charge with 167 rushing yards and a touchdown on 17 carries, while Scottre Humphrey contributed significantly with 140 yards on 19 carries, including the game-winning touchdown in the final minutes. Montana State outgained New Mexico 567 to 325 in total yards, demonstrating their ability to move the ball effectively against a higher-division opponent. This victory underscores the competitive spirit of FCS teams and serves as a reminder of the potential for upsets in the early season matchups.

SMU vs. Nevada:

SMU’s season opener against Nevada turned into a rollercoaster of emotions as the Mustangs had to claw their way back from a significant deficit to secure a 26-24 victory. The game began on a shaky note for SMU, with their starting quarterback being benched early due to ineffective play, putting the team in a precarious position.

Trailing 24-13 with only 10 minutes left in the game, the Mustangs appeared to be on the brink of an opening loss. However, the comeback began deep in their own territory, with quarterback Preston Stone connecting on a critical 49-yard pass to wide receiver Maryland on a third down, breathing new life into the offense. This play was the catalyst for a drive that ended with a four-yard touchdown run by Brashard Smith, followed by a successful two-point conversion that cut Nevada’s lead to 24-21. On the ensuing Nevada possession, SMU’s defense made a pivotal play, as defensive lineman Anthony Booker Jr. sacked Nevada quarterback Brendon Lewis in the end zone for a safety, bringing the Mustangs within a single point of the Wolf Pack.

With just over three minutes remaining, SMU began their final drive from their own 17-yard line. The Mustangs methodically marched down the field on a nine-play, 83-yard drive that culminated in a game-winning touchdown catch by Maryland, who was a standout performer with eight receptions for 162 yards. SMU’s late-game heroics not only secured a dramatic win but also raised questions about their quarterback situation moving forward, as the team looks to find consistency and avoid similar scares in future games.

Check out this article on Georgia Tech’s Upset win to start the season

2024 College Football MAJOR Upset to Start the Season

Follow us on Twitter!

Share via
Copy link