- Florida State vs. Georgia Tech
The 2024 college football season began as the Florida State Seminoles versus Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets game was scheduled today in Dublin, Ireland and it was promised to be thrilling. Historically, the Seminoles have dominated this matchup, winning 11 of their last 13 meetings against the Yellow Jackets. Georgia Tech’s last victory over a top-10 Seminole team was in 2015, in a dramatic last-second field goal block returned for a touchdown.
Georgia Tech is coming off a successful season, marking their first bowl appearance since 2018. With a nearly returning offensive lineup returning for 2024, including key players like quarterback Haynes King, who led the ACC in passing touchdowns last season, The Yellow Jackets aim to build on this momentum. Despite their strong offense, their defense, against the run, has been a weak point, ranking among the worst in the nation last year.
Challenges and Strategies for Both Teams
Florida State, fresh off an ACC title, has undergone significant changes like bringing in 17 new players this season from the transfer portal, including quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei. The challenge for Florida State will be protecting Uiagalelei from Georgia Tech’s defensive schemes, which could disrupt the passing game if successful.
On the contrary, Georgia Tech’s Achilles’ heel has been their run defense. Facing Florida State’s aggressive rushing attack, bolstered by transfers like Lawrance Toafili and Roydell Williams, were expected to be a significant test. Georgia Tech’s defense had to step up, especially with new coordinator Tyler Santucci implementing a more challenging 4-2-5 scheme.
Georgia Tech’s Victory Shakes Up the ACC
In a stunning upset, Georgia Tech defeated 10th-ranked Florida State in a Week 0 college football game. This victory, under the leadership of second-year head coach Brent Key, signals that Georgia Tech is a formidable contender in the ACC.
The game was marked by physical dominance by Georgia Tech’s offensive line, which returned four starters from last season. Despite the Seminoles’ opening drive, the Yellow Jackets quickly responded with a powerful offensive push, setting the tone for a hard-fought game.
Quarterback Haynes King, a transfer from Texas A&M, was instrumental in the victory, earning the Player of the Game. This win not only boosts Georgia Tech’s dominance on the field but also strengthens the appeal of future recruits.
Florida State Faces a Rebuilding Challenge
The Seminoles entered the game with high expectations, hoping to prove last season’s success was no fluke despite losing key players to the NFL.
For coach Mike Norvell and the Seminoles, the season-opening loss to a team that went 7–6 last season is a major disappointment. Florida State had a chip on its shoulder after being snubbed from last season’s College Football Playoff despite an undefeated 13–0 record.
The team started strong, scoring an early touchdown, but struggled to maintain momentum against Georgia Tech’s resilient defense. The loss highlighted the challenges the Seminoles face as they integrate 17 new transfers and adjust to new leadership on the field.
While the defeat is a setback, the expanded 12-team playoff format provides Florida State with a path as the season progresses. The ACC’s depth, with teams like Clemson, Miami (FL), and now Georgia Tech emerging as strong contenders, ensures a competitive race for the conference title, making this season one to watch closely.
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