Georgia Tech stunned No. 10 Florida State with a game-winning field goal, as Aidan Birr nailed a 44-yarder just as time expired, securing a thrilling 24-21 victory in the highly anticipated first major college football game of the season.
After finishing last season undefeated but facing a revamped roster, Florida State managed to level the score at 21 with 6:33 remaining in the fourth quarter. This comeback was marked by an impressive 15-play touchdown drive, featuring two crucial fourth-down conversions orchestrated by DJ Uiagalelei.
Once Florida State (0-1, 0-1 ACC) tied the game, they were unable to regain possession. Birr stepped onto the field with just five seconds left, confidently delivering the decisive kick that silenced the Seminoles’ fans.
Jamal Haynes was a standout for Georgia Tech, rushing for 75 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Quarterback Haynes King also contributed significantly, throwing for 146 yards and adding 54 yards on the ground. The Yellow Jackets (1-0, 1-0) effectively controlled the line of scrimmage, amassing a total of 190 rushing yards at an impressive average of 5.3 yards per carry.
In his debut for Florida State, Uiagalelei completed 19 of 27 passes for 193 yards, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Seminoles.
Ryan Fitzgerald also made headlines, kicking a 59-yard field goal just before halftime, a career-long that ranks as the second longest in school history. Earlier in the game, he successfully converted a 52-yarder.
Both teams had a limited number of possessions, with only seven drives each. Georgia Tech’s final two drives were particularly noteworthy, featuring an 11-play, 89-yard touchdown drive followed by a 12-play, 49-yard drive that set the stage for Birr’s game-winning kick.
Aviva Stadium was filled with passionate Florida State supporters for the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, marking the third consecutive Week 0 opener held in Dublin.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Georgia Tech, as it represents their first win against an AP top 10 opponent since 2015, a feat they also accomplished against Florida State.
