Georgia Bulldogs Update: Georgia clinches spot in the CFP with 8-overtime thriller over Georgia Tech

Georgia Bulldogs Update: Georgia Clinches Spot in the CFP with 8-Overtime Thriller Over Georgia Tech

The Georgia Bulldogs secured their spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) with an unforgettable 8-overtime win over their in-state rivals, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, in a game that will go down in history as one of the most dramatic and thrilling in the sport’s history.

The Bulldogs entered the game with a 12-0 record and a clear path to the CFP, but Georgia Tech—despite their struggles this season—were determined to play the role of spoiler. What followed was an epic clash that tested the resilience, skill, and nerves of both teams, pushing the limits of what fans and players alike thought possible.

A Slow Start with a Wild Finish

Despite Georgia’s overwhelming talent and dominance throughout the regular season, the Bulldogs found themselves in a dogfight against their rivals. Georgia Tech played with a chip on its shoulder, taking a bold approach with creative offensive schemes and a gritty defense. The Yellow Jackets were relentless, forcing Georgia to work for every point and leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

The game had a slow start in regulation, with Georgia Tech using an effective ball-control offense to keep the potent Georgia attack off the field. Georgia’s defense was also tested early and often, but the Bulldogs’ depth and talent allowed them to hang tough. By the time the clock wound down to the end of regulation, the game was tied at 17-17—a scoreline that felt more fitting for a rivalry game than a battle between a national title contender and a struggling opponent.

Overtime Madness

What followed was pure chaos. The game entered overtime, and both teams scored on their first few possessions, setting the stage for a back-and-forth battle that no one saw coming. Both teams made key plays, including clutch catches, crucial field goals, and even a few big defensive stops. With each passing overtime, it became clearer that the tension in the stadium was reaching new heights.

Georgia Tech answered every Bulldog score, forcing the game into a thrilling eighth overtime. At that point, both teams were exhausted, with several players from both sides cramping up, but neither could afford to back down. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the game stretched well into the night.

The Game-Winning Play

Finally, in the eighth overtime, Georgia’s experience and championship pedigree shone through. With the game tied at 49-49, Bulldogs quarterback Carson Beck, who had played an outstanding game despite the pressure, connected with wide receiver Ladd McConkey for a stunning 12-yard touchdown pass. Georgia Tech, needing a touchdown to extend the game, failed to capitalize on their final possession, and when their last-ditch effort fell short, the Bulldogs erupted in celebration.

Postgame Reactions

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart was visibly relieved but also proud of his team’s resilience. “This game showed us what we’re made of,” Smart said in his postgame interview. “We faced adversity, but we never lost our composure. This win will stay with us for a long time, but now it’s time to focus on the bigger picture.”

Carson Beck, who had thrown for over 400 yards in the game, was named Player of the Game, but he deflected the praise to his teammates, saying, “We wouldn’t be here without the effort of everyone on this team—offensive line, receivers, defense. It was a team effort.”

With the win, Georgia remained undefeated and secured a berth in the College Football Playoff, where they will look to defend their national title and pursue a third consecutive championship. The Bulldogs will now have a much-needed week off before preparing for their semifinal matchup, with fans across the country still buzzing from one of the most dramatic finishes in college football history.