Georgia needs 8 OTs to beat Georgia Tech in an Epic Thriller

Georgia Edges Georgia Tech in Epic Eight-Overtime Thriller, 44-42

ATHENS, Ga. — Freshman Nate Frazier delivered a game-winning 2-point conversion in the eighth overtime, propelling No. 7 Georgia to a dramatic 44-42 victory over Georgia Tech in the longest game in SEC history. The epic showdown at Sanford Stadium will go down as one of the most thrilling installments of the “Clean Old-Fashioned Hate” rivalry.

A Nail-Biting Finish

Georgia Tech struck first in the eighth overtime but fell short when quarterback Haynes King’s pass sailed out of the end zone under pressure from linebacker CJ Allen. Frazier then sealed the win for Georgia with a 3-yard run up the middle, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

“People were getting worn down,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said. “That kid’s got an electric ability to hit the hole hard, and I guess we blocked it right because it hit up in there.”

Comeback for the Ages

Georgia’s victory marked a remarkable comeback, overcoming a 17-point deficit—their largest comeback since 2006. The Bulldogs, who had failed to score in the first half for the first time since 2019, found their rhythm late, scoring 21 points in the final 8:18 of regulation, including two touchdowns in the last 3:39.

“Sucks, losing stinks,” said Georgia Tech coach Brent Key. “There are no moral victories. I’m proud of our team and the work they’ve put in since January.”

Overtime Marathon

Both teams traded scores in the first overtime and missed multiple 2-point attempts in subsequent periods, resulting in a back-and-forth marathon. By the fifth overtime, they were tied 42-42. Georgia ultimately outlasted Georgia Tech, going 2-for-6 on 2-point attempts compared to Tech’s 1-for-6.

“If they played it out like they used to, we might still be out there,” joked Smart.

Star Performances

Georgia quarterback Carson Beck threw for five touchdowns, completing 28 of 43 passes for 297 yards. Haynes King of Georgia Tech was equally impressive, throwing for 303 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 110 yards and three scores. According to ESPN Research, King became the first player to achieve at least 300 passing yards, 100 rushing yards, and three rushing touchdowns against an AP top-10 team.

Playoff Implications

The Bulldogs, with a 10-2 record, have likely secured a spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff. They can solidify their position by winning the SEC championship against the winner of Saturday’s Texas-Texas A&M game.

“We’ve got to keep getting better and not ride the wave of emotion,” Smart said. “Our opportunity is in front of us.”

The Final Stretch

Georgia’s comeback was fueled by critical plays, including a forced fumble by Dan Jackson and recovery by Chaz Chambliss, setting up a crucial touchdown to tie the game at 27. Beck’s 3-yard pass to Dominic Lovett with 1:01 remaining forced overtime, and after eight grueling periods, Georgia finally emerged victorious.

“It was wild,” Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker said. “I ain’t never seen [anything] like that.”

The game fell just one overtime short of the FBS record, set by Illinois and Penn State in 2021 with nine overtimes.