ATLANTA — In a thrilling finish, Aidan Birr kicked a 55-yard field goal as time ran out, leading the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets to a stunning upset over the No. 12 Clemson Tigers on Saturday.
With the clock ticking below 20 seconds and no timeouts remaining, Georgia Tech’s special teams rushed to set up the game-winning kick. On fourth-and-3, Birr delivered, and the home crowd erupted onto the field in celebration.
Quarterback Haynes King, returning from an injury that sidelined him during the previous game’s victory over Gardner-Webb, stepped up brilliantly. He completed 19 of 27 passes for 216 yards and rushed for 103 yards, including a crucial 1-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. That score, along with a successful 2-point conversion, put Georgia Tech ahead 21-14.
Clemson’s quarterback Cade Klubnik had a mixed day. He went 15-for-26 with 207 passing yards, including a 73-yard touchdown toss to Bryant Wesco early in the second half. However, he also faced challenges, with one interception and a crucial fumble.
This loss marks Clemson’s second consecutive slow start, as they now sit at 1-2 overall and 0-1 in the ACC. In recent years, such performances have raised concerns about their consistency, particularly after a strong 2022 season where they made a bowl appearance. An increasing number of fans have taken to social media to express their worries about the team’s direction. Discussions on platforms like Twitter show a mix of frustration and hope, seeking answers from coaches and players alike.
On the other hand, Georgia Tech is riding high with a perfect start at 3-0 and 1-0 in the ACC. Their recent performance highlights a team that is building confidence and chemistry, showing strong potential this season.
This game serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in college football. Just last year, Clemson dominated the field, but this season’s challenges showcase the unpredictable nature of the sport. For dedicated fans and analysts alike, watching how teams adapt is what makes the season exciting.
For further reading on team performance trends and statistics, refer to the NCAA’s official site.