TL;DR
- Georgia and Georgia Tech's rivalry, "Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate," is a top college football contender.
- Georgia Tech's academic focus contrasts with Georgia's championship drive, intensifying recent matchups.
- The rivalry is fueled by recruiting, defensive strengths, and strategic disruptions, extending beyond state borders.
- The Governor's Cup trophy signifies a persistent rivalry that is unlikely to end soon.
The “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate” stands out as a top contender in college football. Georgia and Georgia Tech's official demeanor and unspoken objective are encapsulated in that statement.
Since its inaugural game in 1893, Georgia Tech's focus on academics has clashed with Georgia's championship-driven approach. This rivalry has intensified in recent times. Last year, Brent Key's Yellow Jackets pushed Kirby Smart's Bulldogs to eight overtimes, ultimately falling short. Nevertheless, this demonstrates the fierce determination of both teams to secure a victory.
The competition's intensity stems from recruiting battles in Georgia and Florida, defensive line advantages, and strategic disruptions within the area. This influence extends beyond Georgia's borders.
Under Smart, Georgia has historically relied on a physical running game, whereas Tech established a triple-option identity for decades before adopting a modern, fast-paced offense under Key. The Governor's Cup, a trophy that has been passed back and forth since the 1960s, represents a rivalry that's too persistent to fade. You can be sure it won't be ending anytime soon.
No. 4 Georgia meets No. 23 Tech on Friday (3:30 p.m. ET, ABC).
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