In a thrilling clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, Georgia Tech stunned Wake
Forest in overtime, pulling off a dramatic 30-29 upset that snapped Wake’s early-season
momentum. The Yellow Jackets, now a perfect 5-0, showed grit and determination, erasing
a double-digit deficit and holding firm in the closing moments to secure a signature win.
Wake Forest raced out to a 17-3 lead in the second quarter behind the dynamic runs of
Demond Claiborne, who scored two touchdowns. The Demon Deacons seemed poised to
control the game, but Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King ignited the comeback with
smart passes and fierce runs. King’s 243 passing yards and 106 rushing yards, including two
rushing touchdowns, underscored his dual-threat mastery. As the clock ticked down in the
fourth quarter, King tied the game with a clutch 5-yard TD run, setting the stage for a tense
overtime battle.
The Yellow Jackets tied the score at 23 late in the fourth quarter, sending the game into
overtime where King once again proved decisive, scoring the game-winning 2-yard
touchdown run.
What this means in the ACC
Georgia Tech’s 5-0 start has them within striking distance of matching their total wins from
last season, and they are now 2-0 in ACC conference play. This victory is more than just a
win; it signals a potential breakout year for the Jackets, showcasing a balanced offense and
a defense that made critical stops when it mattered most.
On the flip side, Wake Forest’s 2-3 record and 0-2 in the conference have raised some
concerns. After a promising start, the Demon Deacons will need to regroup quickly to avoid
slipping further.
Coach Brent Key of Georgia Tech summed up the team’s resilience perfectly.
"Our guys showed tremendous heart tonight. When the chips were down, Haynes and this
whole team refused to quit. This win is a testament to their belief and preparation."
Meanwhile, Wake Forest coach Mike Elko reflected on the heartbreak. "We had the lead, but sometimes the game slips away. We have to learn from this and bounce back fast."
The Historic Context and Rivalry
This game marks one of the most significant upsets for Georgia Tech in recent years,
snapping Wake Forest’s early season winning streak and fueling debate about which team
will emerge as a dark horse in the ACC this year. For Georgia Tech, this win not only boosts
morale but cements their presence as a serious contender.
Key Stats With Impact
- Haynes King: 28/42, 243 yards, 1 passing TD; 21 carries, 106 yards, 2 rushing TDs
- Demond Claiborne: 21 carries, 119 yards, 2 TDs for Wake Forest
- Georgia Tech’s offense generated 497 total yards compared to Wake Forest’s 441
- Critical 3rd down conversions by Georgia Tech (7/16) and solid defensive stops late in the game made the difference.
The Electric Atmosphere
A charged crowd of over 35,000 filled the stadium, with the energy swelling as Georgia Tech
clawed back. Fans witnessed momentum swings that made for a nail-biting experience —
the kind of game that will be talked about all season.
What’s Next?
Georgia Tech is now 5-0 and unbeaten in the conference, has a bye week before hosting
Virginia Tech. With an 81.5% chance to win, the Jackets are favored to keep their winning
streak alive.
Wake Forest is facing a critical 2-3 record and winless in conference play, heads to Virginia
Tech next. ESPN projects only a 22.5% chance for Wake to come out on top, putting
pressure on the Demon Deacons to regroup fast.
Bold Prediction
If Haynes King maintains this electrifying form, Georgia Tech could well be the surprise team of the ACC this season, reshaping expectations and bringing excitement back to the
program.
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