For the third time this season, Georgia Tech went on the road vs a ranked opponent and pulled off the upset, as the Yellow Jackets edged out NC State 35-27. The game featured strong offensive performances and key turnovers that influenced the outcome.
The first quarter saw NC State take an early lead with a 48-yard field goal from Kanoah Vinesett, but Georgia Tech responded quickly with a 71-yard touchdown run by Jamal Haynes, followed by an interception return by Warren Burrell that put the Yellow Jackets ahead. Vinesett added another field goal for NC State, and DK Kaufman returned an interception for NC State, making the score GT 14- NCST 13 at the end of the first.
In the second quarter, NC State scored on a 30-yard pass from Grayson McCall to Noah Rogers, but Georgia Tech answered with a 6-yard touchdown catch from Haynes Haynes King. The score remained close, with both teams trading points.
The third quarter saw Georgia Tech take control, with Malik Rutherford catching a 16-yard pass from Haynes King for a touchdown. The Yellow Jackets maintained their momentum into the fourth quarter, with Trey Cooley catching an 23-yard pass from Haynes King to extend their lead. NC State responded quickly with an 85-yard touchdown strike from McCall to Kevin Concepcion, closing the gap to a one score game.
Georgia Techs offense totaled 366 yards, led by Haynes Kings efficient 15-for-20 passing for 153 yards and three touchdowns. Jamal Haynes rushed for 175 yards on 17 carries, providing a strong ground game. Defensively, Clayton Powell-Lee and E.J. Lightsey led with 11 tackles each, while Warren Burrell contributed an interception returned for six.
NC States offense accumulated 407 yards, with Grayson McCall passing for 311 yards and two touchdowns. Kevin Concepcion was a key receiver with 157 yards and a touchdown. The Wolfpacks defense made efforts with multiple players recording tackles for loss, but ultimately could not contain Georgia Techs offense.
The game featured a balanced offensive effort from Georgia Tech, with notable rushing and receiving contributions, and a resilient performance from NC State, especially through the air. Turnovers played a significant role, with both teams recording two interceptions, but Georgia Techs ability to capitalize on their opportunities and get key redzone stops helped secure the win. Georgia Tech finishes the regular season 7-5 overall and 6-2 in ACC play. They will now wait to find out their bowl destination as Season 32 winds down.