Georgia Tech Downs BC, Bolsters Playoff Hopes

In a thrilling road contest this past Saturday, the No. 14 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets secured a narrow 36-34 victory over the Boston College Eagles at Alumni Stadium. This hard-fought win keeps Tech firmly atop the ACC standings and strengthens their legitimate shot at reaching the 2026 College Football Playoff, much to the excitement of fans back in Atlanta.

Yellow Jackets Continue Dominant Season

Georgia Tech, boasting an impressive 8-1 record (5-1 ACC), entered Chestnut Hill as a formidable opponent, while Boston College struggled at 1-9 (0-6 ACC) under first-year head coach Bill O’Brien. The Yellow Jackets are led by third-year head coach Brent Key and fueled by quarterback Haynes King, a versatile player who is generating buzz as a fringe Heisman-Trophy candidate. Tech’s defense faced a Boston College team with an unsteady quarterback room, with Dylan Lonergan ultimately named the starter for the Eagles, marking his third consecutive start change.

Game Recap: A Battle to the Finish

The game kicked off with Georgia Tech receiving the initial kickoff. The Yellow Jackets quickly demonstrated their offensive prowess.

First Quarter

Georgia Tech got on the scoreboard first when junior running back Malachi Hosley broke through the Eagles’ defense for a 27-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Yellow Jackets an early 7-0 lead. Boston College responded with a big 57-yard pass from Dylan Lonergan to Reed Harris, moving out of danger territory, but was eventually forced to punt.

Second Quarter

The Eagles tied the game at 7-7 early in the second quarter with a one-yard rushing touchdown by Turbo Richard, capping an 11-play, 75-yard drive. However, Georgia Tech quickly regained the lead with an explosive 71-yard screen pass for a touchdown to Malik Rutherford, making it 14-7. Boston College answered before halftime, as Lonergan connected with freshman tight end Kaelan Chudzinski for a three-yard touchdown pass, tying the score at 14-14. During this drive, Lewis Bond broke Zay Flowers’ program record with his 201st career reception.

Third Quarter

Boston College took their first lead of the game with a 14-yard rushing touchdown by Jordan McDonald, putting them up 21-14. Georgia Tech responded with a 34-yard field goal from Aidan Birr after an awful drop by Jamal Haynes, narrowing the deficit to 21-17. The Eagles then extended their lead to 28-17 on an 18-yard touchdown pass from Lonergan to Reed Harris. The quarter ended with a contentious unsportsmanlike conduct penalty against BC head coach Bill O’Brien, setting up Georgia Tech deep in Eagles territory.

Fourth Quarter

Aidan Birr drilled a 26-yard field goal for Georgia Tech to start the fourth, making it 28-20. Jamal Haynes then powered into the endzone for a two-yard rushing score, bringing Tech within two points, 28-26, after a failed two-point conversion. Jordan Allen then electrified the field with a 54-yard touchdown run, breaking tackles to give the Yellow Jackets a 33-28 lead. Boston College dramatically responded with a 43-yard touchdown run from Turbo Richard, but a failed two-point conversion meant the Eagles led by just one, 34-33, with 4:09 left. Aidan Birr was clutch once more, hitting a 23-yard field goal with just 11 seconds left, giving Georgia Tech a 36-34 advantage. Dylan Lonergan’s Hail Mary attempt was broken up, securing the nail-biting victory for the Yellow Jackets.

Key Performers and Playoff Implications

Georgia Tech’s offense showed its depth with touchdowns from Malachi Hosley, Malik Rutherford, Jamal Haynes, and Jordan Allen. Quarterback Haynes King’s versatility was a constant threat, driving the team’s critical scoring drives. On the Boston College side, wide receiver Lewis Bond made history by breaking the program’s career receptions record. The Yellow Jackets’ resilience, particularly in a high-pressure fourth quarter, was evident as they executed crucial plays to secure the win.

This victory is massive for No. 14 Georgia Tech. Maintaining their top spot in the ACC standings, the team is now in a prime position to challenge for the 2026 College Football Playoff. The win, especially a hard-fought road victory, adds significant weight to their resume.

Game Score Summary by Quarter

FAQs for Atlanta Fans

• What was the final score of the Georgia Tech vs. Boston College game?
  Georgia Tech defeated Boston College 36-34 in a thrilling finish.
• How did Georgia Tech’s star quarterback Haynes King perform?
  Haynes King made key plays and led the Yellow Jackets’ potent offense, demonstrating his versatility as a fringe Heisman-Trophy candidate.
• What does this win mean for the Yellow Jackets?
  This victory keeps No. 14 Georgia Tech atop the ACC standings with a legitimate shot to reach the 2026 College Football Playoff.
• Where was this exciting matchup played?
  The game took place at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Boston College’s final home game of the 2025 season.
• Did any records break during the game?
  Yes, Boston College wide receiver Lewis Bond broke Zay Flowers’ program record for career receptions, reaching 201 receptions.

This hard-fought victory is a testament to the Yellow Jackets’ resilience and keeps their College Football Playoff dreams very much alive, giving Atlanta fans plenty to cheer for as the season progresses.

Yellow Jackets Win Playoff Hopes Soar