The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the Georgia Bulldogs have a long-standing rivalry that extends beyond the gridiron and into the diamond. The two teams have been competing in baseball for over a century, with their first meeting taking place in 1886. The rivalry is fueled by the proximity of the two schools, as well as their membership in the same athletic conference, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
History of the Rivalry
The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the Georgia Bulldogs have a rich and storied history in baseball. The two teams have met 384 times, with Georgia Tech holding a slight edge in the series, 196-184. The series has been marked by periods of dominance by both teams, with Georgia Tech winning 15 straight games from 1907-1912 and Georgia winning 12 straight from 2000-2002.
One of the most memorable moments in the rivalry came in 2001, when the two teams met in the NCAA Regional Tournament. Georgia Tech, led by pitcher Kris Wilson, defeated the Bulldogs 12-2 in the championship game, advancing to the Super Regionals.
The Rivalry Today
The rivalry between Georgia Tech and Georgia remains strong today. The two teams meet annually in a three-game series, with the location rotating between the two schools. The series is always highly anticipated, with both teams looking to gain bragging rights over their in-state rival.
In recent years, the series has been marked by intense competition and dramatic finishes. In 2019, Georgia Tech came from behind to defeat the Bulldogs 7-6 in the final game of the series, securing a 2-1 victory. The win marked the Yellow Jackets' first series victory over the Bulldogs since 2016.
Why the Rivalry Matters
The Georgia Tech-Georgia rivalry matters for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it is a battle for in-state supremacy. Both teams are looking to prove themselves as the top program in the state, and the rivalry series is always highly anticipated.
The rivalry also has implications for recruiting. Both teams are constantly battling for the top high school players in the state, and a victory in the rivalry series can be a major selling point for recruits.
Finally, the rivalry is a source of pride for both schools. The series is always highly competitive, and a victory is a source of bragging rights for the winning team.
Notable Games and Moments
- 2001 NCAA Regional Tournament: Georgia Tech defeats Georgia 12-2 in the championship game, advancing to the Super Regionals.
- 2019: Georgia Tech comes from behind to defeat Georgia 7-6 in the final game of the series, securing a 2-1 victory.
- 2016: Georgia Tech sweeps the Bulldogs in a three-game series, winning 5-4, 6-3, and 7-5.
Records and Statistics
- All-time series record: Georgia Tech leads 196-184
- Largest margin of victory: Georgia Tech (20-0 in 1911)
- Longest winning streak: Georgia Tech (15 games from 1907-1912)
- Most career wins: Georgia Tech's Danny Hall (55-44 against Georgia)
Player Rivalries
The Georgia Tech-Georgia rivalry is not just about the teams, but also about the players. Over the years, there have been several notable player rivalries that have added to the intensity of the series.
One notable example is the rivalry between Georgia Tech's catcher, Joey Bart, and Georgia's catcher, Mason Meadows. The two players were both highly touted prospects coming out of high school, and their matchups in the rivalry series were always highly anticipated.
Coaching Rivalries
The coaching rivalry between Georgia Tech's Danny Hall and Georgia's Scott Stricklin is another aspect of the series. The two coaches have a long history of competing against each other, dating back to their days as assistants at different schools.
Hall, who has been the head coach at Georgia Tech since 1994, has a 55-44 record against the Bulldogs. Stricklin, who has been the head coach at Georgia since 2016, has a 12-15 record against the Yellow Jackets.
The Future of the Rivalry
The Georgia Tech-Georgia rivalry is sure to continue for years to come. Both teams have a strong commitment to baseball, and the rivalry is an important part of their schedules.
As the two teams continue to compete, fans can expect more intense and dramatic finishes. The rivalry is a source of pride for both schools, and a victory is always a major accomplishment.
Gallery of GT vs UGA Baseball Rivalry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the all-time series record between Georgia Tech and Georgia?
+Georgia Tech leads the all-time series 196-184.
Who is the all-time leader in wins against Georgia?
+Danny Hall, the head coach at Georgia Tech, has 55 wins against the Bulldogs.
What is the largest margin of victory in the series?
+Georgia Tech defeated Georgia 20-0 in 1911.