The Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry is one of the most storied and intense in college football. The two teams have been battling it out on the gridiron for over a century, with each side having its share of triumphs and heartbreaks. As we take a look back at the history of this rivalry, it's clear that there have been some truly unforgettable moments. Here are five of the greatest Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry moments:
1. The 2009 Upset in Death Valley
One of the most memorable moments in the Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry came in 2009, when the Yellow Jackets traveled to Death Valley and pulled off a stunning 27-25 upset over the #13-ranked Tigers. Trailing 24-13 in the fourth quarter, Georgia Tech quarterback Josh Nesbitt led a furious comeback, culminating in a 1-yard touchdown run with just 3:49 remaining. The victory marked the Yellow Jackets' first win in Clemson since 1994 and cemented their spot in the ACC Championship game.
2. The 2014 Orange Bowl Thriller
The 2014 Orange Bowl matchup between Georgia Tech and Clemson will be remembered for years to come. The Yellow Jackets, led by quarterback Justin Thomas, looked to spoil the Tigers' undefeated season, and they nearly succeeded. Despite being 7-point underdogs, Georgia Tech trailed by just 4 points with 1:04 remaining, but ultimately fell 40-35. The game featured a whopping 1,115 total yards of offense, including 298 rushing yards from Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd.
3. The 1990 "Kickoff Classic" Stunner
The 1990 season opener between Georgia Tech and Clemson, dubbed the "Kickoff Classic," will be etched in the memories of Yellow Jackets fans forever. Trailing 21-7 at halftime, Georgia Tech stormed back with 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter, capped off by a 46-yard touchdown run from Shawn Jones with just 3:31 remaining. The 21-19 victory marked the Yellow Jackets' first win over a top-10 team since 1962.
4. The 2011 Comeback for the Ages
In 2011, Georgia Tech found themselves facing a 27-14 deficit with just 12:27 remaining against Clemson. But the Yellow Jackets, fueled by quarterback Tevin Washington's 176 rushing yards, staged a remarkable comeback. Washington scored on a 1-yard touchdown run, and Georgia Tech recovered an onside kick, setting up a game-tying field goal with just 2:55 remaining. The Yellow Jackets ultimately won 31-28 in overtime, handing Clemson its first loss of the season.
5. The 2000 ACC Championship Showdown
The 2000 ACC Championship game between Georgia Tech and Clemson was a thriller for the ages. The Yellow Jackets, seeking their first conference title since 1990, took a 16-14 lead into halftime. But Clemson stormed back with 24 unanswered points, capped off by a 27-yard touchdown run from Woodrow Dantzler with just 1:34 remaining. The Tigers' 27-16 victory denied Georgia Tech its first conference championship in a decade.
Gallery of Georgia Tech vs Clemson Moments
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry?
+The Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry dates back to 1898, with the two teams having played each other 84 times. Clemson leads the all-time series 34-26-3.
What is the most memorable moment in the Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry?
+One of the most memorable moments in the Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry came in 2009, when the Yellow Jackets pulled off a stunning 27-25 upset over the #13-ranked Tigers.
Who has won the most Georgia Tech vs Clemson games?
+Clemson leads the all-time series 34-26-3, having won 34 of the 84 meetings between the two teams.
As we conclude our look back at the greatest Georgia Tech vs Clemson rivalry moments, we invite you to share your thoughts and memories of this storied rivalry. Which moment stands out to you as the most memorable? Share your comments below!