The thrilling contest between Georgia and Georgia Tech captivated college football fans as it unfolded into an epic battle of endurance and resilience. The game kicked off at 7:30 p.m. ET, but it wasn’t until nearly midnight that a winner was determined. After a grueling eight overtimes, the Bulldogs emerged victorious, clinching a dramatic 44-42 win in what could have been a historic matchup.
Despite trailing 17-0 at halftime and finding themselves down 27-13 with just five minutes left in regulation, Georgia displayed remarkable grit. The team rallied to tie the game, setting the stage for an extraordinary overtime saga that drew the attention of fans and analysts alike.
In the process, the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets traded touchdowns across the first, second, and fifth overtimes. Defensive stands defined the ensuing periods, with both teams proving their mettle and determination. By the time the dust settled, Georgia celebrated a thrilling win, but the game flirted with the potential to go even deeper into college football lore.
Looking back at the history of overtime games, this matchup clearly stands out. While eight overtimes is remarkable, it still fell short of the nine-overtime thriller between Illinois and Penn State in 2021, which remains the longest game in college football history.
The rules governing college football overtimes have shifted over the years, aimed at creating a balance between length and excitement. Since 2019, the NCAA has implemented exciting twists where teams engage in 2-point conversion attempts beginning with the fifth overtime period. This change followed a riveting game that went to seven overtimes in 2018 between LSU and Texas A&M.
The rules continue to evolve. In 2021, NCAA guidelines were further adjusted to escalate the urgency of scoring in overtime. As a result, by the third overtime, teams alternate 2-point attempts until one team triumphs while the other is stymied.
Even though this clash between Georgia and Georgia Tech didn’t rewrite the record books, it will still be remembered for its intensity and competitiveness. As the season progresses, fans will hope to see more nail-biting finishes that highlight the thrill of college football.
