Can Georgia Tech Continue the ACC's Success over the SEC?

Georgia Tech could continue the ACC's 4-1 record against the SEC when they travel to Ole Miss this week

Rohan Paladugu | Sep 13, 2023

Can Georgia Tech Continue the ACC's Success over the SEC? /

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Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

When it comes to college football, no Power 5 conference has had such a seismic hold on the sport as the SEC. Programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee are some of the most successful schools in the country and consistently perform in inter-conference play as well as the College Football Playoffs. Since the current format's existence in 2014, the SEC has led the way with 11 appearances in the event, with a dominating record of 16-5. However, this year, one conference's teams have stepped up to put a challenge to the SEC's dominance in the sport.

Throughout the first two weeks, teams from the ACC have been able to beat their SEC counterparts, with the conference currently sitting at 4-1 in head-to-head matchups. This result is even more impressive considering that the SEC has a 233-132-10 all-time win record above the ACC. With the likes of South Carolina, Texas A&M, and No. 5 ranked LSU losing against their ACC counterparts, there's a lot to be said about the potential that this season has for the ACC to make a dent in the SEC's historic dominance over the conference.

While the trend suggests that the ACC can continue to build upon this momentum and gain wins against their SEC counterparts, the next matchup between the conferences is between #17 ranked Ole Miss and Georgia Tech. Historically, the matchup has not been a competitive one, with the last meeting resulting in a dominant 42-0 win for Ole Miss. However, don't be surprised if Brent Key’s Yellow Jackets can surprise and make the matchup a more exciting one.

Can the Yellow Jacket's continue the ACC's Success?

Coming off their win against South Carolina State, the Yellow Jackets have a very intriguing team that could pose a challenge to the Rebels. With the likes of QB Haynes King having a stellar game in Week 2, going 21/29 with 290 yards and 4 touchdowns, Georgia Tech’s offense certainly has the tools to make life difficult this week for the Rebels. However, the loss of Chase Lane makes this possibility much harder as he has been a massive part of Tech’s offense, registering 6 receptions for 105 yards and a touchdown this season.

Georgia Tech is currently 4th in the ACC in total yards, 2nd in passing, and 5th in rushing. This is going to be the toughest test for Ole Miss yet, especially for their defense. Rebels head coach Lane Kiffin talked about the Yellow Jackets offense this week and how improved they looked:

Lane Kiffin on Georgia Tech: "I think the QB is playing well. They do run a good offense that presents some challenges. They look better on defense. They look like they're playing better than a year ago."
— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) September 11, 2023

On the defensive side of the field, Tech’s woes continue as their late collapse against Louisville in Week 1 caused some doubts. However, with players like DE Kyle Kennard, the defensive lineman in the week in the ACC, who leads the team in tackles and tied for the lead in interceptions, there still is enough firepower to cause the Rebel’s offense some trouble.

Georgia Tech is currently a 20.5 point underdog against the Rebels heading into Saturday's game.