Georgia Tech Survives Late Rally to Edge N.C. State, 30-29
ATLANTA (AP) — In a thrilling showdown on Thursday night, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets clinched a dramatic 30-29 victory over the N.C. State Wolfpack, thanks to a last-minute 18-yard touchdown run from quarterback Aaron Philo. With just 22 seconds left on the clock, Philo’s dash into the end zone secured Georgia Tech’s win, keeping them in contention for a strong season finish.
The Yellow Jackets, now 7-4 overall and 5-3 in the Atlantic Coast Conference, had their lead evaporate with only 1:30 minutes remaining when N.C. State’s Hollywood Smothers sprinted for a stunning 53-yard touchdown, giving the Wolfpack a short-lived 29-23 advantage. However, Philo’s response proved decisive.
N.C. State (5-6, 2-5 ACC) struggled despite standout performances, including three rushing touchdowns from freshman quarterback CJ Bailey, who also suffered setbacks with three interceptions. E.J. Lightsey capitalized on one of those interceptions, returning it 21 yards for a touchdown, while Aidan Birr contributed significantly with multiple field goals for the Jackets.
Georgia Tech maintained pressure throughout the game, leading just 13-7 at halftime, held back by a sluggish offense that struggled to establish its running game. Although they celebrated their fifth straight home victory at Bobby Dodd Stadium, the defeat for the Wolfpack dashed their hopes of bowl eligibility this season.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, N.C. State will aim to bounce back against North Carolina, while Georgia Tech prepares for a tough challenge at No. 8 Georgia. Both teams look to finish their seasons on a high note as they head into rivalry week.
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