Admin
Vanderbilt vs. Georgia Tech: A Thrilling Victory in the Birmingham Bowl
In a hard-fought and thrilling matchup in the Birmingham Bowl, the Vanderbilt Commodores came out on top with a 35-27 victory over Georgia Tech, securing their first winning season since 2013. The victory capped off a season filled with surprises, a remarkable turnaround from the previous year’s dismal 2-10 record, and solidified the progress of head coach Clark Lea’s program.
This game was a testament to Vanderbilt’s resilience, particularly from quarterback Diego Pavia, who played an instrumental role in leading his team to the win. The New Mexico State transfer, who was named the game’s MVP, accounted for five total touchdowns—three through the air and two on the ground. His gritty and composed performance exemplified what has become a hallmark of Vanderbilt’s season under Lea’s leadership.
As for Georgia Tech, despite a valiant effort from quarterback Haynes King and some late-game drama, the Yellow Jackets fell short. King, who had been impressive all season, threw three touchdown passes and nearly brought his team back from a 35-13 deficit. However, Georgia Tech’s mistakes—penalties and turnovers—ultimately cost them the game, with two turnovers leading directly to Vanderbilt touchdowns.
This victory for Vanderbilt wasn’t just about the game itself, but also about the significant improvement the Commodores showed compared to the previous season. Coach Lea had been focused on rebuilding the team, bringing in new players like Pavia and retooling the coaching staff. The hard work paid off, and the Commodores (7-6) capped off their season with a win in the Birmingham Bowl, marking their first bowl win since 2013.
Vanderbilt’s Victory: A Season to Remember
For Vanderbilt, the 2024 season was one of tremendous growth, with the Commodores showing they could compete on the national stage. The win over Georgia Tech in the Birmingham Bowl was a statement victory, proving the program had turned a corner after a disappointing 0-8 record in SEC play the previous year. The transformation was led by Pavia, whose dual-threat ability made him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the country this season.
Pavia’s five-touchdown performance in the Birmingham Bowl was a microcosm of the season he had in Nashville. He threw for 160 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 84 yards and two more scores. His leadership and playmaking ability were on full display, especially in the pivotal third and fourth quarters when he delivered back-to-back scores that gave the Commodores a commanding lead.
Despite the weather delay with 7:17 left in the game, Vanderbilt’s focus never wavered. The Commodores managed to hold off a late rally from Georgia Tech, thanks in large part to Pavia’s leadership and the team’s strong defensive plays. The victory also marked the end of a 12-month journey for head coach Clark Lea, who had to rebuild the roster and coaching staff after a tough previous season.
Pavia’s performance in the Birmingham Bowl was even more significant as it set the tone for next season. After the win, Pavia confirmed his plans to return to Vanderbilt next year, expressing his confidence in the direction of the program. His decision was contingent on the return of key coaches, including offensive coordinator Jerry Kill, signaling that the Commodores are ready to continue their ascent.
Georgia Tech’s Fight: A Missed Opportunity
Georgia Tech, on the other hand, came into the Birmingham Bowl with high hopes but ultimately fell short due to several costly mistakes. Quarterback Haynes King was exceptional, completing 25 of 33 passes for 204 yards and three touchdowns. His efforts helped Georgia Tech rally late in the game, with two touchdown passes bringing the Yellow Jackets to within eight points. However, the team’s inability to execute in the crucial moments of the game cost them dearly.
Despite King’s strong performance, Georgia Tech’s mistakes were difficult to overcome. The Yellow Jackets were penalized eight times for 90 yards, and two of their turnovers directly resulted in Vanderbilt touchdowns. A key interception by King, which was returned 22 yards by Vanderbilt’s CJ Taylor, set up the Commodores’ third touchdown of the game, giving them a commanding lead late in the contest.
Additionally, Georgia Tech lost two key players to the transfer portal prior to the game—edge rusher Romello Heights, who transferred to Texas Tech, and leading receiver Eric Singleton Jr., who moved to Auburn. These departures left the Yellow Jackets shorthanded, and the team struggled to fill those gaps in a high-pressure game like the Birmingham Bowl.
Despite these challenges, Georgia Tech’s fight to the very end showed the character of the team. Coach Brent Key praised his team’s resilience, noting that they kept battling even when the odds were stacked against them. The Yellow Jackets managed to score two touchdowns late in the game, but their attempts to recover the onside kick were unsuccessful, sealing their fate.
The Impact of Penalties on Georgia Tech’s Performance
Penalties played a significant role in Georgia Tech’s inability to come back and secure a win. Coach Key voiced his frustration with some of the calls, particularly a pass interference penalty that he believed was not properly assessed. The Yellow Jackets were also hit with a roughing the kicker penalty, which added to their challenges. In total, Georgia Tech incurred eight penalties, and many of them occurred in crucial moments when the team needed to gain momentum.
These penalties, combined with the turnovers, ultimately proved to be insurmountable for Georgia Tech. Despite their late-game push, the mistakes they made throughout the game gave Vanderbilt the advantage and helped the Commodores keep control of the game in the final minutes.
A Bright Future for Both Teams
The Birmingham Bowl highlighted the bright futures of both Vanderbilt and Georgia Tech. For the Commodores, the victory was a culmination of hard work, and with Pavia’s return next season, there is a strong sense of optimism in Nashville. Coach Lea’s efforts to retool the program have already started to pay off, and the victory over Georgia Tech is a clear indication that the Commodores are on the right path.
For Georgia Tech, the game provided a chance to show that, despite their struggles, the Yellow Jackets are building something worthwhile under Coach Key. Although they fell short in this contest, the team’s ability to rally late in the game was a positive sign. With a few adjustments and a stronger roster, Georgia Tech has the potential to compete at a high level in the coming seasons.
Conclusion: Vanderbilt vs. Georgia Tech – A Game to Remember
The 2024 Birmingham Bowl between Vanderbilt and Georgia Tech will be remembered as a game of resilience, penalties, and missed opportunities. Vanderbilt’s 35-27 victory capped off a remarkable season for the Commodores, who showed significant progress under Coach Clark Lea. Diego Pavia’s performance was the highlight of the game, and his return next season brings excitement to the Vanderbilt fanbase.
For Georgia Tech, despite the loss, the game showcased their ability to fight through adversity. With some adjustments to their roster and a focus on reducing mistakes, the Yellow Jackets will look to bounce back stronger in the coming seasons.
Ultimately, the victory marked a turning point for Vanderbilt, while Georgia Tech’s fight to the finish provided hope for their future. Both programs are on an upward trajectory, and the Birmingham Bowl will serve as a reminder of the hard work that lies ahead for both teams.
