On Saturday, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets will face off against the undefeated Duke Blue Devils in a pivotal Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) matchup that could have significant implications for both teams’ seasons.
With Duke entering the contest at 5-0, they are not only one of the surprise teams of the season but also an early contender in the ACC race. Meanwhile, Georgia Tech, sitting at 3-2, is eager to prove it can compete with one of the top programs in the conference.
The Blue Devils have been a revelation under head coach Mike Elko, who has quickly turned Duke into one of the most disciplined and formidable teams in the ACC. Their strong defense, which has allowed just 16.6 points per game, is among the best in the conference, and their offense, led by quarterback Riley Leonard, has been explosive when needed. Leonard, a dual-threat quarterback, has accounted for over 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns so far this season, demonstrating his ability to lead his team both through the air and on the ground.
Duke’s defense, which features a talented secondary and a formidable front seven, will pose a significant challenge to Georgia Tech’s offense. The Yellow Jackets, led by their veteran quarterback Haynes King, have shown flashes of brilliance this season, particularly in their 28-23 win over Wake Forest two weeks ago. King has been a steady presence under center, throwing for 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns, while also using his legs to keep defenses honest. However, Georgia Tech will need to improve its consistency on offense to keep pace with a Duke defense that has been suffocating in key moments.
For Georgia Tech to pull off the upset, it will need to neutralize Duke’s strong pass rush and find ways to exploit the Blue Devils’ secondary. The Yellow Jackets’ offensive line will be tasked with keeping King upright, as Duke’s defensive line, led by standout edge rusher Dorian Mausi, has been effective at pressuring quarterbacks this season.
On the defensive side, Georgia Tech will need to contain Leonard and prevent him from taking over the game with his legs. The Yellow Jackets have struggled at times against mobile quarterbacks, and stopping Leonard will be key to keeping the game close.
As the teams head into this critical ACC showdown, all eyes will be on whether Georgia Tech can knock off the undefeated Blue Devils and stake its claim as a contender in the conference.