On Black Friday, Georgia Tech and UGA football will continue their long-standing rivalry in a much-anticipated game.

The rivalry between the University of Georgia (UGA) and Georgia Tech has been one of the most enduring in college football. These two programs, located in the state of Georgia, have faced off in fierce competition for over a century. As part of their annual tradition, the Georgia Bulldogs will once again take on their in-state rival, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, this Black Friday in a game that promises to be filled with intensity, emotion, and high stakes.

The meeting between these two teams on November 29, 2025, marks another chapter in a rivalry that has seen everything from thrilling upsets to unforgettable performances. For UGA, it’s a chance to keep their title aspirations alive as they gear up for the SEC Championship Game and possibly a College Football Playoff (CFP) berth. For Georgia Tech, the game represents an opportunity to knock off their highly ranked rivals and make a statement on a national stage.

With both teams having their eyes on significant goals as the season reaches its climax, the Black Friday matchup has quickly become one of the most anticipated games of the season. Let’s dive deeper into the history of this rivalry, what each team needs from this game, and why it holds so much importance for the players, coaches, and fans.

The Georgia-Georgia Tech Rivalry: A Storied Tradition

The rivalry between UGA and Georgia Tech dates back to 1893, making it one of the oldest in college football. Over the years, the matchup has become a symbol of in-state bragging rights, as both universities are located in Georgia. While Georgia Tech is based in Atlanta, the state’s capital, UGA is in Athens, just 70 miles northeast. This geographical proximity only adds fuel to the fire as the two schools battle it out on the field.

Historically, the rivalry has been highly competitive, with each school claiming significant periods of dominance. For much of the 20th century, Georgia Tech, which boasts multiple national championships, was often the superior program. However, in recent decades, the UGA Bulldogs have gained the upper hand, particularly under head coach Kirby Smart. Since Smart’s arrival in Athens in 2016, Georgia has become a perennial contender for the national title, with strong showings in the SEC and CFP.

Despite Georgia’s recent dominance, Georgia Tech has proven to be a formidable opponent, capable of producing surprising upsets. In 2016, Georgia Tech handed Georgia a dramatic 28-27 loss in a game that sent shockwaves through the college football world. Over the years, these encounters have often been unpredictable, with both teams showing the will to win in front of passionate fanbases. This mixture of rivalry history and recent excitement has helped the game maintain its importance year after year.

The Stakes: What’s on the Line for Both Teams?

UGA’s Push for the Playoff

For the Georgia Bulldogs, this game against Georgia Tech is about more than just in-state bragging rights — it’s a crucial opportunity to strengthen their resume for the College Football Playoff. The Bulldogs, ranked in the top five, are eyeing a potential SEC Championship and a playoff berth. With a schedule that includes heavyweights like Alabama, LSU, and Tennessee, Georgia’s path to the playoffs will need to be virtually perfect to maintain its high standing.

A win over Georgia Tech on Black Friday would give Georgia a strong finish to the regular season, ensuring that they remain in the conversation for the CFP. With such a stacked roster, including players like quarterback Carson Beck, running back Kendall Milton, and defensive stars like Jalen Carter, Georgia enters the game as heavy favorites. A dominant win could further solidify their claim as one of the nation’s top teams, even as they prepare for the postseason.

However, with Georgia Tech’s unpredictable nature, the Bulldogs cannot afford to overlook this game. In rivalry games, especially one as heated as this, anything can happen. History has shown that upsets are always a possibility, and Georgia will need to be at its best to ensure it doesn’t fall victim to one.

Georgia Tech’s Bid for an Upset

For Georgia Tech, this game represents an opportunity to achieve something bigger than just a win — it’s a chance to knock off one of the nation’s elite teams and make a statement in front of the country. The Yellow Jackets, who have undergone a revitalization under head coach Brent Key, have had a solid season but still sit far behind Georgia in terms of talent and recognition. However, this rivalry game could provide a huge morale boost and a springboard into a more competitive future.

An upset over Georgia would not only elevate Georgia Tech’s status within the state of Georgia but would also boost their recruiting efforts and confidence moving into the following season. In addition, a win over Georgia would be a massive feather in the cap for Brent Key, who has faced an uphill battle rebuilding the program after the departure of former head coach Paul Johnson.

For Georgia Tech, a victory would likely end Georgia’s hopes for a national title and add a layer of uncertainty to their postseason aspirations. Nothing would please Yellow Jacket fans more than to see their team spoil Georgia’s season in such a dramatic fashion. With a passionate fanbase and the extra motivation of rivalry pride, Georgia Tech will undoubtedly bring its best effort on Black Friday.

Key Players to Watch

UGA Players to Watch

1. Carson Beck (QB) – The talented quarterback has been the engine of Georgia’s offense this season. As the leader of the team, Beck has shown poise in critical moments and has proven he can excel in big games. His ability to connect with his receivers and manage the game will be crucial in ensuring the Bulldogs’ success.
2. Kendall Milton (RB) – The running back has been one of Georgia’s most explosive weapons, combining speed and power to break off big runs. Georgia will likely lean on its run game to control the clock and wear down Georgia Tech’s defense, so Milton’s performance could be a game-changer.
3. Jalen Carter (DT) – As one of the top defensive players in the country, Carter’s ability to disrupt Georgia Tech’s offense will be key. His pressure on the quarterback and ability to control the line of scrimmage will be pivotal in slowing down the Yellow Jackets’ attack.

Georgia Tech Players to Watch

1. Haynes King (QB) – A transfer from Texas A&M, King has proven to be a capable leader for Georgia Tech. His arm strength and mobility will be key in stretching Georgia’s defense. If King can make some big throws and avoid turnovers, Georgia Tech could find itself in the game longer than expected.
2. Jahmyr Gibbs (RB) – Known for his quickness and ability to find the end zone, Gibbs has the potential to break off explosive plays. Against a tough Georgia defense, Gibbs will need to play a key role in maintaining offensive balance and keeping Georgia’s defense honest.
3. Keion White (DE) – White has been a key playmaker on the defensive line for Georgia Tech, providing pressure on opposing quarterbacks and creating turnovers. He’ll need to be at his best to disrupt Beck and prevent Georgia’s offense from getting into a rhythm.

The Fanbases: The Atmosphere

One of the most exciting aspects of this rivalry is the intensity of the fanbases. The UGA Bulldogs have one of the most passionate and dedicated followings in college football, with fans who bleed red and black. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, though often overshadowed by UGA in recent years, have their own fiercely loyal supporters. When these two fanbases come together, the atmosphere is electric, regardless of the stakes.

Since the game is played on Black Friday, the atmosphere will be amplified by the national spotlight, drawing attention from fans all over the country. Rivalry games like this one often have a different energy, with everything from the energy of the crowd to the emotions of the players being taken up a notch. This game is sure to deliver the type of intense, back-and-forth action that fans expect from such a historic rivalry.