Georgia Tech vs. Georgia football in 2025 will take place on Black Friday.

The annual rivalry game between the University of Georgia Bulldogs and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets has long been one of the most anticipated matchups in college football. As the 2025 edition of this heated in-state clash approaches, set to take place on Black Friday, November 28th, there’s a palpable buzz around the game that will likely add another thrilling chapter to the storied history of the rivalry. The matchup holds even more significance given the timing: both teams will be fighting not just for bragging rights, but also for potential playoff berths and conference standings. As we delve into what makes this rivalry so special, what to expect from both teams, and the historical context surrounding the matchup, let’s break down why the 2025 edition of Georgia Tech vs. Georgia will be one for the ages.

Historical Context of the Rivalry

The rivalry between the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech dates back to 1893, making it one of the oldest in college football. Over the years, the game has evolved from a local contest to one of the most significant matchups in the Southeastern Conference and the entire country. The two teams play for the Governor’s Cup, a trophy that symbolizes not just football superiority, but also state pride.

Georgia holds the upper hand in the all-time series, having won more games than their rivals. However, Georgia Tech has had its moments of glory, especially in the 1990s when the Yellow Jackets captured the national championship under head coach Bobby Ross. More recently, the rivalry has been marked by close, dramatic games, with both teams striving for dominance in the state of Georgia.

The game was traditionally played on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, which cemented its place as an annual tradition. However, the 2025 version will take place on Black Friday, adding a new twist to the matchup. The decision to shift the game to this day gives it even more visibility, as college football fans around the country often tune in to see which team will claim victory and bragging rights for the next year.

Georgia Bulldogs: 2025 Outlook

As of early 2025, the Georgia Bulldogs are widely regarded as one of the top programs in college football, continuing the legacy of dominance established under head coach Kirby Smart. The Bulldogs have been a consistent powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), having won multiple national championships and consistently competing at the highest level. With a top-tier recruiting class, a strong coaching staff, and a talented roster, Georgia enters the 2025 season as a national title contender once again.

In 2025, Georgia is expected to have one of the most loaded rosters in college football, especially with a dominant defense that has become a hallmark of Smart’s tenure. Georgia’s defense will likely be headlined by several NFL-bound players, including a dominant defensive line and a secondary that could be among the best in the country. This defensive prowess is complemented by an offense led by a talented quarterback who has shown the ability to elevate his game in big moments.

The Bulldogs are also returning a slew of talented running backs and wide receivers, making their offense an explosive force capable of scoring at will. Georgia has traditionally been known for its strong, physical running game, but under Smart, the offense has also become more dynamic in the passing game, making them a multi-faceted threat. With a complete team on both sides of the ball, Georgia enters this rivalry game as a heavy favorite.

However, despite Georgia’s dominance, rivalry games are often unpredictable. Georgia Tech has always been able to play with heart and intensity when facing their in-state rivals. The Bulldogs will have to avoid complacency and remain focused on what’s at stake: maintaining their position among the nation’s elite programs while keeping their undefeated season hopes intact.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: 2025 Outlook

On the other side of the rivalry, Georgia Tech enters the 2025 season with a renewed sense of optimism under new leadership. The Yellow Jackets have undergone a significant transformation in recent years, making a shift from the triple-option offense that had defined the program for so long to a more modern spread offense. This change has been challenging, but it has also provided Georgia Tech with the opportunity to become more competitive in the ACC and beyond.

As of 2025, Georgia Tech is still in the process of rebuilding, but the foundation has been set. The Yellow Jackets have brought in a number of talented recruits, particularly on the offensive side of the ball, and the program’s coaching staff is optimistic about the team’s prospects in the coming years. While Georgia Tech might not be as dominant as Georgia in 2025, they are a team with the potential to surprise.

At quarterback, Georgia Tech has a rising star who is capable of making plays both with his arm and his legs. The Yellow Jackets’ new offensive system is designed to take advantage of his dual-threat capabilities, and he will be crucial in leading the team to success against Georgia. Additionally, Georgia Tech’s defense is expected to be much improved in 2025, particularly in the secondary and on the defensive line, making them a formidable opponent.

Although the Yellow Jackets are not projected to compete for a national championship in 2025, this rivalry game offers them an opportunity to make a statement. A win over Georgia, especially on Black Friday, would be a massive boost for the program and provide the ultimate bragging rights. Historically, Georgia Tech has played Georgia close in a number of games, and there’s always a chance for an upset, especially in a rivalry that so often defies expectations.

Key Storylines Heading Into the 2025 Matchup

1. Georgia’s National Championship Aspirations

Georgia enters the 2025 season with a clear goal: win another national championship. After securing the top spot in college football in recent years, the Bulldogs have built a juggernaut that is tough to beat. With a conference title and playoff berth potentially on the line, Georgia’s rivalry game against Georgia Tech could serve as a critical checkpoint in their journey toward another championship. The Bulldogs will likely need a convincing win to solidify their position among the playoff teams.

2. Georgia Tech’s Quest for Respect

Georgia Tech may not be able to compete with Georgia in terms of overall talent and recent success, but the Yellow Jackets will be fighting for something just as important: respect. A win over Georgia on Black Friday would give Georgia Tech a significant boost, not just for the season, but for the future of the program. The matchup gives the Yellow Jackets an opportunity to showcase their growth and progress under their new coaching staff.

3. A Strong Rivalry on a National Stage

The Georgia-Georgia Tech rivalry is always a high-stakes affair, but with the game taking place on Black Friday in 2025, it will receive even more attention. With many college football fans tuning in to watch the game after Thanksgiving, the rivalry will have a national audience, and both teams will be aware of the extra spotlight. The game could potentially impact the College Football Playoff rankings, adding even more intrigue and drama to the showdown.

4. The Future of the SEC and ACC

The outcome of this game could have implications for both the SEC and the ACC, as both conferences jockey for supremacy in the college football landscape. For Georgia, this game is another chance to prove why they belong at the top of the SEC, while for Georgia Tech, the rivalry is a chance to demonstrate that they can compete with the best teams in the state and the country. How both teams fare in this matchup could influence the broader narrative of college football heading into the postseason.

The Black Friday Factor

Playing the game on Black Friday offers a unique dynamic for the rivalry. Traditionally, college football rivalries are played on Saturdays, but shifting the game to Friday gives it an added sense of excitement. For one, it falls right after Thanksgiving, when fans are still in the holiday spirit and ready for a showdown. It also places the game in direct competition with NFL games, meaning the Georgia-Georgia Tech rivalry will be the centerpiece of college football for the day.

The game’s timing will also affect the atmosphere in the stadium. Many fans will make the trip to Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta for the game, while others will watch from home. For Georgia Tech, this could be a chance to show up in front of a national audience, with the hopes of creating an upset. Georgia, on the other hand, will be looking to handle their business, maintaining focus on their playoff push.