Georgia Tech Eyes 9–0 Start On The Road Against NC State Wolfpack

In just four seasons, Brent Key has completely changed the direction of Georgia Tech football. Since taking over from Geoff Collins in 2022, Key has rebuilt the program’s confidence, toughness, and consistency. Now, the Yellow Jackets head into Carter-Finley Stadium ranked No. 8 in the nation — their highest mark in years.

This week’s matchup at N.C. State carries major stakes. Georgia Tech (8–0, 5–0 ACC) sits atop the conference standings and controls its path to the ACC Championship Game. To stay there, they’ll need to avoid a letdown in Raleigh.

“We’re going into an environment that’s going to be extremely challenging,” Key said earlier this week. “N.C. State hasn’t gotten the results they wanted lately, but when you watch the film, you see a tough, well-coached team.”

The Yellow Jackets’ current run is historic. This is just the sixth time in school history the program has started 8–0 — and the first since 1966. In each of those five previous seasons, Tech went on to win the next game to move to 9–0. Dating back to last season, the Jackets have also tied a school record with seven straight ACC wins.

Meanwhile, N.C. State (4–4, 1–3) has hit a rough stretch, dropping four of its last five games, including blowout losses to Notre Dame and Pittsburgh. “Nobody’s given up,” Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren said. “Our players are frustrated and want to turn it around. It starts with me.”

Despite the records, Key and his team aren’t overlooking anyone. He’s emphasized that every game matters in their push toward December. A stumble in Raleigh could derail Georgia Tech’s title hopes, but a focused performance would keep their College Football Playoff dream alive.

The Haynes King–led offense will look to stay hot and help the Jackets reach 9–0 while staying in the AP Top 10.

Game Details

• Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET, Saturday, Nov. 1
• Location: Carter-Finley Stadium, Raleigh, N.C.
• TV: ESPN2
• Radio: 680 AM / 93.7 FM (Atlanta), Georgia Tech Sports Network, or the Yellow Jackets App; SiriusXM Channel 81