Georgia Tech took its first loss of the season Saturday night, falling 48–36 to NC State in Raleigh. It wasn’t the result Yellow Jacket fans hoped for, but there’s an unexpected bright side to take away from the night, and it speaks volumes about where this program is now.
Think about it: When is the last time fans stormed the field because they beat Georgia Tech?
Field-storming is not reserved for beating average football teams. Fans rush the turf when they knock off a ranked opponent, spoil a big season, or take down a program that has become a real threat. The fact that NC State fans treated this like a program-defining win is, in a strange way, a compliment to how far Georgia Tech has climbed.
What a scene as NC State fans storm the field. pic.twitter.com/LVAjoOPvJC
— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) September 25, 2021
The Brent Key Transformation
Just a few years ago, Georgia Tech losses didn’t spark national headlines or trigger goalposts coming down. Now? Teams celebrate like they’ve just won a title. That’s the kind of respect the Jackets have earned.
Yes, the loss stings. Georgia Tech’s defense struggled, and NC State took advantage of home-field momentum. But even on an off night, the Jackets put up 36 points and kept pushing. Haynes King continued to lead with poise, and the offense once again showed why it’s one of the most exciting in the ACC.
Here’s the key: At 8–1, every season goal remains alive. The ACC Championship race isn’t over, and the College Football Playoff picture still has room for a one-loss contender, especially if Tech finishes strong.
Great teams aren’t defined by perfection. They’re defined by how others measure themselves against them. If opponents are storming the field just for beating Georgia Tech, it’s a sign the Jackets have returned to national relevance.
The buzz does not fade with one loss, it get's louder.