Georgia Tech vs. UCF Short Report | Dec 22, 2023
Raymond James Stadium
Tampa, FL
Dec 22, 2023
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Game Recap
In a dazzling display of grit and determination, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets overcame an early 14-0 deficit to defeat the UCF Knights 30-17 in the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl. UCF quarterback John Rhys Plumlee connected on two quick touchdowns within the first nine minutes, giving the Knights a strong lead. However, Georgia Tech's resilience shone through as they stormed back, tying the game at 17-17 by halftime.
Georgia Tech's relentless ground game wore down the UCF defense, with standout performances from Jamal Haynes and Dontae Smith. By the second half, the Yellow Jackets had full control, adding 13 unanswered points and stifling UCF's offense. Georgia Tech's defense was instrumental, recording three sacks and an interception, locking down the victory with a defensive masterclass. Head coach Brent Key lauded his team's effort, saying, 'Our guys showed incredible heart and determination to turn this game around.'
Key Plays:
John Rhys Plumlee (UCF Knights)
Plumlee unleashed a precise 23-yard touchdown pass to Javon Baker, showcasing his arm strength early in the game and putting UCF on the board first.
John Rhys Plumlee (UCF Knights)
Surgical execution marked this play as Plumlee found Kobe Hudson for a 17-yard touchdown, doubling UCF's advantage to 14-0.
Aidan Birr (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets)
Special teams answered the call with Aidan Birr nailing a 36-yard field goal, finally putting Georgia Tech on the scoreboard at a crucial moment.
Haynes King (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets)
King's nimble 5-yard rush hurdled over the Knights' defense, getting his team within striking distance at 17-10.
Haynes King (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets)
King linked up with Malik Rutherford for a 41-yard touchdown pass, perfectly placed to tie the game at halftime, showcasing Georgia Tech's adaptability.
Aidan Birr (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets)
Capitalizing on the momentum, Birr drilled a 29-yard field goal, giving Georgia Tech their first lead of the night and energizing the sideline.
Dontae Smith (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets)
Smith burrowed through the line for a 1-yard touchdown, asserting dominance and extending Georgia Tech's lead to 10 points.
Aidan Birr (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets)
In the final stretch, Birr's 38-yard field goal firmly sealed the victory for the Yellow Jackets, capping a flawless night for the kicker.
Standout Players:
John Rhys Plumlee (UCF Knights, QB)
Completed 16 of 29 passes for 198 yards and 2 touchdowns, adding 32 rushing yards on 15 attempts. Despite a strong start, his efforts were stymied by Georgia Tech's tightened defense in the second half.
Javon Baker (UCF Knights, WR)
Had an outstanding performance with 9 receptions for 173 yards, including a spectacular 23-yard touchdown catch, providing a bright spot in UCF's offense.
Haynes King (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, QB)
Showcased his dual-threat capability, passing for 87 yards with a touchdown and adding 89 rushing yards with another touchdown, highlighting his versatility and impact on the game.
Jamal Haynes (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, RB)
Dominated on the ground with 128 yards on 18 carries, including a dazzling 35-yard run, anchoring the Yellow Jackets' rush-heavy offense.
Dontae Smith (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, RB)
Contributed significantly with 65 rushing yards on 16 attempts and scoring a key touchdown, also catching 2 passes for 7 yards, demonstrating his utility across the board.
Aidan Birr (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, K)
Displayed clutch kicking under pressure, converting 3 field goals including a critical 38-yarder to ice the game, maintaining perfect accuracy throughout.
Ahmari Harvey (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, DB)
Led the defensive effort with 6 solo tackles and a pivotal interception, helping to halt UCF's advance and secure the win.
References:
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. UCF Knights - Final Score - December 22, 2023 | FOX Sports
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. UCF Knights Live Score and Stats - December 22, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Highlights: UCF 17-30 Georgia Tech in NCAAF | December 22, 2023 - VAVEL USA
Jackets Run Past UCF in Gasparilla Bowl Win – Football — Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
UCF can't overcome Georgia Tech in Gasparilla Bowl loss
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
0
17
3
10
30
UCF Knights
14
3
0
0
17
