By Luke Fletcher | Atlanta, GA

This Saturday night, all eyes will be on Atlanta as the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets host the Pittsburgh Panthers in what looms as one of the most consequential ACC games of the 2025 college-football season. This is the 18th meeting between Pitt and Georgia Tech in a series that began in 1918. Pitt leads the overall series, 11-6, however if the Yellow Jackets win they are off to Charlotte to play in the ACC Title game.

This matchup highlights a fascinating contrast in strengths and weaknesses. Georgia Tech boasts a high-octane offense led by a dynamic quarterback and performs well at home, but their defensive inconsistencies raise concerns. On the flip side, Pittsburgh excels in run defense and has a knack for forcing turnovers, yet their offense has struggled to keep pace, especially after a recent blowout loss. The stage is set for a classic showdown: will Tech be able to maintain their fast tempo and score quickly, or can Pitt impose their will and slow the game down?

Haynes King from Georgia Tech is a versatile player who excels both in passing and running. If he can operate smoothly in the pocket and make plays, the Yellow Jackets will have a significant advantage. On the other hand, Pittsburgh’s front seven needs to apply pressure to disrupt Tech’s offensive flow, especially since Tech has been vulnerable to big plays defensively. Turnover margin is another critical factor; Pittsburgh has been effective in forcing turnovers, while Georgia Tech has struggled to create takeaways, which could be pivotal in the game. Additionally, playing at Bobby Dodd Stadium gives Tech a home-field advantage, as the team is familiar with the environment and the crowd will be energized for Senior Day and Military Appreciation events.

Fans can anticipate a high-scoring matchup filled with offensive action. Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, the total score could exceed the projected 61-62 points. However, with the stakes so high, the game might come down to the wire. Many analysts, including ESPN’s Greg McElroy, lean towards Georgia Tech for the win, highlighting their superior run game and overall speed. Yet, it’s not a guaranteed victory, as some models, like those from FOX Sports, suggest Pittsburgh could cover the spread.

For Georgia Tech, a victory would secure a spot in the ACC Championship Game for the first time since 2014. Conversely, Pittsburgh needs a win to keep their championship hopes alive; a loss would likely eliminate them from contention. For both teams, this game is crucial for their national reputation, as a win on a prime-time stage could enhance their playoff or bowl game prospects.

This is a must-watch matchup. Two teams with very different identities, both with something to prove — Georgia Tech looking to make history at home, Pittsburgh looking to upset the narrative. If you’re a college-football fan, Saturday night promises drama, big plays, and stakes.

My take: Georgia Tech edges it at home, something like 34-28. But if Pitt controls the line of scrimmage and prevents big plays, they’ll pull the upset.

• Date: Saturday, November 22,  2025  7:00 pm. ET
• City: Atlanta, Georgia
• Venue: Bobby Dodd Stadium
• TV: ESPN