By Luke Fletcher | Atlanta, GA

The 36th annual Pop-Tarts Bowl (though only the third under its current name) will kick off on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. ET from Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. The game will be nationally televised on ABC and match two ranked teams looking to end their seasons on a high note.

#22 Georgia Tech heads to Orlando with momentum, motivation, and history on its side as the Yellow Jackets prepare to face #12 BYU in the Pop-Tarts Bowl at Camping World Stadium. For Brent Key’s program, the matchup represents more than just a postseason exhibition — it’s a chance to punctuate a resurgent season with a signature bowl win and reach the coveted 10-win mark.

Georgia Tech Offense vs. BYU Defense

The engine of Georgia Tech’s offense remains quarterback Haynes King, whose leadership and toughness have defined the Jackets’ season. King’s ability to extend plays, threaten defenses with his legs, and make timely throws gives Tech flexibility against a BYU defense that prefers to keep everything in front.

Georgia Tech’s rushing attack will be central to the game plan. The Yellow Jackets have leaned into their identity up front, using tempo, misdirection, and physical line play to wear opponents down. Sustained drives will be critical in keeping BYU’s offense off the field and controlling the pace of the game. Will Jamal Haynes be able to be more than a decoy. His vision and burst are critical against a BYU front that is sound but not overwhelming. If Haynes can control tempo and keep the Jackets ahead of the chains, it neutralizes BYU’s defensive discipline.

One of the most exciting offensive assets for Georgia Tech as they head into the Pop-Tarts Bowl is their wide receiver duo, Eric Rivers and Isiah Canion. Both players bring exceptional speed and sharp route-running skills to the table, making them a significant vertical threat for the Yellow Jackets. This dynamic can be crucial for Georgia Tech’s run game and short passing strategies, allowing them to exploit the defense more effectively and keep the Cougars on their toes throughout the game.

If Georgia Tech wants to dictate tempo, Rivers & Canion must be involved early — especially on first down — to prevent BYU from stacking the box

If Tech can stay ahead of the chains and convert in the red zone, the Jackets have the tools to put consistent pressure on the Cougars. 

Defensive Challenge: Slowing BYU’s Balance

BYU enters the bowl with one of its most complete teams in recent seasons, blending a capable passing attack with timely explosive plays. Georgia Tech’s defense will be tested by BYU’s ability to stretch the field vertically while remaining efficient underneath.

For the Yellow Jackets, winning on early downs and forcing third-and-long situations will be key. Generating pressure without sacrificing coverage discipline could tilt the game in Tech’s favor, especially if turnovers come into play. Will Jordan Van Den Berg be able to collapse the pocket and disrupt BYU’s timing. Without consistent pressure, BYU’s offense becomes far more comfortable and efficient.

Kyle Efford is the anchor of the linebacker unit and will be tasked with diagnosing plays quickly. BYU’s misdirection and play-action concepts make his eye discipline essential. If Efford is consistently around the football, Tech’s defense stays ahead of the chains. E.J. Lightsey’s speed and physicality give Georgia Tech versatility against BYU’s balanced attack. He must be effective both downhill against the run and in coverage, especially on third downs.

If Georgia Tech allows BYU to extend drives the same way they allowed NC State and Pitt, the Cougars could take control. Limiting explosive plays and forcing BYU into obvious passing situations will be a priority. The question for Georgia Tech is what defense will show up the one that played Georgia for four quarters or the defense that played at Pitt and went to the locker room mentality half way into the first quarter.

Motivation Meets Reality

Georgia Tech has every reason to be motivated. The program has a strong history in this bowl game, and a win would provide a 10-win season and a statement finish heading into the offseason.

Still, motivation alone won’t be enough. This game will likely hinge on whether Georgia Tech can avoid the self-inflicted wounds that defined its late-season losses. Against a team as fundamentally sound as BYU, mistakes will be magnified.

For Georgia Tech, participating in the Pop-Tarts Bowl goes beyond simply aiming for another victory; it represents a crucial opportunity to demonstrate that the team has absorbed the lessons learned from their previous games against NC State and Pitt. This matchup is not just about avoiding a disappointing 1-4 finish; it’s about striving for a 2-3 record and potentially pulling off an upset against a formidable BYU squad. The stakes are high, as this game serves as a platform to reassure the fanbase that under Brent Key’s leadership, Georgia Tech is still on an upward trajectory and has not yet reached its full potential.

Prediction

If Georgia Tech plays a clean game, the matchup sets up as a toss-up. But until the Yellow Jackets prove they can consistently close out tight contests, those late-season blunders loom large. The excitement is palpable, and the call to action is clear: Go Jackets, Sting Em!

Score Prediction: Georgia Tech 30-27