Amber Aniston • December 27, 2024

Vanderbilt Secures Birmingham Bowl Victory Over Georgia Tech, 35-27

The Vanderbilt Commodores capped off their season with a thrilling 35-27 victory over the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the Birmingham Bowl on Friday night. This win marked Vanderbilt's first bowl victory since 2013 and showcased an impressive five-touchdown performance from quarterback Diego Pavia, who was named the game MVP. 


A Historic Win 

The victory is a significant milestone for Vanderbilt, which ended the season with a 7-6 record under head coach Clark Lea. The Commodores demonstrated resilience, bouncing back from a 2-10 campaign just a year ago to secure their first winning season in over a decade. 


For Georgia Tech, the loss was a bittersweet conclusion to an otherwise promising season. The Yellow Jackets finished 7-6 under first-year head coach Brent Key, who revitalized the program’s offense and brought newfound energy to Atlanta. Despite the setback, the Yellow Jackets showed flashes of brilliance that signal a bright future for the program. 


First-Half Highlights 

The first quarter saw Vanderbilt strike first with a 13-play, 81-yard drive capped off by a Diego Pavia jump pass to Cole Spence for a touchdown. The methodical drive showcased Vanderbilt’s ability to mix the run and pass effectively, keeping Georgia Tech’s defense on its heels. 


Georgia Tech responded in the second quarter with a 15-play, 75-yard drive, as Haynes King connected with Ryland Goede for a 10-yard touchdown, tying the game at 7-7. The Yellow Jackets’ offensive line played a key role, providing King with ample time to find his targets downfield. 


Late in the first half, the Commodores reclaimed the lead when Pavia orchestrated another methodical drive, culminating in a 2-yard rushing touchdown to make it 14-7. Georgia Tech answered with a 43-yard field goal just before halftime, cutting the deficit to 14-10 and giving the Yellow Jackets some momentum heading into the locker room. 


 

Vanderbilt’s Second-Half Surge 

The second half began with Georgia Tech narrowing Vanderbilt’s lead to 14-13 after another field goal. However, the Commodores took control with a series of explosive plays. Pavia connected with Eli Stowers for a 6-yard touchdown to extend the lead to 21-13. Stowers’ athleticism was on full display as he hauled in the pass despite tight coverage. 


A critical moment came late in the third quarter when Vanderbilt’s CJ Taylor intercepted Haynes King, returning the ball to the Georgia Tech 11-yard line. Pavia capitalized on the turnover with another touchdown, finding Quincy Skinner Jr. in the back corner of the end zone to increase the lead to 28-13. The Commodores’ defense continued to dominate, forcing a turnover on downs on Georgia Tech’s next possession to maintain their advantage. 


 


Georgia Tech’s Late Rally 

Despite trailing by 15 points, Georgia Tech refused to back down. Jamal Haynes scored a late nine-yard touchdown to cut the lead to 28-20. The Yellow Jackets followed up with another well-executed drive, capped off by Bailey Stockton’s two-yard touchdown reception with just over a minute remaining, bringing the score to 35-27. 


Georgia Tech’s special teams executed a near-perfect onside kick, but Vanderbilt’s alert hands team recovered the ball, sealing the victory. The Yellow Jackets’ rally showcased their never-quit attitude, but the Commodores’ ability to close out games proved decisive. 


 


Key Performances 

Diego Pavia was the star of the game, accounting for five total touchdowns—three passing and two rushing—while throwing for 160 yards and rushing for 84 yards. His leadership and playmaking ability were instrumental in Vanderbilt’s victory, as he repeatedly made key plays under pressure. 


For Georgia Tech, Haynes King completed 25 of 33 passes for 204 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Jamal Haynes also had a standout performance, rushing for 136 yards and adding a touchdown reception. Despite the loss, their efforts kept Georgia Tech competitive throughout the game. 


Vanderbilt’s defense, led by CJ Taylor and Aeneas DiCosmo, forced two critical turnovers that shifted the game’s momentum. Taylor’s interception late in the third quarter was particularly pivotal, setting up a touchdown that gave Vanderbilt a two-score cushion. 



Dominance in Key Areas 

Vanderbilt’s ability to convert in the red zone proved to be a difference-maker. The Commodores scored touchdowns on all five trips inside the 20-yard line, showcasing their efficiency in high-pressure situations. 


The Commodores also excelled in time of possession, controlling the ball for nearly 34 minutes. This allowed their defense to stay fresh and limited Georgia Tech’s opportunities to mount sustained drives. 


Looking Ahead 

The victory provides a strong foundation for Vanderbilt as they look to build on this season’s success. With Diego Pavia announcing his plans to return for another year, the Commodores have a solid core to continue their upward trajectory. Head coach Clark Lea has emphasized the importance of consistency and depth as the team transitions into the offseason. 


For Georgia Tech, the loss highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in limiting penalties and turnovers. The Yellow Jackets will look to regroup during the offseason and return stronger for the next campaign. Brent Key’s focus will likely include enhancing the offensive line and bolstering the defensive secondary to better compete in ACC play. 


A Season to Remember 

Vanderbilt’s 35-27 win over Georgia Tech in the Birmingham Bowl not only secured their first bowl victory in 11 years but also signaled the program’s resurgence under Clark Lea. The Commodores’ grit and determination throughout the season reflect the culture of resilience Lea has instilled. 


For Georgia Tech, the game served as a learning experience for a program on the rise. Despite the setback, the Yellow Jackets showed promise and resilience, setting the stage for what could be an exciting 2025 season. 


As both teams look ahead, this game stands as a testament to the competitiveness and unpredictability of college football. 

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