Georgia Tech Triumphs Over Colorado 27-20 with Late-Game Heroics in Season Opener
BOULDER, Colo. — The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets pulled off a thrilling 27-20 victory against the Colorado Buffaloes on Friday night at Folsom Field, marking a dramatic start to the 2025 college football season for both teams.
With the game tied at 20-20 and just over a minute left on the clock, Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King took center stage. King, a redshirt senior, faked a pitch and sprinted 45 yards to the end zone with 1:07 remaining, delivering the game-winning touchdown that sealed the comeback victory.
Key Performances
King’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. He rushed 19 times for 156 yards and scored three touchdowns while also completing 13 of 20 passes for 143 yards. His final touchdown run was the highlight of a decisive five-play, 61-yard drive on which he accounted for 57 yards himself.
Colorado’s offense was led by quarterback Kaidon Salter, who completed 17 of 28 passes for 159 yards and one touchdown and added 43 rushing yards on 13 carries, including a 7-yard touchdown run that tied the game late in the fourth quarter.
Game Flow and Turning Points
The game was tightly contested from start to finish. Colorado struck first, taking a 7-0 lead in the opening quarter. Georgia Tech responded by putting together sustained drives, but early miscues including three turnovers on their first three possessions nearly derailed their effort.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, Colorado held a slight 20-13 advantage before Salter’s touchdown run tied things at 20-20 with 8:25 remaining. On the ensuing possession, Colorado’s defense forced a Georgia Tech punt, but the Buffs failed to capitalize and were forced to give the ball back late in the game.
Georgia Tech then conducted the game-winning possession, with King maneuvering the offense effectively down the field and ultimately breaking free for the decisive touchdown run.
Defensive Highlights
On the defensive side, Colorado’s Martavius French led the team with six tackles and recovered two fumbles. D.J. McKinney contributed four tackles and snagged an interception. However, the Buffaloes’ defense struggled to contain Georgia Tech’s rushing attack, which amassed 320 total yards.
Final Moments
Colorado attempted a Hail Mary on the final play of the game but the pass was batted down in the end zone by Georgia Tech defenders, sealing the Yellow Jackets’ victory.
Coach Reactions
Colorado head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders expressed disappointment but noted the close nature of the game. “We could’ve won the game. It’s not like we had our butts kicked,” Sanders said. “If we take advantage of the opportunities, I have a whole different mood up here right now.” He also highlighted Georgia Tech’s dominant rushing performance as a deciding factor.
King humbly credited his teammates and the coaching staff for the win. “They called my number. I did my job. I followed my blockers. The rest is history,” he said about his game-winning touchdown run.
Looking Ahead
Georgia Tech improves to 1-0 on the season with the win, showcasing resilience and a powerful ground game. Colorado falls to 0-1 but showed promise despite the loss in the season opener.
The Buffaloes will have a chance to rebound and regroup as they continue their home schedule, while the Yellow Jackets will look to build momentum on the road.
Game leaders:
- Georgia Tech: Haynes King – 19 carries, 156 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs; 13/20 passing, 143 yards
- Colorado: Kaidon Salter – 17/28 passing, 159 yards, 1 passing TD; 13 carries, 43 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD