Football
Georgia Tech and Tennessee Set to Rekindle Historic Football Rivalry
2025-04-09

In a significant announcement, Georgia Tech and Tennessee have agreed to reignite their longstanding football rivalry with a home-and-home series scheduled for 2026 and 2027. This matchup revives a competitive tradition that has seen 44 encounters between the two universities, with the last major clash occurring in 2017. The upcoming games promise excitement as both teams prepare to face each other once again, marking an important step in elevating the level of competition for Georgia Tech's football program.

The rivalry between these two southeastern powerhouses dates back decades, with both institutions sharing membership in the Southeastern Conference until Georgia Tech's departure in 1963. Despite this separation, the Yellow Jackets and Volunteers maintained a near-annual confrontation until 1987. Their most recent meeting in 2017 showcased thrilling double-overtime action at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where Tennessee narrowly triumphed over Georgia Tech. Now, fans eagerly anticipate the return of this classic showdown, which will commence in Atlanta on September 12, 2026, followed by a visit to Knoxville the subsequent year.

This renewed commitment to challenging matchups aligns with Georgia Tech's strategic focus on maintaining one of the nation's toughest schedules. As emphasized by head coach Brent Key, engaging with top-tier opponents like Tennessee underscores the program's dedication to excellence. Coach Key praised Tennessee's consistent performance under Josh Heupel, acknowledging the Vols' reputation for fielding formidable teams year after year.

Beyond the athletic arena, Georgia Tech continues to invest in its sports infrastructure through initiatives such as Full Steam Ahead—a $500 million fundraising campaign aimed at enhancing facilities and operational support across all programs. Upgrades to venues like Bobby Dodd Stadium highlight the institution's commitment to providing premier experiences for athletes and spectators alike.

As anticipation builds for these high-stakes contests, Georgia Tech remains focused on strengthening its presence within collegiate athletics. By welcoming formidable adversaries like Tennessee onto their schedule, the Yellow Jackets aim not only to test their mettle but also to elevate their standing among the nation's elite football programs. Fans can look forward to witnessing these historic matchups unfold while celebrating the enduring legacy of college football rivalries.

More Stories
see more