It took eight thrilling overtimes, but No. 7 Georgia finally secured a hard-fought 44-42 victory over Georgia Tech. This historic battle not only showcased an epic comeback by the Bulldogs but also reignited debates over the superiority of NCAA overtime rules compared to the NFL’s format.

After trailing by 17 points at halftime and 14 points in the fourth quarter, Georgia orchestrated a stunning comeback to force overtime in the heated rivalry known as “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate.” What followed was an unforgettable sequence of events that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Overtime Drama: A Showcase of NCAA’s Fairness

The first overtime saw Georgia score a touchdown on their initial possession. Under NFL rules, this would have ended the game, leaving fans frustrated by the lack of opportunity for the opposing team. But college football ensures both teams have an equal shot, and Georgia Tech responded with their own touchdown and extra point to keep the game alive.

As the game progressed, both teams continued to score in the second overtime, this time with mandatory two-point conversion attempts. With each successful conversion, the tension mounted, demonstrating the beauty of NCAA’s structured and equitable approach.

The Two-Point Conversion Showdown

The real excitement began in the third overtime when the rules required teams to trade two-point conversion attempts until one team outscored the other. What followed was an intense back-and-forth that kept fans glued to the action.

From the third to the eighth overtime, neither team blinked, repeatedly matching each other’s efforts. This level of drama is something the NFL’s format, with its limited possessions and the possibility of ties, fails to deliver.

In contrast, the NCAA’s rules prioritize fairness and excitement, allowing games to unfold naturally until a true winner emerges.

A Historic Comeback for Georgia

In the end, Georgia succeeded on 2 of their 6 two-point attempts, while Georgia Tech converted just 1 of 6. The eight overtimes marked the second-longest game in NCAA history, trailing only a nine-overtime showdown between Illinois and Penn State in 2021.

For Georgia Tech, the loss was particularly heartbreaking. Head coach Brent Key stood in disbelief on the field, reflecting on how close the underdog Yellow Jackets came to upsetting a 17.5-point favorite.

Why the NCAA Format Reigns Supreme

The emotions felt by players, coaches, and fans alike captured the essence of college football. Unlike the NFL’s often criticized sudden-death system, the NCAA’s format allows games to reach their full dramatic potential, ensuring every team and fan gets the satisfaction of a conclusive result.

In the end, this game was about more than a rivalry—it was a testament to why the NCAA’s overtime rules create the most thrilling, fair, and unforgettable moments in football.