The 2024 Birmingham Bowl saw the Vanderbilt Commodores defeat the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 35-13, marking their first bowl victory since 2013. The game, held at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Alabama, not only capped off the season for both teams but also highlighted their remarkable journeys through the year, which included significant underdog victories.
The Commodores, who concluded their season with a record of 7-6, started strong with quarterback Diego Pavia leading the charge early on. Vanderbilt struck first with Pavia connecting on a 7-yard jump pass to tight end Cole Spence, culminating an eight-play drive nearly 90 yards long. Georgia Tech answered back swiftly, though, equalizing on their own 15-play drive, as quarterback Haynes King found tight end Ryland Goede for a 2-yard touchdown pass.
Although the game was tightly contested at the start, Vanderbilt managed to pull away, implementing strategic gameplay and capitalizing on Georgia Tech’s errors. The game reached its climax when, leading 14-10 at halftime, Vanderbilt mounted an onslaught of 21 unanswered points during the second half, pushing the score to 35-13. This surge was highlighted by Pavia’s efforts, as he accounted for five touchdowns—three through the air and two on the ground.
The game took some turbulence, literally, as it was temporarily interrupted by lightning with just over seven minutes left to play. The weather delay, lasting nearly an hour, came at a tense moment for both teams, with the atmosphere building as players exchanged words and confrontations on the field. Notably, Georgia Tech's head coach Brent Key received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty during the fray.
Vanderbilt’s fans were understandably ecstatic throughout the game. "I feel good about the game. They are going to take the win. Vanderbilt has come a very long way. I am super, super proud of them," shared Yalonda Newell, mother of Vanderbilt player Steven Hubbard.
John Langaker, a Vandy graduate, added, "College football has ups and downs. You ride through those times and this is what you are riding through for. This is awesome to see these guys kicking butt. I'm excited for them." Meanwhile, Georgia Tech supporters were also optimistic about their team's chances before the game, stating, "I am pumped up for the opportunity. I think it is a really good matchup. Two nerdy schools. Both have killer quarterbacks," said Trae Fields, encapsulating the match-up’s intrigue.
Vanderbilt's coach, Clark Lea, commented on the competitive nature of the game, noting, "It’s two competitive and tough teams. Obviously, it’s getting a little chippy, but they’re playing hard. Both sides want to win, so that's the first thing." His emphasis on discipline and focus post-delay proved to be pivotal, as Vanderbilt was able to keep their composure and finish strong.
CMore so, the game was seen as more than just another match; it was considered a stepping stone for recruitment and momentum for future seasons. Will Burgin, another Vanderbilt alum, reflected on the significance of winning, saying, "It is good inspiration for the coach and players. I think recruiting will be much more positive. Ending the season on a win is must. Really bring momentum forward... way more motivated coming from behind like this!"
By the end of the contest, Vanderbilt had amassed not only the victory but also broken their long-standing struggle against Georgia Tech, as this marked their first win over the Yellow Jackets since 1941.
Following the game, Vanderbilt's victory became the talk of the town, both for the historical aspect and for its influence on the next season's building blocks. The fans were buzzing about their success and contemplating what it meant for upcoming recruiting seasons. Cameron Carder, another Georgia Tech fan, noted the positive impact of finishing strong. "Ending the season on a win is massive. Really brings momentum forward... excellent for overall team morale and motivation for off-season workouts."
Despite the challenges faced throughout the game, including the weather and heated moments on the field, Vanderbilt emerged victorious from the Birmingham Bowl, setting the tone for what fans hope will be more successes to follow.
