The Auburn Tigers and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets have a long-standing football rivalry that dates back to 1892. This rivalry is one of the oldest and most storied in the Southeastern United States, with the two teams having played each other a total of 92 times. In this article, we will delve into the history of this rivalry, its significance, and some of the most memorable games between the two teams.
History of the Rivalry
The Auburn Tigers and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets first met on the football field in 1892, with Auburn winning the game 26-0. Over the years, the two teams have played each other almost annually, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II. The rivalry between the two teams is fueled by their geographic proximity, as well as their shared history as members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Early Years of the Rivalry
During the early years of the rivalry, the two teams played each other as independents, with no conference affiliation. However, in 1932, both teams joined the SEC, which further intensified the rivalry. The two teams played each other regularly until 1987, when the SEC expanded to 12 teams and the scheduling format changed.
Significance of the Rivalry
The Auburn Tigers vs Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football rivalry is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it is one of the oldest rivalries in the SEC, with a rich history of competition between the two teams. Secondly, the two teams have a long-standing tradition of competitiveness, with both teams having experienced periods of dominance over the other. Finally, the rivalry is fueled by the geographic proximity of the two teams, with Auburn located in Auburn, Alabama, and Georgia Tech located in Atlanta, Georgia.
Recent Years of the Rivalry
In recent years, the rivalry between the Auburn Tigers and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets has continued to be intense. Despite the two teams not playing each other annually, they have still managed to maintain a high level of competitiveness. In 2003, the two teams played each other in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, with Georgia Tech winning the game 17-13. In 2011, the two teams played each other in a regular-season game, with Auburn winning the game 28-26.
Most Memorable Games
There have been many memorable games between the Auburn Tigers and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets over the years. Here are a few examples:
- 1901: Auburn won the game 44-0, which still stands as the largest margin of victory in the series.
- 1927: Georgia Tech won the game 13-0, which was the first shutout in the series.
- 1959: Auburn won the game 28-7, which was the first game in the series to be televised.
- 1985: Georgia Tech won the game 31-27, which was the first game in the series to be played at night.
- 2003: Georgia Tech won the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl 17-13, which was the first bowl game between the two teams.
Notable Players and Coaches
There have been many notable players and coaches who have been involved in the Auburn Tigers vs Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football rivalry over the years. Here are a few examples:
- Auburn players:
- Bo Jackson: Running back who played for Auburn from 1982 to 1985.
- Cam Newton: Quarterback who played for Auburn from 2010 to 2010.
- Jason Campbell: Quarterback who played for Auburn from 2001 to 2004.
- Georgia Tech players:
- Joe Hamilton: Quarterback who played for Georgia Tech from 1996 to 1999.
- Calvin Johnson: Wide receiver who played for Georgia Tech from 2004 to 2006.
- Jonathan Dwyer: Running back who played for Georgia Tech from 2007 to 2009.
- Auburn coaches:
- Ralph Jordan: Head coach who coached Auburn from 1951 to 1975.
- Pat Dye: Head coach who coached Auburn from 1981 to 1992.
- Tommy Tuberville: Head coach who coached Auburn from 1999 to 2008.
- Georgia Tech coaches:
- Bobby Dodd: Head coach who coached Georgia Tech from 1945 to 1966.
- Bill Curry: Head coach who coached Georgia Tech from 1980 to 1986.
- George O'Leary: Head coach who coached Georgia Tech from 1994 to 2001.
Gallery of Auburn vs Georgia Tech Football Rivalry
FAQs
What is the history of the Auburn Tigers vs Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football rivalry?
+The Auburn Tigers and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets have a long-standing football rivalry that dates back to 1892. The two teams have played each other a total of 92 times, with Auburn leading the series 47-44-1.
Who are some notable players and coaches who have been involved in the rivalry?
+Some notable players and coaches who have been involved in the rivalry include Bo Jackson, Cam Newton, Jason Campbell, Joe Hamilton, Calvin Johnson, Jonathan Dwyer, Ralph Jordan, Pat Dye, Tommy Tuberville, Bobby Dodd, Bill Curry, and George O'Leary.
What are some of the most memorable games in the series?
+Some of the most memorable games in the series include the 1901 game, which Auburn won 44-0, the 1927 game, which Georgia Tech won 13-0, and the 2003 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, which Georgia Tech won 17-13.
In conclusion, the Auburn Tigers vs Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football rivalry is one of the oldest and most storied in the Southeastern United States. With a rich history of competition between the two teams, this rivalry continues to be intense and exciting to this day. Whether you're a fan of the Tigers or the Yellow Jackets, this rivalry is sure to provide plenty of thrilling moments for years to come.