Colorado Defies Odds with Last-Second Block to Beat Georgia Tech 14-13

Colorado defeated Georgia Tech 14-13 in a dramatic Week 1 upset, securing a 1-0 start for head coach Deion Sanders. The game featured two blocked field goals in the fourth quarter, with Colorado’s final block sealing the victory as time expired. Sanders’ defense limited Georgia Tech to a single touchdown, which came on a 100-yard kickoff return, while Colorado scored a go-ahead touchdown in the final minute. This win follows a 3-9 season for Colorado and counters pre-game predictions that favored Georgia Tech by 6.5 points.
Key points
- Colorado won 14-13 at Georgia Tech, starting their season 1-0 under Deion Sanders.
- The game ended with Colorado blocking Georgia Tech’s game-winning field goal attempt as time expired.
- Both teams blocked field goals in the fourth quarter, highlighting defensive intensity.
- Colorado was a 6.5-point underdog but kept Georgia Tech out of the end zone except for a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown.
- Sanders dismissed pre-season scrutiny regarding his job security, stating he only cares about winning.
Background
Prior to the game, betting markets and expert analyses favored Georgia Tech significantly, with odds showing a 68% win probability for the Yellow Jackets and a predicted score of 31-24. Pre-game reports noted Colorado’s reliance on a new, portal-heavy roster and Georgia Tech’s run-first offense. Sanders’ previous season ended with a 3-9 record, leading to speculation about his future at Colorado. This victory marks a sharp contrast to those expectations, establishing a strong foundation for Sanders’ fourth season.
Why it matters
This upset validates Deion Sanders’ coaching strategy and defensive improvements after a poor previous season. It shifts the narrative from job security concerns to competitive viability, particularly given the low-scoring, defensive nature of the game against a favored opponent. The win also provides a positive early-season momentum for Colorado, countering pre-game predictions that favored a high-scoring Georgia Tech victory.
What to watch
Colorado will continue their season with the momentum from this upset, while Georgia Tech must address defensive lapses and offensive execution. Sanders will likely face continued scrutiny but with a more favorable public perception following this result. The next games will test the durability of Colorado’s new roster and Georgia Tech’s ability to adjust to defensive pressure.
- Deion Sanders and Colorado start 1-0 with last-second win at Georgia Tech NBC Sports
- Colorado rallies, blocks Georgia Tech's walk-off field goal try ESPN
- Weak where it was supposed to be strong, Georgia Tech flubs opener AJC.com
- Late TD, Boo Block, Gives Buffs Thrilling Win At Georgia Tech University of Colorado Athletics
- How Deion Sanders and Colorado overcame sloppy play to eke out crucial win over Georgia Tech — 'Just damn violence' Yahoo Sports
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