In an electrifying season opener on Friday night, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets overcame a rough start to snatch a dramatic 27-20 victory over the Colorado Buffaloes, thanks to a stunning 45-yard touchdown run from Haynes King with just 1:07 remaining on the clock.

King not only dazzled fans with his feet, rushing for a whopping 156 yards and three touchdowns, but also showcased his passing skills with 143 yards through the air. His spectacular performance during a crucial five-play drive cemented his status as a rising star.

"They called my number. I did my job. I followed my blockers," said King, reflecting on his crucial touchdown. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing, especially early on.

Georgia Tech's offense faced a horror show at the start, handing over the ball with two fumbles and an interception on their first three possessions, a stark contrast to last season's average of just ten turnovers.

Coach Brent Key acknowledged, "A lot of things we have to clean up, but the difference was our ability to run the football." And run they did—with a staggering 320 rushing yards, King taking the lead.

On the other side of the field, Colorado’s head coach Deion Sanders was left frustrated but optimistic. His team outgained Georgia Tech in total yards (463 to 305), yet they came up short. "If we take advantage of the opportunities, I have a whole different mood up here right now," he lamented.

Kaidon Salter put up a worthy fight, scoring on a 7-yard touchdown scramble and throwing for 159 yards in his Colorado debut. His extra point attempt, however, was a nail-biter, barely slipping over the crossbar to level the game at 20-20.

In a historic first matchup between these two storied programs—forever linked through their shared 1990 national championship—Colorado showcased its rebuilding phase after losing key players to the NFL, including standout quarterback Shedeur Sanders.

As the rain fell right before kickoff, making the turf at Folsom Field slick, Colorado’s linebacker Martavius French managed to recover two fumbles, showing resilience amidst challenges.

In a notable gesture, the Buffaloes wore patches to honor former coach Bill McCartney, who passed away earlier this year. Additionally, a portable privacy tent was set up for Deion Sanders, who has recently been diagnosed with bladder cancer.

As both teams now prepare for their next games on September 6—Georgia Tech hosting Gardner-Webb and Colorado facing Delaware—the season is heating up with thrilling rivalries and dramatic plays ahead!