‘Icing on the cake:’ Vanderbilt and Georgia Tech meet for 18th Birmingham Bowl

On By Littum

After exciting regular seasons for the Vanderbilt Commodores and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, the teams met for the 18th Birmingham Bowl. Some fans saw the bowl game as a great way to end a season that included signature underdog wins for both teams.

In the fourth quarter, Vanderbilt led Georgia Tech 35-13.

The Commodores, 6-6, pulled off a huge upset in Nashville against the Alabama Crimson Tide in October. In November, Vandy beat the Auburn Tigers in Jordan-Hare Stadium.

“I feel good about the game. They’re going to take the win. Vanderbilt has come a long way. I’m super, super proud of them,” said Yalonda Newell, mother of Vanderbilt football player Steven Hubbard.

Georgia Tech, 7-5, also had an exciting year with an upset over the University of Miami and nearly defeated the University of Georgia in an eight-overtime loss.

“I’m pumped for the opportunity. I think it’s a really good matchup. Two nerdy schools. Both have killer quarterbacks,” said Trae Fields, a Georgia Tech fan.

“Coming off of the Georgia game we had a couple of weeks ago, another win would be just icing on the cake. Georgia Tech pulled off a great game,” said Audrey Shafer, another Tech fan.

Fans were hoping for a bowl win to carry momentum into the offseason.

“It’s good inspiration for the coach and the players. I think the recruiting is going to be better. I think some of our celebration is really going to be the idea of ​​what next season is going to be. How many more games can we go to? Being in the stadium in Nashville is going to be so much more fun, I think some of the celebration is looking forward to what’s next for us,” said Will Burgin, a Vanderbilt graduate.

“Finishing the season with a win is a must. Really carry that momentum into next season. It’s great for recruiting. Great for morale. Coming from a former college player, it’s just a lot better for the team’s overall offseason morale practice People are much more motivated to end a season with a W,” said Cameron Carder, a Georgia Tech fan.

This story will be updated.