By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com

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Georgia Tech rallies past Florida State 16-13.

1. What a statement for Geoff Collins and Georgia Tech. Despite modest outside expectations, the Yellow Jackets won for just the second time ever in Tallahassee with a clutch, gritty 16-13 win over Florida State. Georgia Tech overcame a 10-0 deficit at halftime to completely dominate the second half in a performance that validates and adds to the program’s notable overall momentum. Long-time FSU commit Jeff Sims, a Jacksonville-native, starred as a true freshman quarterback helping lead the Yellow Jackets to victory.

2. Sims is already a star. Earning the starting job in a hotly-contested quarterback competition in Atlanta, had a stellar debut: 24-of-34 passing for 277 yards with a late game-tying touchdown and 64 yards rushing. In command, poised and smooth, Sims overcame two early interceptions to take control of the football game in the second half. His presence was a calming one for Georgia Tech after a slow start. You can already tell that Sims is the type of player you build a program around.

3. Georgia Tech controlled this contest more than the final score even indicates. The Yellow Jackets outgained the Seminoles by more than 150 total yards, overcoming ten penalties and two turnovers that limited their own production. The second half, especially, was all Georgia Tech. Take away a few turnovers and special teams struggles and this contest might not have even been that close. Credit kicker Jude Kelly for overcoming early struggles to make the game-winner.

4. Most of the off-season talk was on Georgia Tech’s offense, but the defense was outstanding for the Yellow Jackets on Saturday. After giving up a touchdown on Florida State’s first drive, Georgia Tech kept the Seminoles out of the endzone the rest of the game. Constant pressure on James Blackman and a late forced fumble from Curtis Ryans helped seal the victory. The Yellow Jackets won at the line of scrimmage.

5. Florida State’s offensive line woes continue to be very significant. The Seminoles simply could not establish a running game and were unable to develop a downfield passing game because there was limited time and stability up front. An inability to consistently block is preventing Florida State from getting into a groove offensively.