Gardner Webb vs Georgia Tech prediction and analysis

Overview of the Matchup

On September 6, 2025, the Gardner-Webb Bulldogs will travel to face off against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Both teams opened their seasons with a victory and now look to build momentum early in this non-conference clash. Gardner-Webb aims to prove their growth under coach Cris Reisert, while Georgia Tech seeks to demonstrate why they remain a formidable ACC program.

Gardner-Webb Bulldogs: Recent Form and Key Contributors

Gardner-Webb concluded last season with a disappointing 4-8 record, finishing near the bottom of the Big South-OVC standings. After a rough start last year, they found some rhythm late in the campaign, highlighted by a strong 3-1 finish in October and November. This season’s opening game showcased an offense capable of high production, with a thrilling 52-45 win over Western Carolina.

• Quarterback Nate Hampton showed a dual-threat ability, throwing for 263 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 132 yards and four scores.
• Running backs QuaSean Holmes and Carson Gresock contributed significantly by gaining over 100 and 85 yards on the ground, respectively.
• Receiving threats Anthony Lowe and Chris Lofton provided explosive plays, with Lowe catching two touchdowns.

While Gardner-Webb’s offense is exciting, their defense struggled late last season and in the opener, conceding 45 points. Limiting Georgia Tech’s potent rushing attack will be pivotal.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: Form and Strengths

Georgia Tech closed 2024 with a 7-6 record and a respectable 5-3 showing in the ACC. They got their 2025 season off on the right foot with a hard-fought 27-20 road victory over Colorado, demonstrating resilience despite early miscues.

• Quarterback Haynes King impressed with 156 rushing yards and three touchdowns, underscoring his value as a dual-threat quarterback leading the ACC in touchdowns so far.
• The Yellow Jackets boast one of the nation’s most efficient red zone scoring rates (100%) and are among the top rushing teams, averaging 320 yards per game.
• Though their defense did not generate takeaways against Colorado, it controlled the game by limiting conversions on third downs.

Georgia Tech’s balanced offensive attack and stout rushing defense will be key factors in their approach against Gardner-Webb.

Key Matchups and Tactical Considerations

• Georgia Tech’s Rushing Attack vs. Gardner-Webb’s Run Defense: The Jackets are among the elite in rushing yards per game, which will challenge the Bulldogs’ defensive front that showed vulnerabilities last week.
• Gardner-Webb’s Offensive Firepower vs. Georgia Tech’s Defensive Resilience: The Bulldogs’ ability to score quickly and frequently tests the Jackets’ defense, which must contain the dual-threat QB and dynamic running backs.
• Turnover Margin and Discipline: Georgia Tech committed multiple turnovers and penalties last game but managed to overcome them; discipline will be critical if they want to secure a comfortable win at home.

Prediction Summary

Georgia Tech enters this contest confident after an impressive road win and is expected to impose their run-heavy offense against a Gardner-Webb defense that has shown early signs of struggle. Meanwhile, Gardner-Webb can generate yards on the ground and through the air but may find scoring consistently difficult against the Yellow Jackets’ disciplined and opportunistic defense in front of their home crowd.

The key for Georgia Tech will be maintaining offensive momentum while improving ball security and minimizing penalties. Expect the Jackets to control the tempo and capitalize on their rushing dominance to wear down the Bulldogs.

Final Prediction

Prediction: Georgia Tech to win comfortably, 31-17