The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets face the Colorado Buffaloes in their respective 2026 season openers on Thursday at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET.
Why it matters: This matchup marks a chance for both teams to start fresh after lackluster previous seasons. Georgia Tech aims to build on their recent success, whereas Colorado seeks to turn around its fortunes under a new coaching staff.
Georgia Tech finished 9-4 in 2025, their first nine-win season since 2016, and hopes to continue that momentum.
Colorado struggled last season with a 3-9 record, leading to major changes in coaching and player personnel.
Both teams have new quarterbacks, making this game a key indicator of their potential for the season ahead.
Driving the news: The Yellow Jackets are looking to capitalize on their strong performance from last season, where they rushed for 320 yards in a 27-20 victory over Colorado in 2025.
Quarterback Alberto Mendoza takes over for the departed Haynes King, who is now in the NFL.
Justice Haynes, a dynamic running back, will make his debut for Georgia Tech after transferring from Michigan.
Colorado's new offensive coordinator, Brennan Marion, aims to implement a fast-paced strategy to invigorate the team.
State of play: Both teams are entering the season with high expectations but contrasting recent performances.
Georgia Tech's 2025 campaign included a strong finish, going 6-2 in the ACC, and they aim to leverage that success.
Colorado, under coach Deion Sanders, is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 1-8 record in the Big 12 last season.
Julian Lewis, an 18-year-old redshirt freshman quarterback for Colorado, is expected to lead the Buffaloes after a promising but limited stint last year.
The big picture: This game is not just about the score; it’s a chance for both teams to set the tone for their respective seasons.
Georgia Tech's defense will be tested against a revamped Colorado offense that has added several new weapons through the transfer portal.
Colorado's receiving corps includes transfers Danny Scudero, DeAndre Moore, and Kam Perry, aiming to bolster their passing game.
Betting odds favor Georgia Tech with a moneyline of -235 and a spread of -6.5, signaling confidence in their ability to perform at home.
What they're saying: Coaches and players from both sides express optimism as they prepare for the season opener.
“I believe we can win a national championship,” said Justice Haynes, emphasizing his confidence in Georgia Tech's potential.
Brennan Marion, Colorado's offensive coordinator, stated, “To me, if we’re operating at our fullest, we’re winning,” highlighting his goal for the team.
Alberto Mendoza, Georgia Tech’s new quarterback, aims to make his mark after learning behind his brother, who was the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft.
By the numbers: Key statistics provide insight into each team's strengths and weaknesses heading into the game.
Georgia Tech rushed for 320 yards in their 2025 opener against Colorado, a dominant performance that set the tone for their season.
Colorado's Julian Lewis completed 52 of 94 passes for 589 yards and 4 touchdowns last season, showing promise as a young quarterback.
Betting lines indicate a projected total score of 51.5 points, with expectations for a ground-heavy game.
What's next: The outcome of this game could significantly impact the trajectories of both programs.
The winner will gain valuable momentum as they head into the rest of the season, potentially setting the stage for postseason aspirations.
Georgia Tech's next game will be against an equally challenging opponent, requiring them to maintain their performance level.
For Colorado, a strong showing could help rebuild confidence after a tumultuous previous season.