Trelain Maddox’s late TD, Duke missed FG gives Yellow Jackets first ACC win of season.

Georgia Tech's Trelain Maddox rushed for 81 yards and three touchdowns, including a crucial go-ahead score from one yard out with just 54 seconds left on the clock, as the Yellow Jackets secured a thrilling 28-25 upset win against Duke at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday. Despite Duke mounting a late rally, kicker Gavin Strange missed a vital 33-yard field goal attempt with five seconds remaining.

Led by quarterback Alberto Mendoza, who completed 23 of his 30 passes for 218 yards and a touchdown, the Yellow Jackets drove 61 yards in just eight plays, taking just 1:38 to claim the lead. Jordan Allen added to the offense with 10 receptions for 99 yards, including Mendoza's scoring play.

Duke's offense struggled, with Nate Sheppard recording 99 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while also contributing 91 receiving yards. However, the Blue Devils' poor penalty efficiency continued to plague them, as they coughed up 71 yards in penalties and took another six for 71 more yards. Additionally, a personal foul penalty provided Georgia Tech with a 15-yard advantage on their final scoring drive.

The victory marked Georgia Tech's first ACC win of the season, ending a six-game losing streak against FBS opponents dating back to last year. Meanwhile, Duke will next host rival North Carolina on Saturday, while Georgia Tech travels to face Virginia Tech the following Saturday.