Relive the Intensity of the 1999 Georgia-Georgia Tech Rivalry
The Game
Georgia Tech QB Joe Hamilton aimed to go out in style in his last game. Chris Young, a former Georgia Tech safety, recalled that if they didn't win, their season didn't matter as the state was mostly red and black with only a few Yellow Jacket fans. Ted Roof, the former defensive coordinator, emphasized the super intensity of the game, stating that it was on everyone's mind 365 days a year. Kirby Smart, the current Georgia coach, highlighted the significance of the game as a huge, rivalry-filled event representing the state, program, and conference.
Joe Hamilton was electric, leading Georgia Tech to a 41-24 lead in the third quarter. But George O'Leary, the former Georgia Tech coach, knew the Bulldogs would break through. Jim Donnan, the former Georgia coach, mentioned strategies like attacking the linebackers and running more option. Ted Roof compared it to a constant battle like putting fingers in a dike.
The Fumble
Georgia battled back to a 41-41 tie, but the controversy began when Thad Parker was ruled out of bounds on an apparent touchdown catch. Donnan decided to run one more play instead of kicking a potential game-winning field goal. Jasper Sanks, the former Georgia tailback, remembered the center's warning. Chris Young saw the fumble and recovered it, selling it well. Kendrell Bell, the former Georgia linebacker, argued that it wasn't a fumble as the player was down. Luke Manget, the former Georgia Tech kicker, initially said it was a fumble but later admitted it was close. Donnan defended the call but also mentioned the umpire being a University of Florida guy. Jasper Sanks himself admitted he should have held onto the ball.
The Kicks
After Young's fumble recovery, the game went to overtime. Quincy Carter was furious over the fumble call and showed his frustration. Joe Hamilton tried to calm him down. O'Leary could hear Carter yelling. Donnan mentioned the team's focus but Quincy's deep throw. Carter's first throw in overtime was picked off by Marvious Hester. O'Leary opted to go for the win on third down, sending his kicker onto the field. Wes Durham, the former Georgia Tech broadcaster, explained the old Bobby Dodd trick. Chris Young said they wanted to end the game quickly. Kendrell Bell tried to anticipate the kick and got a fingertip on it. George Godsey recovered the ball and made up yards. Hamilton praised Godsey's play. Key joked about Godsey's athleticism. Manget remembered walking off the field initially and then getting the chance to kick again. O'Leary explained the reason for going for the win on third down.
The Aftermath
Manget made the kick on fourth down, and Georgia Tech fans celebrated. Georgia fans have argued the officials got it wrong, and the crew was suspended. The game's ending was a catalyst for the use of instant replay in college football in 2005. Manget defended the call initially but later changed his mind. Stinchomb felt robbed. Donnan said there was nothing they could do. Chris Young still has the ball and gives Georgia Tech fans something to hold onto. Quincy Carter still remembers the costly mistakes. Jasper Sanks admitted the play was a turning point. Young joked about his coach not kicking the field goal. Donnan gave credit to Georgia Tech the next year. Carter lives with the loss. Young emphasized the team's hunger and Coach O'Leary's influence. Key discussed the competitiveness of the rivalry. Godsey mentioned the goals of the season and the preparation for the game. Hamilton still brings up the last two wins and the Governor's Cup trophy.
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