Who says that defense wins championships? In a game where Georgia Tech’s defense was gashed by Clemson’s poster boy CJ Spiller for 234 yards and 4 (yes, 4) touchdowns, Paul Johnson once again orchestrated a late, game-winning drive. With the clock ticking down to 1:20, Tech’s brawny B-back Jon Dwyer rumbled 15 yards into the endzone to put GT ahead for good 39-34.

But it wasn’t until Derrick Morgan tackled Tiger QB Kyle Parker to force a turnover did Yellow Jacket fans start chucking oranges on to the field of Raymond James Stadium. Paul Johnson had promised us that he’d get us to where his team’s season is bigger than just one game. And, like almost always, he was right.

We’ll be back in Sunshine State in a month’s time. But this time we’re headed to Miami. This time we’re headed to the Orange Bowl.

Blair’s Witch Project
It’s been an up and down year kicker Scott Blair. But last night was a career night for the junior. Blair kept the Jackets in the game by going 4/4 on his field goals, including career longs of 48 and 49. Arguably GT’s MVP for the game, Blair seems to always play his best against the Tigers. In the previous match against Clemson, he kicked the game-winning FG and even threw a touchdown to Demaryius Thomas.

A Night of Firsts
It was the first time ever that both teams ran for over 300 yards in one game. It was Tech’s first time as ACC Champs since 1990, and this will be their first Orange Bowl appearance in decades. Oh, and regarding attendance… Raymond James had over 57K in the stands last night. That’s more than the GT/CU matchup earlier this year in Atlanta.