The annual “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate” football rivalry between the University of Georgia Bulldogs and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets is set to take on a new dimension in 2025. Traditionally held on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, the 2025 edition of this storied matchup will be played on Black Friday, November 28, at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadiu
Historical Context
The rivalry, known as “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate,” dates back to 1893, making it one of the oldest and most intense in college football. Over the years, the game has been a battleground for state supremacy, with both teams boasting periods of dominance. As of the latest meeting in 2024, Georgia leads the series with 72 wins, 39 losses, and 5 ties.
2025 Game Details
- Date and Time: The game is scheduled for Friday, November 28, 2025, on Black Friday. While the exact kickoff time is yet to be announced, it is anticipated to be a primetime event, similar to previous years.
- Venue: For the first time since 1912, the game will be played off-campus, moving from Georgia Tech’s Bobby Dodd Stadium to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This shift is part of a strategic move by Georgia Tech to enhance revenue, with the university set to receive $10 million from stadium operator AMB Sports and Entertainment.
Implications of the Venue Change
The relocation to Mercedes-Benz Stadium introduces several considerations:
- Financial Impact: The $10 million guarantee provides a significant financial boost to Georgia Tech’s athletic department, which has faced financial challenges in recent years.
- Fan Experience: The larger capacity of Mercedes-Benz Stadium offers more seating options, potentially accommodating a broader fan base. However, concerns have been raised about the traditional home-field advantage for Georgia Tech, as the larger venue may result in a higher number of Georgia fans attending the game.
- Tradition vs. Modernization: While the move aims to modernize the event and increase revenue, it also marks a departure from the long-standing tradition of hosting the game at Bobby Dodd Stadium. This change has sparked discussions among fans and alumni about the balance between tradition and financial necessity.
Team Outlooks for 2025
- Georgia Bulldogs: Entering the 2025 season, the Bulldogs are ranked No. 5 in ESPN’s Way Too Early Top 25. Their schedule includes a season opener against Marshall on August 30, followed by games against Austin Peay and a road matchup with Tennessee. The rivalry game against Georgia Tech is slated for November 28.
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: Georgia Tech’s 2025 schedule features a season opener against Colorado in Boulder during Labor Day weekend, with subsequent games against teams like Clemson and Temple. The Yellow Jackets are optimistic about their schedule, noting a good balance of home and away games and manageable challenges, foreseeing potential for a successful season
Historical Significance of the Rivalry
The “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate” rivalry has been a cornerstone of college football, characterized by intense competition and passionate fan bases. The series has seen periods of dominance by both teams, with Georgia Tech leading the series in the mid-20th century and Georgia asserting control in recent decades. The 2024 game, for instance, was a thrilling contest that extended into eight overtimes, underscoring the fierce competition between the two programs.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate” game approaches, the combination of a new venue and the traditional rivalry promises an exciting chapter in college football history. Fans can anticipate a high-stakes game that not only showcases the athletic prowess of both teams but also highlights the evolving landscape of college sports, where tradition and innovation intersect.