🚨 Clash on I-75: Georgia Tech and Tennessee Set for High-Stakes Showdowns in 2026 and 2027 🏈🔥
A fierce Southern rivalry is officially brewing. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the Tennessee Volunteers have locked in a thrilling two-game, home-and-home series for the 2026 and 2027 college football seasons — and fans from Atlanta to Knoxville are already circling the dates.
Dubbed the “I-75 Showdown”, the series will kick off in Atlanta in 2026 before heading north to Knoxville in 2027, reigniting a regional clash between two storied programs with passionate fan bases and proud football traditions.
🗓️ Save the Dates
2026: Georgia Tech vs Tennessee — Atlanta, GA
2027: Tennessee vs Georgia Tech — Knoxville, TN
While exact game dates and kickoff times will be announced closer to the season, anticipation is already building as both programs look to make a statement on the national stage.
🏈 A Rivalry Rekindled
Though not annual foes, Georgia Tech and Tennessee have met 44 times in their storied histories, with Tennessee leading the all-time series. Their last meeting was in 2017 — a double-overtime thriller in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, which Tennessee edged out 42–41. That heart-pounding battle only added fuel to the rivalry’s fire.
Now, nearly a decade later, a new chapter is set to begin.
“This series brings back an exciting, old-school flavor,” said Georgia Tech Athletic Director J Batt. “Our fans love big-time matchups, and this one delivers — two proud programs separated by one stretch of highway.”
🚗 The I-75 Factor
With just over 200 miles between Atlanta and Knoxville, the proximity creates a unique energy around the matchup. The rivalry has been dubbed the “I-75 Classic”, referencing the interstate that directly connects the two campuses. Expect thousands of fans to travel both ways to represent their colors in enemy territory.
Tailgates, chants, and state bragging rights will all be on the line as two football-loving fan bases clash in electric SEC and ACC atmospheres.
🔍 What’s at Stake?
Aside from pride, the games could have early-season playoff implications, depending on where each team stands in their respective conferences. Tennessee, coming off multiple strong seasons under Josh Heupel, continues to chase SEC dominance and CFP contention. Georgia Tech, with a revitalized program and strong recruiting under Brent Key, is seeking to reclaim its identity as a national threat.
“We want to play the best,” said Coach Key. “Tennessee is a measuring stick game — and our guys are excited for the challenge.”
🔥 Key Storylines to Watch
Quarterback Battles: Both programs are developing promising young signal-callers who could become household names by 2026.
Recruiting Wars: Georgia and Tennessee often go head-to-head for elite Southeastern talent. These games could sway future commitments.
Legacy and Revenge: Tech looks to avenge the 2017 loss, while Tennessee hopes to assert SEC dominance over an old foe.
🎟️ Ticket Info & Coverage
Tickets for both games are expected to sell out quickly. Season ticket holders for both programs will receive priority access, with single-game tickets expected to go on sale by Spring 2026. Broadcast rights are likely to fall under ESPN or ABC, with national coverage anticipated.
🏁 Final Whistle
Get ready for a Southern football classic — old-school energy, modern stakes, and a highway rivalry that’s about to heat up. Whether you’re rocking Navy & Gold or shouting “Go Vols!” in orange and white, the I-75 Showdown will be can’t-miss football.
2026. Atlanta.
2027. Knoxville.
Two games. One road. Everything to prove.
