Ode to a miracle: Georgia Tech alumnus publishes poetry book
Ten years ago Friday, one of the more memorable wins in Georgia Tech history transpired inside Bobby Dodd Stadium.
On Oct. 24, 2015, Tech defeated No. 9-ranked Florida State 22-16 thanks to a game-ending blocked field-goal attempt that was returned for a touchdown by Tech.
Tech alumnus C. Cary Anderson has published a book of poetry, “Undefeated: Poems of Victory,” which includes an ode to the Jackets’ 2015 upset.
Tech was 2-5 going into that matchup with Florida State, while the Seminoles were undefeated after six games. But the Jackets hung around until the bitter end when the scoreboard read 16-16 and Seminole placekicker Roberto Aguayo lined up for a 56-yard, game-winning field goal.
But Tech tackle Patrick Gamble slipped through the line and got a hand up to knock the ball down. Defensive back Lance Austin scooped the ball up at Tech’s 22 and raced 78 yards the other direction for a game-winning score as time expired.
An excerpt from “The Miracle on Techwood Drive”:
“The kick was blocked to the amazement of all.
The crowds roar became a deafening din.
The ball fluttered to the ground at the Jacket 22
As cornerback Austin gathered it in.
The clock ran out as he zigged and zagged
As across the 50 yard line he sped.
Noses were diving at him but he refused to be stopped
And into the end zone he fled.”
Unfortunately for Tech, coach Paul Johnson’s team wouldn’t win the rest of the season and finished with a 3-9 record and on a four-game losing streak. The Seminoles won four of their next five before losing to Houston in the Peach Bowl inside the Georgia Dome.
Anderson’s poetry book is now available for purchase.
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