Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs Alabama A&m Bulldogs Picks and Predictions December 28th 2024

Georgia Tech looks to break out of funk, meets Alabama A&M

In their final nonconference matchup of the season, Georgia Tech’s Yellow Jackets will host the Alabama A&M Bulldogs on Saturday afternoon in Atlanta. The game presents a pivotal opportunity for both teams as they prepare to transition into conference play.

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Georgia Tech’s Season Struggles

The Yellow Jackets (5-7) have had a challenging season, particularly against power conference teams. Despite securing wins against lesser opponents like West Georgia, Texas Southern, Charleston Southern, Central Arkansas, and UMBC, Georgia Tech has yet to defeat a high-major program. In their six games against power conference teams, they’ve been outscored by an average of 14.3 points, underscoring a struggle to compete at a higher level.

The team’s recent form hasn’t helped matters. They’ve lost four of their last five games, including a decisive home defeat to then-No. 5 Duke. These losses have highlighted defensive lapses and offensive inconsistencies that Georgia Tech must address.

Injuries Adding Pressure

Injuries to senior leaders Kowacie Reeves Jr. (ankle) and Luke O’Brien (foot) have further complicated matters for head coach Damon Stoudamire. Reeves, averaging 9.3 points per game, hasn’t played since November 27, while O’Brien (6.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game) missed the Duke game entirely.

Although these absences have been felt on both ends of the court, Stoudamire refuses to use injuries as an excuse. “Kowacie and Luke are both seniors, they’ve got experience, but you can’t really dwell on it,” Stoudamire said. “I’m not going to allow that to be an excuse. They’re missed, obviously, but you have to be a next-man-up team at times.”

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Key Players for Georgia Tech

The Yellow Jackets have relied heavily on their top scorers to stay competitive. Senior Lance Terry leads the team with 14.8 points per game, followed by Baye Ndongo with 13.0 and Naithan George at 10.4. For Georgia Tech to break out of their current slump, these players will need to step up and fill the leadership void left by their injured teammates.

Alabama A&M’s Quest for an Upset

The Bulldogs (4-8) enter the matchup on a five-game losing streak, with their last victory coming on November 23 against Coastal Carolina. Despite their struggles, head coach Otis Hughley Jr. remains optimistic about his team’s ability to make an impact.

“We’re doing some things now that are going to make the other team prepare,” Hughley said. “And you know that you’re coming out of a contest when you play us.”

Alabama A&M’s offensive charge is led by AC Bryant, who averages 13.1 points per game, and Chad Moodie, who contributes 12.6 points per game. If the Bulldogs can execute efficiently and capitalize on Georgia Tech’s vulnerabilities, they could secure what would be a monumental win for their program.

Head-to-Head History

Georgia Tech has a perfect 6-0 record against Alabama A&M, including a dominant 70-49 victory earlier this season on December 9. This historical dominance gives the Yellow Jackets a psychological advantage, but they cannot afford to be complacent.

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What’s at Stake

For Georgia Tech, this game is more than just a chance to pad their win column—it’s an opportunity to build confidence heading into conference play and reverse a troubling trend against tougher competition. Meanwhile, Alabama A&M sees this game as a chance to make a statement before kicking off SWAC play on January 4 against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Key Questions Ahead of the Game

• Can Georgia Tech overcome the absence of key players and deliver a cohesive performance?
• Will Alabama A&M break their losing streak and secure an upset?
• How will Georgia Tech’s leading scorers respond under pressure?

Conclusion

This matchup represents a critical juncture for both teams. Georgia Tech will look to leverage its historical edge and top scorers to regain momentum, while Alabama A&M will aim to exploit the Yellow Jackets’ vulnerabilities. Although Georgia Tech enters as the favorite, the Bulldogs’ tenacity could make this a more competitive game than expected.

With conference play looming, the stakes are high for both programs to prove they can adapt and rise to the occasion.