When Georgia Tech lost to Georgia last weekend, I had a sinking feeling this year was going to go down like 2006 where a promising start dissolved into a disappointing season. Once again, I underestimated the mental tenacity of a Paul Johnson coached team. Despite playing with a porous defense and against a phenomenal star in C.J. Spiller who was absolutely unstoppable, Georgia Tech pulled out a 39-34 victory in Tampa. I don’t know if there are enough superlatives to heap on Spiller for his 301 yards of total offense (233 yds rushing), but the resolve of players like Josh Nesbitt, Jonathan Dwyer, and Demaryius Thomas could not be stopped. Fortuitous interceptions by Jarrard Tarrant and Dominque Reese and four great field goal kicks by Scott Blair (including three over 40 yards, wow) were the difference in the game.

So now, it’s off to Miami, Georgia Tech’s first trip since 1967. We’ve booked our flights and ordered our tickets. I’m hoping to meet up with some old friends from my days of living in South Florida. I can’t wait to start the new year off with a big-time football game and some fun in the sun in the middle of winter.