Georgia Tech’s turnaround season continues Saturday as the twelfth-ranked Yellow Jackets put their 6–0 record on the line at Duke. Kickoff at Wallace Wade Stadium is set for noon as head coach Brent Key’s team looks to maintain its perfect mark and first-place standing in the ACC race.

   The Jackets’ unblemished start has been fueled by balance — an aggressive offense led by quarterback Haynes King and a defense that’s improved steadily each week. Despite national attention and a top-15 ranking, Key said the team’s mentality hasn’t shifted.

   “All that outside noise doesn’t help us play better football,” Key said at his Tuesday press conference. “What matters is how we prepare, how we practice, and how we respond to adversity on Saturday.”

   Georgia Tech’s offense has averaged more than 430 yards per game, and King ranks among ACC leaders in total offense. The senior has blossomed in Key’s system, pairing dynamic arm talent with leadership that’s anchored the locker room.
“We’re having fun, but we’re focused,” King said. “Our job each week is to execute, protect the ball, and trust the guys next to us. Coach Key has been consistent about that since day one — don’t chase perfection, chase progress.”

   Duke (4–2, 1–2 ACC) poses a stiff road challenge, especially under first-year coach Manny Diaz, whose defensive pedigree from Miami has carried over to Durham. Key praised the Blue Devils’ toughness and discipline. “They play excellent team defense,” Key said. “They’re physical up front, and they make it hard to get explosive plays. We have to win first down and stay patient.”

   Defensively, the Jackets have thrived on strong tackling and improved communication. Linebacker Kyle Efford said preparation has tightened as the team’s success has grown. “Nobody wants to be the group that lets the streak down,” the junior said. “We take pride in being the team that finishes the game strong.”

   Key said handling the road atmosphere will be crucial for his group, which has already beaten Colorado and Wake Forest away from home. “Good teams have to win on the road,” he said. “That means poise, discipline, and execution when things don’t go your way.”

   King added that the team’s chemistry is what keeps the Jackets grounded. “We trust each other,” he said. “That’s the biggest difference this year — everyone’s bought in, whether it’s offense, defense, or special teams. We believe we can win any game we play.”

  At 6–0, Georgia Tech continues October with legitimate ACC title hopes, but Key insists his players aren’t thinking about rankings or postseason projections just yet. “You start looking down the road, you trip on what’s right in front of you,” Key said. “We’re focused on Duke. That’s it.”

   Kickoff Saturday in Durham is set for noon on ACC Network.