**Georgia Tech's Late Heroics Secure Narrow Victory Over NC State**

In an electrifying finish, Georgia Tech eked out a dramatic 30-29 victory over NC State on Thursday night. The spotlight shone brightly on Aaron Philo, who scrambled for an 18-yard touchdown run with only 22 seconds left on the clock, shifting the lead in favor of the Yellow Jackets at the last moment.

Georgia Tech, improving to a 7-4 record (5-3 ACC), had previously lost its edge with just 1:30 remaining when NC State's Hollywood Smothers sprinted 53 yards for a touchdown, turning the tables in favor of the Wolfpack (5-6, 2-5 ACC). Philo’s decisive run, which he described as a childhood dream come true, ultimately clinched the win. "That was the moment you dream of, ever since you were a little kid," said Philo. "I couldn't ask for a better moment."

Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key praised Philo's instincts and quick thinking that led to the crucial touchdown. Nevertheless, the victory was not assured until NC State's Collin Smith missed a 58-yard field goal attempt wide left as time expired.

NC State's freshman quarterback CJ Bailey had a mixed performance, contributing three rushing touchdowns but also throwing three interceptions during the game. One of those interceptions was crucially returned by Georgia Tech's E.J. Lightsey for a 21-yard touchdown, which had given the Yellow Jackets a 23-21 lead before Smothers' late-game run.

The final moments of the game were filled with tension and excitement. Romello Height's interception off Bailey with 6:44 left on the clock set up a 3-yard rushing touchdown by Haynes King for Georgia Tech. Despite the fluctuating lead in the game’s closing stages, Georgia Tech completed a flawless 5-0 home record at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

NC State's hopes of becoming bowl eligible were dashed, even though Bailey showcased his agility with a 16-yard touchdown late in the opening quarter and a 28-yard scoring run early in the fourth quarter.

Georgia Tech also struggled to reestablish its running game, managing significantly fewer yards on the ground compared to their previous matchup against Miami. Jamal Haynes and Haynes King contributed minimally in rushing yards while Philo excelled in the air, completing 19 of 33 passes for a career-high 265 yards.

Next up, NC State will conclude its regular season against North Carolina on November 30, while Georgia Tech is set to face No. 8 Georgia on November 29.