Birmingham Bowl Press Conference Recap and ticket update
By Banner Staff
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA - December 15, 2024
Birmingham Bowl 2024 Press Conference Recap: Vanderbilt vs. Georgia Tech
Excitement continues to build for the 2024 Birmingham Bowl, where Vanderbilt will take on Georgia Tech on December 27 at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Alabama. Coaches and bowl executives shared their insights at the recent press conference, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense matchup.
Vanderbilt's Perspective
Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea emphasized the importance of this game for his program, marking their first bowl appearance since 2018. "This game is not just an opportunity to win but a chance to build our program's reputation," Lea said. Highlighting their season-defining victories over Alabama and Auburn, Lea expressed confidence in his team's ability to compete with a physical opponent like Georgia Tech. He added, “Playing close to home in front of our fans is something we’re excited about.”
Georgia Tech’s Outlook
Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key also reflected on the team's journey. After a 7-5 season that included thrilling wins over Florida State and Miami, Key emphasized the resilience of his squad. “Our guys have shown they can rise to big challenges,” Key noted. He praised the competitiveness of Vanderbilt, predicting a physical and strategic showdown. Both coaches remarked on the similarities of their institutions and the makeups of their football teams.
A Game with Historic Context
This marks the 39th meeting between the two teams but the first in the postseason. Georgia Tech holds a historic edge, but Vanderbilt is determined to rewrite history, eyeing their first bowl win since 2013.
Bowl Executive Comments
Birmingham Bowl Executive Director Mark Meadows highlighted the economic and cultural impact of the game. Since its inception, the event has contributed over $181 million in economic impact to the Birmingham community. The bowl also continues to support philanthropic efforts through its partnership with the Monday Morning Quarterback Club which supports numerous local children’s health initiatives.
Ticket Information
Meadows also pointed out that both Georgia Tech and Vanderbilt had outsold their initial ticket allotment, and sales continued to be brisk now under two weeks until kickoff. Limited seats remain in the lower bowl of the stadium and additional seating has been opened in the upper deck. The Birmingham Bowl is the only sporting event to ever sell out Protective Stadium as a capacity crowd turned out to see Auburn play Houston in the 2021 edition of the game.
Limited seats remain, but fans eager to witness the action live can still purchase tickets at Birmingham Bowl’s official website.
The game will also air nationally on ESPN, with kickoff at 2:30 PM CTS.
With both teams hungry for a statement win to conclude their excellent seasons, the Birmingham Bowl is set to deliver a memorable close to the 2024 college football season.