Gasparilla Bowl: Georgia Tech vs. UCF Predictions – Friday, Dec. 22

John Rhys Plumlee #10 of the UCF Knights looks to throw a pass during the first half of a game against the Cincinnati Bearcats at FBC Mortgage Stadium on October 29, 2022 in Orlando, Florida.
Image Credit: Julio Aguilar/Getty Images

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (6-6) are set to face off against the UCF Knights (6-6) in a highly anticipated Gasparilla Bowl showdown. With both teams looking to cap their seasons with a victory, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with strategic plays and standout performances. Let’s run through our Georgia Tech vs. UCF predictions below.

Georgia Tech vs. UCF Odds

Game Info

  • Date: Friday, Dec. 22
  • Time: 06:30 PM ET
  • Location: Raymond James Stadium – Tampa, FL
  • TV: ESPN

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Betting Trends

  • On the road, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are 3 and 2 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are 6 and 5.
  • Against the spread on the road, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are 3 and 2.

UCF Knights Betting Trends

  • At home, UCF Knights are 4 and 2 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, UCF Knights are 5 and 7.
  • Against the spread at home, UCF Knights are 3 and 3.

Georgia Tech vs. UCF Predictions

The Gasparilla Bowl presents an exciting clash as the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets take on the UCF Knights, both teams holding an even 6-6 record. Georgia Tech enters the game with a balanced offense and a defense that has shown resilience throughout the season. The Yellow Jackets will rely heavily on their star players to make significant impacts on both sides of the ball. UCF, on the other hand, boasts a dynamic offense that has been able to put up points consistently, making them a formidable opponent in this matchup.

Both teams have had their share of ups and downs this season, with performances varying from game to game. Georgia Tech’s recent form shows a team capable of pulling off a win, especially if they can leverage their defensive strengths. UCF’s offense will be tested against this defense, setting the stage for an intriguing battle. Key player matchups to watch include the quarterbacks and receivers of both teams, as their connections could determine the flow and outcome of the game.

Offensively and defensively, both teams are closely matched, which suggests that the game could be decided by a narrow margin. Special teams and turnovers could also play a critical role in determining the victor. As both teams prepare for the Gasparilla Bowl, the focus will be on executing their game plans effectively and making the necessary adjustments throughout the game to gain an edge over their opponent.

Georgia Tech vs. UCF Pick

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets have shown a strong ability to cover the spread on the road, boasting a 3-2 record against the spread when away from home. This trend suggests that Georgia Tech is comfortable in unfamiliar territory and can rise to the occasion when facing the pressure of an away game. Additionally, their overall record against the spread this season is positive at 6-5, indicating a consistent performance in beating expectations. With the spread set at -4.5 for UCF Knights, the Yellow Jackets don’t need to secure a win; they simply need to keep the game within four points or potentially win outright, which seems plausible given their recent form and the balanced nature of their team.

On the other side, the UCF Knights have been less reliable against the spread this season, with a record of 5-7, and an even 3-3 at home. This inconsistency raises concerns about their ability to cover a 4.5-point spread, especially against a Georgia Tech team that has demonstrated resilience. While UCF’s offense is potent, Georgia Tech’s defense could provide the necessary challenge to keep the game close. Considering these factors, along with the evenly matched nature of both teams’ offensive and defensive units, taking Georgia Tech against the spread is a compelling choice for this Gasparilla Bowl matchup.

The Pick: Georgia Tech +4.5 (PointsBet)