Why is FSU vs Georgia Tech game played in Ireland? Closer look at rich history of CFB in Dublin

The FSU Seminoles and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets will face off at Dublin's Aviva Stadium in Week 0 of the 2024 college football season. The game is scheduled for Saturday and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

Why is the Florida State vs Georgia Tech game played in Ireland?

The FSU vs. Georgia Tech matchup in Week 0 is part of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, marking the tenth time an NCAA football game has been held on Irish soil. Georgia Tech is no stranger to the Emerald Isle, having defeated Boston College in Dublin back in 2016. However, this will be Florida State's first-ever game in Ireland, adding extra excitement to the season opener.

The tradition of college football in Ireland dates back to 1988 when Boston College defeated the Army Black Knights in the first Emerald Isle Classic. Since then, the Irish capital has hosted eight more NCAA games, providing a unique venue for American football.

With the Seminoles and Yellow Jackets journeying across the Atlantic, the game will continue to enrich the tradition of bringing American college football to an international audience.

ESPN College Gameday on the road for FSU vs. Georgia Tech

ESPN’s “College GameDay” is also set to make history by heading to Dublin, Ireland to cover the FSU vs. Georgia Tech showdown. For the first time, the iconic pregame show will broadcast from outside the United States, bringing its full crew across the pond.

Host Rece Davis, along with analysts Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, and Pat McAfee, will be live from College Green on Dame Street at 9 a.m. ET hyping up the game until kickoff.

Seminoles fans and Kirk Herbstreit have had a rocky relationship, especially after his vocal opposition to the Seminoles’ inclusion in last year’s College Football Playoff. While Irish fans are eager to welcome the ESPN crew, it’s uncertain how Herbstreit will be received by the garnet and gold faithful.

Dublin is buzzing with anticipation, not just for the game but also for economic reasons. Irish dignitaries showed keen interest in FSU last season and attended practices and games, setting this college football classic to be a memorable event for all involved.