Brent Key’s Transformation of Georgia Tech Football

In just a short span of four seasons, Brent Key has significantly turned around the Georgia Tech football program. After leading the Yellow Jackets to a 9-3 record in 2025, he received a contract extension with the school, which he has a personal connection to, lasting through 2029.

As Key and his team finalize preparations for the upcoming Poptarts Bowl against BYU, he took a moment to reflect on the current landscape of college football, which often faces criticism.

“Honestly, I think college football is in the best shape it’s ever been,” Key remarked during a media session on Friday.

Key highlighted the robust fan experience and the sport’s impressive viewership statistics. “Viewership is at an all-time high… The audience tuning in for games, playoff matchups, and even (ESPN’s) College Game Day is really remarkable. College football isn’t just a sport; it’s more like a way of life now, with interest peaking like never before,” he expressed.

While there’s been plenty of talk and some criticism regarding the existing college football calendar and the newly adopted 12-team playoff format, Key emphasized the positives he sees in the sport.

The introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulations, along with the player mobility that comes from the transfer portal, has undeniably reshaped college football. Key is aware of these sweeping changes, yet he also pointed out that college football tends to experience cycles of ups and downs roughly every couple of decades.

Ultimately, he acknowledged the positive evolution of the game over these years.

“In the past, decisions about the national champion were made through voting. We’ve come a long way since then. If you look back, every 15 to 20 years, college football undergoes a significant transformation. We’re currently in one of those pivotal times,” Key shared. “Big changes take time. Our primary role is to help players through college, guide them in earning their degrees, and transform their lives—doing all of this through the journey of football.”

The Poptarts Bowl is set to kick off on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET at Camping World Stadium located in Orlando, Florida.