ATLANTA (AP) — Jake Smith hit a three-run homer in Alabama’s five-run first inning and Adam Morgan pitched a five-hitter to help Alabama beat Georgia Tech 8-1 on Sunday night and force a deciding game in the Atlanta Regional.
Georgia Tech (47-14) is trying to avoid elimination on its home field in the NCAA tournament for the second straight year. The Yellow Jackets and Crimson Tide will play for the title on Monday night.
Morgan (7-4) walked one and struck out nine.
Alabama (40-23) hit four homers in the first two innings. The Tide’s power surge was surprising considering that they ranked next-to-last in the Southeastern Conference this season. Taylor Dugas’ leadoff homer on the game’s first pitch seemed to rattle Georgia Tech starter Brandon Cumpton, whose 39-pitch first inning also included Smith’s 13th homer, Jon Kelton’s solo shot and two walks.
