Even though they are only freshman, it’s a sure bet that Matt Grimes and Daniel Palka already understand the importance — and the intensity — of the Georgia-Georgia Tech rivalry.

And the two players proved it on Tuesday.

Grimes was strong on the mound and Palka blasted a key two-run homer to lead the No. 12-ranked Jackets to a 5-3 win over the Bulldogs at Russ Chandler Stadium.

It was Tech’s second win over Georgia this season. The teams will play one more game, April 26 at Turner Field.

Grimes worked 6 2-3 innings, giving up two runs on eight hits while improving to 5-1 and beating UGA for the second time this season. Grimes finished with 10 strikeouts.

Luke Bard earned the saved, his fifth, by working a scoreless ninth. He allowed two hits, but worked out of the jam.

Palka finished 2-for-4 with two RBIs, including the homer. Sam Dove was also 2-for-4 with a run scored and stolen base.

Brandon Thomas added two hits, including a double.

Former Calhoun star Mott Hyde, who started at second base for the Jackets, went 1-for-3 with a run scored.

Georgia’s Colby May hit a solo home run against Grimes, but the young pitcher didn’t seemed fazed.