There are now less than 2 months to go until tackle football season!!!
I’ve been promising this for I don’t know how long, so here it finally is. Let me know if there are any mistakes so I can edit them and have them corrected for the fall edition. I will post this again (after editing and updating) when we get closer to kickoff with Vanderbilt on 8/31/02. I’m sure there will be a lot to update by then, especially after fall practices have been going. I know some people can’t get enough football talk, so this should provide some good reading material.
2001 Yellow Jackets review
Record: 8-5/4-4 ACC (Home games in ALL CAPS)
Syracuse………………..W, 13-7 (Kickoff Classic)
CITADEL………………W, 35-7
Navy……………………W, 70-7
CLEMSON……………..L, 44-47
Duke……………………W, 37-10
MARYLAND…………..L, 17-20
NC STATE…………….W, 27-17
NORTH CAROLINA….W, 28-21
Virginia…………………L, 38-39
Wake Forest……………W, 38-33
GEORGIA………………L, 17-31
Florida State…………….L, 17-28
Stanford………………...W, 24-14 (Seattle Bowl)
Individual Stats (Returning players in all caps)
Leading Passer: George Godsey - 3085 yards | 18 TDs | 11 INT 64.8%
Leading Rusher: Joe Burns - 1165 yards | 14 TDs | 4.1 average
Leading Receiver: Kelly Campbell - 56 rec. | 708 yards | 3 TDs
Leading Tackler: RECARDO WIMBUSH - 99 tackles
Leading Sacker: GREG GATHERS - 10 sacks
Overall Stats:
Rush. Off: 139 ypg/70th | Pass. Off: 279 ypg/17th | Tot. Off: 418 ypg/34th | Scoring Off. 31.75 ppg/28th
Rush. Def. 117 ypg/23rd | Pass. Def. 216 ypg/53rd | Tot. Def. 333 ypg/32nd | Scoring Def. 22.25 ppg/37th
Visions of the Rose Bowl danced in many Yellow Jacket heads at the beginning of the year. Alas, it was not to be. Several bad breaks and mistakes contributed to several close losses, and lowered morale for the big showdowns with UGA and FSU at the end of the season. It was one of the most disappointing seasons in recent Tech history.
All started well with a victory over a solid Syracuse team in the Kickoff Classic and dominating performances over hapless Citadel and Navy. However, September 11 would throw a wrench in the plans, and the FSU game would be moved to the end of the season. Several weeks with no games passed, and Tech would lose 3 of its next 6 games by 3 or less points. Victory was within reach in all three cases, but all three were blown at the end.
Tech seemed to be on the way to victory against Clemson with a mostly dominating first half, but Woody Dantzler scrambled for a long touchdown just before the half. Tech’s leader on defense, Daryl Smith, was lost to injury for the second half, and Dantzler had a field day with quarterback draws. The Jacket defense didn’t make the necessary adjustments, also contributing to the Dantzler-fest.
Tech’s offense got off to a slow start in the Maryland game, and didn’t get going enough in the second half. However, even though the offense struggled, Tech’s defense kept them in the game until the dreaded “prevent defense” was played near the end of the 4th quarter. Maryland drove down for the tying field goal, and won the game in overtime.
The Jackets won the next 2 games in convincing fashion over NC State and North Carolina. But, the Virginia game was a different story, and was certainly lost by the defense. When you score 38 points, you should win. Period. The 4th quarter saw 7 total TDs, and 6 failed 2 point conversions. Tech lost the game on a last second hook-and-ladder play.
At this point in the season O’Leary had lost the team, and they seemed to be uninspired the rest of the way, being dominated by hated rivals Georgia and Florida State. The final game of the season showed what the season could have been as they defeated an explosive Stanford team in the Seattle Bowl with interim Coach Mac MacWhorter at the helm.
The off-season was an interesting one with O’Leary gone to Notre Dame and Chan Gailey named as the new Head Coach. Recruiting was considered disappointing for many, but a small class should have been expected. The caliber of player brought in was similar to recent years…there just wasn’t a headliner to the class like there was in Reuben Houston in 2001 and Hobie Holiday in 2000.
Now, on to the 2002 version of the Yellow Jackets…
2002 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Head Coach – Chan Gailey (0-0 @ GT, 24-11 @ Troy State and Samford, 18-14 in NFL with Cowboys)
Chan Gailey comes to Tech with a long list of achievements in his 26 years as a coach. He has 12 years of experience at the college level, and 14 years in the NFL including a stint as the head man for the Cowboys. He took the Cowboys to the playoffs in both of his seasons, and won a I-AA national title at Troy State.
Returning Starters
Offense – 5
Defense – 9
Sp. Tm. – 3
OFFENSE (5 returning starters)
Rush. Off: 139 ypg/70th | Pass. Off: 279 ypg/17th | Tot. Off: 418 ypg/34th | Scoring Off. 31.75 ppg/28th
Offensive Coordinator – Bill O’Brien (2nd year)
Bill O’Brien returns as the offensive coordinator after directing the Jackets to the top passing offense in the league, and third in overall offense.
QB - A.J. Suggs 6-4 220 RS JR, Damarius Bilbo 6-3 220 RS FR, Brian Camp 6-1 225 RS JR
Well, Godsey is gone, and the competition is down to A.J. Suggs and Damarius Bilbo. Brian Camp should provide some quality backup.
Suggs is the typical drop back passer type QB, but has decent mobility. He started several games 2 years ago at Tennessee before losing his job to Casey Clausen. He put up some decent numbers, and played especially well in the LSU game. However, he really didn’t even have a chance to hold on to the starting spot because Clausen was Fulmer’s “golden boy”, if you will.
Bilbo is more of an athletic type QB, although he has a strong arm. He has tremendous athleticism, and could allow the offense to run an effective option attack.
So far in the competition Suggs has been the more consistent passer, while Bilbo has been the more exciting runner, ready to break off a long scramble or run at any time. With Bilbo being a redshirt freshman, Suggs will likely be the starter. However, coach Gailey has said that both QBs will be used in the games. Two quarterback systems have rarely been successful anywhere, but their contrasting styles could potentially work, forcing opponents to have to prepare for both QBs.
RB - Tony Hollings 5-10 211 JR, Jimmy Dixon 6-1 211 RS SO, Sidney Ford 5-9 205 SR, Jermaine Hatch 6-2 205 JR
FB – JOHNATHAN JACKSON 6-2 225 RS SO, Brian Johnson 6-3 240 RS FR, Mike Garlow 5-10 215 SR
Decimated by injuries, the running back position seems to be up in the air right now even though Tony Hollings was listed as the starter after spring practice. There were too many injured players in the spring to get an accurate read on how it will play out in the fall. However, with Jimmy Dixon (who played well in the spring before he was injured), Sidney Ford, and Jermaine Hatch all back in the mix, it is likely that a solid leading candidate will emerge before the Vanderbilt game.
There is cause for concern since the guy at the top of the depth chart is a converted safety and in his first season at the position. That concern was amplified in spring practice by a case of fumble-itis that needs to be corrected. Despite his problems holding onto the ball in practice, Hollings didn’t fumble in the spring game, and ran well in practice when he held onto the ball.
Jonathan Jackson started much of last year at fullback, and could do so this year, although he should be pushed by the bigger Brian Johnson. There is little to no depth after these 2 youngsters.
Three incoming freshmen join the team in the fall, but will likely either redshirt or see time only on special teams. Incoming freshman “Ace” Eziemefe (6-2 225) could possibly see time at FB if needed. Michael Sampson (6-2 190) could potentially see time on special teams because of his speed. Eddy Lee Ivery, Jr. (5-10 175) will likely use a redshirt.
WR – JONATHAN SMITH 5-10 183 JR, Kerry Watkins 5-11 186 RS SR, Mark Logan 5-11 195 RS SO
WR - Will Glover 5-10 180 SR, Nate Curry 5-10 186 RS SO, Levon Thomas 6-0 195 SO
Multiple GT record holder Kelly Campbell has graduated, but wideout is still the most stacked position on the offense, by far. Jonathan Smith dazzled onlookers in spring practice with spectacular plays, and looks to have a breakout year. Watkins and Glover are both solid senior leaders. Speedburner Nate Curry is the wild card, coming back from knee surgery after missing all of the 2001 season. Quality depth exists in Levon Thomas, who was injured most of last year, and converted QB Mark Logan.
Incoming freshmen Xavier McGuire (6-5 210) and LeKeldrick Bridges (6-3 170) will both vie for time since they are both significantly taller than any other receivers on the team. It is likely that one of them will see the field some. The only thing that has been missing from the receiving corps in recent years is a taller player like these two.
TE - John Paul Foschi 6-4 260 JR, Will Heller 6-6 250 SR, Brian Lee 6-5 245 RS SR
The more athletic John Paul Foschi steps in for the departed Russell Matvay, and should give Suggs or Bilbo another weapon to throw to. He has good size and strength, and should help open up holes for the running backs, as well. Will Heller and Brian Lee are both seniors, and will both see a lot of time, especially in 2 TE sets.
Incoming freshman George Cooper (6-5 255) could see time either at TE or DE. He has the size and athleticism to be a star some time in the future. If he is as good as they say he could contribute as a true freshman this year.
LT – NAT DORSEY 6-7 335 SO, Garren Findlay 6-5 290 SR
LG – LEON ROBINSON 6-4 310 RS SO, Brad Honeycutt 6-4 290 RS FR
C – HUGH REILLY 6-4 285 RS JR, Andy Tidwell-Neal 6-4 295 SO, Gavin Tarquinio 6-3 270 RS FR
RG - Raymond Roberts-Blake 6-2 278 SR, Clay Hartley 6-4 280 RS JR
RT - Kyle Wallace 6-5 285 SO, Salih Besirevic 6-7 263 RS FR
Schmidgall and Kemble have graduated, leaving open two starting spots on the line. Reilly moves from guard to take Schmidgall’s spot at center. Ray Roberts-Blake has started a number of games in his career, and is now listed as the full time starter at right guard. Kyle Wallace steps in at RT after being involved in the rotation with Kemble last year. First team All-ACC LT Nat Dorsey returns, as does solid LG Leon Robinson.
The left side of the line is outstanding, but the right side is somewhat of a question mark at this point. Depth is also a concern at most spots along the line. An injury to any of the starters may not be disastrous, but it would be a huge blow. The line will need to play well, especially in the first half of the season, to allow time for Suggs/Bilbo to get experience as well as give the running backs good holes to run through.
Zeb McHargue (6-6 280) is the only freshman offensive lineman coming in this year. He could potentially provide depth, but will likely use a redshirt.
DEFENSE (9 returning starters)
Rush. Def. 117 ypg/23rd | Pass. Def. 216 ypg/53rd | Tot. Def. 333 ypg/32nd | Scoring Def. 22.25 ppg/37th
Defensive Coordinator – Jon Tenuta (1st year)
Jon Tenuta comes over from Carolina to head up the GT defense. His unit at Carolina led the conference in overall defense and passing defense last year.
DE – GREG GATHERS 6-1 275 SR, Fred Wright 6-4 260 SR
DT – ALFRED MALONE 6-4 290 RS SO, Reggie Koon 6-4 300 JR, Casey Loesch 6-3 275 RS SR
DT – GARY JOHNSON 6-1 275 SR, Travis Parker 6-3 254 RS FR, Eric Henderson 6-3 260 RS FR
DE - Tony Hargrove 6-4 255 SO, Hobie Holiday 6-3 260 JR
The graduation loss of NFL drafted Nick Rogers would seem to be a big blow, but DE should continue to be a strong point of the defense with All-American Greg Gathers returning and 2 others with great potential rushing from the outside. Tony Hargrove was raved about for his play on the scout team, and saw the field near the end of last season. Hobie Holiday was highly regarded coming in, but has yet to live up to the expectations. He continues to add size, and could be a factor this year.
Both starters return in the interior defensive line. However, this was considered a weak spot in last year’s team by many, and better play will be needed, especially in the pass rush. Other teams were able to double team Gathers, and the rest of the DL had trouble getting pressure on the QB, as well as failing to contain players like Clemson’s Dantzler.
Two freshmen defensive linemen come in this year in Brad Brezina (6-3 265) and Terron Pullen (6-3 260). Barring injuries, both should be able to use a redshirt year to add size and strength.
OLB – RECARDO WIMBUSH 6-1 218 SR, Anthony Lawston 6-3 230 RS JR
MLB – DARYL SMITH 6-2 230 JR, Tabugbo Anyansi 6-1 215 SO
OLB – KEYARON FOX 6-3 220 JR, Ather Brown 6-3 220 RS JR
The strongest and deepest unit on the defense is at linebacker, which should be one of the top groups in the nation. They are led by superstar Daryl Smith in the middle. Just how dominating he can be was clearly shown by the poor performance of the defense in the second half against Clemson after he went out with injury. After returning several weeks later, he played the rest of the season with a huge cast that was almost the length of his entire arm. Even with the cumbersome cast, he was able to make the goal line stop against Stanford in the Seattle bowl.
On the outsides are senior leader Recardo Wimbush and the speedy Key Fox. Wimbush led the team in tackles two of the last 3 years. Fox will likely be backed up by dependable Ather Brown, who started two years ago before missing last season with an injury.
CB – MARVIOUS HESTER 5-11 180 RS SR, Reuben Houston 6-0 195 RS FR
CB - Jonathan Cox 5-10 185 JR, Albert Poree 5-10 190 RS JR
SS – CORY COLLINS 5-11 199 SR, Nathan Burton 6-2 200 JR, Dawan Landry 6-2 200 RS FR
FS – JEREMY MUYRES 6-3 205 SR, James Butler 6-3 208 SO
The defensive backfield has been much maligned in recent years, but looks to have a solid year this year with new defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta, who specializes in the defensive backfield.
Marvious Hester is the most experienced and most solid CB at this point. He was inconsistent at times last year, but looks to correct that in his senior year. Junior Jonathan Cox is the likely starter on the other side, replacing the departed Chris Young. Solid depth will be provided by Albert Poree, who has shown flashes in practice, and highly touted redshirt freshman Reuben Houston.
Both starters return at safety in Jeremy Muyres and Cory Collins. Muyres is an intelligent player with good instincts. He has been All-ACC the last two seasons, and likely will be this year, too. Cory Collins is a hard hitter who is excellent in run support. Depth is somewhat of a problem with Sophomore James Butler backing up Muyres, and walk-on Nathan Burton backing up Collins. Converted QB Dawan Landry looks to get in the mix, as well.
Several incoming freshmen may have an opportunity to provide depth at safety, although the incoming CBs, I-Perfection Harris (5-11 180) and Venice Gilliam (5-10 185) will likely redshirt. At safety Chris Reis (6-1 200) and Kingi McNair (6-3 217) could potentially be involved on the strong side. McNair may be a candidate to move to linebacker because of his good size.
SPECIAL TEAMS (3 returning starters)
K – LUKE MANGET 5-9 176 SR, Dan Burnett 6-2 230 SR
P – DAN DYKE 5-11 185 RS SR, Chris Morehouse 6-1 200 RS SR
PR – KELLEY RHINO 5-7 179 SR, Jonathan Smith 5-10 183 JR
The special teams have been very strong in recent years (save a few TDs returned against them), and there is no reason to believe that 2002 should be any different. Mr. Automatic Luke Manget returns for his senior year having never missed an extra point in his career. Dan Dyke and Chris Morehouse split time last year, but both averaged over 40 yards per punt. Kelley Rhino is back for another exciting year as the maniac man returning every punt with no fair catches. (By the way, his punt return average may not be as high as some others in the country, but the fact that he almost never calls a fair catch is not considered. I bet if you calculated the average per balls punted to them, and include a fair catch as a zero yard return, he would lead the nation.)
INCOMING FRESHMEN
Name..........................Pos..............Ht, Wt.......Hometown (High School)
Brad Brezina................DL.............6-3, 265.....Greensboro, Ga. (Athens Academy)
Lekeldrick Bridges......WR.............6-2, 175.....Dallas, Texas (Hillcrest)
George Cooper............TE..............6-5, 255.....Westerville, Ohio (Westerville North)
Ajenavi Eziemefe..........RB............6-2, 225.....New Orleans, La. (Edna Karr)
Venice Gilliam..............DB............5-10, 185...Tallahassee, Fla. (Rickards)
I-Perfection Harris.......DB.............5-11, 180....Staten Island, N.Y. (Poly Prep)
Eddie Lee Ivery, Jr......RB..............5-10, 175...Tampa, Fla. (Chamberlain)
David Jordan...............PK...............6-4, 195....Columbus, Ga. (Brookstone)
Michael Matthews......TE/DE..........6-4, 245....Cincinnati, Ohio (Sycamore)
Xavier McGuire..........WR..............6-4, 210.....Dallas, Texas (Carter)
Zeb McHargue............OL...............6-5, 300.....Gray, Ga. (Jones County)
Kingi McNair..............DB...............6-3, 217......Pelahatchie, Miss. (Pelahatchie)
Terron Pullen...............DL...............6-3, 260.....Wrightsville, Ga. (Johnson County)
Chris Reis...................DB................6-1, 200.....Roswell, Ga. (Roswell)
Michael Sampson........RB...............6-1, 190.....Lewisville, Texas (Lewisville)
Most of these players have been discussed above, so this will be short. A lot of people have been disappointed in the recruiting class, but they seem to forget that only 15 players were brought in. That is the only reason most of the ‘gurus’ have ranked the class low, even though there wasn’t room for any more. When you look at the caliber of the players brought in, it is very similar to Tech’s classes the last few years, when everyone thought the classes were outstanding.
COACHING
Chan Gailey - Head Coach
Brick Haley - Linebackers
Curtis Modkins - Defensive Backs
Patrick Nix - Running Backs/Recruiting Coordinator
Bill O'Brien - Assist. Head Coach/Offensive Coord./QBs
Tommy Raye - Special Teams
Tommie Robinson - Wide Receivers
Glenn Spencer - Defensive Line
Jon Tenuta - Defensive Coordinator
Joe D'Alessandris - Offensive Line
Coach Gailey has assembled an outstanding group of coaches. It is yet to be seen how they will all work together once the season is under way, but there is no reason to believe they won’t be successful. The coordinators are solid with Bill O'Brien returning to run the offense, and Jon Tenuta coming in from Carolina to head up the defense. The assistants have all had success at their past position. The head man himself also has a multitude of experience and success.
2002 SCHEDULE
8/31 – VANDERBILT (Series record 16-15-3)
9/07 – Connecticut (Series record 0-0)
9/14 – Clemson (Series record 43-21-2)
9/21 – BRIGHAM YOUNG (Series record 0-0)
9/28 – North Carolina (Series record 18-16-3)
10/5 – WAKE FOREST (Series record 18-6)
10/12 – BYE
10/17 – Maryland (Thursday Night) (Series record 10-4)
10/26 – VIRGINIA (Homecoming) (Series record 12-11-1)
11/2 – NC State (Series record 13-8)
11/9 – FLORIDA STATE (Series record 7-10-1)
11/16 – DUKE (Series record 39-29-1)
11/23 - BYE
11/30 – Georgia (Series record 38-53-5)
Georgia Tech has a career winning record against all but two teams it plays this season, and has never played two other opponents.
The season starts out with two relatively easy games at home against Vandy and on the road at UCONN. In the third contest Tech will try to get revenge for the disappointing loss to Clemson from a year ago. BYU comes to Atlanta to play the Jackets for the first time, and will try to put up a quality win against a BCS conference team.
The middle portion of the season holds most of the ACC teams. These games will be important in the conference race, especially games at NC State and at Maryland. North Carolina, Wake Forest, and Virginia cannot be overlooked, but Tech should win all three.
Not coincidentally, the two teams to which Tech has a losing record (FSU and UGA) should be the most difficult to defeat. They both come near the end of the season, and a lot can happen before then. Injuries, team morale, and momentum could play a huge role in either/both games.
CONCLUSION
Even though it is a transition year to a new coach, a 9-3 season should be the goal. 10-2 is not out of the question. Anything below an 8-4 regular season would be a disappointment. There is simply too much experience and talent on this team to finish below 3rd or, at the lowest, 4th in the conference.
If you read this far, I commend you. I apologize for the length, but I just kept thinking of more things to say. ;-)
I’ve been promising this for I don’t know how long, so here it finally is. Let me know if there are any mistakes so I can edit them and have them corrected for the fall edition. I will post this again (after editing and updating) when we get closer to kickoff with Vanderbilt on 8/31/02. I’m sure there will be a lot to update by then, especially after fall practices have been going. I know some people can’t get enough football talk, so this should provide some good reading material.
2001 Yellow Jackets review
Record: 8-5/4-4 ACC (Home games in ALL CAPS)
Syracuse………………..W, 13-7 (Kickoff Classic)
CITADEL………………W, 35-7
Navy……………………W, 70-7
CLEMSON……………..L, 44-47
Duke……………………W, 37-10
MARYLAND…………..L, 17-20
NC STATE…………….W, 27-17
NORTH CAROLINA….W, 28-21
Virginia…………………L, 38-39
Wake Forest……………W, 38-33
GEORGIA………………L, 17-31
Florida State…………….L, 17-28
Stanford………………...W, 24-14 (Seattle Bowl)
Individual Stats (Returning players in all caps)
Leading Passer: George Godsey - 3085 yards | 18 TDs | 11 INT 64.8%
Leading Rusher: Joe Burns - 1165 yards | 14 TDs | 4.1 average
Leading Receiver: Kelly Campbell - 56 rec. | 708 yards | 3 TDs
Leading Tackler: RECARDO WIMBUSH - 99 tackles
Leading Sacker: GREG GATHERS - 10 sacks
Overall Stats:
Rush. Off: 139 ypg/70th | Pass. Off: 279 ypg/17th | Tot. Off: 418 ypg/34th | Scoring Off. 31.75 ppg/28th
Rush. Def. 117 ypg/23rd | Pass. Def. 216 ypg/53rd | Tot. Def. 333 ypg/32nd | Scoring Def. 22.25 ppg/37th
Visions of the Rose Bowl danced in many Yellow Jacket heads at the beginning of the year. Alas, it was not to be. Several bad breaks and mistakes contributed to several close losses, and lowered morale for the big showdowns with UGA and FSU at the end of the season. It was one of the most disappointing seasons in recent Tech history.
All started well with a victory over a solid Syracuse team in the Kickoff Classic and dominating performances over hapless Citadel and Navy. However, September 11 would throw a wrench in the plans, and the FSU game would be moved to the end of the season. Several weeks with no games passed, and Tech would lose 3 of its next 6 games by 3 or less points. Victory was within reach in all three cases, but all three were blown at the end.
Tech seemed to be on the way to victory against Clemson with a mostly dominating first half, but Woody Dantzler scrambled for a long touchdown just before the half. Tech’s leader on defense, Daryl Smith, was lost to injury for the second half, and Dantzler had a field day with quarterback draws. The Jacket defense didn’t make the necessary adjustments, also contributing to the Dantzler-fest.
Tech’s offense got off to a slow start in the Maryland game, and didn’t get going enough in the second half. However, even though the offense struggled, Tech’s defense kept them in the game until the dreaded “prevent defense” was played near the end of the 4th quarter. Maryland drove down for the tying field goal, and won the game in overtime.
The Jackets won the next 2 games in convincing fashion over NC State and North Carolina. But, the Virginia game was a different story, and was certainly lost by the defense. When you score 38 points, you should win. Period. The 4th quarter saw 7 total TDs, and 6 failed 2 point conversions. Tech lost the game on a last second hook-and-ladder play.
At this point in the season O’Leary had lost the team, and they seemed to be uninspired the rest of the way, being dominated by hated rivals Georgia and Florida State. The final game of the season showed what the season could have been as they defeated an explosive Stanford team in the Seattle Bowl with interim Coach Mac MacWhorter at the helm.
The off-season was an interesting one with O’Leary gone to Notre Dame and Chan Gailey named as the new Head Coach. Recruiting was considered disappointing for many, but a small class should have been expected. The caliber of player brought in was similar to recent years…there just wasn’t a headliner to the class like there was in Reuben Houston in 2001 and Hobie Holiday in 2000.
Now, on to the 2002 version of the Yellow Jackets…
2002 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Head Coach – Chan Gailey (0-0 @ GT, 24-11 @ Troy State and Samford, 18-14 in NFL with Cowboys)
Chan Gailey comes to Tech with a long list of achievements in his 26 years as a coach. He has 12 years of experience at the college level, and 14 years in the NFL including a stint as the head man for the Cowboys. He took the Cowboys to the playoffs in both of his seasons, and won a I-AA national title at Troy State.
Returning Starters
Offense – 5
Defense – 9
Sp. Tm. – 3
OFFENSE (5 returning starters)
Rush. Off: 139 ypg/70th | Pass. Off: 279 ypg/17th | Tot. Off: 418 ypg/34th | Scoring Off. 31.75 ppg/28th
Offensive Coordinator – Bill O’Brien (2nd year)
Bill O’Brien returns as the offensive coordinator after directing the Jackets to the top passing offense in the league, and third in overall offense.
QB - A.J. Suggs 6-4 220 RS JR, Damarius Bilbo 6-3 220 RS FR, Brian Camp 6-1 225 RS JR
Well, Godsey is gone, and the competition is down to A.J. Suggs and Damarius Bilbo. Brian Camp should provide some quality backup.
Suggs is the typical drop back passer type QB, but has decent mobility. He started several games 2 years ago at Tennessee before losing his job to Casey Clausen. He put up some decent numbers, and played especially well in the LSU game. However, he really didn’t even have a chance to hold on to the starting spot because Clausen was Fulmer’s “golden boy”, if you will.
Bilbo is more of an athletic type QB, although he has a strong arm. He has tremendous athleticism, and could allow the offense to run an effective option attack.
So far in the competition Suggs has been the more consistent passer, while Bilbo has been the more exciting runner, ready to break off a long scramble or run at any time. With Bilbo being a redshirt freshman, Suggs will likely be the starter. However, coach Gailey has said that both QBs will be used in the games. Two quarterback systems have rarely been successful anywhere, but their contrasting styles could potentially work, forcing opponents to have to prepare for both QBs.
RB - Tony Hollings 5-10 211 JR, Jimmy Dixon 6-1 211 RS SO, Sidney Ford 5-9 205 SR, Jermaine Hatch 6-2 205 JR
FB – JOHNATHAN JACKSON 6-2 225 RS SO, Brian Johnson 6-3 240 RS FR, Mike Garlow 5-10 215 SR
Decimated by injuries, the running back position seems to be up in the air right now even though Tony Hollings was listed as the starter after spring practice. There were too many injured players in the spring to get an accurate read on how it will play out in the fall. However, with Jimmy Dixon (who played well in the spring before he was injured), Sidney Ford, and Jermaine Hatch all back in the mix, it is likely that a solid leading candidate will emerge before the Vanderbilt game.
There is cause for concern since the guy at the top of the depth chart is a converted safety and in his first season at the position. That concern was amplified in spring practice by a case of fumble-itis that needs to be corrected. Despite his problems holding onto the ball in practice, Hollings didn’t fumble in the spring game, and ran well in practice when he held onto the ball.
Jonathan Jackson started much of last year at fullback, and could do so this year, although he should be pushed by the bigger Brian Johnson. There is little to no depth after these 2 youngsters.
Three incoming freshmen join the team in the fall, but will likely either redshirt or see time only on special teams. Incoming freshman “Ace” Eziemefe (6-2 225) could possibly see time at FB if needed. Michael Sampson (6-2 190) could potentially see time on special teams because of his speed. Eddy Lee Ivery, Jr. (5-10 175) will likely use a redshirt.
WR – JONATHAN SMITH 5-10 183 JR, Kerry Watkins 5-11 186 RS SR, Mark Logan 5-11 195 RS SO
WR - Will Glover 5-10 180 SR, Nate Curry 5-10 186 RS SO, Levon Thomas 6-0 195 SO
Multiple GT record holder Kelly Campbell has graduated, but wideout is still the most stacked position on the offense, by far. Jonathan Smith dazzled onlookers in spring practice with spectacular plays, and looks to have a breakout year. Watkins and Glover are both solid senior leaders. Speedburner Nate Curry is the wild card, coming back from knee surgery after missing all of the 2001 season. Quality depth exists in Levon Thomas, who was injured most of last year, and converted QB Mark Logan.
Incoming freshmen Xavier McGuire (6-5 210) and LeKeldrick Bridges (6-3 170) will both vie for time since they are both significantly taller than any other receivers on the team. It is likely that one of them will see the field some. The only thing that has been missing from the receiving corps in recent years is a taller player like these two.
TE - John Paul Foschi 6-4 260 JR, Will Heller 6-6 250 SR, Brian Lee 6-5 245 RS SR
The more athletic John Paul Foschi steps in for the departed Russell Matvay, and should give Suggs or Bilbo another weapon to throw to. He has good size and strength, and should help open up holes for the running backs, as well. Will Heller and Brian Lee are both seniors, and will both see a lot of time, especially in 2 TE sets.
Incoming freshman George Cooper (6-5 255) could see time either at TE or DE. He has the size and athleticism to be a star some time in the future. If he is as good as they say he could contribute as a true freshman this year.
LT – NAT DORSEY 6-7 335 SO, Garren Findlay 6-5 290 SR
LG – LEON ROBINSON 6-4 310 RS SO, Brad Honeycutt 6-4 290 RS FR
C – HUGH REILLY 6-4 285 RS JR, Andy Tidwell-Neal 6-4 295 SO, Gavin Tarquinio 6-3 270 RS FR
RG - Raymond Roberts-Blake 6-2 278 SR, Clay Hartley 6-4 280 RS JR
RT - Kyle Wallace 6-5 285 SO, Salih Besirevic 6-7 263 RS FR
Schmidgall and Kemble have graduated, leaving open two starting spots on the line. Reilly moves from guard to take Schmidgall’s spot at center. Ray Roberts-Blake has started a number of games in his career, and is now listed as the full time starter at right guard. Kyle Wallace steps in at RT after being involved in the rotation with Kemble last year. First team All-ACC LT Nat Dorsey returns, as does solid LG Leon Robinson.
The left side of the line is outstanding, but the right side is somewhat of a question mark at this point. Depth is also a concern at most spots along the line. An injury to any of the starters may not be disastrous, but it would be a huge blow. The line will need to play well, especially in the first half of the season, to allow time for Suggs/Bilbo to get experience as well as give the running backs good holes to run through.
Zeb McHargue (6-6 280) is the only freshman offensive lineman coming in this year. He could potentially provide depth, but will likely use a redshirt.
DEFENSE (9 returning starters)
Rush. Def. 117 ypg/23rd | Pass. Def. 216 ypg/53rd | Tot. Def. 333 ypg/32nd | Scoring Def. 22.25 ppg/37th
Defensive Coordinator – Jon Tenuta (1st year)
Jon Tenuta comes over from Carolina to head up the GT defense. His unit at Carolina led the conference in overall defense and passing defense last year.
DE – GREG GATHERS 6-1 275 SR, Fred Wright 6-4 260 SR
DT – ALFRED MALONE 6-4 290 RS SO, Reggie Koon 6-4 300 JR, Casey Loesch 6-3 275 RS SR
DT – GARY JOHNSON 6-1 275 SR, Travis Parker 6-3 254 RS FR, Eric Henderson 6-3 260 RS FR
DE - Tony Hargrove 6-4 255 SO, Hobie Holiday 6-3 260 JR
The graduation loss of NFL drafted Nick Rogers would seem to be a big blow, but DE should continue to be a strong point of the defense with All-American Greg Gathers returning and 2 others with great potential rushing from the outside. Tony Hargrove was raved about for his play on the scout team, and saw the field near the end of last season. Hobie Holiday was highly regarded coming in, but has yet to live up to the expectations. He continues to add size, and could be a factor this year.
Both starters return in the interior defensive line. However, this was considered a weak spot in last year’s team by many, and better play will be needed, especially in the pass rush. Other teams were able to double team Gathers, and the rest of the DL had trouble getting pressure on the QB, as well as failing to contain players like Clemson’s Dantzler.
Two freshmen defensive linemen come in this year in Brad Brezina (6-3 265) and Terron Pullen (6-3 260). Barring injuries, both should be able to use a redshirt year to add size and strength.
OLB – RECARDO WIMBUSH 6-1 218 SR, Anthony Lawston 6-3 230 RS JR
MLB – DARYL SMITH 6-2 230 JR, Tabugbo Anyansi 6-1 215 SO
OLB – KEYARON FOX 6-3 220 JR, Ather Brown 6-3 220 RS JR
The strongest and deepest unit on the defense is at linebacker, which should be one of the top groups in the nation. They are led by superstar Daryl Smith in the middle. Just how dominating he can be was clearly shown by the poor performance of the defense in the second half against Clemson after he went out with injury. After returning several weeks later, he played the rest of the season with a huge cast that was almost the length of his entire arm. Even with the cumbersome cast, he was able to make the goal line stop against Stanford in the Seattle bowl.
On the outsides are senior leader Recardo Wimbush and the speedy Key Fox. Wimbush led the team in tackles two of the last 3 years. Fox will likely be backed up by dependable Ather Brown, who started two years ago before missing last season with an injury.
CB – MARVIOUS HESTER 5-11 180 RS SR, Reuben Houston 6-0 195 RS FR
CB - Jonathan Cox 5-10 185 JR, Albert Poree 5-10 190 RS JR
SS – CORY COLLINS 5-11 199 SR, Nathan Burton 6-2 200 JR, Dawan Landry 6-2 200 RS FR
FS – JEREMY MUYRES 6-3 205 SR, James Butler 6-3 208 SO
The defensive backfield has been much maligned in recent years, but looks to have a solid year this year with new defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta, who specializes in the defensive backfield.
Marvious Hester is the most experienced and most solid CB at this point. He was inconsistent at times last year, but looks to correct that in his senior year. Junior Jonathan Cox is the likely starter on the other side, replacing the departed Chris Young. Solid depth will be provided by Albert Poree, who has shown flashes in practice, and highly touted redshirt freshman Reuben Houston.
Both starters return at safety in Jeremy Muyres and Cory Collins. Muyres is an intelligent player with good instincts. He has been All-ACC the last two seasons, and likely will be this year, too. Cory Collins is a hard hitter who is excellent in run support. Depth is somewhat of a problem with Sophomore James Butler backing up Muyres, and walk-on Nathan Burton backing up Collins. Converted QB Dawan Landry looks to get in the mix, as well.
Several incoming freshmen may have an opportunity to provide depth at safety, although the incoming CBs, I-Perfection Harris (5-11 180) and Venice Gilliam (5-10 185) will likely redshirt. At safety Chris Reis (6-1 200) and Kingi McNair (6-3 217) could potentially be involved on the strong side. McNair may be a candidate to move to linebacker because of his good size.
SPECIAL TEAMS (3 returning starters)
K – LUKE MANGET 5-9 176 SR, Dan Burnett 6-2 230 SR
P – DAN DYKE 5-11 185 RS SR, Chris Morehouse 6-1 200 RS SR
PR – KELLEY RHINO 5-7 179 SR, Jonathan Smith 5-10 183 JR
The special teams have been very strong in recent years (save a few TDs returned against them), and there is no reason to believe that 2002 should be any different. Mr. Automatic Luke Manget returns for his senior year having never missed an extra point in his career. Dan Dyke and Chris Morehouse split time last year, but both averaged over 40 yards per punt. Kelley Rhino is back for another exciting year as the maniac man returning every punt with no fair catches. (By the way, his punt return average may not be as high as some others in the country, but the fact that he almost never calls a fair catch is not considered. I bet if you calculated the average per balls punted to them, and include a fair catch as a zero yard return, he would lead the nation.)
INCOMING FRESHMEN
Name..........................Pos..............Ht, Wt.......Hometown (High School)
Brad Brezina................DL.............6-3, 265.....Greensboro, Ga. (Athens Academy)
Lekeldrick Bridges......WR.............6-2, 175.....Dallas, Texas (Hillcrest)
George Cooper............TE..............6-5, 255.....Westerville, Ohio (Westerville North)
Ajenavi Eziemefe..........RB............6-2, 225.....New Orleans, La. (Edna Karr)
Venice Gilliam..............DB............5-10, 185...Tallahassee, Fla. (Rickards)
I-Perfection Harris.......DB.............5-11, 180....Staten Island, N.Y. (Poly Prep)
Eddie Lee Ivery, Jr......RB..............5-10, 175...Tampa, Fla. (Chamberlain)
David Jordan...............PK...............6-4, 195....Columbus, Ga. (Brookstone)
Michael Matthews......TE/DE..........6-4, 245....Cincinnati, Ohio (Sycamore)
Xavier McGuire..........WR..............6-4, 210.....Dallas, Texas (Carter)
Zeb McHargue............OL...............6-5, 300.....Gray, Ga. (Jones County)
Kingi McNair..............DB...............6-3, 217......Pelahatchie, Miss. (Pelahatchie)
Terron Pullen...............DL...............6-3, 260.....Wrightsville, Ga. (Johnson County)
Chris Reis...................DB................6-1, 200.....Roswell, Ga. (Roswell)
Michael Sampson........RB...............6-1, 190.....Lewisville, Texas (Lewisville)
Most of these players have been discussed above, so this will be short. A lot of people have been disappointed in the recruiting class, but they seem to forget that only 15 players were brought in. That is the only reason most of the ‘gurus’ have ranked the class low, even though there wasn’t room for any more. When you look at the caliber of the players brought in, it is very similar to Tech’s classes the last few years, when everyone thought the classes were outstanding.
COACHING
Chan Gailey - Head Coach
Brick Haley - Linebackers
Curtis Modkins - Defensive Backs
Patrick Nix - Running Backs/Recruiting Coordinator
Bill O'Brien - Assist. Head Coach/Offensive Coord./QBs
Tommy Raye - Special Teams
Tommie Robinson - Wide Receivers
Glenn Spencer - Defensive Line
Jon Tenuta - Defensive Coordinator
Joe D'Alessandris - Offensive Line
Coach Gailey has assembled an outstanding group of coaches. It is yet to be seen how they will all work together once the season is under way, but there is no reason to believe they won’t be successful. The coordinators are solid with Bill O'Brien returning to run the offense, and Jon Tenuta coming in from Carolina to head up the defense. The assistants have all had success at their past position. The head man himself also has a multitude of experience and success.
2002 SCHEDULE
8/31 – VANDERBILT (Series record 16-15-3)
9/07 – Connecticut (Series record 0-0)
9/14 – Clemson (Series record 43-21-2)
9/21 – BRIGHAM YOUNG (Series record 0-0)
9/28 – North Carolina (Series record 18-16-3)
10/5 – WAKE FOREST (Series record 18-6)
10/12 – BYE
10/17 – Maryland (Thursday Night) (Series record 10-4)
10/26 – VIRGINIA (Homecoming) (Series record 12-11-1)
11/2 – NC State (Series record 13-8)
11/9 – FLORIDA STATE (Series record 7-10-1)
11/16 – DUKE (Series record 39-29-1)
11/23 - BYE
11/30 – Georgia (Series record 38-53-5)
Georgia Tech has a career winning record against all but two teams it plays this season, and has never played two other opponents.
The season starts out with two relatively easy games at home against Vandy and on the road at UCONN. In the third contest Tech will try to get revenge for the disappointing loss to Clemson from a year ago. BYU comes to Atlanta to play the Jackets for the first time, and will try to put up a quality win against a BCS conference team.
The middle portion of the season holds most of the ACC teams. These games will be important in the conference race, especially games at NC State and at Maryland. North Carolina, Wake Forest, and Virginia cannot be overlooked, but Tech should win all three.
Not coincidentally, the two teams to which Tech has a losing record (FSU and UGA) should be the most difficult to defeat. They both come near the end of the season, and a lot can happen before then. Injuries, team morale, and momentum could play a huge role in either/both games.
CONCLUSION
Even though it is a transition year to a new coach, a 9-3 season should be the goal. 10-2 is not out of the question. Anything below an 8-4 regular season would be a disappointment. There is simply too much experience and talent on this team to finish below 3rd or, at the lowest, 4th in the conference.
If you read this far, I commend you. I apologize for the length, but I just kept thinking of more things to say. ;-)
