AJC > Sports > Tech > Blog > Archives > 2006 > November > 30
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Keeping it simple on offense
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Judging from what people are saying to me, and what I’m reading, all the suggestions for Tech offensive coordinator Patrick Nix leading into the ACC Championship Game can be boiled down to two: 1. Throw in some easy passes (screens, etc.) to boost Reggie Ball’s confidence, and; 2. Run the heck out of Tashard Choice.
Can’t argue the logic on either one. I really have to wonder if, despite what Reggie said after the game, he wasn’t so geeked up for the Georgia game that he played the way he played. I bet he’s in a much better frame of mind for this one, the recent avalanche of criticism notwithstanding, and therefore a pretty good bet to play much better.
With regards to Tashard, what’s to argue? Dude led the ACC in rushing even though Clemson’s James Davis had a huge head start through six or seven games, and Branden Ore plays for a run-oriented coach.
Hate to beat a drum here, but I can’t stop wondering if fullback Mike Cox and the tight ends might not help Tech, if Nix will use them. Maybe that’s just me.
Scattershooting …
If the rumors about Texas making a run at DC Jon Tenuta prove to be true (and if they are, it may not happen until next week, after Tech’s finished playing), he certainly has a track record for changing jobs. Just look at his resume. That said, Tech’s paying him about $400,000, on par with the very highest-paid assistants in the nation, and even though Texas has deep pockets, I think he and his wife and boys are quite happy in Atlanta.
What he really wants is to be a head coach, and at a BCS school, not some D-IAA program, or low level D-I job. Texas would offer more exposure, not to mention the chance to work with — and recruit — a hell of a breed of athlete. Of course, Michigan had plenty to offer last year, and he didn’t end up at Michigan.
As for Patrick Nix and Tulane, I doubt it. That’s a tough job, very difficult, and not helped by Katrina. But what do I know?
Crime of the week: Tashard not being first team All-ACC.
Lower-level surprises: Philip Wheeler not being first team, Kenny Scott not even being mentioned (guess his reputation for inconsistent work habits, and low interception total hurt, huh?).
Funny thing, the player on that defense who may translate into one of, if not the best, pro is DE Michael Johnson. What an athlete. I can’t say that enough. Reminds me of Julius Peppers.
Later.
