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Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Points at a Premium
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tech has played its last two games in the teens (19-16 win over B.C., 20-17 loss to VT), but that might seem like an offensive explosion come Saturday.
Everyone saw Mississippi State hold Auburn to a field goal — and lose, 3-2. The Bulldogs rank 103rd (out of 119) in the nation in total offense. Against the Tigers, QB Wesley Carroll hit 10 of 25 throws for 78 yards, with an interception. RB Anthony Dixon gained 5 yards on 7 carries.
But as bad as their offense is, their defense has been that good.
MSU has allowed three touchdowns all season: One came late in a blowout of Southeast Louisiana, and the others came on scoring drives of 9 and 13 yards (following turnovers).
CPJ raved about the Bulldogs’ secondary Tuesday, and their entire defense.
Tech’s defense has been good, sometimes great. This week the Jackets get back LB Anthony Barnes (and hopefully DT Vance Walker is able to play).
Tech ranks second in the ACC and fourth nationally in pass defense (108.7 yards per game). And how about this? Tech has allowed just three plays of 20-plus yards.
Listening to CPJ on Tuesday, he believes this defense can find a higher gear.
We have yet to see Michael Johnson’s breakout game. It could come Saturday. You know he wants to atone for that big facemask penalty last week.
So do you think we’re in for a 10-6 type of game? If so, do you like those kinds of defensive struggles or do you find them boring?
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