AJC > Sports > Tech > Blog > Archives > 2008 > October > 23
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Sizable challenge against UVa
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s what Tech is up against Saturday:
Bookend 6-foot-7 defensive ends (Can you imagine going against two Michael Johnsons? Not saying these guys, senior Alex Field and redshirt freshman Matt Conrath, are in his class, by the way.)
An outside linebacker CPJ called “NFL-sized.” He’s referring to ACC sacks leader Clint Sintim, who is 6-3, 254.
Virgina’s O-line also is beefy: four 300-plus pounders and a 290-pound center. The Cavaliers have a 6-foot-7 right tackle and a 6-6 left tackle, Eugene Monroe, who will be a high NFL draft pick.
Speaking of the defensive line, CPJ said, “These guys are tall and big and cover a lot of space.”
VIrginia has held three of its last four opponents — Duke, Maryland and East Carolina — under 100 yards rushing.
Of course it would be surprising, and probably a loss, if Tech doesn’t manage at least 150 on the ground. The Jackets are committed to it and CPJ has shown he will keep running until Tech breaks one. Tech is averaging 248 rushing yards, ninth-most in the nation.
Player after player has told us about the benefits of patience. They keep running the option and eventually someone goes for 30, 40 or all the way. The guess is that patience will be required again Saturday.
Tech isn’t likely to run right through a defense like this. The question is, can the Jackets hit enough plays to win?
