AJC > Sports > Tech > Blog > Archives > 2006 > September > 29
Friday, September 29, 2006
7 reasons Jackets will win
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
VT has been a perennial power in the Big East/ACC for the last decade. During that time, they’ve been unyielding on defense, phenomenal on specials teams, have recruited well, and have turned Lane Stadium into a tough place to play.
That said, I think the Yellow Jackets roll on Saturday. Not roll on their back and play dead — that’s for canines — but roll up an impressive win against the Hokies.
Foolish? Irrational? Overly optimist? Maybe so, but at least let me present my case:
Crowd noise will not be a factor. GT has experienced upperclassmen who have played in this type of environment.
There’s speed everywhere on this team. I’ve said this all year. We fly to the ball on defense. We create space on offense. Wheeler, Hall, Robertson, the Johnson boys (Calvin, Michael, James), Rashaun Grant, Kenny Scott — they’re all speedsters. And I’m leaving out many more.
Jon Tenuta is coaching our defense.
Inexperience on offense for VT, particularly at QB. The Hokies have looked shaky against teams that you shouldn’t be shaky against.
Calvin Johnson must be healthy or all bets are off (although we all saw what we can do with a gimpy leg against UVA).
Special emphasis on special teams. GT coaches have worked diligently putting the right personnel and the right schemes on the field. We must play perfect here or my prediction will prove foolish.
Reggie is playing well. He’s not racking up the statistics, but he’s playing good fundamental football with few mistakes. And he’s having fun again.
I’ll say GT 24-13.
