Georgia Tech backup quarterback Tim Byerly will not play in Saturday’s game after injuring his knee in practice Monday, but coach Paul Johnson indicated that he could return in later weeks.
“We’ll see,” Johnson said following practice Wednesday. “We’ve just got to see. Well take it day by day and see how it goes.”
Redshirt freshman Matthew Jordan, who was an early enrollee in 2014 and was a quarterback until he was moved to A-back at the start of preseason camp to give him a chance to play, will be the No. 2 quarterback behind starter Justin Thomas for Saturday’s game against Tulane at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Jordan played the first game of his career in last Thursday’s season opener, rushing three times for 18 yards.
“He’s been out there (at A-back) all camp, but he’s played some of both,” Johnson said. “He knows what to do. He’s been here. This is his third year.”
Johnson said the change in the depth chart will not affect the game plan for the matchup with Tulane.
Byerly earned Johnson’s trust with his effective leadership of the offense and his bullish running style, which Johnson has often employed in goal-line and short-yardage situations to gain tough yards. Byerly’s seven rushing touchdowns last season, on 45 attempts, were fourth most on the team.
“Justin’s not the biggest cat in the world,” Johnson said earlier this week, before the injury. “If you’re going to run follow plays down there and stuff like that, Tim’s just better at it.”
For the time being, Johnson may have to look to different methods at the goal line. Giving the ball to B-back Patrick Skov, the rugged 235-pounder, likely would do the trick.
