Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson said Monday that the hit that defensive tackle Adam Gotsis earned him a disqualification from Saturday’s North Carolina game looked like “an old-school form tackle.” But Johnson also acknowledged that, by the rule, Gotsis’ ejection was merited.

Gotsis was disqualified for targeting when he hit North Carolina quarterback Marquise Williams as he released a pass early in the second quarter. NCAA rules state that a player who makes helmet-to-helmet contact with a defenseless player - the definition of which includes a player who is throwing or has just thrown a pass – will be disqualified. Gotsis did not lead with the crown of his helmet, but there was unmistakable contact between Gotsis’ facemask and Williams’.

“The definition is helmet to helmet, and it was,” Johnson said.

Johnson said he wants the game to be safer, but also wants officials to be able to have latitude in determining if a player should be ejected.

“I think there needs to be some room in there for common sense judgment,” Johnson said. “Give ’em the 15 yards if it’s helmet to helmet, but unless somebody’s taking a cheap shot, let ’em play football a little bit.”

Gotsis’ ejection played a significant role in the game, which the Jackets ultimately lost 38-31, as Tech lost one of its team captains and best defensive players.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Colorado wide receiver Travis Hunter runs after catching a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Central Florida on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in Orlando, Fla. (Phelan M. Ebenhack/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff speaks to constituents during a Town Hall his office held on Friday, April 25, 2025, in Atlanta, at Cobb County Civic Center. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution/Jason Allen)

Credit: Atlanta Journal-Constitution