Tech linebackers still in competition

Georgia Tech fans cheer after wide receiver Kyric McGowan (2) scored a touchdown during the first half Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, against Northern Illinois at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin / Hyosub.Shin@ajc.com)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Georgia Tech fans cheer after wide receiver Kyric McGowan (2) scored a touchdown during the first half Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, against Northern Illinois at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin / Hyosub.Shin@ajc.com)

Georgia Tech linebacker Charlie Thomas earned a start in the season opener with his play in the preseason. His play against Northern Illinois last Saturday would suggest he’s in position to keep it.

Thomas, in a competition with Quez Jackson for the starting job alongside Ayinde Eley, got the nod for the season opener last Saturday at Bobby Dodd Stadium, though Jackson received plenty of playing time, as did freshman Trenilyas Tatum. Thomas started 11 games as a freshman and sophomore, but was a backup last season as a junior.

Georgia Tech linebacker Quez Jackson (4) celebrates after recovering a fumble during the second half Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, against Northern Illinois at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin / Hyosub.Shin@ajc.com)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

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Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Against the Huskies, Eley led the team with 11 tackles, followed by Jackson, Thomas and safety Juanyeh Thomas, each with seven. Thomas did a good job of pursuing the ball and tackling well in the open field, using his size, speed and reach to his advantage.

“He played at an elite level,” defensive coordinator Andrew Thacker said. “Very proud of him and we’ll really look forward to him having a great season.”

Tech plays Kennesaw State Saturday at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

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