Bruce Jordan-Swilling’s goal was to be a part of the action in his first start for Georgia Tech.

That advice came from someone who would know: his dad, former Tech linebacker Pat Swilling, a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

The freshman linebacker succeeded, tying for the team lead in tackles, with 11, as well as forcing a fumble and returning an interception 27 yards for a touchdown in the 40-36 loss to Virginia on Saturday in Charlottesville.

“I can’t do nothing if I’m not about around the ball,” Jordan-Swilling said. “If you’re not around the ball it makes no sense to be in the game.”

Jordan-Swilling started in place of the injured Brant Mitchell. With Mitchell’s status for Saturday’s game against Virginia Tech unclear until the injury reports are released Thursday, Jordan-Swilling could make his second consecutive start.

After watching film of the Virginia game at least three times, Jordan-Swilling said he would grade himself a “C.” That grade may have been better had the Yellow Jackets been able to hold onto their late lead and secure the victory.

Jordan-Swilling said wants to improve at attacking the line of scrimmage, getting the calls to everyone and just playing better overall.

Coach Paul Johnson said there were times that Jordan-Swilling may have lined up wrong, but he was proud of how he played and his production.

Producing hasn’t been a problem for the four-star recruit from New Orleans. Though he has just one start, Jordan-Swilling ranks fifth on team in tackles (30).

“He’s finding the ball,” teammate Lawrence Austin said. “The game’s all about the ball.”

About the Author

Keep Reading

Hillgrove’s Daniel Okonkwo (left) and Chris Carbin (right) wrap Harrison’s Xavier Hill (center) up in a tackle in the second half of a game. Carbin will be playing for Georgia Tech (Daniel Varnado for the AJC 2023)

Featured

UPS driver Dan Partyka delivers an overnight package. As more people buy more goods online, the rapid and unrelenting expansion of e-commerce is causing real challenges for the Sandy-Springs based company. (Bob Andres/AJC 2022)

Credit: TNS