Georgia Tech: Opponents at a Glance Q&A
The calendar has turned to July, and it’s time that we wrap up our Opponents at a Glance Q&A series taking a look at each of Georgia’s major opponents in 2024. We’re appreciative of everybody who we’ve talked to along the way as they know the teams better than anybody else, providing valuable insight for us as we have questions about who it is the Bulldogs will see. Don’t be surprised if we end up talking to several of the same names this fall to preview the matchups on a weekly basis, but before then, we give Georgia Tech the final Opponents at a Glance treatment with Bryce Koon of The Crowded Booth!
In case you missed it, here’s our earlier look at Georgia Tech this offseason!
Q: In his first full season as head coach, Brent Key had Georgia Tech in a bowl game for the first time since 2018 last season. What do you think is the biggest key to maintaining that momentum?
It comes down to two things and will be a common thread of this Q&A. 1) Can Haynes King cut down on his turnovers and 2) Can this defense improve upon what was one of the worst seasons in program history? Starting with King, Tech fans will figure out very quickly if the veteran quarterback is more than just a high-risk, high-reward type of player. This team finally found an answer for the position last year after a revolving door over the last few seasons, but if King can improve upon last season, he could be one of the top quarterbacks in the conference by season’s end. With the defense, if this group can find an identity under new coordinator Tyler Santucci, that will be a positive step in the right direction. Thos two factors, if met, will lead to another year of improvement for Key and staff.
Q: Haynes King gave Georgia some trouble in last season’s matchup. In what areas do you still think the starting quarterback can improve? Where are you most confident in his game?
Cited it earlier, but cutting down on turnovers and becoming more decisive overall. King has all the abilities to be the number one guy in the ACC this year. He has a nice combination of running and throwing that can keep teams off balance. However, specifically in the passing game, King needs to be more assertive in his reads and timely in his decision-making. If he can improve those two, then the Jackets’ signal caller can take that next step.
Q: Tech’s highest-rated signee was a wide receiver. The Yellow Jackets managed to hold onto Eric Singleton and Malik Rutherford. Jamal Haynes also returns at running back. What should folks know about the Georgia Tech offense that surrounds the talented quarterback?
They return the bulk of their offensive line and most skill talent. They add MTSU transfer Keylan Rutledge to bolster the offensive line while looking to rely on Brett Seither to head up the tight end spot. The wideout spot has the potential to be exciting as a healthy Chase Lane, Christian LEary and Malik Rutherford will all help take some of the attention off of Singleton. Jamal Haynes is a dude who needs some help in the backfield. Fans should keep an eye on true freshman Anthony Carrie, who was the talk of spring ball and could challenge veteran Trey Cooley for some snaps. The big questions for me: Can Singleton keep growing despite the attention now being on him in year two?
Q: Georgia Tech let go of its entire coaching staff on the defensive side of the ball. What was the biggest issue for the Yellow Jackets last season, and what can be expected of the unit this year?
Flat out, the Jackets could not stop the run at all. Linebacker play was sometimes putrid, and there needed to be more cohesion from all eleven guys. Under Santucci, I believe players’ communication and positioning will be better. But did they do enough in the portal to upgrade the front seven? I like the addition of EJ Lightsey to the linebacker room, but what about the defensive line. A couple of winter portal additions didn’t work out, and new homes have already been found, while two late ads are expected to contribute early on. The unit will be aggressive under Santucci and his ability to transform Duke’s defense into one of the ACC’s best is something that Jacket fans will hope to see happen in Atlanta. It will be a growing opportunity for this side of the ball, but this unit needs to be in the top 75 or even 60 to help move this team forward.
Q: Who is one player on each side of the ball you would circle as a breakout candidate in 2024? What is the biggest key for Georgia Tech on each side of the ball to improve?
Offense, I’ll go with Malik Rutherford. I know he is a name that is still in the blue, but with a lot of focus heading towards Singleton it will create one-on-one matchups for the redshirt junior. He’s coming off a year where he caught four touchdowns and tallied over 500 yards, but 2024 could be an even bigger season. Defensively, I’m going to go with interior tackle Horace Lockett. This is a position of concern for the defense, and the sophomore should be poised for good number of reps in the middle of the defense. Can he take advantage? The key to offense improving is to limit self-inflicted mistakes. This group could have won 7 or maybe even 8 regular season games if they could have gotten out of their way. Defensively, limit the big plays and continue to be opportunistic. They were a bunch that could create turnovers last year, but if they can limit the big plays, they could make a nice leap in 2024.
Earlier Opponent Q&As
Clemson Tigers
Kentucky Wildcats
Alabama Crimson Tide
Auburn Tigers
Mississippi State Bulldogs
Texas Longhorns
Florida Gators
Ole Miss Rebels
Tennessee Volunteers
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