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Georgia Tech vs South Carolina State: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Georgia Tech got their first win of the season today against South Carolina State

Georgia Tech is now 1-1 after their win over South Carolin State. 

The Yellow Jackets had to overcome a two and a half hour rain delay before they could take on the Bulldogs, but it didn't have any noticeable effect on the team. The offense was sharp throughout the game and moved the ball at will against SCSU. The defense was not perfect, but only gave up 13 points. 

Next up is a trip to Ole Miss in Oxford next week. That is going to be a challening trip for Brent Key's team, but they are going in on a winning streak. 

Let's break down the good, the bad, and the ugly from tonight's game. 

The Good

  • A win! No matter who you play and how it gets done, winning is the objective. 
  • This was the 750th win in program history
  • 268 yards rushing and averaging 8.1 yards per carry is elite
  • Haynes King had a very good and efficient day. He finished the day 21-29 for 290 yards and four touchdowns and looked in control of the offense the entire way. 
  • Jamal Haynes had over 100 yards rushing. Haynes and Cooley are emerging as the top two backs in the backfield and that is huge for the offense. 
  • Offense averaged 8.6 yards per play. 
  • True freshman Eric Singleton Jr is going to be a star. He finished with three catches for 69 yards and a touchdown. 
  • The offensive line gave up no sacks. 
  • Ethan Mackenny made his first start at left tackle
  • Kyle Kennard came up with two huge turnovers, including an interception on the first drive
  • The linebackers got plenty of chance to play. Kyle Efford, Braelen Oliver, Paul Moala, and Trenilyas Tatum all got a lot of playing time. It is important that Georgia Tech develops depth at the position
  • Dominick Blaylock and Malik Rutherford both had solid games
  • The offense was 5-6 in the red zone
  • Georgia Tech never punted 
  • Aidan Birr came in to replace Gavin Stewart and hit two field goals
  • GT scored 14 points off of turnovers
  • Only committed three penalties
  • The pass defense did not allow any big plays

The Bad

  • While Birr did come in and hit two field goals, it was unfortunate to see Stewart to continue to struggle. 
  • Giving up 196 yards rushing. SCSU is a run heavy team, but Georgia Tech is the more talented team. 

The Ugly

  • It is hard to find much ugly here, but the tackling is still a big issue and against Ole Miss and other teams, that could spell big trouble
  • Cooley fumbled on the goal line and cost GT points
  • SCSU was 7-15 on third down. A downgrade from the performance against Louisville. 

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