Georgia Tech couldn’t have picked a worse opponent for a bounce-back game.
After an ugly 14-13 loss to Colorado, the Yellow Jackets now welcome No. 18 Tennessee to Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday night. Tech managed only 51 rushing yards in the opener and watched its potential game-winning field goal get blocked as time expired.
Tennessee had a completely different Week 1.
The Vols destroyed Furman 56-9, producing 638 total yards behind an impressive debut from true freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon. Brandon threw for 226 yards and three touchdowns while adding 68 rushing yards and two more scores.
Now we get to see what Brandon looks like in his first real road environment.
Georgia Tech should make things much more difficult than Furman did, and I expect Brent Key’s team to play with some desperation after last week’s performance.
But Tennessee’s defense could be the difference.
The Vols recorded seven sacks against Furman, and star linebacker Arion Carter returns after serving his one-game suspension. Meanwhile, Georgia Tech’s inability to establish the run against Colorado is a major concern.
The Yellow Jackets need Alberto Mendoza to make plays through the air, but becoming one-dimensional against Tennessee isn’t a great formula.
Georgia Tech keeps this competitive early.
Eventually, Tennessee’s running game, defensive front and explosive playmakers take control.
The Vols move to 2-0.
