Boston College at Georgia Tech: 5 Big Questions
By Joe Micik
4. How will the Al Groh-less Georgia Tech defense look?
Good question, me. The Yellow Jackets’ defensive coordinator, Al Groh, was fired on October 8. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (article previously cited) notes that their having allowed 40+ points in three consecutive games is the longest such stretch in Georgia Tech history. I’ll say that will get a defensive coordinator fired (well, at schools other than BC, where the Eagles came within 6 more Army points of the same “feat”).
The interim is Charles Kelly, defensive backs coach. The Jackets also shuffled around their defensive coaches to try to repair what problems they had. As it is the first game they will go without Groh, nobody can truly say how they will play until it happens, but there are two potential factors working in GT’s favor. First is their bye week to regroup, and second is a fresh voice. Neither may end up making a difference.
Prior to Groh’s dismissal, Georgia Tech was 83rd in scoring defense and 89th in total defense. That can’t be turned around immediately, but this could give the team a bit of a spark.