Halftime Analysis: GT @ Tulane

Most Tech fans probably were expecting a margin of improvement between last week's game and today's.

You could argue that Tulane is a tougher opponent, and you'd be right. But from an unbiased viewpoint, this game should not be as close as it is. For the second week in a row, GT holds a narrow lead at the halftime, only because of a last second field goal. The Jackets hold a 24-21 advantage over the Green Wave.

Tech started off on the wrong foot, turning the ball over on two of its first three drives - both of which came inside the Tech 20. Fortunately, redshirt-senior linebacker Quayshawn Nealy jumped a route for a pick six early in the second quarter to tie the game at fourteen (Tech's first score came by way of a one-yard Tim Byerly touchdown run in the first quarter).

Unfortunately, a blown coverage on the following Tulane drive resulted in a quick 61-yard touchdown for the Green Wave. The defense really struggled in the first half, but ended strongly by securing two turnovers on the next two drives: a pick by redshirt-junior defensive back Demond Smith and a turnover on downs.

Redshirt-senior A-back Tony Zenon capitalized on Smith's interception and ran it in from 19 yards out on a great run towards the end of the second quarter. Zenon was one of the few bright spots in the first half, rushing the ball six times for 63 yards and touchdown.

Tulane's next drive ground to a halt on their own 40, and the Jackets stopped them when they went for it on 4th and 3. With just under 30 seconds to go, the Jackets were able to put together a quick 21-second, 16-yard drive to set up a 46 yard field goal for Harrison Butker, who missed his first try of 34 yards earlier in the second quarter.

Last week, the Jackets played a much better second half. They will be coming out on defense to open up the third quarter shortly - hopefully they will make the right adjustments and play a little better. If you haven't already, join us in the game thread!