/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46126556/usa-today-5660458.0.jpg)
A-Back Broderick Snoddy, who suffered a gruesome leg fracture during Georgia Tech's upset win over Clemson last season, is close to a full recovery and is expected to be cleared for practice in the near future. This is great news for the track star, whose injury was right on par with the nasty break suffered by Kevin Ware during the NCAA Tournament two seasons ago. Though it was expected that Snoddy would make a full recovery, everyone seemed hesitant to commit to him continuing his football career. Those worries have been put to rest, though -- Snoddy, the only returning starting position player from last season, should be good to go for the season.
Former Georgia Tech guard Shaq Mason, an All-American who anchored Tech's rushing attack since his arrival on the Flats, could be one of the first Yellow Jackets off the board if his draft stock continues rising. Mason is by far one of the most versatile linemen in the draft; he brings his ability to play guard or center as well as some great mobility to the table, both of which help him stand out among other prospects. While many teams will be hesitant to take a chance on him due to his lack of experience in a regular blocking scheme (as well as lack of pass blocking experience), I fully expect him to get an opportunity at the next level. He could be a special player in the right situation.
The upcoming Rolling Stones concert at Bobby Dodd Stadium will do just as much for the Institute's bank account as it will for good publicity -- the performance is expected to cover "at least half" of the $500,000 portion of the athletic budget designated for cost-of-attendance. This is a fantastic idea and one that will hopefully lead to a few more concerts or similar events being held at Bobby Dodd Stadium in the future -- it is one of few outdoor stadiums in the city which are suitable for hosting an event of this size.
Georgia Tech's 2015 out-of-conference schedule ranks second in the conference in terms of toughness according to ESPN, just behind Clemson. The Jackets will play out-of-conference games this season against Alcorn State, Tulane, Notre Dame, and Georgia. It marks one of the most difficult OOC schedules in recent Tech history, especially when you consider that Tech will be playing an away game at Notre Dame and at home versus Georgia in a game which has historically felt more like a trip to Athens than a matchup at Bobby Dodd Stadium.
If Broderick Snoddy does return to 100% this season, what are your expectations from him? Will he be a solid starter or a star at the position?
Have a great Wednesday!