From The Rumble Seat - 2013 Game PreviewsDrinkin' whiskey clear since 2008.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52811/From_The_Rumble_Seat_Minimal.0..png2013-08-24T14:33:03-04:00http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/rss/stream/43803252013-08-24T14:33:03-04:002013-08-24T14:33:03-04:00Game Previews: Tech vs uga bulldogs, November 30
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<figcaption>Scott Cunningham</figcaption>
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<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff continues today with a look at our matchup against our in-state rivals.</p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 7 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>university (sic) of georgia bulldogs -- Athens, GA</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>12-2 (7-2 SEC), Capital One Bowl Win against Nebraska 45-31</p>
<h5>Points Scored/Allowed Per Game:</h5>
<p>37.8/19.6</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Offensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>285.1/182.6 -- 1.561</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Defensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>175.6/182.1 -- 0.964</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<p>How much needs to be said here? CPJ is the only Tech coach to record a win over Mark Richt, but that happened almost 5 years ago and the results haven't been improving since. Last year they were an offensive juggernaut, extremely balanced while also extremely powerful.
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<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2013/6/4/4394440/georgia-football-2013-preview-schedule-roster">
<h2>Bill C's 2013 uga Preview</h2>
<img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/14174739/157285425.0_standard_709.0.jpg" alt=""></a>
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The defense was incredibly impressive too, but inexplicably struggled with stopping the run for a defense who had 7 players drafted. If there's a question mark in Athens this year, it's the defense, who has some big shoes to fill at a number of positions. In fact, it's the depleted defense that I'm predicting they lose their first two games against Clemson and South Carolina -- even though they may not lose any games between then and our matchup.
<p>If this game were week 1, I'd predict that we could take advantage of their lack of experience and really abuse them on the way to a 10-point win. However, with the game as late in the season as it is, their defense will be comfortable and their offense rolling. It pains me to say it, but I have a hard time seeing us beating uga...again. The key to victory for Georgia Tech will probably be the play of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/78599/aaron-murray">Aaron Murray</a>. If their offense is rolling and scoring a bunch of points, we're going to struggle to keep up. If Murray is injured, unfocused, or is just "off", Tech will have a shot to win. In any case, I don't see Tech hitting 30 points against this defense in Week 12, meaning to win it will need to be a low scoring game.</p>
<h5>uga Wins If:</h5>
<p>The defense is firing on all cylinders, and Aaron Murray is playing as well as we've come to expect. If the dogs can score 30 points, it's going to be nearly impossible for Tech to keep pace given the high-quality uga defense.</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They are able to score a lot of points to keep pace with uga's high-octane offense. Any defensive stops, especially the creation of turnovers and three-and-outs, will be huge. The longer that they can keep uga's offense from getting into rhythm, the better.</p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>uga 31, Tech 24</p>
<p><b><i>I'm going to be perpetually pessimistic in this rivalry until the tides clearly turn, and this year is no exception. Is this the year that CPJ puts another one in the "W" column against Mark Richt?</i></b></p>
<h4>More From The Rumble Seat:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/24/4654000/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-uga?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets vs uga bulldogs, November 30</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/23/4650360/monday-mailbag-8-26-questions?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Monday Mailbag 8/26 Questions</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/23/4650328/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-alabama-a-m-november-23?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets vs Alabama A&M, November 23</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/23/4649494/game-previews-yellow-jackets-clemson-tigers-november-14?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets @ Clemson Tigers, November 14</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/22/4647244/gt-pros-update-week-2-of-the-nfl-preseason?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">GT Pros Update: Week 2 of the NFL Preseason</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/24/4654000/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-ugaJoey Weaver2013-08-23T09:00:08-04:002013-08-23T09:00:08-04:00Game Previews: Tech vs Alabama A&M, November 23
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<figcaption>Danny Karnik/Georgia Tech Athletics</figcaption>
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<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff continues today with a look at our matchup against Alabama A&M.</p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 8 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University Bulldogs -- Huntsville, AL</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>7-4 (6-3 SWAC)</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<p>In all honesty, I'm a bit torn on whether or not I like this game the week before Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate. On one side, it gives a full 17 days between Clemson and uga and should ensure that our players are healthy and ready to go for our post-Thanksgiving showdown. On the other hand, it provides us with a marvelous opportunity at a trap game. In between our two biggest rivals, we'll be playing a team that's fairly serviceable for an FCS-level team. They're going to travel well to Atlanta, they're going to be excited to play on a big stage, and our players will be disinterested by the end of the first couple of drives, looking forward to the next week's game.</p>
<p>Even still, this Alabama A&M team lost by a score of 51-7 to a very bad Auburn team last year, one of only 3 wins they managed all season. Hopefully they don't present too big of an issue to Tech and provide a nice opportunity to prepare for the regular season finale.</p>
<h5>Alabama A&M Wins If:</h5>
<p>They can catch Tech napping, play an inspired game in front of lots of their own fans, and avoid mistakes. The chances of this happening are worse than Tech's chances of beating uga the following week.</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They don't screw it up and take care of business. They'll need to ensure that as many players as possible are healthy coming out of this game as we look towards the following weekend.</p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>Georgia Tech 60, Alabama A&M 13</p>
<p><b><i>Is this the definition of a trap game, or is there no way that Tech loses this one?</i></b></p>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/23/4650328/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-alabama-a-m-november-23Joey Weaver2013-08-23T06:00:08-04:002013-08-23T06:00:08-04:00Game Previews: Tech @ Clemson Tigers, November 14
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<figcaption>Danny Karnik/Georgia Tech Athletics</figcaption>
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<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff resumes after a day off yesterday with a look at our matchup against Clemson.</p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 8 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>Clemson University Tigers -- Clemson, SC</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>11-2 (7-1 ACC), Chik-fil-A Bowl Win over LSU 25-24</p>
<h5>Points Scored/Allowed Per Game:</h5>
<p>41.0/24.8</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Offensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>321.2/191.5 -- 1.677</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Defensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>240.3/156.2 -- 1.538</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<p>Clemson was a pretty great team last year -- their CFA Bowl win over LSU was one of the best wins of the year by an ACC team, if not the single best. This year, they'll take a step past Florida State and <a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/7/30/4570026/acc-predictions-atlantic-division" target="_blank">win the Atlantic Division</a>. However, just because they're the best in the Division doesn't mean that they'll sweep the ACC. </p>
<div class="sidebar"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2013/8/14/4610928/2013-clemson-football-schedule-roster-preview/in/4357949">
<h2>Bill C's Preview of Clemson</h2>
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<p>Also, just because it's a Thursday night game at home doesn't mean they'll win. For some odd reason, no matter how good Clemson is they always get a good game from Tech. (Similarly, no matter how good Tech is they always get a good game from Clemson.) This particular renewing of the rivalry will happen in Death Valley on a Thursday night in November -- no doubt one of the most incredible environments the Jackets will see all year. (Before you criticize my praise of Death Valley, you should know that a very prominent player from the CPJ era, who will remain unnamed, has told me that Death Valley was his absolute favorite place to play outside of Bobby Dodd Stadium.)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Clemson was tough last year. They should be at least as tough this year. Their biggest losses are their top RB, their top WR, their top TE, their Center, their top Weakside Linebacker, and their top 3 DBs. That said, at all of these positions the Tigers have a ton of firepower to reload, especially at RB and WR. Statistically, the offense is a top-10 unit nationally at 9th while the defense is very middle-of-the-road at 64th. The key to this game will probably be the Clemson Offense/Georgia Tech Defense matchup. The past few years have seen Clemson's offensive output take a dive when they play Georgia Tech, but it's hard to bank on that continuing to happen as the unit gets stronger and stronger. That said, Tech's defense will be improved this year and by November should be in full stride. If they can keep the game close and create a couple of turnovers, especially late in the game, they'll be in good position in the back half of the 4th quarter. However, let Clemson start rolling, and it might be over at halftime.</p>
<h5>Clemson Wins If:</h5>
<p>They can open up an early lead and build momentum in front of an electric Thursday night Death Valley crowd. Their defense needs to get off the field early and often to avoid being majorly winded late in the game, especially with Georgia Tech's ball-control-centric offense.</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They are able to keep it close and capitalize on any 4th quarter mistakes that Clemson's offense makes. They need to minimize the three-and-outs and keep Clemson's defense on the field, hopefully ending in them being winded late in the game. The defense needs to contain Clemson's offense, which specializes in quick strikes and is capable of running 90-100 plays per game -- if that ends up being the case, the defense does not have the depth to contain them.</p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>Clemson 41, Georgia Tech 27</p>
<p><b><i>I think Georgia Tech gives the Tigers a good game but Clemson wins with a late score to seal it. The Jackets' defensive depth will be the issue in a game against such a fast-paced offense. Maybe you think this is our year to upset the Tigers in Death Valley though?</i></b></p>
<h4>More From The Rumble Seat:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/22/4647244/gt-pros-update-week-2-of-the-nfl-preseason?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">GT Pros Update: Week 2 of the NFL Preseason</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/21/4642546/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-pittsburgh-panthers-november-2-hc?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets vs Pittsburgh Panthers, November 2 (HC)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/21/4642486/tuesday-tailgate-9-techwood-drive?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Tuesday Tailgate: (9) Techwood Drive</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/20/4639076/georgia-tech-football-new-depth-chart-released?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Georgia Tech Football: New Depth Chart Released</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/20/4639002/game-previews-yellow-jackets-virginia-cavaliers-october-26?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets @ Virginia Cavaliers, October 26</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/23/4649494/game-previews-yellow-jackets-clemson-tigers-november-14Joey Weaver2013-08-21T09:00:10-04:002013-08-21T09:00:10-04:00Game Previews: Tech vs Pitt Panthers, Nov 2 (HC)
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<figcaption>Danny Karnik/Georgia Tech Athletics</figcaption>
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<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff rambles on today with a look at our Homecoming matchup against ACC-newcomer Pittsburgh.</p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 10 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>University of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/pittsburgh-panthers">Pittsburgh Panthers</a> -- Pittsburgh, PA</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>6-7 (3-4 Big East), BBVA Compass Bowl Loss to Ole Miss 38-17</p>
<h5>Points Scored/Allowed Per Game:</h5>
<p>26.6/21.1</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Offensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>257.0/133.1 -- 1.931</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Defensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>194.2/136.4 -- 1.424</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<div class="sidebar"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2013/8/13/4608424/pittsburgh-panthers-football-2013-preview-schedule-roster/in/4357949">
<h2>Bill C's Preview of Pittsburgh</h2>
<img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17806451/152028946.0_standard_709.0.jpg"></a></div>
<p>Here's where you're lucky that I'm a Louisville fan -- I've actually been scouting these guys for years. Last season Pitt had some pretty high peaks and some sickening low points. They scored a 2 TD win over #13 Virginia Tech in September, followed by a 3 OT, 29-26 loss on the road to national runner-up Notre Dame and a 3 TD win over #19 Rutgers to attain bowl eligibility. Now, consider that they lost by two touchdowns in their first game against FCS Youngstown State and got shellacked in their bowl game against Ole Miss, and you can see how the season was an emotional rollercoaster for Panther fans. They'll effectively be starting over at QB after the graduation of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/37486/tino-sunseri">Tino Sunseri</a> -- his backups combined for 85 passes in their most recent season of football, with Tom Savage's 83 as the QB of Rutgers in 2010 accounting for almost all of them. Savage has been named the starter, but between a transfer to Arizona followed by a transfer to Pitt, he hasn't seen game action since about the time <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/4915/josh-nesbitt">Josh Nesbitt</a> last did. This will be important to their offense because they're a pass-first offense according to their near 2:1 ratio of passing-to-rushing yards, and also because they'll be replacing their two best RBs. Ray Graham was last year's leading rusher and first-team All Big East, but this fall will be wearing a Houston Texans jersey. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160700/rushel-shell">Rushel Shell</a> was their second-leading rusher, and has transferred to West Virginia of all places. Now consider that they return their leading receiver from last year, but not #2-6, and they'll be replacing their All-Big East Center...you get the picture, the offense will be rough.</p>
<p>Their defense returns for the most part, and is the part that Tech should worry about. Last year they were a very stout unit, ranking in the top 20 in passing and total defense, and the top 35 in rushing and scoring defense. It should be comforting to know that their rushing defense is the softer spot, but also concerning that they'll have a ton of talent in the box. Then again, it'll be their first time facing Paul Johnson's Yellow Jackets, and while they've experienced similar offenses Johnson may pull something out of his bag of tricks early to try and get ahead.</p>
<h5>Pitt Wins If:</h5>
<p>They can slow Tech's offense early, so that they prevent any momentum from being gained and take the sellout Homecoming crowd out of the game. Offensively they need to limit mistakes, protect their QB, and develop momentum with their passing game. If they get a lead, they must keep their foot on the gas and attempt to bury a team that will be on fire from their Homecoming crowd.</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They are able to score once or twice in the first quarter to open up a lead and draw the crowd in. Ball control will be very helpful when taking on a passing-focused offense such as Pittsburgh's. The defense needs to attack the backfield and disrupt the passing game, preventing rhythm from being established.</p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>Georgia Tech 31, Pittsburgh 27</p>
<p><b><i>I think this game ends up a lot closer than we're expecting. Pitt's offense will have found its identity by this point and its defense will be tough. Do you think Tech pulls it off, or do we suffer our second straight Homecoming loss?</i></b></p>
<h4>More From The Rumble Seat:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/20/4639076/georgia-tech-football-new-depth-chart-released?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Georgia Tech Football: New Depth Chart Released</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/20/4639002/game-previews-yellow-jackets-virginia-cavaliers-october-26?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets @ Virginia Cavaliers, October 26</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/19/4635344/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-syracuse-orange-october-19?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets vs Syracuse Orange, October 19</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/18/4631968/game-previews-yellow-jackets-byu-cougars-october-12?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets @ BYU Cougars, October 12</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/17/4628314/game-previews-yellow-jackets-miami-hurricanes-october-5?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets @ Miami Hurricanes, October 5</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/21/4642546/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-pittsburgh-panthers-november-2-hcJoey Weaver2013-08-20T06:00:03-04:002013-08-20T06:00:03-04:00Game Previews: Tech @ UVA Cavaliers, October 26
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/dWal65t59Z_XYYcdmwcWYouQJFE=/0x9:960x649/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18136397/598646_10100322757967369_1930951495_n.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Danny Karnik/Georgia Tech Athletics</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff rambles on today as we look at the Jackets trying to avoid the curse of Charlottesville. </p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 11 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>University of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/virginia-cavaliers">Virginia Cavaliers</a> -- Charlottesville, VA</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>4-8 (2-6 ACC)</p>
<h5>Points Scored/Allowed Per Game:</h5>
<p>22.8/28.9</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Offensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>268.0/128.5 -- 2.086</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Defensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>208.4/144.9 -- 1.438</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<div class="sidebar"><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2012/9/15/3339160/initial-impressions-following-georgia-techs-payback">
<h2>Remembering Last Year's Beatdown</h2>
<img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/5530787/20120915_ajw_aw5_267_extra_large_medium.jpg"></a></div>
<p>Here's what I know -- Virginia wasn't very good last year, and shouldn't be any better this year (especially their offense). Georgia Tech slaughtered them last year by a score of 56-20, with Virginia scoring a touchdown on the last play of the game to turn a 6 touchdown game into a 5 touchdown game. However, that was at Bobby Dodd Stadium. A year prior, the Jackets went to Charlottesville with a 6-0 record to take on a 3-2 Virginia team on their Homecoming and looked absolutely awful, managing 2 offensive touchdowns and losing 24-21. Weird things happen up there. When Tech won in Charlottesville in 2009, you'll recall that it was their first win there since the National Championship season of 1990.</p>
<p>Virginia loses their top 2 QBs, 2 of their top 3 RBs, 2 of their top 3 TEs, their first-team All-ACC LT, 3 of their top 5 D-Linemen, their top 2 LBs, and their top partridge in a pear tree. This team struggled for much of last year, and doesn't figure to be much better this year. Their best units will likely be their wide receivers and secondary, with a good chance of the O-Line being really solid too. The issue will be QB and the front 7, where they have talent that happens to be extremely undeveloped. RB <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114645/kevin-parks">Kevin Parks</a> will be dangerous behind their O-Line, but one has to wonder whether their receiving corps will even have a shot to get the ball from a set of very young QBs.</p>
<h5>Virginia Wins If:</h5>
<p>They can establish the run and slow Tech's pass rush enough to get the ball to their receivers. They need to avoid mistakes on offense and stop the Yellow Jackets from gaining momentum early (especially on offense).</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They are able to execute their offense without a significant hitch, especially early. They will also need the secondary's performance to be strong if they are to commit a lot of guys up front to slow down Kevin Parks behind his talented O-Line. The defense will benefit greatly from forcing the Virginia offense to be one-dimensional.</p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>Georgia Tech 31, Virginia 14</p>
<p><b><i>I'm calling the 2011 loss a complete fluke and trusting our defensive talent to manage the opposition here. This could easily get out of hand as it did last year, but that's extremely wishful in a road game. Was 2011 a fluke, or was last year the fluke? Which one will this game more closely resemble? (Aside from scenery, of course.)</i></b></p>
<h4>More From The Rumble Seat:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/19/4635344/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-syracuse-orange-october-19?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets vs Syracuse Orange, October 19</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/19/4635476/monday-mailbag-8-19?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Monday Mailbag 8/19</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/18/4631968/game-previews-yellow-jackets-byu-cougars-october-12?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Game Previews: Yellow Jackets @ BYU Cougars, October 12</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/17/4630998/ap-top-25-released-georgia-tech-receives-votes?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">AP Top 25 Released, Georgia Tech Receives Votes</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-basketball/2013/8/16/4624756/acc-big-ten-challenge-details-announced?utm_source=fromtherumbleseat&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">ACC-Big Ten Challenge Details Announced</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/20/4639002/game-previews-yellow-jackets-virginia-cavaliers-october-26Joey Weaver2013-08-19T08:00:09-04:002013-08-19T08:00:09-04:00Game Previews: Tech vs Syracuse Orange, October 19
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/N0CfyO9Ew8MjrhEiBRYofSUVBAA=/29x0:930x601/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18082975/23942_10100360146026399_320354188_n.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Danny Karnik/Georgia Tech Athletics</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff continues today with a preview of our matchup with Syracuse, a team who has never beaten Georgia Tech.</p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 12 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>Syracuse University Orange -- Syracuse, NY</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>8-5 (5-2 Big East), Pinstripe Bowl Win vs West Virginia 38-14</p>
<h5>Points Scored/Allowed Per Game:</h5>
<p>30.0/24.8</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Offensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>289.3/187.0 -- 1.547</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Defensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>233.8/143.5 -- 1.629</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<p>When looking at Syracuse last year, it becomes apparent that they weren't particularly good or bad at anything. They actually were very well balanced -- their passing offense and rushing offense were both middle-of-the-road among BCS teams, as was the passing and rushing defense. That said, they weren't really good at anything, and probably don't pose much of a threat to Georgia Tech in year one in the ACC. Probably Syracuse's biggest strength will be playing at home (their only loss at home was a last-minute, one-point loss to a good Northwestern squad). However, the issue with that is that, well, this game is being played in Atlanta. Last year the Orange were 4-1 in the Carrier Dome and 4-4 outside of it.</p>
<p>Their biggest threat to opponents last year was passing the ball, but that may not be the case this year after they lost QB Ryan Nassib and their two leading receivers to graduation. Time will tell though.</p>
<h5>Syracuse Wins If:</h5>
<p>Their defense is able to play disciplined ball in their first game against Paul Johnson's offense, and they are able to keep the game close throughout. If they win the game, it will be a last-minute score.</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They are able to hit a couple of home runs against a defense unfamiliar with the system, and are able to overpower a less-talented team.</p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>Georgia Tech 38, Syracuse 24</p>
<p><b><i>This smells like a 2 TD win for Tech to me. Maybe I'm underestimating Syracuse though. What are your thoughts?</i></b></p>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/19/4635344/game-previews-yellow-jackets-vs-syracuse-orange-october-19Joey Weaver2013-08-18T07:00:06-04:002013-08-18T07:00:06-04:00Game Previews: Tech @ BYU Cougars, October 12
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U91BrQGUnZhilpd_Wg_tbUFDCQ8=/0x36:960x676/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18040711/407722_10100353577859059_92198421_n.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Danny Karnik/Georgia Tech Athletics</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff continues today with Tech looking for revenge against BYU.</p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 13 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>Brigham Young University Cougars -- Provo, Utah</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>8-5</p>
<h5>Points Scored/Allowed Per Game:</h5>
<p>28.7/14.0</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Offensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>247.2/153.2 -- 1.614</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Defensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>179.2/86.9 -- 2.062</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<p>Last year, on Homecoming, we learned that BYU is a very tough squad. Their defense is their pride and joy, ranking in the top 10 nationally in scoring defense, passing defense, and rushing defense, with the latter ranking second nationally to Alabama. They were one of 8 teams to allow less than 100 yards per game on the ground, which explains a lot of how they were successful against Georgia Tech last year. Remember that in last year's matchup, the Yellow Jackets only managed 3 offensive points, tacking on a pick-six and Jamal Golden's kick return TD to make the game look remotely respectable. BYU's weakness is their offense, which was very middle-of-the-pack in all categories last year. If their rushing attack can be slowed, a young QB tandem of Taysom Hill and Ammon Olsen could struggle to compensate. In all but one of their wins last year, they managed at least 23 points. In each of their losses last year, they failed to score more than 24 points -- clearly the magic number for Tech's defense to avoid.</p>
<p>This year, Tech will make the journey out to Utah to take on a team who only lost one game last year in their home stadium. Part of their home-field advantage is the elevation at which they play -- playing at over 4,500 feet is significantly different than playing at (or under) 1,000 feet in elevation when it comes to things such as fatigue.</p>
<h5>BYU Wins If:</h5>
<p>Their defense is as stifling as advertised and they're able to score 25+ points.</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They can slow down BYU's offense and jump start their own to take an early lead. They will need to accomplish a lot early in the game before the effects of elevation start to set in. The offensive line will need to have a good game against BYU's front 7, who are one of the best units in the league.</p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>Georgia Tech 27, BYU 23</p>
<p><b><i>Tough one to call, I'm going to say Tech eeks out a close win. Maybe I'm being a bit ambitious though. What are your thoughts?</i></b></p>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2013/8/18/4631968/game-previews-yellow-jackets-byu-cougars-october-12Joey Weaver2013-08-17T07:00:08-04:002013-08-17T07:00:08-04:00Game Previews: Tech @ Miami Hurricanes, October 5
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6Zg0gVGHRLScUv_I0UUw3JwfYPY=/0x49:960x689/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17976895/403985_10100326997321669_53915137_n.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Danny Karnik/Georgia Tech Athletics</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Our Countdown to Kickoff rambles on today with a look at our game against Miami.</p> <p><i><b>Countdown to Kickoff: 14 Days...</b></i></p>
<h5>Know Your Opponent:</h5>
<p>University of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/miami-hurricanes" class="sbn-auto-link">Miami Hurricanes</a> -- Coral Gables, FL</p>
<h5>2012 Record:</h5>
<p>7-5 (5-3 ACC)</p>
<h5>Points Scored/Allowed Per Game:</h5>
<p>31.4/30.5</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Offensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>295.4/144.8 -- 2.040</p>
<h5>Passing/Rushing Defensive Yards & Ratio:</h5>
<p>268.5/217.9 -- 1.232</p>
<h5>Outlook:</h5>
<p>I wish I didn't have to bring it up, but we all remember how last year's game went. Miami scored the first 19 points of the game in the first quarter, Georgia Tech scored the next 36 points, and then Miami scored the final 23 points (including a TD with 27 seconds left in regulation and a walk-off TD on their second play in overtime) to win a heartbreaker for Jackets fans. Miami was once again picked to win the Coastal Division, and with their talent they may be able to do it. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/159411/duke-johnson" class="sbn-auto-link">Duke Johnson</a> will be a 1,000-yard back this year, and they'll be lead one last time by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114387/stephen-morris" class="sbn-auto-link">Stephen Morris</a>. If there's a chink in the armor, it's Morris. He's not particularly accurate as QBs go with a 58.2% completion rate (good for 79th nationally), and throws a LOT of deep passes (7.9 yards/attempt, #34 nationally with everyone above having a higher completion percentage). Tech's pass rush will be crucial to this game. Expect a lot of guys in the backfield between slowing down Johnson and pressuring Morris on slowly-developing plays.</p>
<h5>Miami Wins If:</h5>
<p>Duke Johnson rushes for 150 yards and Georgia Tech cannot produce a major pass rush with the front 7 that forces mistakes from Stephen Morris.</p>
<h5>Tech Wins If:</h5>
<p>They slow down Duke Johnson and produce a pass rush that disrupts Stephen Morris. There will be a talent deficit, meaning mistakes will be extremely crucial. <span>They will also need to get over the hump of playing in Coral Gables, where the Yellow Jackets have not won since 2007.</span></p>
<h5>Prediction:</h5>
<p>Miami 23, Georgia Tech 20</p>
<p><b><i>I may not like our chances in this one, but maybe you do. Do the Jackets walk into...whatever their stadium is called now...and beat the Hurricanes for the first time since 2008?</i></b></p>
https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/georgia-tech-football/2013/8/17/4628314/game-previews-yellow-jackets-miami-hurricanes-october-5Joey Weaver