Georgia Tech Could Be a Major Surprise in 2005

Georgia Tech is among the most consistent football programs in the nation. Georgia Tech usually finishes among the middle of the pack in the ACC and participates in a bowl game. The Yellow Jackets have not missed a bowl game since 1996. However, 2005 could be a special season for the Yellow Jackets, 2005 could mark their first ACC football championship since 1998 when the shared it with Florida State. All the pieces are in place- 10 returning starters and a three-headed monster on offense. The Yellow Jacket offense is led by quarterback Reggie Ball, tailback P.J. Daniels and wide receiver Calvin Johnson. Calvin Johnson appears to be headed to stardom after a sensational freshman season in which he compiled 43 catches for 729 yards and seven touchdowns including some incredible grabs. Tailback P.J. Daniels had 154 rushes for 714 yards and 8 touchdowns as well as an additional touchdown receiving. Reggie Ball is somewhat of a weak link headed into the season. Despite a 49.7% pass completion percentage, he threw 16 touchdowns to 18 interceptions. Ball is at risk of losing his starting job but a strong spring and summer could help him maintain his spot. Damarius Bilbo and Mark Logan will be competing with Ball to win the starting quarterback role for the Jackets. On defense, the Yellow Jackets return all of their starters except free safety James Butler. The defense does not have one standout player but are a solid group all around. Place kicker Travis Bell returns after a solid freshman campaign. Look for Georgia Tech to surprise some people in the ACC this season. Miami will be reloading, Virginia Tech has to replace Bryan Randall at quarterback and Florida State will have Wyatt Sexton at quarterback full time with Chris Rix gone. The Yellow Jackets should win eight or nine games and have a good shot at beating instate rival Georgia at Bobby Dodd Stadium.