Brent Key is entering his third season as the head coach of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, and expectations are building after a promising 2023 campaign. With a final record of 7-6, including a victory in the Gasparilla Bowl, Key has solidified his position after taking over as interim coach in 2022, where he led the team to a respectable 4-4 finish.
2023 Season Highlights.
The Yellow Jackets showcased their potential last season, primarily driven by standout performances from running back Jamal Haynes and quarterback Haynes King, both of whom received impressive PFF rushing grades of over 80.0. Their contributions were pivotal in securing the team’s first bowl appearance in five years.
Another bright spot for Georgia Tech was sophomore wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr., who emerged as a key player, ranking second among true freshmen with 714 receiving yards. His development could be crucial for the team’s offensive strategy moving forward.
Challenges Ahead.
While the offense showed promise, the defense will need significant improvement. Last season, Georgia Tech ranked 107th in expected points allowed per play, highlighting a critical area for development if they aim to return to bowl contention.
Looking Forward.
As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they face a challenging schedule, ranked 8th in strength. The PFF power ranking places them at 68th, and they currently have a 1% chance of winning the ACC, with a projected win total of 5.3 and a FanDuel win total slightly higher at 5.5.
Recruitment efforts are underway, with the 2024 class currently ranked 35th nationally and 7th in the ACC according to On3. This influx of talent will be vital as Key looks to build on last year’s success and establish a more competitive program.
With a mix of returning talent and new recruits, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are poised for an intriguing season ahead, and fans will be watching closely to see how Key’s leadership translates into on-field success.
Georgia Tech’s Dynamic Rushing Attack.
Georgia Tech’s rushing attack was one of the most potent in the nation last season, earning a top-25 PFF rushing grade of 91.4. This success was largely due to the efforts of running back Jamal Haynes and quarterback Haynes King.
Haynes, the running back, had a standout year, placing fourth among ACC tailbacks with 1,061 rushing yards in 2023. His ability to consistently gain yards on the ground was a key factor in Georgia Tech’s offensive success.
King, the quarterback, also made significant contributions with his legs, ranking fourth among Power Five signal-callers with 811 rushing yards[1]. His dual-threat capabilities kept defenses off balance and added another dimension to the Yellow Jackets’ offense.
Struggles Against the Run.
While Georgia Tech’s rushing attack was a strength, the team struggled mightily against the run on defense. They allowed 5.8 yards per carry and 2.6 yards before contact per attempt, both the second-worst marks among Power Five schools.
This inability to stop the run put additional pressure on the offense and often led to long drives for opposing teams. Improving the run defense will be a priority for the Yellow Jackets heading into the 2024 season.
2023 Statistical Overview.
Georgia Tech’s offense performed well overall in 2023, ranking 38th in expected points added (EPA) per play and 20th in yards per play[1]. They were particularly effective running the ball, ranking 17th in explosive run play rate[1].
On the defensive side, the Yellow Jackets struggled, ranking 108th in EPA allowed per play and 112th in yards allowed per play[1]. They were especially vulnerable against the run, ranking 120th in explosive run rate allowed[1].
Transfer Portal Moves.
Georgia Tech made some notable additions and losses through the transfer portal this offseason[1]:
Additions.
DI Thomas Gore (Miami FL): 76.7 PFF grade
EDGE Romello Height (USC): 69.7 PFF grade
CB Zachary Tobe (Illinois): 65.6 PFF grade
Losses.
CB Kenan Johnson (Utah): 73.9 PFF grade
CB K.J. Wallace (UCLA): 66.4 PFF grade
EDGE Kyle Kennard (South Carolina): 70.0 PFF grade
These transfers will aim to either bolster the Yellow Jackets’ roster or fill holes left by departing players. The impact of these moves remains to be seen, but they could play a significant role in Georgia Tech’s 2024 campaign.
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