The time is here. 2019 GT and the Coach Collins era is here!!! I want to focus on 5 big matchups in the game to keep an eye on which could be pivotal in the matchup vs. Clemson
#1 Zach Quinney vs. Xavier Thomas
Straight out the gate, Quinney will be tested by arguably the best pass rusher in the nation. Though elite, Thomas do have his flaws in wanting to be a pass rusher only and not willing to set the edge or be physical on the run. Let’s see if Quinney can use his athleticism and cause issues for that side on the zone/stretch run game
#2 Dave Patenaude vs. Brent Venerables
Having the option figured out is an ignorant statement that Tech fans loathed, but their has been no better DC at stopping the vaunted TO than Venerables, but out with the old and enter Coach P’s Pro-Style, Spread Offense. The unknown of what we’ll see on our offense is good and scary at the same time. I expect multiple looks and personnel groupings to give Clemson 9 new starters on Defense something to think about and create favorable matchups. It will be interesting to see if Venerables/Clemson will try to out muscle us sitting in coverage and make our QBs read coverage and deliver the ball to the correct receiver or will send the dogs after us.
#3 Tre Swilling vs. Justyn Ross
Nothing better than seeing 2 NFL caliber players going at it. Ross got loose on us with some blown coverages last year. With better coaching (imo), and tighter coverage this should be a heavyweight battle. Let’s see if Tre can limit him on the big plays and make few plays on the ball himself.
#4 Trevor Lawrence vs. the Minister of Mayhem
Arguably the best QB in the last 20-30yrs. Lawrence checks every box you would want in a QB and more. Lucky for us, we have an elite defensive mind in Collins and Thacker has proven, somewhat, he can hold his own. Can this duo put our defense in position to make this game close in 4th and make Lawrence comfortable. I expect to see multiple sets from our base 4-2-5, 3-3-5, to dollar/ dime where we be blitzing all different angles.
#5 Old vs. New
This will be interesting. How will fans react when we punt on 4th & 2 or pass outta gun on 3rd & 3? How patient and forgiving will the GT faithful be seeing things not how they use to be? Let’s make sure we are loud and proud win, lose, or draw to guys in white & gold (& navy lol)