Tech's Run Game Brings Questions Ahead of 2022
Among the many areas unsettled on the Georgia Tech roster is the running back group. A year ago this group was crowded with proven performers. But three of last year’s top four producers will not be back. Jordan Mason opted to go pro and has signed with the 49ers. Jamious Griffin transferred to Oregon State. And Jahmyr Gibbs transferred to Alabama where he is considered by many to be a serious Heisman candidate.
Of last year’s top four, only Dontae Smith returns for Tech. By stats, Smith was Tech’s 3rd most productive running back. But he could thrive in a system in which he is the featured back. He has consistently averaged over 5 yards per carry over his first three years at Tech and he has shown a knack for finding small creases and extending his runs. He also takes good care of the football. Those qualities don’t always jump off the page at game’s end, but still could make him a valuable part of a “run-first” approach if that’s what new OC Chip Long decides to employ this season.
Smith can also catch the ball out of the backfield, giving Long one more option on passing downs.
Smith will be joined by two transfer players who are themselves proven performers. Dylan McDuffie comes to Tech from University of Buffalo. And Hassan Hall has moved on from Louisville. Each of these two players had high production at his previous school and together they represent another example of how the transfer portal can giveth just as it can taketh away. Along with these tranfers are several incoming freshmen who will be looking to earn playing time.
Tech’s summer drills on offense will be devoted in part to sorting out the best roles for these backs to take on in order to build a sustainable run game for the Jackets. That success will hinge in part on Collins and crew’s ability to find a cohesive and effective offensive line, something that Tech lacked in 2021.
Patrick Conarro
RamblinSports.com