Georgia Tech Football: 2017 season preview, predictions

Defense

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets defense took strides forward last season. The next step for them is stepping up the pass rush for them to add some wins to their schedule.

The Yellow Jackets defense ranked third in the ACC last season in passing touchdowns allowed (1.1). However, they accumulated just 18 sacks in conference play (13th in the ACC). The team’s sack leader, Patrick Gamble (7.5), is gone as well.

Up front, defensive end KeShun Freeman and defensive tackle Kyle Cerge-Henderson hope to lead a pass rush that generates more turnovers in their favor. The defense forced just 1.5 turnovers per game in 2016, tied for 10th in the ACC. Also waiting in the wings is Anree Saint-Amour, who had 4.0 sacks last year.

In the secondary, twin brothers Austin and Lawrence return to wreak havoc as defensive backs. The duo combined for 97 tackles and six interceptions last season. Lance also had 12 pass breakups and a fumble recovery on the year.

The biggest question on defense is at outside linebacker. P.J. Davis was a three-year starter at the position with 75 tackles last season, third on the team. Victor Alexander, a junior, is expected to step in and fill the position. Alexander recorded 14 tackles in 2016.

Although the defense has never been considered dominant, they still need to be competent to force teams into bad situations. With their strong secondary, the Yellow Jackets should be a competitive bunch on defense in 2017.