Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
2000 overall record: 9-3
Conference record: 6-2 (t-2nd)
Returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 9
Kickers: 2
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Joe Burns* (908 yds)
Passing: George Godsey* (2,906 yds)
Receiving: Kelly Campbell* (963 yds)
Tackles: Daryl Smith* (94)
Sacks: Greg Gathers* (13)
Interceptions: Jeremy Muyres* (4)
What's new
Ralph Friedgen is no longer calling the plays, having taken the head-coaching job at Maryland. The new offensive coordinator is Bill O'Brien, who assumed that role before the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. Though O'Brien will have his own play-calling style, the offense should not be noticeably different. If anything, the quarterbacks will have more experience since George Godsey sat out spring drills with a knee injury.
Battling it out
Four-year starter Chris Brown is gone from the left tackle position, and the competition to replace him is now between Jason Kemble and redshirt freshman Leon Robinson. Kemble surprised a lot of people with his play in the spring and is currently listed as No. 1, but Robinson has great talent and is still very much in the running.
Eye catcher: CB Albert Poree
The sophomore transfer from Notre Dame was impressive enough on the scout team last year to be listed as a starting corner entering spring drills. His on-field attitude energized the defense during the spring, and he backed it up with great playmaking skills.
Budding star: MLB Daryl Smith
Smith started nine games last season and led the team in tackles as a true freshman. He earned Freshman All-America honors for that effort, but bigger things could lie ahead. He has made big plays in big games (interception return for TD vs. Georgia last year) and will now lead the defense of one of the nation's top teams.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
