Nov. 28, 2016
THE FLATS – For the second-straight week, Georgia Tech junior cornerback Lance Austin has been named the ACC Defensive Back of the Week, the conference announced on Monday. Austin’s latest honor comes after his fourth-quarter interception set up the game-winning touchdown drive in Georgia Tech’s 28-27 win over archrival Georgia on Saturday.
With Georgia Tech trailing, 27-21, with less than four minutes to go in the contest and Georgia threatening to put the game away with a score and/or by milking out the clock, Austin made a diving interception on a tipped pass by UGA quarterback Jacob Eason. Austin’s third interception of the season gave the Yellow Jackets possession at UGA’s 46 yard line with 3:39 to go in the ballgame.
Eight plays later, A-back Qua Searcy scored the game-winning touchdown on a six-yard run with just 30 seconds left to play.
Austin also added six tackles in the heart-stopping win at Georgia.
His crucial interception at UGA was his second in as many weeks. In Georgia Tech’s home finale versus Virginia on Nov. 19, Austin returned an interception 24 yards for a game-clinching touchdown with 4:03 to go in the Yellow Jackets’ 31-17 victory.
Thanks to his efforts over the past two games, Austin is the first Yellow Jacket to be named ACC Defensive Back of the Week in consecutive weeks since Jemea Thomas was recognized for his performances versus Virginia and Pittsburgh on Oct. 26 and Nov. 2, 2013, respectively.
The ACC weekly honor is the third of Austin’s career. In addition to being named ACC Defensive Back of the Week each of the past two weeks, he was recognized as the ACC Specialist of the Week following his 78-yard return of a blocked field goal that lifted the Yellow Jackets to their famous “Miracle on Techwood Drive” walkoff win over No. 9 Florida State on Oct. 24 of last season.
Remarkably, an Austin has earned each of the last three ACC Defensive Back of the Week awards, as Lance’s twin brother, Lawrence, was tabbed for the honor after intercepting two passes in the Jackets’ 30-20 win at No. 18-ranked Virginia Tech on Nov. 12.
With its regular season complete at 8-4, Georgia Tech will learn its bowl destination when pairings are announced on Sunday. For more bowl information and to reserve tickets, visit togetherweswarm.com/bowl.
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