April 10, 2002
For the first half of Georgia Tech’s spring practice, the Rambling Wreck defense was ahead of the offense, but head coach Chan Gailey says the Tech offense is showing signs of coming around.
“I thought coming into this week’s practice that the defense was quite a bit ahead of the offense, but I feel like the offense has executed a little better the last two days,” said Gailey after Tuesday’s workout. “That’s probably due to the fact that quarterbacks are feeling more comfortable. We’re getting used to our coaches on that side of the ball. It takes a little bit longer for that to happen on the offensive side of the ball. “
Tech’s primary quarterback candidates–junior transfer A.J. Suggs (Powder Springs, Ga.) and redshirt freshman Damarius Bilbo (Moss Point, Miss.)–remain even.
“Nobody has stepped up and taken complete charge, but both are doing good things,” said Gailey. “You either do really good or really bad to distinguish yourself, and neither one has happened at this point.”
Elsewhere in the offensive backfield, junior Tony Hollings (Jeffersonville, Ga.), who moved this spring from safety to running back, is starting to look more comfortable on offense.
“This is two days in a row for him that he’s done better,” said Gailey. “That was a real positive for him and for us today. Tony has made a big jump in the last two days. Gordon Clinkscale ran better today as well. When one does well, it picks up the tempo of everyone, it seems like.”
Hollings and Clinkscale, a senior from Doraville, Ga., are taking the bulk of the carries while senior Sidney Ford (Lindale, Ga.), rib injury, and sophomore Jimmy Dixon (Arlington, Texas), sprained foot, are nursing minor injuries. Junior Jermaine Hatch (Baton Rouge, La.) should also be in the mix, but is limited to non-contact drills after missing the entire 2001 season with a knee injury.
Tech continues spring practice this week with workouts scheduled for Friday (4 p.m.) and Saturday (1 p.m. scrimmage).
The Tech football staff will hold its annual coaching clinic Friday and Saturday. Interested coaches should contact Butch Brooks at 404-385-0404.
–30–
