Aug. 13, 2003
At the midway point of preseason practice, the Georgia Tech offensive line is coming together as a unit, says Tech head coach Chan Gailey.
The Yellow Jackets completed the 14th and 15th of their alloted 29 practices Wednesday in preparation for their Aug. 28 season opener at Brigham Young.
“They’re starting to jell,” said Gailey. “It was ragged early, but right now they’re playing fairly well together. It can always improve, but they’re starting to play well together.”
With four starters returning, Tech’s offensive line is expected to be one of the strengths of the team. Leading the way is senior center Hugh Reilly, a two-year starter and all-star candidate, and junior left tackle Nat Dorsey, a two-time all-Atlantic Coast Conference selection.
“You never underestimate the importance of your center,” said Gailey of Reilly, entering his third year as a starter. “He makes a ton a calls, so he’s in charge. He handles the ball every play. That’s almost immeasurable. He’s very important, and he’s a good leader for us.”
Also returning are junior left guard Leon Robinson and junior right tackle Kyle Wallace. Sophomore Brad Honeycutt has stepped in at right guard, filling the only starting position vacated by graduation.
Junior Andy Tidwell-Neal is receiving plenty of work at left guard along with Robinson and has performed well.
Tech continues to search for depth on the offensive line, particularly after a pair of veteran backups, Jeremy Phillips and Clay Hartley, both elected to give up football due to a series of injuries. Backups on the offensive line include senior Will Hardy, sophomore Salih Besirevic, sophomore transfer Kenton Johnson and freshman Kevin Tuminello.
Thursday’s practice will be at Bobby Dodd Stadium/Grant Field at 5:30 p.m. Fans attending practice must enter through Gate 1 on North Avenue and sit in the lower West stands.
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