Predictions: Tech

My Tech football predictions: Without a proven QB, Tech will rotate Syms and Washington in the first three non-conference games, hoping a leader will emerge. Syms fumbles too much, Washington is a worse passer than Nesbitt. Paul Johnson will be hesitant to play the freshman Lee, the best passer of the bunch. But PJ’s hand will be forced when the Jackets struggle against ACC opponents, and Lee’s lack of seasoning will be exposed against Miami, Clemson, and VT. Without a decent QB, Tech’s offense can’t control time of possession, or score. or win.

Western Carolina (home): Win, but no blowout.

Middle Tennessee State (away): Win, but no blowout.

Kansas (home): After losing in Lawrence last year to an awful Jayhawk team, Tech is certain to get revenge this time around. But it won’t be easy…another close win.

UNC (home): The Heels fired Butch Davis just before practice began, and the team in under a NCAA investigation. But at 3-0, Tech’s players will have the big head. UNC always plays Tech tough. With weak QB play, Tech loses this game.

NC State (away): After losing to UNC the discouraged Jackets go on the road and lose again, dropping to 3-2 for the season.

Maryland (home): Tech comes home to face a tough Terrapin road team. Maryland wins, and on The Flats frustration mounts. 3-3.

Virginia (away): Tech usually struggles at UVA. Another loss drops GT to 3-4.

Miami (away): Even with a new coach, Miami has plenty of returning key players. Tech loses their fifth straight. 3-5.

Clemson (home): In a low-scoring defensive struggle, Tech finally notches a win.

Virginia Tech (home, Thursday night): With a win under their belt, Tech players and fans recall last year’s loss…incorrectly thinking GT would’ve won last year had Nesbitt not been hurt. This year it’s not close: the Jackets are once more embarrassed on national TV. 4-6.

Duke (away): The wounded Jackets travel to Durham in danger of losing to the lowly Devils. Back in his home state QB Lee stars, and the Jackets win. 5-6.

Georgia (home): At 5-6 Tech needs a win to earn a bowl bid. Fresh off the Duke win the fans recall last year’s narrow loss in Athens, boasting that Tech can win at home. They won’t, and the bowl streak ends. 5-7.

At best Tech could be undefeated going into the Miami game, lose to the Canes, VT, and Georgia, and finish 9-3. But I’m thinking it will be a long year.