Georgia Tech vs USF Recap: Defensive Analysis

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TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 08: Darnell Salomon #3 of the South Florida Bulls scores a touchdown during a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Raymond James Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Secondary: C+

Starters

CB – Tre Swilling
CB – Jaitlyn Askew
FS – Malik Rivera
SS – Tariq Carpenter

Main Rotation

CB – Ajani Kerr
CB – Zamari Walton
SS – Kaleb Oliver
FS – Juanyeh Thomas

Grade: C+

The secondary was actually sound in coverage throughout the day, getting beat deep on only one occasion by USF’s Randall St. Felix, who failed to make the catch on the play. Instead, they were exposed in the WR screen game. They struggled mightily with tackling the quick USF receivers in space and the first man to the ball almost always missed. In fact, USF knew how much difficulty Tech was having that they called a WR screen on both fourth down plays, the second of which they converted to seal the game.

It seems this secondary has the talent to shore up these woes, but the sooner the better as Tech’s schedule heats up quickly the next few weeks. I do wonder how different this group’s performance on Saturday would have been had Tariq Carpenter not been ejected in the first half. He made the impact play on USF’s first possession, sliding into Benett’s passing lane unnoticed to get the interception (Tech’s first of the year).

dark. Next. Georgia Tech vs USF Recap: Offensive Analysis for the 49-38 loss

I am still optimistic about this group and am hoping for a bounce-back performance Saturday against Pittsburgh.

Standout Performer: Ajani Kerr

Kerr’s play was solid throughout the day, contributing in coverage and in run support. He tied for the team lead with seven tackles; however, his highlight of the day came on a nice pass breakup on a deep ball in the fourth quarter. He showed this ability last year against Virginia Tech, and I think he has proved himself amongst the top of the CB Depth Chart.