Georgia Tech Basketball vs Loyola-Chicago: Jackets look to upset Ramblers in Round of 64

Jan 20, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets head coach Josh Pastner talks to guard Michael Devoe (0) against the Clemson Tigers in the first half at McCamish Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 20, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets head coach Josh Pastner talks to guard Michael Devoe (0) against the Clemson Tigers in the first half at McCamish Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 30, 2020; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Walker Kessler (13) shoots against Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets forward Rodney Howard (24) in the first half at McCamish Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2020; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Walker Kessler (13) shoots against Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets forward Rodney Howard (24) in the first half at McCamish Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports


X-Factor: C Rodney Howard

With Moses Wright out, the Yellow Jackets’ chances may ultimately come down to how well Rodney Howard can play against the Ramblers. The former Georgia Bulldog has appeared in 18 games this season for the Yellow Jackets including making two starts against Georgia State and Mercer. Howard’s impact so far this season in those 18 games has been minimal. He’s attempted just 24 shots on the season, making 12 of them. He’s also made of 5-of-7 free throw attempts.

His best game of the season came in the regular-season finale against Wake Forest. In the Jackets 75-63 victory, Howard played nine minutes, totaling six points, five rebounds, and a block in the process. It was a glimpse of what Howard can do when on his game and if the Jackets are going to beat the Ramblers on Friday, he’ll need to have a performance that strong but across at least 30-35 minutes of action.