Three Virginia Tech defenders to watch on Saturday against the Yellow Jackets

Deep into the season’s final stretch, Georgia Tech has four games left and only needs one more win to clinch a bowl game. However, the Yellow Jackets are fighting an uphill battle as the injury bug has hit them inconveniently. The availability of starter Haynes King and the team’s leading tackler, LB Kyle Efford, is uncertain for Saturday’s game against Virginia Tech.

Entering Saturday, the Hokies are leading the all-time series 11-8, but the Yellow Jackets are winners in the most recent meeting between the two, 28-27 in 2022, which was also the first career start of the Georgia Tech quarterback Zach. Piron.

Virginia Tech enters Saturday on a two-game winning streak defeating ACC members Stanford and Boston College; However, let’s take a look at some defensive players to keep an eye on on Saturday.

When the Hokies are the topic of discussion, the name Antwaun Powell-Ryland is a name that will come up more often than not. Powell-Ryland, the leader of Virginia Tech’s defense, is tied for the most sacks in the nation with 11. In addition to Powell-Ryland’s 11 sacks, he has 28 total tackles and 2 forced fumbles. The Yellow Jackets offensive line has done an exceptional job keeping their quarterbacks upright and has only allowed 3 sacks so far. It will be very interesting to see how the sack leader stacks up against one of the best pass protection lines.

Dorian Strong is the second-best defender on Virginia Tech’s defense, maintaining his reputation as one of the best shutdown cornerbacks in the country. Strong’s cerebral coverage skills combined with his quickness make him an intriguing prospect at the next level. The 6-foot-1 defensive back has 12 total tackles, 11 solo, 3 pass deflections and 1 forced fumble this season.

Mose Phillips has been a welcome addition to the Hokies defense and quickly burst onto the scene with his versatility. Philips, a 6-foot-2 sophomore safety, has the ability to cover and the wherewithal to make plays near the line of scrimmage. He currently leads the team in tackles with 40 total tackles, along with 1 sack, 2 PD, 1 INT, and 1 FF.

Additional links:

Georgia Tech football: Virginia Tech players to watch Saturday against Yellow Jackets

Georgia Tech football: A position group and two players to watch Saturday against Virginia Tech

Georgia Tech football: Final score predictions for Saturday’s game against Virginia Tech