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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Johnathan Hooker

5 Georgia Tech football players to watch against Georgia

Who are Georgia Tech’s top offensive standouts ahead of their matchup against Georgia

Quarterback Aaron Philo

Aaron Philo, a freshman quarterback for Georgia Tech, has shown impressive play in recent weeks. Most notably, he led Georgia Tech to a dramatic 30-29 victory over NC State on Nov. 21, 2024. Philo scrambled for an 18-yard game-winning touchdown with only 22 seconds left, showcasing his composure under pressure.

He called the moment a “childhood dream” reflecting his growing confidence as a young player. Philo, who is Georgia Tech’s primary passing quarterback with Haynes King dealing with a shoulder injury, has stepped in to help Georgia Tech have a strong finish to their season. Philo has attempted 43 passes over the past two weeks.

Quarterback Haynes King

Haynes King, the starting quarterback for Georgia Tech, has delivered notable performances over the last few weeks, showcasing his dual-threat abilities. Most prominently, he led Georgia Tech to a stunning 28-23 upset over previously unbeaten No. 4 Miami on Nov. 9, 2024.

In the Miami game, King ran for 93 yards and a touchdown while also passing for another score, helping the Yellow Jackets secure their first win over a top-five team in 15 years. His decisive 5-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter played a key role in the victory, solidifying his impact as a rusher. King has attempted just nine passes over the past two weeks.

Running Back Jamal Haynes

Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Jamal Haynes has been a standout performer for Georgia Tech in recent weeks. Haynes delivered a career-best performance against North Carolina, rushing for 170 yards on 19 carries, including a dramatic 68-yard game-winning touchdown in the final seconds. His efforts helped Georgia Tech secure a thrilling 41-34 victory.

The UNC game was his second consecutive game with over 100 rushing yards and marked the sixth 100-yard rushing game of his career. He averaged 8.9 yards per carry in this game.

Wide Receiver Eric Singleton Jr.

Eric Singleton Jr. has been one of the standout players for Georgia Tech during the 2024 football season. The talented wide receiver has showcased his elite speed, sharp route-running, and consistent ability to make big plays in crucial moments.

In the NC State game, he eclipsed over 100 yards for the second time this season. He has six games this season where he has averaged 10 yards or more a catch. Singleton Jr. is used in the screen game or short routes to let him create positive yardage for the offense.

Wide Receiver Malik Rutherford

Malik Rutherford, a redshirt junior wide receiver for Georgia Tech, has been a consistent performer in the 2024 season. Over the last few weeks, he has remained one of the Yellow Jackets’ top offensive targets. Rutherford has recorded 55 receptions for 627 yards and three touchdowns across 11 games. He averages 11.4 yards per catch and 57.0 receiving yards per game, showcasing his ability to make key plays for the team.

His ability to secure crucial receptions has been instrumental for Georgia Tech, contributing to their offensive rhythm. His performance reflects his growth as a reliable playmaker in the passing game.

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