Georgia Tech @ Virginia preview

Last Meeting ( Oct 9, 2010 ) Virginia 21, Georgia Tech 33

THE STORY: No. 12 Georgia Tech, off to its best start since 1966, visits Virginia on Saturday trying to recapture its offensive magic. The Yellow Jackets scored just 21 points in beating Maryland last week, a big comedown from the 51 they were averaging. The Cavaliers were off last week after surviving in overtime against Idaho, 21-20. Historically, the Jackets have struggled in Charlottesville, going 3-9-1. But they won 34-9 on their last visit in 2009, and also beat Virginia 33-21 in Atlanta last season.

TV: ESPNU. LINE: Georgia Tech -7.5

ABOUT GEORGIA TECH (6-0, 3-0 ACC): Even after a disappointing performance against Maryland, the Yellow Jackets rank sixth nationally in scoring (46.5), fourth in total offense (553.5) and fourth in rushing (360.5). They also lead the nation in converting third downs (62 percent). QB Tevin Washington has missed open receivers the past couple games, including a few that would have gone for long touchdowns. The Jackets, who played without three key LBs last week, should get at least two back in Daniel Drummond and Brandon Watts.

ABOUT VIRGINIA (3-2, 0-1 ACC): The Cavaliers had an extra week to prepare, which should come in handy against Tech’s triple option. Redshirt freshman RB Kevin Parks has run for six TDs, one shy of the school’s freshman record. Coach Mike London uses a two-QB rotation, with sophomore Michael Rocco starting and freshman David Watford coming in for occasional series. The Cavs rank 23rd nationally in total defense (311.8).

EXTRA POINTS

1. Tech defensive coordinator Al Groh was UVA’s head coach from 2001-09. London was Groh’s assistant for six years.

2. Tech WR Stephen Hill leads the nation with 32.5 yards per catch. The NCAA record is 31.9.

3. UVA has won the time of possession battle in every game this season.

PREDICTION: Georgia Tech 34, Virginia 17 – The Jackets won’t play poorly on offense two weeks in a row.