Jackets embrace Collins era
♦ The Georgia native is working to rebuild the Georgia Tech program in his own image.
ATLANTA — Geoff Collins jumped right in the middle of things in the opening minutes of Georgia Tech’s first practice.
As the offensive lineman set up for a blocking drill, Collins was there to provide some personal instruction.
“Right foot on the cone! Right foot on the cone!” the new coach shouted Wednesday on a blistering afternoon, grabbing several players by the jersey to make sure they lined up properly. “Set! Hit! Good! Good!”
Collins is bringing boundless energy to a program that has long struggled in the shadow of mighty Georgia. From his adoration of hometown diner Waffle House to his incessant presence on social media to his countless public appearances the past few months, he’s enjoyed an extended honeymoon period while generating plenty of good vibes among the Yellow Jackets’ faithful.
Reality, though, is right around the corner.
In a mere four weeks, Georgia Tech will begin its new era with a road game against reigning national champion Clemson.
“It’s a positive anytime you have something to look forward to that to the outside world is a big deal,” Collins said after the first preseason practice. “It helps you narrow your focus at times.
If it’s a little hot outside, or it’s been four straight days of doing something, I do think it’s an external motivating factor to play such a great team that’s so well-coached, and in such a great environment.”
If nothing else, the Yellow Jackets are brimming with confidence.
“It’s going to be crazy on August 29th,” defensive tackle Jahaziel Lee said. “We’re going to shock the world.”
Bravado aside, Collins’ first season figures to be even more difficult than most coaching transitions.
The Yellow Jackets operated out of the triple option for the past 11 seasons under former coach Paul Johnson, whose quarterbacks were more of an extra running back than any sort of serious passing threat. That will change under Collins, who installed a no-huddle, pro-style offense that will be looking for far more balance between the running and passing games.
Not much is expected of the Yellow Jacket this season.
At the Atlantic Coast Conference media days, they were predicted to finish last in their division.
“The guys are aware,” Collins said. “I think it adds a little fuel.”
Collins also has dealt with tragedy since arriving at Georgia Tech.
Just before the start of spring practice, defensive tackle Brandon Adams collapsed and died at age 21 while practicing a dance routine. Collins was just getting to know his team, but he received high marks for the way he handled such a shocking loss.