QB of the Week: Haynes King Shines as Georgia Tech Rises

In the Yellow Jackets’ win, the senior completed 20-of-28 passes (71.4 percent) for 211 yards, had 25 carries for 103 yards and one touchdown (4.1 yards per carry). Here is what I liked:

Decision Making

King took protecting the football seriously and remained sound throughout the game. He didn’t put the ball in harm’s way. When it was time to check it down, he did and moved the chains. Going 20-of-28 without a turnover is notable. 

Pocket Awareness

King was only sacked once in a fully regulated NCAA game against a defensive line like this, which was uncanny. He knew when to stay in the pocket and when to move out of it. 

Poise

King stood unfazed when the pocket would collapse in front of him. He would stand under pressure and deliver the ball to his receivers. This goes hand in hand with his toughness. 

QB designed runs

The impact of his legs gives defenses nightmares. They have to account for King in the run game. He runs like a seasoned running back with the mind of a QB. To have 4.1 yards per carry is a considerable contribution to the offense. 

Key Play Analysis

1-Yard Touchdown Run by King

This was a “my line is better than yours” kind of play. King took the ball on a quarterback power run and hit the B gap hard. His trust in his line and his toughness pushed him across the goal line. The Yellow Jackets would retake the lead with 10 minutes left in the fourth quarter with the score.

Final Thoughts

Too many see this win over Clemson as an upset. For me, Georgia Tech is a legitimate contender. King and the Yellow Jackets had to remind the world they were here to stay and would fight through the final whistle.

I said in the preseason that when King developed as a passer, the ACC and the college football world would be in trouble. This is the trouble. King will take his team far. Georgia Tech will host Temple (2-1) on Sept. 20