Collegiate Times

After being sidelined for the past two weeks with a bruised left knee, senior cornerback Stephan Virgil is expected to return to action this weekend.

That's good news for Tech's secondary, one of the units held responsible for the team's rush defense. Tech's rush defense is currently ranked 107th in the country and allows just over 200 yards on the ground per game.

"Obviously it has been poor and below standards," said Torrian Gray, defensive backfield coach. "We expect more around here. We've got to tackle and fit better. Everyone has to do their assignments and finish plays. Then we'll get much better."

Tech's defense is currently ranked 77th overall in the nation, averaging 364 yards allowed in its first three games. Last season, the defense finished seventh nationally in that department with Virgil as a major component. He started all 14 games, recorded 43 tackles and had six interceptions. His teammates, however, suggest that Virgil's biggest contribution to the team is something that is not measured by numbers.

"When Virgil gets back, we'll have leadership," redshirt junior Rashad Carmichael said. "He had a great season last year, and he'll help with the chemistry of this defense. He'll definitely help us tighten up."

Virgil's spot has been filled by sophomore Eddie Whitley and redshirt sophomore Cris Hill in the last two games.

"When you lose an experienced guy in Virgil and start playing Cris Hill and Eddie Whitley who have not had experience, you really start to learn what kind of players you have," Gray said. "I thought Eddie did an admirable job, and Cris is getting better. We're definitely stronger now that Virgil is back."

Whitley recorded six tackles, including one for a loss of yardage in his first-ever collegiate start last weekend against Nebraska.

"It was a big surprise for me going in against Nebraska, but they recruited me to play here against big-time teams," Whitley said.

When the right time comes, Whitley is expected to be another standout cornerback for the program.  

"He's a real student of the game," Carmichael said. "Since he came in last year as a freshman, he's tried to learn as much as possible while being in any position, whether it is as a backup safety or a backup corner. ... I think he's going to be a great defensive back."

With the announcement of Virgil's status, Whitley has since been regulated back to the second team with which he has been taking reps at the free safety position, working as the understudy to senior Kam Chancellor.

Continue Reading: 12 Next »