SHREVEPORT, La. — Defensive end Rick Ricketts hopes to force Georgia Tech to pass in Monday’s Independence Bowl.
“It would be fun to get after their second-string quarterback,” the Air Force senior said after practice Thursday.
Ricketts is talking about sophomore quarterback Tevin Washington, who is expected to replace the injured Joshua Nesbitt. Ricketts would enjoy the opportunity to hassle Washington as he retreats into the pocket to pass on third-and-8.
Ricketts realizes his hope is lofty. Georgia Tech leads the nation in rushing, averaging 327 yards per game in a 6-6 season. The Yellow Jackets pass only as a last resort and seldom face third-and-long.
On paper, Air Force’s immediate future looks dire. The Falcons (8-4) rank 100th nationally in rush defense and struggled against runners from San Diego State, Colorado State and Wyoming.
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Coach Troy Calhoun knows about his team’s troubles against the run, but he also remembers the Falcons’ 14-6 victory over Navy. The Midshipmen averaged 285 yards rushing this season, but they managed only 209 yards against the Falcons.
AFA defensive coordinator Matt Wallerstedt is seeking a repeat of the Navy effort against Tech. He wants to hold the Yellow Jackets to under 200 yards rushing.
“That’s going to be a tall task, but if we do that we’ll be in the ballgame with a chance to win it,” Wallerstedt said.
Footnotes.
Air Force cornerback Jon Davis suffered a minor ankle injury early in practice Thursday, but Calhoun said he expects the junior to return to practice today or Saturday. . . . Senior fullback Jared Tew is trying to return for Monday’s game after suffering a broken leg in the San Diego State game. He had no major troubles Wednesday in a light practice and said he had no struggles during Thursday’s more demanding practice. “The leg didn’t give me any problems,” Tew said.
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