What happened: Georgia Tech will be without three key starters when they face Stanford on Saturday night. Defensive end Jordan Walker, safety Savion Riley, and left tackle Ethan Mackenny have all been ruled out for the matchup. The Yellow Jackets also listed five players as questionable, including backup running back Malachi Hosley and defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe.
Why it matters: The absences deplete Georgia Tech's depth on both sides of the ball as the program begins conference play. Riley's injury specifically challenges a secondary that entered the season with depth concerns. The Yellow Jackets are currently listed as for their first meeting with Stanford outside of a bowl game.
By the numbers: Defensive end Noah Carter holds an 87.1 pass rush grade on 16 snaps according to PFF. Tight end Kevin Roche Jr. is probable to play and remains a favored target for Alberto Mendoza. Vincent Carroll-Jackson has logged 122 snaps along the interior defensive line.
What to watch: Jordan Floyd is expected to start at left tackle in Mackenny's absence. Kealan Jones and Chris Hewitt Jr. will rotate to fill Riley's safety spot alongside Tae Harris.