The name on everyone’s lips in Miami? Darrell, freaking, Langham. He’s the wide receiver that saved Miami just a week prior when they took on the Florida State and he saved the day once again. Even though we’re just a few weeks into the season, it’s been one for the ages in ACC play.
Everyone knew the importance of this Georgia Tech-Miami matchup and the result would be a fair determinate for the remainder of the season. With a win, Tech fans were sure their Yellow Jackets would finally break into the top 25 and Miami fans knew they’d nudge closer to a top 10 ranking (which they did sitting at #11).
In order to beat a stout Miami squad, the Yellow Jackets needed to play perfect football, which unfortunately they did not. In this case, ‘mistake free’ wasn’t necessarily turnovers because they only had one (a fumble), but more so consistency on offense. With that being said, they were missing the offensive production of Taquon Marshall.
When he’s on, he’s a human highlight reel. When he’s off, the overall performance of the team is affected. Even though it’s a team sport and a team effort, he’s just that talented that he can change a game. Marshall, who has confidently filled the shoes of graduate Justin Thomas, went a meager 3 of 8 in pass attempts for 55 yards and logged just 18 yards on 19 attempts.
Just when we thought we could put this horrific game behind us, that name came up again, Darrell Langham. Langham came up with a huge catch on a deflection on a game-altering 4th and 10 for Miami with 4 seconds left in the game. A field goal would be the nail in the coffin.
Losing a close match like this one should fuel the Yellow Jackets to beat their homecoming guests, the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest. The home match will take place at 7:30 pm EST and will be televised nationally on ESPNU.
-Jon J.
Photo: Hakim Wright