I think the safeties played poorly, not what I would characterize as "safe". In particular, Jerrin Thompson on the first, and arguably most important, of their numerous 4th down conversions displayed an outstanding lack of football iq and playmaking ability. 4th and 7, Tech was desperate to respond to our early td and McGuire really needed it to fire up his team and send a message. Had it failed, and it should have been at least reviewed but whatever, Tech simply crumbles within the first quarter. We would have taken a lightning quick 14-0 lead and more importantly the defense would have gotten some juice from the turnover.
Tech motions their receiver, with the obvious back and forth tell, "we're trying to free him up for the throw" action. Thompson picks him up and keeps a deep cushion, and fucking BAILS well past the first down marker as the Tech guy simply stops and waits for the pass. 4th and fucking 7 and you don't protect the sticks... Not even a particularly well anticipated pass mind you. Thompson gets back just in time for the courteous push after ball is secured and both feet are down.
Shortly after, 7-7 and Tech is feeling self assured about never punting again