Georgia Tech Finally Finds Defense On Postseason

ATLANTA (AP) – Georgia Tech gave up more than 40 points in six regular-season games before enjoying a postseason defensive turnaround that boosts hopes for next season.

The Yellow Jackets ended a streak of seven straight bowl losses with their 21-7 Sun Bowl victory over Southern California on Monday. The win followed a 21-15 loss to Florida State in the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game.

Coach Paul Johnson says he will begin evaluating his staff this week.

The late improvements on defense could help interim defensive coordinator Charles Kelly, who was promoted after Johnson fired Al Groh on Oct. 8.

Georgia Tech loses only six starters from the 7-7 team. Quarterback Vad Lee could start in 2013 after playing behind senior Tevin Washington. Another key loss is running back Orwin Smith.