This stings.

From Paul Myerberg’s spring practice look at Georgia Tech comes this observation about how the Jackets need somebody to step up at nose tackle this season:

… If Barnes does play at an all-conference level — something he is capable of doing — keep an eye on the trickle-down effect. Barnes clogs up the middle of the line; that frees up linebackers Quayshawn Nealy and Jeremiah Attaochu to make plays on the second level.

The linebackers can move freely; the pass rush improves. The Jackets do a better job getting to the quarterback — get pressure like Georgia gets pressure, though that’s a painful comparison; the secondary, deep and experienced, forces turnovers in the passing game. It can happen, but it all starts with Barnes… [Emphasis added.]