When Kansas has the ball

Kansas rush offense vs. Georgia Tech rush defense

Pick a back, any back. By now, it’s clear that the Kansas University ground game is a force to be reckoned with. Through two games, the Jayhawks are averaging 277 yards on 58 carries. Sophomore James Sims has been the workhorse but freshmen Brandon Bourbon, Darrian Miller and Tony Pierson have had their moments. The opponent gets tougher this week, but expect KU to pound away.

Edge: Kansas.

Kansas pass offense vs. Georgia Tech pass defense

Sophomore quarterback Jordan Webb is fourth in the nation in pass efficiency and, even though he’s without a couple of weapons this week, KU’s strong ground game should give Webb and the Jayhawks another opportunity to succeed through the air. Junior D.J. Beshears was KU’s top threat in the passing game last week. But junior Kale Pick and senior tight end Tim Biere also delivered career days.

Edge: Kansas.

When Georgia Tech has the ball

Georgia Tech rush offense vs. Kansas rush defense

Georgia Tech’s wishbone offense consistently is one of the most difficult ground games to stop. With so many disguised sets and unbalanced looks, the Yellow Jackets’ unique attack preys on opponents’ weaknesses and makes teams pay for even the smallest mistake. GT is averaging 340 yards on the ground and features 13 players with at least one carry. Synjyn Days leads the team with 73 yards per contest.

Edge: Georgia Tech.

Georgia Tech pass offense vs. Kansas pass defense

Last season, the Yellow Jackets struggled when forced to pass. That’s not the case any longer. Tevin Washington leads the nation in pass efficiency and bolsters GT’s wild rushing attack with more than 200 yards per game through the air. Teams who stack the box and dare the Yellow Jackets to air it out do so at their own risk now.

Edge: Georgia Tech.

Special teams

D.J. Beshears was the Big 12 special teams player of the week last week for his 197 yards in the return game. In its first two games Georgia Tech has tallied just 99 yards total in kickoff and punt returns.

Edge: Kansas.