AJC Report: Johnson to GTech

The Atlanta Journal Constitution is reporting that Johnson has agreed in principle to accept the Yellow Jackets' offer and become their head coach.

The Annapolis Capital just confirmed this report and added that Johnson met with his players this morning to inform them of the decision.


Although Johnson would have been a great fit here at Duke and almost certainly would have brought us some wins immediately, his decision to pass on the Blue Devils is not the end of the world. I did feel that the transition to a triple-option attack might pose some problems in Year One.

For example, if Johnson were to come here, what would come of QB Thad Lewis, who took great strides as a passer this year? Could he run the option, and would the offense utilize his skilled arm or neglect it? Or what about WR Eron Riley, who potentially has NFL-caliber talent as a deep threat? I had heard rumblings that they would move him to RB. So although Johnson probably would find success wherever he coaches, the transition here might have had some hiccups due to personnel incompatibilities with his system.

But looking ahead, I've been assured by sources that Duke will quickly begin considering the next tier of candidates if Johnson didn't accept. Other than Rod Broadway, who is in that tier remains to be seen, but expect a few more interviews over the coming days.

Jackets have other options?

This report from Dennis Dodd at CBSSportsline says that Georgia Tech is also looking at former Auburn HC and current radio broadcaster Terry Bowden for their opening, and had a "great meeting" with them. The timing of Bowden and GT's discussion isint indicated, but this GT fanblog says that he was spotted on campus Tuesday.

Again, this only adds intrigue to the situation, as much of the reports out of Atlanta seemed show a "Paul Johnson or Bust" mentality on the part of Georgia Tech. A decision from Johnson is still expected sometime today.