Georgia Tech QB leaving for Louisiana Tech

Posted: Mon Apr 28 3:54 PM

Ruston, LA (Sports Network) - Georgia Tech quarterback Taylor Bennett announced Monday he is transferring to Louisiana Tech for the upcoming 2008 season.

The NCAA has granted a waiver for Bennett, making him eligible to suit up for the Bulldogs this fall. Normally a player would have to sit out a season after transferring, but Georgia Tech doesn't offer the masters program Bennett plans to enroll in at Louisiana Tech.

Bennett led the Yellow Jackets to a 7-6 record in 2007 with a trip to the Humanitarian Bowl, a loss to Fresno State. He started all 13 games while throwing for 2,136 yards with seven touchdowns and nine interceptions in his junior season.

At Louisiana Tech he will be playing for coach Derek Dooley. Dooley's father, Vince, is the former long-time coach and athletic director at Georgia, Georgia Tech's chief rival.

"I wanted to play football for Coach Dooley," Bennett said. "He wants to win. If I can come down to Tech and work hard and prove myself this summer and fall, then we will see where it leads. Coach Dooley has made it clear that he wants to win."

Bennett will be competing with Ross Jenkins, Steven Ensminger and Al Hawkins for the starting quarterback role this fall.

"Everyone wants competition; it brings out the best in everyone," Bennett said. "I think everyone will get a shot at it. I'm hoping I can push those guys, and they can push me."

After serving as the backup to Reggie Ball during the 2005 and 2006 campaigns, Bennett got the start for Georgia Tech in the 2006 Toyota Gator Bowl. He completed 19-of-26 passes for 326 yards and three touchdowns in a losing effort to West Virginia.