Georgia Tech Football: Al Groh revered by Yellow Jackets players

Al Groh's dismissal as defensive coordinator came as a surprise to many – especially the members of Georgia Tech's defense.

Groh was revered by the members of his defense at Georgia Tech, who not only looked up to him as a defensive whiz, but also as a father figure, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution:

"Honest man," said Louis Young "heck of a coach. He just had everything I wanted in a coach, the closest thing to a professional defensive coach from his history and background. That was the main thing."

Young said Groh "is like a father figure to me," someone whom he found to be straightforward and lacking deceit.

Young wasn't the only one who spoke highly of Groh:

Former linebacker and 2011 team captain Steven Sylvester had similar thoughts of Groh when I talked with him Monday – brilliant football mind, good guy.

"You could just go sit down in his office and talk to him. He may be listening to Jay-Z or Young Jeezy, something like that."

Georgia Tech's defense will have to find a way to rally, whether they miss Groh or not. So far in 2012, the Yellow Jackets have given up 30.2 points per game – 91st in the country among FBS teams.

The Yellow Jackets' next game will be on Oct. 20, when they play host to the Boston College Eagles.