Tuesday, January 2
Suggs did not play in Vols' Cotton Bowl loss



NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Redshirt freshman quarterback A.J. Suggs, a Georgia native who lost his starting position midway through the season, confirmed Tuesday that he is transferring from Tennessee to Georgia Tech.

"I have reached a pivotal decision in my life," Suggs said. "I have decided to continue the remainder of my eligibility at the Georgia Institute of Technology."

Suggs' decision to leave follows Tennessee's 35-21 loss to Kansas State in the Cotton Bowl on Monday behind freshman starter Casey Clausen.

"The decision was not made in haste, but upon much thought, consulting and most importantly, prayer," Suggs said.

After meeting with Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer, Suggs said he "concluded that a transfer to Georgia Tech was in my best interest."

"I certainly wish him the very best in the future," Fulmer said. "A.J. is a wonderful person and a fine player, and we are grateful for his contributions, attitude and work ethic ...

"I certainly don't want A.J. to transfer, but I understand his concerns," Fulmer said.

Suggs started four games for the Vols this season against Florida, Louisiana-Monroe, LSU and Georgia. All but the Louisiana-Monroe game were losses, and Clausen took over as the starter for the rest of the season.

Suggs played sparingly in two games after that. His final passing statistics were 81-of-139 for 785 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions.

Suggs made the trip to Dallas with the Vols for the Cotton Bowl and participated in practice this past week. He did not play.

As a senior, Suggs led McEachern High School in Powder Springs, Ga., to a 14-0 record and the Georgia Class 5A state title. Then he maintained his commitment to the Vols after top-rated prep prospect Chris Simms pledged to Tennessee then went to Texas.

"The last two years at Tennessee were remarkable," Suggs said. "I would like to thank all of those who have been there for me, in good times and bad, and I wish the very best to the Volunteers."




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