Former USC Trojan Romello Height shines as Georgia Tech upsets Florida State
Former USC edge rusher Romello Height played a key role in Georgia Tech’s shocking victory over No. 10 Florida State on Saturday.
Romello Height, who previously played for the USC Trojans, was instrumental in Georgia Tech’s surprising 24-21 win over No. 10 Florida State in Dublin, Ireland. The 6-foot-3, 240-pound defensive end from Dublin, Georgia, impressed with three tackles, including one for a loss, and consistently disrupted the Seminoles’ offensive line, which was expected to be one of their strengths this season.
Height, now a redshirt junior, spent two seasons with USC after transferring from Auburn, where he had an injury-plagued career. At USC, he managed just 39 tackles and four sacks over two seasons. Despite his potential, injuries have limited his ability to fully showcase his talent.
As a four-star recruit and the No. 24 outside linebacker in the class of 2020, much was expected of Height. However, his college career has been hampered by injuries, including a shoulder injury that sidelined him for most of the 2022 season at USC. Last fall, he had his best season as a Trojan, recording 20 tackles and four sacks in 12 games.
In the game against Florida State, Height was Georgia Tech’s most effective pass rusher, frequently collapsing the pocket and making it difficult for the Seminoles to throw comfortably. Although he didn’t record a sack, his impact was evident.
USC, which has questions about its pass rush this season, could certainly use a player of Height’s caliber. Last season, USC ranked 47th nationally in sacks per game, and there are concerns about whether they can maintain or improve those numbers this year.
With Jamil Muhammad and Anthony Lucas expected to lead the pass rush for the Trojans, there are no proven standouts at defensive end. Height’s performance against Florida State might leave USC fans wondering what could have been if he had stayed with the Trojans.
