ATLANTA - Georgia Tech quarterback Reggie Ball has viral meningitis, but could play against Virginia Tech later this week, head coach Chan Gailey said Sunday.
Ball missed Saturday's 28-13 win against Connecticut with the illness. He checked into Emory University Hospital early Saturday and was diagnosed with the virus, which is much less serious than bacterial meningitis, late Saturday night.
His condition improved Sunday, which was a big relief to Gailey.
"I say all the time this team is like a family, so for me it's like having 85 kids," Gailey said. "If you have a bad knee, you can get surgery on it. If you have a bad elbow, it will get better. When your dealing with unknowns, it's tough on a coach."
Ball's playing status for the Virginia Tech game remains unknown. Doctors told Gailey that Ball should get stronger incrementally.
Ball hinted at a quick return in a Sunday conversation with Patrick Nix, Georgia Tech's offensive coordinator. Ball's first question: How does Virginia Tech look on defense?
Ball's backup, redshirt freshman Taylor Bennett, alluded to a fast return for Ball after Saturday's game.
"Reggie's a soldier. He'll be back. Trust me," Bennett said. "He'll do anything to be back next week."
Reach Adam Van Brimmer at (404) 589-8424 or adam.vanbrimmer@morris.com.
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