ESPN Prime Time Kickoff
It's going to be a great day of SEC football.
UF at SC - 12:30 JP
LSU at Bama -- 3:30 CBS
AU at UGA - 7:45 ESPN
We need you Shock.
Photo from Georgiadogs.com
October 31, 2005
Georgia vs. Auburn -- Kickoff Set for 7:45 p.m.
At least we get a true home night game this year.
ESPN Prime Time Kickoff
It's going to be a great day of SEC football.
UF at SC - 12:30 JP
LSU at Bama -- 3:30 CBS
AU at UGA - 7:45 ESPN
We need you Shock.
Photo from Georgiadogs.com
ESPN Prime Time Kickoff
It's going to be a great day of SEC football.
UF at SC - 12:30 JP
LSU at Bama -- 3:30 CBS
AU at UGA - 7:45 ESPN
We need you Shock.
Photo from Georgiadogs.com
Disappointed
I don't have time for a full review b/c work is brutal still.
But suffice it to say that I think this was the single worst game plan of the Richt era. Every team that beat the Gators blitzed from the opening whistle til the final horn. They beat prissy little Leak into a pulp.
As Orson Swindle pointed out to me Saturday...."You held the Gators to 14 points and zero in the final 3 quarters. With all due respect, how can you be mad at the Defense?" The answer is field position. Because we played so soft and because we never put any pressure on Leak we seemed to start every drive inside our own 20. You can't expect a first time starting QB to march the team the length of the field every drive.
As for the offensive game plan...I can appreciate bringing back the toss sweep and using a FEW quarterback sweeps to throw the defense off. I knew going into this game, that Joe T could run. But you don't run QB sweeps on 3rd and 22 or whatever or 3rd and 10. Not after the surprise is already over.
It was a horribly called game. I love what Richt has done for UGA. In fact, I think he's the best thing to happen to UGA since Herschel signed his recruitment papers on Easter Sunday 1980. But this game plan was without a doubt his worst ever.
BTW -- as for Coutu's misses. The wind was brutal. I can't really fault him much. We lost b/c of coaching. Not player execution. UF outcoached us badly.
But suffice it to say that I think this was the single worst game plan of the Richt era. Every team that beat the Gators blitzed from the opening whistle til the final horn. They beat prissy little Leak into a pulp.
As Orson Swindle pointed out to me Saturday...."You held the Gators to 14 points and zero in the final 3 quarters. With all due respect, how can you be mad at the Defense?" The answer is field position. Because we played so soft and because we never put any pressure on Leak we seemed to start every drive inside our own 20. You can't expect a first time starting QB to march the team the length of the field every drive.
As for the offensive game plan...I can appreciate bringing back the toss sweep and using a FEW quarterback sweeps to throw the defense off. I knew going into this game, that Joe T could run. But you don't run QB sweeps on 3rd and 22 or whatever or 3rd and 10. Not after the surprise is already over.
It was a horribly called game. I love what Richt has done for UGA. In fact, I think he's the best thing to happen to UGA since Herschel signed his recruitment papers on Easter Sunday 1980. But this game plan was without a doubt his worst ever.
BTW -- as for Coutu's misses. The wind was brutal. I can't really fault him much. We lost b/c of coaching. Not player execution. UF outcoached us badly.
The Cherrishinski -- The Drink That Almost Was
In his book Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer, Warren St. John talks about traveling with some Alabama fans who invented a drink/popper called the "Bama Bomb." The Bama Bomb consists of cherries marinated in golden grain alcohol for a period of weeks or months.
After the UT game 3 weeks ago, one of my friends took a large jar of cherries and marinated them in a Golden Grain/Makers Mark mix. The creation debuted Friday night before the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. We all made a pact that if Georgia won the Gator game this hellish creation would forever be known as "The Cherrishinski."
Alas, the drink may never see the light of day again.
Full Credit to the Name goes to Ryan. A 3rd Year law student at UGA.
After the UT game 3 weeks ago, one of my friends took a large jar of cherries and marinated them in a Golden Grain/Makers Mark mix. The creation debuted Friday night before the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. We all made a pact that if Georgia won the Gator game this hellish creation would forever be known as "The Cherrishinski."
Alas, the drink may never see the light of day again.
Full Credit to the Name goes to Ryan. A 3rd Year law student at UGA.
October 29, 2005
Why Someone else hates the Gators
earlier I wrote an article called "Why I Hate the Gators." Some well spoken, unknown soul answered why he also hated the Gators. Rather than have anyone miss his rant, I cut and pasted it into its own post.
At 9:06 AM, Anonymous said...
I hate the Florida Gators with everything that is deep within my Red & Black soul. Some people hate Tennessee. Some people hate Auburn. Everyone hates Georgia Tech. That's all well and good and each Dawg fan has that special spot of hatred reserved for the team of his or her choosing, but for me, that spot is reserved for the reptiles, the vermin that reside in Gainesville, FL.
There has never been a more cocky fanbase with so little to back it up with. There has never been a more arrogant group of people to the point it infuriates you to talk to them no matter what. There is not a fanbase out there that will proclaim superiority on a more regular basis regardless of a record that screams otherwise than the fanbase of the Florida Gators.
If Georgia could beat them 77-0 on Saturday and have the ball at the Florida 5 yard line with 5 seconds left, I would hope that Richt calls a pass play into the endzone and then goes for two instead of kicking the PAT. If there's any time left after that for a kickoff, I would hope that CMR kicks onside and we recover the ball en route to a TD as time expires...and, yes, I hope we go for two after that score as well.
I want Georgia to embarass Florida in every sport, every chance they get. Embarassment is the only thing that will shut a Florida fan's pie-hole. Unfortunately, we haven't been able recently to embarass them like we used to, but there's not a better time to bring back that good old Georgia tradition than this weekend. I want Georgia to destroy Florida and then rub their noses in the smoldering heap that is the "Urban myth".
I want a Gator fan's great-great-great-great grandchild to talk about this game to his or her son or daugher in hushed tones and reverent solemnity because it still hurts so bad even after all the years have passed. I want the series record to get back to what it used to be before the 90s hit and Georgia literally owned that patheitc little excuse for a football program down in Gainesville. I want Florida fans' hangovers on Sunday morning after the WLOCP to be preferable to the thought of the game against the Dawgs...and I want all of this to happen year after year after year after freakin' year.
Florida should be embrassed, destroyed, maimed, ridiculed, levelled, decimated, annihilated, blasted and plain old whooped by the Georgia Bulldogs on a yearly basis. It should be so bad that the rest of the SEC should begin to feel pity and awe at the things Florida has had done to it on an annual basis by the Dawgs.
I want the beatings to be so bad that a new term is created in the English lexicon to describe utter and complete destruction, and it should be derived from the utter and complete destruction that Georgia hands out to Florida in the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party every year.
Speaking of that moniker, I want the beatings to be so bad that the media is forced to rename the annual match-up from the WLOCP to the "AFGAW" - The Annual Florida Gator Ass Whoopin'...maybe just "GAW" for short. The annual "GAW" in JAX. I want that to roll off the toungue of every college football commentator in America and I want it to be used on-air at least 148 times during the week of this game so that every Florida fan everywhere knows deep down inside what this week is all about.
It is about hating Florida...and I do.
At 9:06 AM, Anonymous said...
I hate the Florida Gators with everything that is deep within my Red & Black soul. Some people hate Tennessee. Some people hate Auburn. Everyone hates Georgia Tech. That's all well and good and each Dawg fan has that special spot of hatred reserved for the team of his or her choosing, but for me, that spot is reserved for the reptiles, the vermin that reside in Gainesville, FL.
There has never been a more cocky fanbase with so little to back it up with. There has never been a more arrogant group of people to the point it infuriates you to talk to them no matter what. There is not a fanbase out there that will proclaim superiority on a more regular basis regardless of a record that screams otherwise than the fanbase of the Florida Gators.
If Georgia could beat them 77-0 on Saturday and have the ball at the Florida 5 yard line with 5 seconds left, I would hope that Richt calls a pass play into the endzone and then goes for two instead of kicking the PAT. If there's any time left after that for a kickoff, I would hope that CMR kicks onside and we recover the ball en route to a TD as time expires...and, yes, I hope we go for two after that score as well.
I want Georgia to embarass Florida in every sport, every chance they get. Embarassment is the only thing that will shut a Florida fan's pie-hole. Unfortunately, we haven't been able recently to embarass them like we used to, but there's not a better time to bring back that good old Georgia tradition than this weekend. I want Georgia to destroy Florida and then rub their noses in the smoldering heap that is the "Urban myth".
I want a Gator fan's great-great-great-great grandchild to talk about this game to his or her son or daugher in hushed tones and reverent solemnity because it still hurts so bad even after all the years have passed. I want the series record to get back to what it used to be before the 90s hit and Georgia literally owned that patheitc little excuse for a football program down in Gainesville. I want Florida fans' hangovers on Sunday morning after the WLOCP to be preferable to the thought of the game against the Dawgs...and I want all of this to happen year after year after year after freakin' year.
Florida should be embrassed, destroyed, maimed, ridiculed, levelled, decimated, annihilated, blasted and plain old whooped by the Georgia Bulldogs on a yearly basis. It should be so bad that the rest of the SEC should begin to feel pity and awe at the things Florida has had done to it on an annual basis by the Dawgs.
I want the beatings to be so bad that a new term is created in the English lexicon to describe utter and complete destruction, and it should be derived from the utter and complete destruction that Georgia hands out to Florida in the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party every year.
Speaking of that moniker, I want the beatings to be so bad that the media is forced to rename the annual match-up from the WLOCP to the "AFGAW" - The Annual Florida Gator Ass Whoopin'...maybe just "GAW" for short. The annual "GAW" in JAX. I want that to roll off the toungue of every college football commentator in America and I want it to be used on-air at least 148 times during the week of this game so that every Florida fan everywhere knows deep down inside what this week is all about.
It is about hating Florida...and I do.
October 28, 2005
Why I hate the Gators
In 1990, I made my first trip to the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. It was the first of many journeys to The City That Hygiene Forgot.
The 2005 edition of the Georgia vs. Florida game will be my 12th Cocktail Party and my 13th time watching this matchup.
I've only missed the 1993 Game (aka "Timeout Florida") and the 1994 Game (aka "The Debacle in the Swamp). I even sat through the 1995 "Beat Down in Athens" in which with 5 minutes left I yelled:
"Spurrier, You Son of Bitch.
You're not Getting 50. Not in OUR HOUSE!"
[Quiet for 3 minutes]
"Well...You're not getting 55."
I hate the Gators for the same reason that most Gator fans over the age of 40 hate Georgia. My frame of reference is one of pain, hatered and long bitter rides home on Sunday mornings.
Older Gators know this same feeling. From 1964-1988, Georgia went 17-7-1 versus Florida. During those years, the Gators saw every dream, every hope, and every potential title fall at the hands of the Dawgs. But then something horrible happened to Georgia. Dooley retired.
After that great Vince Dooley run, which not coincidentally ended in the Gator Bowl, the Dawgs went 3-13. The Dawgs kept their swagger for 1 year after Dooley retired. Winning in Ray Goff's first year. Then the wheels fell off.
The winds of change blew again into Jacksonville as Spurrier retired after the 2001 season. Just as the Dawgs enjoyed the momentum of their ownership of Florida for 1 more year after Dooley left; the Gators enjoyed two more years of ownership of Georgia after the Evil Genius walked away.
Now we enter this weekend's game.
The young Gators are new to failure, mediocrity and five loss seasons. But the older Gators know that their entire athletic trophy case now works in Columbia, South Carolina. The ONLY man to ever make the Gators Growl as a player or a coach is gone. And the man who is filling the Head Ball Coach's job has devised an Orange and Blue offensive system that has done more to stop the Gators from scoring points than anyone since Tom Osborne.
What will this matchup bring? I don't honestly know. With Shockley gone anything can happen.
All I know is that the monkey is off our back, and the expectations are off our back. All of the pressure is squarely on Urban Meyer's Gator Squad. A team that is quarterbacked by a QB who wants to show up for the game wrapped in bubble wrap. A team who can't run the ball against anyone outside of the Bluegrass state. A team who's defense's greatest claim to fame is falling on LSU and UT fumbles.
[Photo: A reinactment of the 1995 Fiesta Bowl.]
If the Dawgs protect the ball we win. And not only that...we begin another Dooley like run of dominance. This series has NEVER been about balance. It has always been about domination. And Gators brace yourself because if we win under these incredibly adverse circumstances, we're going to settle into victory lane for the long term.
The Very Long Term
All Farks Courtesy of the World Famous Sooner Fark Board.
The 2005 edition of the Georgia vs. Florida game will be my 12th Cocktail Party and my 13th time watching this matchup.
I've only missed the 1993 Game (aka "Timeout Florida") and the 1994 Game (aka "The Debacle in the Swamp). I even sat through the 1995 "Beat Down in Athens" in which with 5 minutes left I yelled:
You're not Getting 50. Not in OUR HOUSE!"
[Quiet for 3 minutes]
"Well...You're not getting 55."
I hate the Gators for the same reason that most Gator fans over the age of 40 hate Georgia. My frame of reference is one of pain, hatered and long bitter rides home on Sunday mornings.
 |
After that great Vince Dooley run, which not coincidentally ended in the Gator Bowl, the Dawgs went 3-13. The Dawgs kept their swagger for 1 year after Dooley retired. Winning in Ray Goff's first year. Then the wheels fell off.
The winds of change blew again into Jacksonville as Spurrier retired after the 2001 season. Just as the Dawgs enjoyed the momentum of their ownership of Florida for 1 more year after Dooley left; the Gators enjoyed two more years of ownership of Georgia after the Evil Genius walked away.
Now we enter this weekend's game.
 |
What will this matchup bring? I don't honestly know. With Shockley gone anything can happen.
 |
[Photo: A reinactment of the 1995 Fiesta Bowl.]
If the Dawgs protect the ball we win. And not only that...we begin another Dooley like run of dominance. This series has NEVER been about balance. It has always been about domination. And Gators brace yourself because if we win under these incredibly adverse circumstances, we're going to settle into victory lane for the long term.
The Very Long Term
All Farks Courtesy of the World Famous Sooner Fark Board.
October 27, 2005
Joe T gets His Shot -- Josh Kendall Article
This. Is. Outstanding. It's an article about whether or not Joe will be ready.
This article is another in a series that everyone is doing about his family legacy.
To quote a co-worker today (Vol Fan):
"It's ridiculous. You guys get the Tereshinskis and they've won like a dozen SEC Titles playing Center, Defensive, QBs and whatever. And you get the Bailey's who've all been drafted in like the 1st Round. But our legacy is 'The Punting Colquitts'. What a jip."
This article is another in a series that everyone is doing about his family legacy.
To quote a co-worker today (Vol Fan):
"It's ridiculous. You guys get the Tereshinskis and they've won like a dozen SEC Titles playing Center, Defensive, QBs and whatever. And you get the Bailey's who've all been drafted in like the 1st Round. But our legacy is 'The Punting Colquitts'. What a jip."
Recycled Smack -- Florida Edition
While I'm digging out from under the crater of work. I thought I'd recap some of my favorite anti-Gator lines that I saw this year online.
Urban Meyer Praised for Pointing and Staring
JeromeFromDecatur's instant classic commentary on the secret to Meyer's greatness.
Real Men of Genius -- Mr. Jean Shorts Inventor
Jorts. Gators love 'em. Everyone knows it.
Meyer Attempts to top "Pointing and Staring"
Meyer's no Bear....or Galen Hall for that matter.
Urban Meyer's List of Accomplishments
WeAreTheBoys.com makes fun of their own.
With Your Shiny Orange Shirts.
And Your Bright Blue Britches.
Go to Hell you Sons of Bitches.
Urban Meyer Praised for Pointing and Staring
JeromeFromDecatur's instant classic commentary on the secret to Meyer's greatness.
Real Men of Genius -- Mr. Jean Shorts Inventor
Jorts. Gators love 'em. Everyone knows it.
Meyer Attempts to top "Pointing and Staring"
Meyer's no Bear....or Galen Hall for that matter.
Urban Meyer's List of Accomplishments
WeAreTheBoys.com makes fun of their own.
With Your Shiny Orange Shirts.
And Your Bright Blue Britches.
Go to Hell you Sons of Bitches.
As The College Football Media Turns...
By JeromeFromDecatur
In the spirit of losing a starting quarterback, who has waited three years for a chance of retribution against the hated Gators in the midst of an undefeated season, Jerome would like to take the following curmudgeonly few moments and pick out the things in College Football Coverage that are maddening…
Aaron Taylor, Craig James, John Saunders: The ABC College Football "Team"
Is any group worse than these guys? They are utterly unprepared. They don't do their homework. Their studio set-up looks like it's taking place in some industrial workshop from the movie Tron. Disinfected, futuristic, weird.
How bad are these guys? When DJ went down, Aaron Taylor said,
"Well, Georgia has been struggling for weeks, and now they will really struggle..."
And instead of saying, "WTF are you talking about?" Craig James said, "Exactly. Georgia's struggles just got a lot worse."
Do these guys watch college football? Do they have any clue what is going on?
(Photo: "Hello, I’m a moron.")
Reece Davis and whoever-is-sitting-next-to-him are the best in the business in knowing players, coaches, traditions. And the gap is not even close.
When Brett Musburger Begins Speaking From the Point of View of Another Human Being, Animal, or Object:
He's done this his whole career, especially on NBA broadcasts...."Larry Bird just told Dominque Wilkins, 'Not today, my free-wheeling friend.'"
But now it's reached obscene levels and regularity.
At one point during the Texas-Texas Tech game he spoke from the consciousness of Vince Young and then when ABC came back with a shot of BEVO on the sideline and the BCS National Championship Trophy in front of him, Musburger said, "Bevo is saying, 'Look at that. I would like to eat that. Not so fast USC. Not so fast Reggie Bush. Not so easy. I'm not going to let you Trojan Horses take the championship from me."
Dan Fouts then laughs. But its a strange laugh. The way you laugh at the Uncle at Thanksgiving who is let out of the attic and makes everyone uneasy.
(Photo: "That’s funny Coach Knight, but what is your sweater thinking?")
The Big Ten
The next analyst who refers to this conference as a great example of balance and great teams and parity, should be shot.
Want to know why the Big Ten is mediocre? Watch an SEC game and turn to Michigan State vs. Northwestern and you'll wonder why everything is happening in slow motion.
(Photo: Rustic, Serene, Slow)
Auburn's Dance of Perceived Lack of "Respect"
You knew it was coming. Auburn beats up on Western Kentucky, Ball State, Shamrock Junior High, and MSU, and the media begins reporting on the media's lack of reporting on Auburn.
Auburn Nation follows the beat. We should be more respected. We should get more attention!
If you lose your home opener to a mid-major, you won't be taken seriously by the national media until you give them a reason to think otherwise....
(Photo: Meeting of the "minds")
Bob Davie's Failure to Say Anything Ever
Does the man ever say anything noteworthy at all? Ever?
It seems when he’s not getting a player’s name right, Bob Davie cannot stop from gushing on other coaches. A typical moment for Bob Davie.
LSU jumps off-side. For the third time.
Bob Davie, "You know, a lot of people are up in arms about LSU's penalties, but Coach Les Miles is a great coach."
LSU jumps off-side. A fourth time.
Bob Davie: "That's gotta frustrate Coach Les Miles. But he is a great coach and will have them back and prepared."
The best moment of Davie’s Gushing occurred when Tommy Tubberville was chewing Auburn Defensive Coordinator David Gibbs out for not having the right personnel on the field and having to take a time out (the ESPN boom mike picked up some well-placed Tubberville expletives) right after Bob Davie said, “David Gibbs is just doing a great job this year…”
Did his experience at Notre Dame give Bob Davie Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder? A disorder that doesn't let himself say anything but sunshine things about coaches?
(Photo: If you don’t have anything nice to say.)
To be fair, perhaps Davie is simply being a devil's advocate to the amount of zealous fans who are constantly calling for the heads of coaches. But he compounds his lack of saying anything interesting by being wooden, stiff, and constantly mispronouncing player's and teams names.
That’s all for now. A warning word to the wise—prepare your stomachs for a heavy doses of Verne Lundquist and Todd Blackledge referring at least 39 times to Coach Meyer’s crying, Chris Leak’s crying, and the “emotional two weeks it’s been for the Florida Gators…” and you’ll begin to wonder when the Lifetime Network began covering games. -- Jerome
In the spirit of losing a starting quarterback, who has waited three years for a chance of retribution against the hated Gators in the midst of an undefeated season, Jerome would like to take the following curmudgeonly few moments and pick out the things in College Football Coverage that are maddening…
Aaron Taylor, Craig James, John Saunders: The ABC College Football "Team"
 |
How bad are these guys? When DJ went down, Aaron Taylor said,
"Well, Georgia has been struggling for weeks, and now they will really struggle..."
And instead of saying, "WTF are you talking about?" Craig James said, "Exactly. Georgia's struggles just got a lot worse."
Do these guys watch college football? Do they have any clue what is going on?
(Photo: "Hello, I’m a moron.")
Reece Davis and whoever-is-sitting-next-to-him are the best in the business in knowing players, coaches, traditions. And the gap is not even close.
When Brett Musburger Begins Speaking From the Point of View of Another Human Being, Animal, or Object:
 |
But now it's reached obscene levels and regularity.
At one point during the Texas-Texas Tech game he spoke from the consciousness of Vince Young and then when ABC came back with a shot of BEVO on the sideline and the BCS National Championship Trophy in front of him, Musburger said, "Bevo is saying, 'Look at that. I would like to eat that. Not so fast USC. Not so fast Reggie Bush. Not so easy. I'm not going to let you Trojan Horses take the championship from me."
Dan Fouts then laughs. But its a strange laugh. The way you laugh at the Uncle at Thanksgiving who is let out of the attic and makes everyone uneasy.
(Photo: "That’s funny Coach Knight, but what is your sweater thinking?")
The Big Ten
 |
Want to know why the Big Ten is mediocre? Watch an SEC game and turn to Michigan State vs. Northwestern and you'll wonder why everything is happening in slow motion.
(Photo: Rustic, Serene, Slow)
Auburn's Dance of Perceived Lack of "Respect"
You knew it was coming. Auburn beats up on Western Kentucky, Ball State, Shamrock Junior High, and MSU, and the media begins reporting on the media's lack of reporting on Auburn.
 |
If you lose your home opener to a mid-major, you won't be taken seriously by the national media until you give them a reason to think otherwise....
(Photo: Meeting of the "minds")
Bob Davie's Failure to Say Anything Ever
Does the man ever say anything noteworthy at all? Ever?
It seems when he’s not getting a player’s name right, Bob Davie cannot stop from gushing on other coaches. A typical moment for Bob Davie.
LSU jumps off-side. For the third time.
Bob Davie, "You know, a lot of people are up in arms about LSU's penalties, but Coach Les Miles is a great coach."
LSU jumps off-side. A fourth time.
Bob Davie: "That's gotta frustrate Coach Les Miles. But he is a great coach and will have them back and prepared."
 |
Did his experience at Notre Dame give Bob Davie Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder? A disorder that doesn't let himself say anything but sunshine things about coaches?
(Photo: If you don’t have anything nice to say.)
To be fair, perhaps Davie is simply being a devil's advocate to the amount of zealous fans who are constantly calling for the heads of coaches. But he compounds his lack of saying anything interesting by being wooden, stiff, and constantly mispronouncing player's and teams names.
That’s all for now. A warning word to the wise—prepare your stomachs for a heavy doses of Verne Lundquist and Todd Blackledge referring at least 39 times to Coach Meyer’s crying, Chris Leak’s crying, and the “emotional two weeks it’s been for the Florida Gators…” and you’ll begin to wonder when the Lifetime Network began covering games. -- Jerome
October 26, 2005
Anti-Dawg Blog Articles (Cocktail Party Edition)
Some good comedy.
1. Violating every Dawg Copyright Code
2. Why UF owns UGA
EDSBS.com again shoots at the Dawgs. I'll have retort up sooner or later.
3. Apologies to WeAreTheBoys.com.
I was to participate in their Podcast about the game, but couldn't show and I lost his email. Work is crazy. Got to take care of the real job first. (Insert Fryer jokes for the GT Lurkers)
1. Violating every Dawg Copyright Code
The University’s logo is not allowed on a toilet seat cover; a picture of Jesus, Buddha or Muhammad; a pale ale beverage; or a coffin.Click to see Orson Swindle and the EverydayShouldBeSaturday crew violate the ruling. Comedy.
2. Why UF owns UGA
EDSBS.com again shoots at the Dawgs. I'll have retort up sooner or later.
3. Apologies to WeAreTheBoys.com.
I was to participate in their Podcast about the game, but couldn't show and I lost his email. Work is crazy. Got to take care of the real job first. (Insert Fryer jokes for the GT Lurkers)
"Blacks run very, very well" -- Air Force Coach
Fisher DeBerry is at it again. This time he has pointed out that "afro-american kids run very, very well." And for reasons beyond my comprehension this has stirred up controversy in Colorado.
Honestly, black men have had to deal with lots of negative stereotypes in the US over the past 200 years. But this is one of two stereotypes that works in their favor. How is being "fast" a negative?
The next thing you're going to tell me that "Asians are good at math" is a negative stereotype. I mean roll with the punches folks. Embrace the positive stereotypes. Ditch the negative ones.
You don't see african-american men running from the biggest stereotype of them all. They don't shy from that. lol.
[Photo: This guy didn't win.}
Honestly, black men have had to deal with lots of negative stereotypes in the US over the past 200 years. But this is one of two stereotypes that works in their favor. How is being "fast" a negative?
The next thing you're going to tell me that "Asians are good at math" is a negative stereotype. I mean roll with the punches folks. Embrace the positive stereotypes. Ditch the negative ones.
You don't see african-american men running from the biggest stereotype of them all. They don't shy from that. lol.
[Photo: This guy didn't win.}
October 24, 2005
Blog Poll Ballot -- Week 9
For starters, here is my week 8 ballot. You'll notice tremendous changes from last week to this one. I took a step back and said, "I've got some rankings that just make zero sense." So I tried to fix them.
Week 9: Last Week in ( )
1. Southern Cal (1)- I agree with Lee Corso in that Texas may be a more complete team. But I'm still keeping USC #1 on my ballot.
2. Texas (2) - I'm not in love with Texas because they beat an overrated Texas Tech team. It's just because they look so damn good on defense.
3. Virginia Tech (3) - a sloppy turnover filled affair with NCSU didn't do much to move VT up anyone's board.
4. Georgia (4) - Getting Tony Taylor (MLB) and Gerald Anderson (DT) back for this game is almost as big as losing Shockley. Ok...not really...but it's very big. I just hope Gerald can hold up without another concussion relapse. Arkansas was able to move the ball so well on UGA because we were so thin and tired up the middle. I thought Gant and Jackson were going to fall over dead from exhaustion late in the 4th quarter.
5. Alabama (5) - They get cupcake Utah State this week.
6. UCLA (8) - I decided to leap frog them over Miami and LSU because they are still undefeated. I have a feeling this is going to be fairly fluid.
7. Louisiana State (7) - Beating Auburn because the Plainsmen can't kick wasn't enough for me to move them up.
8. Miami (6) - The loss to FSU looks less impressive. The win over Clemson looks less impressive. Their best win looks like Colorado right now.
9. Penn State (13) - I'm not sure in retrospect why I had PSU below OSU. It escapes me now. Regardless, I fixed it. Their wins vs. Northwestern and Ohio State look better daily.
10. Notre Dame (11) - up one.
11. Wisconsin (16) - I just don't get why the mainstream pollsters still have these guys so low. Is it because of the loss to Northwestern? I know they don't have a magestic signature win yet. But 15th is too low.
12. Ohio State (9) - I gave their win over Michigan State too much credit.
13. Oregon (14) - I'm still trying to decide where I like these guys. But 16 was too low. Beating Cal this week won't impress me as I think Cal is still grossly overrated.
14. Florida State (17) - How did these guys lose to UVA? I leap frogged them over Boston College to correct that error. Earlier in the season, I kept them below Miami b/c I thought if they played again Miami that the Canes would win. If these guys played BC again, they would beat BC again. Thus the adjustment.
15. Boston College (15) - I considered dropping them a few slots.
16. West Virginia (18) - These guys are more physical than Northwestern or UF.
17. Northwestern (UN) - You take away a disasterous 2nd quarter vs. Arizona State in Tempe early in the year in which they gave up 31 points and this team has looked pretty good. They only lost to Penn State by 5.
18. Florida (20) - This is probably too high, but Texas Tech deserves to be punished for losing to the ONLY quality team they've faced this year.
19. Texas Tech (10) - I loathe Mike Leach. If you listed every coach in the Top 25 and said "Which one would you least like to have a beer with?" I'd list Fulmer, Leach then Tressel. You know...that would make a great blog poll roundtable question.
20. Auburn (12) - If you can't kick field goals, you're going to lose some games. Thus and therefore.
21. Louisville (21) - I could just as easily not rank these guys.
22. Colorado (24) - They could go 9-2, and it would still be hard to find reasons to move them up. They lost to the only quality teams that they have faced this year.
23. Minnesota (23) - Another team that seems bound for 20-25 purgatory.
24. TCU (UN) - I struggle to rank a team that lost to SMU.
25. Missouri (UN) - If your QB puts up 480 yards of offense and half of that is on the ground, you get people's attention. Brad Smith for Heisman! (Kidding)
In the On Deck Circle:
If Georgia Tech beats Clemson, they are back in.
Dropped Out
Michigan State, Tennessee, Virginia
New:
Northwestern, TCU and Missouri
Week 9: Last Week in ( )
1. Southern Cal (1)- I agree with Lee Corso in that Texas may be a more complete team. But I'm still keeping USC #1 on my ballot.
2. Texas (2) - I'm not in love with Texas because they beat an overrated Texas Tech team. It's just because they look so damn good on defense.
3. Virginia Tech (3) - a sloppy turnover filled affair with NCSU didn't do much to move VT up anyone's board.
4. Georgia (4) - Getting Tony Taylor (MLB) and Gerald Anderson (DT) back for this game is almost as big as losing Shockley. Ok...not really...but it's very big. I just hope Gerald can hold up without another concussion relapse. Arkansas was able to move the ball so well on UGA because we were so thin and tired up the middle. I thought Gant and Jackson were going to fall over dead from exhaustion late in the 4th quarter.
5. Alabama (5) - They get cupcake Utah State this week.
6. UCLA (8) - I decided to leap frog them over Miami and LSU because they are still undefeated. I have a feeling this is going to be fairly fluid.
7. Louisiana State (7) - Beating Auburn because the Plainsmen can't kick wasn't enough for me to move them up.
8. Miami (6) - The loss to FSU looks less impressive. The win over Clemson looks less impressive. Their best win looks like Colorado right now.
9. Penn State (13) - I'm not sure in retrospect why I had PSU below OSU. It escapes me now. Regardless, I fixed it. Their wins vs. Northwestern and Ohio State look better daily.
10. Notre Dame (11) - up one.
11. Wisconsin (16) - I just don't get why the mainstream pollsters still have these guys so low. Is it because of the loss to Northwestern? I know they don't have a magestic signature win yet. But 15th is too low.
12. Ohio State (9) - I gave their win over Michigan State too much credit.
13. Oregon (14) - I'm still trying to decide where I like these guys. But 16 was too low. Beating Cal this week won't impress me as I think Cal is still grossly overrated.
14. Florida State (17) - How did these guys lose to UVA? I leap frogged them over Boston College to correct that error. Earlier in the season, I kept them below Miami b/c I thought if they played again Miami that the Canes would win. If these guys played BC again, they would beat BC again. Thus the adjustment.
15. Boston College (15) - I considered dropping them a few slots.
16. West Virginia (18) - These guys are more physical than Northwestern or UF.
17. Northwestern (UN) - You take away a disasterous 2nd quarter vs. Arizona State in Tempe early in the year in which they gave up 31 points and this team has looked pretty good. They only lost to Penn State by 5.
18. Florida (20) - This is probably too high, but Texas Tech deserves to be punished for losing to the ONLY quality team they've faced this year.
19. Texas Tech (10) - I loathe Mike Leach. If you listed every coach in the Top 25 and said "Which one would you least like to have a beer with?" I'd list Fulmer, Leach then Tressel. You know...that would make a great blog poll roundtable question.
20. Auburn (12) - If you can't kick field goals, you're going to lose some games. Thus and therefore.
21. Louisville (21) - I could just as easily not rank these guys.
22. Colorado (24) - They could go 9-2, and it would still be hard to find reasons to move them up. They lost to the only quality teams that they have faced this year.
23. Minnesota (23) - Another team that seems bound for 20-25 purgatory.
24. TCU (UN) - I struggle to rank a team that lost to SMU.
25. Missouri (UN) - If your QB puts up 480 yards of offense and half of that is on the ground, you get people's attention. Brad Smith for Heisman! (Kidding)
In the On Deck Circle:
If Georgia Tech beats Clemson, they are back in.
Dropped Out
Michigan State, Tennessee, Virginia
New:
Northwestern, TCU and Missouri
Weekend Recap: Around the SEC
From looking at the box scores, things exited the weekend looking the same as they did when we entered for everyone except Auburn. But the box scores tell only a portion of the story. In no particular order...
Georgia - Obviously, with Shockley out until Auburn with an MCL sprain no game is a gimmie. I didn't see the Dawgs realistically going undefeated before. I still don't. I think we split with Auburn and Florida, but as bad as Florida's offense has looked and as bad as Auburn is on special teams it could go either way in either game. All Dawgs should pray for Joe T. He'll need it this week barring DJ pulling a Willis Reed on Saturday.
[Photo: Shock and AweCrap he's hurt! Photo from Georgiadogs.com]
Alabama - I can't see this Bama team going undefeated until they find a way to score points post-Prothro. Luckily for them, they get Utah State and Mississippi State as get well games before facing LSU (home) and Auburn (road) in back to back weeks. The outcome of the Auburn vs. LSU game really didn't impact Alabama all that much. They still have to play both teams, and ultimately they still need to beat both teams to control their own destiny. I think Bama splits with AU and LSU. I'm leaning towards Bama losing to Auburn, but making the SECC game anyway after UGA eliminates Auburn from the Western race the week before the Iron Bowl.
[Photo: Shula beat the Vols and later made sweet love to Condoleezza Rice.]
Neither here nor there, but Warren St. John wrote a great piece on Croyle for the NY Times. In his book "Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer" a Tide fan says to Warren something like "You mean you get PAID to watch Bama games!" That discussion in the book was all I could think about reading this article.
LSU -- I feel for the Cajuns. On the one hand, they won an epic SEC struggle to beat Auburn. That's the good news. On the other hand, nothing that Les Miles does inspires the feeling that he's driving the bus with a clear destination in mind as much as he is just a passenger waiting to see what the tour guide shows him next on his happy aimless journey around the SEC. Did the Tigers win this game or did Auburn flat out give it away?
[Photo: Les Miles seen here holding his Master Plan for extending on Saban's foundation of excellence.]
Auburn -- If I were Tuberville, I would've made the kicker walk back to Auburn. In the SEC, you should never, ever, never, ever lose a game in which your running back goes for 200+ yards. By the way, have I mentioned how wrong I was about Kenny Irons yet? (although, I was right about Tre Smith). Unless, these guys can find a way to beat Georgia *and* Alabama, this team has Peach Bowl written all over it.
Tennessee -- This isn't the time or place to mention it, but UT really does a nice job of running the RB and FB screens out of the shotgun. It takes Georgia FOREVER to get that play going. Obviously, the fullback fumble to lose the game isn't in the diagram.
Arkansas -- I've always felt that if Houtson Nutt could just find a consistent QB, he would be fine. But after watching the Georgia game, I think the problem isn't his QBs. It's his coaching. When you've got a 6'6" WR being covered by a 5'8" CB with no apparent safety help, why not call an audible and just TRY a fade route. If the QB is so grossly incompetent that he can't make that throw, then why have him in there? It isn't like Arkansas ran the option against Georgia? The QB only handed the ball off and made basic 7-10 yard throws to the backs or TEs on play action. The best thing that Nutt did was pound Georgia's exhausted DL with that amazing freshman back. But even then, when you've got Georgia totally exhausted why not keep running it up the gut on 3rd and inches or 4th and inches? Arkansas should aspire to more than letting Nutt run the program right back down the tube in which he found it.
[Photo: McFadden is a BEAST. The 70 yard run is the longest play against UGA since the '03 SEC title game as far as I can remember. Click to enlarge.]
Good News for the ACC -- With Mississippi State losing to Houston and Vandy losing to South Carolina, the SEC has virtually no chance of filling its bowl allotment. Some quasi-lucky ACC school will likely get to dodge a Boise snow capped bullet with a trip to Shreveport in December.
The Orgeron Combustion Countdown -- Ole Miss beat Kentucky. I keep waiting on The Orgeron to meltdown in a public and violent manner. Sadly, that has not happened yet and annoying wins like the one over the Mildcats only postpone the inevitable. By the way, what is UK waiting on? Fire Brooks already.
[Photo: Mohamed Massaquoi in action]
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[Photo: Shock and AweCrap he's hurt! Photo from Georgiadogs.com]
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[Photo: Shula beat the Vols and later made sweet love to Condoleezza Rice.]
Neither here nor there, but Warren St. John wrote a great piece on Croyle for the NY Times. In his book "Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer" a Tide fan says to Warren something like "You mean you get PAID to watch Bama games!" That discussion in the book was all I could think about reading this article.
 |
[Photo: Les Miles seen here holding his Master Plan for extending on Saban's foundation of excellence.]
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Tennessee -- This isn't the time or place to mention it, but UT really does a nice job of running the RB and FB screens out of the shotgun. It takes Georgia FOREVER to get that play going. Obviously, the fullback fumble to lose the game isn't in the diagram.
 |
[Photo: McFadden is a BEAST. The 70 yard run is the longest play against UGA since the '03 SEC title game as far as I can remember. Click to enlarge.]
Good News for the ACC -- With Mississippi State losing to Houston and Vandy losing to South Carolina, the SEC has virtually no chance of filling its bowl allotment. Some quasi-lucky ACC school will likely get to dodge a Boise snow capped bullet with a trip to Shreveport in December.
The Orgeron Combustion Countdown -- Ole Miss beat Kentucky. I keep waiting on The Orgeron to meltdown in a public and violent manner. Sadly, that has not happened yet and annoying wins like the one over the Mildcats only postpone the inevitable. By the way, what is UK waiting on? Fire Brooks already.
[Photo: Mohamed Massaquoi in action]
October 23, 2005
When Gators Cry
EverydayShouldBeSaturday has an outstanding article on the Meyer Offense and the offense of crying after a game. If you're a Dawg fan and you're feeling down, this article will lift your spirits.
[Photo: When Doves Cry. When Gators Cry. Whatever.]
[Photo: When Doves Cry. When Gators Cry. Whatever.]
I was wrong about Kenny Irons
I was wrong. He is in fact much faster than Nell Carter.
Congrats to Kenny for running all over LSU. Too bad he can't kick. ;-)
Congrats to Kenny for running all over LSU. Too bad he can't kick. ;-)
October 20, 2005
ACC Bowling: Boise State vs. Georgia Tech in the Boise Bowl?
Boise would love to get bookend shots at teams from Georgia this year. It would be spectacular seeing GT struggle on the frozen tundra vs. Boise. Other ACC bowling thoughts....
One man's argument for ACC bowling:
BCS - Virginia Tech
Gator - Miami
Peach - FSU
Champ Sports - Boston College
Tire Bowl - not UVA
Boise Bowl - not UVA
Could there be a 2nd ACC team in the BCS?
In theory yes. However, the FSU loss to UVA put a real damper on that opportunity. Realistically, Notre Dame is going to get one of the two At-Large BCS slots. With only 1 slot left, it will be tough for the ACC to get it. Their best shot is for Miami to beat VT and win the ACC Title while VT beats everyone else. That would likely put VT and Miami in the BCS. The other chance is for FSU to run the table and win the ACC Title game vs. an undefeated Virginia Tech. However, does anyone really think that is going to happen?
Where to put UVA?
UVA has been to the Tire Bowl two of the last three years. They aren't going back there to make it 3 of 4. The ACC likely isn't sending UVA back to Boise in consecutive years. That's just inhumane. The ACC could instead send the Cavaliers to the Liberty Bowl where there's an open slot, or they could use one of the SEC's unfilled slots.
Back to Boise:
That leaves Georgia Tech, NC State, Maryland and Clemson all fighting for bowl eligibility and the right to play in the Meineke Car Care Bowl (formerly known as the Tire Bowl) or the Boise Bowl. Not the most exciting of options to be sure.
Underrated Game to Watch:
GT vs. Clemson -- For Georgia Tech the Clemson game could be the difference between bowling or not. The Jackets have Miami (road), UVA (road) and Georgia remaining on the schedule. Only Clemson and Wake look managable at this point. The game is critical to their season.
Clemson doesn't have a very wide margin of error on bowl eligibility either. A loss to the Jackets would mean sure fire cold weather, and the possibility of being home for the holidays. A win gives them a shot at 7-4 (or better) and a 4 game win streak heading into a huge home game vs. the Noles.
[Photo: Georgia Tech's Rambling Wreck seen parked outside the team hotel in Boise, Idaho for the 2002 MPC Computers Boise Bowl]
One man's argument for ACC bowling:
BCS - Virginia Tech
Gator - Miami
Peach - FSU
Champ Sports - Boston College
Tire Bowl - not UVA
Boise Bowl - not UVA
Could there be a 2nd ACC team in the BCS?
In theory yes. However, the FSU loss to UVA put a real damper on that opportunity. Realistically, Notre Dame is going to get one of the two At-Large BCS slots. With only 1 slot left, it will be tough for the ACC to get it. Their best shot is for Miami to beat VT and win the ACC Title while VT beats everyone else. That would likely put VT and Miami in the BCS. The other chance is for FSU to run the table and win the ACC Title game vs. an undefeated Virginia Tech. However, does anyone really think that is going to happen?
Where to put UVA?
UVA has been to the Tire Bowl two of the last three years. They aren't going back there to make it 3 of 4. The ACC likely isn't sending UVA back to Boise in consecutive years. That's just inhumane. The ACC could instead send the Cavaliers to the Liberty Bowl where there's an open slot, or they could use one of the SEC's unfilled slots.
Back to Boise:
That leaves Georgia Tech, NC State, Maryland and Clemson all fighting for bowl eligibility and the right to play in the Meineke Car Care Bowl (formerly known as the Tire Bowl) or the Boise Bowl. Not the most exciting of options to be sure.
Underrated Game to Watch:
GT vs. Clemson -- For Georgia Tech the Clemson game could be the difference between bowling or not. The Jackets have Miami (road), UVA (road) and Georgia remaining on the schedule. Only Clemson and Wake look managable at this point. The game is critical to their season.
Clemson doesn't have a very wide margin of error on bowl eligibility either. A loss to the Jackets would mean sure fire cold weather, and the possibility of being home for the holidays. A win gives them a shot at 7-4 (or better) and a 4 game win streak heading into a huge home game vs. the Noles.
[Photo: Georgia Tech's Rambling Wreck seen parked outside the team hotel in Boise, Idaho for the 2002 MPC Computers Boise Bowl]
October 19, 2005
Ray Friggin Gant!
Honestly, pre-season Ray scared me. Ray is the guy that has entire flights of steps at Sanford Stadium named after him for always being in Garner's doghouse. But he's played pretty well this year and if his actions match his words, he could be on the cusp of developing in a a GREAT future leader for the Dawg Defensive Line.
I couldn't be more pumped about his quotes in the papers about the challenge the Dawgs face with all the banged up injuries. And his role as the leader of the group. I also love his comments about encouraging Swain to get it in gear.
ABH
AJC
MaconTel
Just wanted to give Ray a shoutout.
GATA Ray Gant
BTW -- quote of the month goes to Garner: "They all were signed at Georgia, so obviously we thought they could be good players,” Garner said. “Now they just need to show up and show the world I’m not a very good coach and I should have been playing them more in the first place." Comedy.
I couldn't be more pumped about his quotes in the papers about the challenge the Dawgs face with all the banged up injuries. And his role as the leader of the group. I also love his comments about encouraging Swain to get it in gear.
ABH
AJC
MaconTel
Just wanted to give Ray a shoutout.
GATA Ray Gant
BTW -- quote of the month goes to Garner: "They all were signed at Georgia, so obviously we thought they could be good players,” Garner said. “Now they just need to show up and show the world I’m not a very good coach and I should have been playing them more in the first place." Comedy.
Hoops News: Kansas, UNC, Duke...and Georgia???
I'm. Going. To. Speak. Slowly. So. We. Can. All. Have. Time. To. Digest. This.
FoxSports says the class that enrolled this Fall was one of the Top 5 classes in the country. Yes, that's right. Even without Louis Williams.
[Photo: Dennis Felton pledges his soul to Satan in exchange for mystical recruiting powers unseen in Athens since....well....since...never. Photo from Georgiadogs.com]
FoxSports says the class that enrolled this Fall was one of the Top 5 classes in the country. Yes, that's right. Even without Louis Williams.
[Photo: Dennis Felton pledges his soul to Satan in exchange for mystical recruiting powers unseen in Athens since....well....since...never. Photo from Georgiadogs.com]
Blog Poll 8 is up....
See the link here.
Sorry for the lack of commentary. Work is crazy. Most of the article you are seeing this week were written or partially written on Sunday.
Things return to normal in a week or so.
Sorry for the lack of commentary. Work is crazy. Most of the article you are seeing this week were written or partially written on Sunday.
Things return to normal in a week or so.
October 18, 2005
Blog Poll Roundtable - The BCS and Polls
All Things Longhorn is hosting this week's Roundtable.
1. What would it take for you to vote someone other than USC #1 in the poll? If you already are, what would it take for USC to regain the top spot on your ballot?
I have USC at #1. If Notre Dame's wheels fell off and if the opponents that Notre Dame has beaten continue to struggle as Michigan, Michigan State, and Purdue have at times, I would rethink my vote eventually. But it's hard for me to envision not voting for an undefeated Southern Cal as the #1 team in the country.
2. Which of the undefeateds is most likely to remain so? Who is least likely?
If I were ranking the odds that a team would remain undefeated, I would go:
1. Texas
2. USC
3. Virgina Tech
4. (Huge dropoff)Georgia
Least likely:
1. Texas Tech - even if they beat Texas, which isn't going to happen, they still wouldn't go undefeated.
2. Alabama - attrition is their enemy. Every week that goes by this group gets thinner and thinner. They are probably the thinnest program in the Top 10.
3. UCLA - if only because they play Southern Cal and are coached by Karl Dorrell. Karl Dorrell reminds me of a black Mike Shula...only without Joe Kines...or Brodie Croyle...or as many corrupt boosters.
3. If you were running the BCS system, would you let the computer rankings factor in margin of victory? Why or why not?
I would replace the computers with the old strength of schedule formula. Having said that, the biggest thing that computers provide is a sense of what the college football season would look like if every win or loss happened independent of a timeline. Everyone knows that in the human polls, it pays to lose early and it kills your season to lose late. Computers ignore that element. That said, I'm not a fan of the computers. Even if they do have UGA ranked higher than the humans.
These questions are part of a series of discussions for participants in the Blog Poll, which you can view here.
1. What would it take for you to vote someone other than USC #1 in the poll? If you already are, what would it take for USC to regain the top spot on your ballot?
I have USC at #1. If Notre Dame's wheels fell off and if the opponents that Notre Dame has beaten continue to struggle as Michigan, Michigan State, and Purdue have at times, I would rethink my vote eventually. But it's hard for me to envision not voting for an undefeated Southern Cal as the #1 team in the country.
2. Which of the undefeateds is most likely to remain so? Who is least likely?
If I were ranking the odds that a team would remain undefeated, I would go:
1. Texas
2. USC
3. Virgina Tech
4. (Huge dropoff)Georgia
Least likely:
1. Texas Tech - even if they beat Texas, which isn't going to happen, they still wouldn't go undefeated.
2. Alabama - attrition is their enemy. Every week that goes by this group gets thinner and thinner. They are probably the thinnest program in the Top 10.
3. UCLA - if only because they play Southern Cal and are coached by Karl Dorrell. Karl Dorrell reminds me of a black Mike Shula...only without Joe Kines...or Brodie Croyle...or as many corrupt boosters.
3. If you were running the BCS system, would you let the computer rankings factor in margin of victory? Why or why not?
I would replace the computers with the old strength of schedule formula. Having said that, the biggest thing that computers provide is a sense of what the college football season would look like if every win or loss happened independent of a timeline. Everyone knows that in the human polls, it pays to lose early and it kills your season to lose late. Computers ignore that element. That said, I'm not a fan of the computers. Even if they do have UGA ranked higher than the humans.
These questions are part of a series of discussions for participants in the Blog Poll, which you can view here.
Better Bulldogs vs. Dores recaps
Crazy Week coming up. While I'm barely posting, I submit two solid recaps from fellow bloggers.
I'maRealist gives the Dawgs pretty recap for those with a minute or two to spare.
Kyle King looks at the entire Top 25.
All Things Longhorn looks at the Road to Pasadena.
I'maRealist gives the Dawgs pretty recap for those with a minute or two to spare.
Kyle King looks at the entire Top 25.
All Things Longhorn looks at the Road to Pasadena.
October 17, 2005
BCS Thoughts -- First Poll is Out
The first BCS poll is out. The top 10 is:
1. USC
2. Texas
3. Virginia Tech
4. Georgia
5. Alabama
6. LSU
7. Texas Tech
8. Miami
9. UCLA
10. Penn State
[Photo: Southern Cal has the Pole Position in the race to the BCS]
Thoughts on Georgia:
-- The computers prefer Georgia over Virginia Tech. We're #3 in the computer polls and VT is #4. If VT were to lose a game, UGA would move up from .8933 to around .9250. That still wouldn't be good enough to catch Texas. For Georgia to make the BCS game, we would have to win out and two teams above us would have to lose. In other words, we might as well focus on winning the SEC b/c a huge screw job is cooking that's out of our control.
Other items of note:
1. Notre Dame -- The computers *hate* Notre Dame. They are ranked #16 in the BCS and are currently not ranked in the Top 25 in two of the 6 computer polls. They are ranked 24th in two more polls. For ND to make a BCS bowl, I think they have to be 9-2 or better and ranked in the BCS Top 12. Assuming they win the rest of their games that's doable, but this is a tough pill to swallow for these guys. They need Michigan, Purdue and Michigan State to get back on track.
2. Penn State and Wisconsin -- The computers are in love with these guys. PSU and Oregon are ranked roughly 7 slots higher by the computers than the humans. Wisconsin is ranked 9 slots higher by the computers.
3. Miami - They got the same treatment the Irish got although not as severe. They are ranked 7 slots lower by the computers than the humans.
4. Texas Tech - The computers have these guys ranked 7th overall. Given their schedule of Sam Houston State, Indiana State, Florida International, Kansas and Nebraska that's a shockingly high ranking. I think they are getting much love from the computers by being the old team to beat Nebraska. When Nebraska drops another one, the Red Raiders will hopefully see their ranking plummet.
PWD
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2. Texas
3. Virginia Tech
4. Georgia
5. Alabama
6. LSU
7. Texas Tech
8. Miami
9. UCLA
10. Penn State
[Photo: Southern Cal has the Pole Position in the race to the BCS]
Thoughts on Georgia:
-- The computers prefer Georgia over Virginia Tech. We're #3 in the computer polls and VT is #4. If VT were to lose a game, UGA would move up from .8933 to around .9250. That still wouldn't be good enough to catch Texas. For Georgia to make the BCS game, we would have to win out and two teams above us would have to lose. In other words, we might as well focus on winning the SEC b/c a huge screw job is cooking that's out of our control.
Other items of note:
1. Notre Dame -- The computers *hate* Notre Dame. They are ranked #16 in the BCS and are currently not ranked in the Top 25 in two of the 6 computer polls. They are ranked 24th in two more polls. For ND to make a BCS bowl, I think they have to be 9-2 or better and ranked in the BCS Top 12. Assuming they win the rest of their games that's doable, but this is a tough pill to swallow for these guys. They need Michigan, Purdue and Michigan State to get back on track.
2. Penn State and Wisconsin -- The computers are in love with these guys. PSU and Oregon are ranked roughly 7 slots higher by the computers than the humans. Wisconsin is ranked 9 slots higher by the computers.
3. Miami - They got the same treatment the Irish got although not as severe. They are ranked 7 slots lower by the computers than the humans.
4. Texas Tech - The computers have these guys ranked 7th overall. Given their schedule of Sam Houston State, Indiana State, Florida International, Kansas and Nebraska that's a shockingly high ranking. I think they are getting much love from the computers by being the old team to beat Nebraska. When Nebraska drops another one, the Red Raiders will hopefully see their ranking plummet.
PWD
Recap: Georgia vs. Vandy
Dawgs win 34-17
I'm going to go with random bullets as I remember them. There's a coherent them in there somewhere, but I'm too tired to find it.
Vandy -- There was some really defeatist articles in the Tennessean about how this is the same old Vandy. It isn't. This Vandy team played tougher and smarter than any team we've played this year. This team played us tougher and out executed Tennessee, South Carolina and Boise State. Are they more talented than those groups? No. Although the gap with SC isn't as great as the SC fans would like to think. When Cutler is on, they can play with lots of folks. They can go bowling by winning 2 of 3 from SC (road), UK (home) and UT (road). That must start this weekend at Carolina. If they get back on pace with a Carolina win, then watchout Vols.
Crowd -- The announced crowd was 38,000+. This was my third trip to Vandy ('99, 01 and 05). This was by far the biggest crowd I had ever seen there. I'll also go as far as to say it was the largest non-UF, non-GT and non-bowl road UGA crowd that I've ever seen. If there were 38,000 butts in the seats, then 25,000 were UGA fans. Great showing by the Dawgs.
Offense - lots of thoughts on the offense here.
Defense - I'm in the Timmy Jennings fan club, but Timmy might be one of the few DBs in history to have been tackled in the open field by 3 different QBs after INTs. Separately, if we don't get some of our DTs back healthy before the UF game, we're going to have issues up the middle. Big time.
Ray Gant -- I want to give the kid a shout out because he is always in the doghouse with Garner for doing or saying the wrong thing. However, Gant's post-game quotes in the Tennessean about Cutler were pure class and deserve to be pointed out.
Welcome to Mo's! - the proposed new cheer when Mohammed Massoquai scores a Touchdown (Tripp's idea).
Special Teams - I love our punt return and punt block teams. But our kickoff coverage team looked as bad as it did vs. Boise. We've got to get that back on track, and our kickoff return team needs a massive shot in the arm.
Also kudos to Inman and Moses for being named SEC Players of the Week. Moses is now tied for 6th in Sacks per game nationally. Additionally, this is Inman's second award this year. I didn't think Inman played all that wonderful and said so afterwards. This is my way of saying, "What do I know?"
pwd
I'm going to go with random bullets as I remember them. There's a coherent them in there somewhere, but I'm too tired to find it.
Vandy -- There was some really defeatist articles in the Tennessean about how this is the same old Vandy. It isn't. This Vandy team played tougher and smarter than any team we've played this year. This team played us tougher and out executed Tennessee, South Carolina and Boise State. Are they more talented than those groups? No. Although the gap with SC isn't as great as the SC fans would like to think. When Cutler is on, they can play with lots of folks. They can go bowling by winning 2 of 3 from SC (road), UK (home) and UT (road). That must start this weekend at Carolina. If they get back on pace with a Carolina win, then watchout Vols.
Crowd -- The announced crowd was 38,000+. This was my third trip to Vandy ('99, 01 and 05). This was by far the biggest crowd I had ever seen there. I'll also go as far as to say it was the largest non-UF, non-GT and non-bowl road UGA crowd that I've ever seen. If there were 38,000 butts in the seats, then 25,000 were UGA fans. Great showing by the Dawgs.
Offense - lots of thoughts on the offense here.
Defense - I'm in the Timmy Jennings fan club, but Timmy might be one of the few DBs in history to have been tackled in the open field by 3 different QBs after INTs. Separately, if we don't get some of our DTs back healthy before the UF game, we're going to have issues up the middle. Big time.
Ray Gant -- I want to give the kid a shout out because he is always in the doghouse with Garner for doing or saying the wrong thing. However, Gant's post-game quotes in the Tennessean about Cutler were pure class and deserve to be pointed out.
"He doesn't show any frustration," Dawgs nose tackle Ray Gant said of Cutler. "He's not a big talker. A lot of guys that have had success do a lot of talking and running their mouths, but Jay doesn't say much.
"When a guy is like that, it's hard to tell if he's rattled or not. If a guy's a talker and he gets frustrated or has a bad game, he shuts up after awhile. In the four years he's played us, he's always been their leader."
Welcome to Mo's! - the proposed new cheer when Mohammed Massoquai scores a Touchdown (Tripp's idea).
Special Teams - I love our punt return and punt block teams. But our kickoff coverage team looked as bad as it did vs. Boise. We've got to get that back on track, and our kickoff return team needs a massive shot in the arm.
Also kudos to Inman and Moses for being named SEC Players of the Week. Moses is now tied for 6th in Sacks per game nationally. Additionally, this is Inman's second award this year. I didn't think Inman played all that wonderful and said so afterwards. This is my way of saying, "What do I know?"
pwd
My Blog Poll Ballot Week 8
How teams faired and/or why they are ranked where they are:
Week 8
1. Southern Cal - well. duh.
2. Texas - If they throw Texas Tech a beating next week, it will be interesting to see what happens to UT's first place vote count.
3. Virginia Tech - I like this team.
4. Georgia - I moved Georgia over Bama. Georgia looked more impressive beating Vandy than Bama did beating the team that beat the team Bama beat.
5. Alabama - Bama vs. LSU and Auburn will both be outstanding games if Bama's depth can holdup.
6. Miami - Little Havana will be rocking as Senior Georgia Tech comes to down for a ritualistic beat down.
7. Louisiana State - The Auburn game this week is must see TV.
8. UCLA - I corrected my error for last week's ballot. Still not sure how good these guys are, but coming back from 21 down is impressive.
9. Ohio State - I'm not sure who won the Pontiac Game Changing Moment from ESPN, but if it wasn't the blocked FG...then something's wrong. No single play in the USC vs. Notre Dame game changed things as much as the block in this one.
10. Texas Tech - I don't see how feasting on cupcakes prepares you for what's going to happen in Austin this weekend.
11. Notre Dame - When you play the #1 team in America this close, how far can you really fall?
12. Auburn - They haven't played anyone since Georgia Tech. However, Brandon Cox is light years betteer than he was vs. the Jackets.
13. Penn State - I still like this team. They're young in key spots, but they are good enough to go 9-2 or better.
14. Oregon - Belloti looks to be putting together a quality team.
15. Boston College - Wake had these guys beat. I dropped them one on general principal.
16. Wisconsin - When Glen Mason loses, an angel gets his wings.
[Photo: Did someone mention angels and wings?]
17. Florida State - Will the last FSU fans who apologizes for dogging me out for not believing in this team please cut off the lights?
18. West Virginia - I need to see more of these guys.
19. Michigan State - John L. Smith is a tard. How do you screw up a final possession of a half so badly?
20. Florida - the Meyer Express still struggles to score points. If LSU holds on to the ball a little better this is a 2 TD beating.
21. Louisville - I wonder if Tuberville smiles when he hears that Petrino has lost another game? I would.
22. Tennessee - I feel bad about putting these guys here. Vandy played us tougher.
23. Virginia - Who knows. Can they handle success? Will they wet the bed vs. Maryland?
24. Colorado - I should be on the CU payroll. I've had them ranked more than anyone else in America.
25. Minnesota - Only ranked here because the idea of ranking TCU, Fresno, Georgia Tech, Cal or Nebraska sickens me.
Dropped Out
Cal
New:
UVA
Week 8
1. Southern Cal - well. duh.
2. Texas - If they throw Texas Tech a beating next week, it will be interesting to see what happens to UT's first place vote count.
3. Virginia Tech - I like this team.
4. Georgia - I moved Georgia over Bama. Georgia looked more impressive beating Vandy than Bama did beating the team that beat the team Bama beat.
5. Alabama - Bama vs. LSU and Auburn will both be outstanding games if Bama's depth can holdup.
6. Miami - Little Havana will be rocking as Senior Georgia Tech comes to down for a ritualistic beat down.
7. Louisiana State - The Auburn game this week is must see TV.
8. UCLA - I corrected my error for last week's ballot. Still not sure how good these guys are, but coming back from 21 down is impressive.
9. Ohio State - I'm not sure who won the Pontiac Game Changing Moment from ESPN, but if it wasn't the blocked FG...then something's wrong. No single play in the USC vs. Notre Dame game changed things as much as the block in this one.
10. Texas Tech - I don't see how feasting on cupcakes prepares you for what's going to happen in Austin this weekend.
11. Notre Dame - When you play the #1 team in America this close, how far can you really fall?
12. Auburn - They haven't played anyone since Georgia Tech. However, Brandon Cox is light years betteer than he was vs. the Jackets.
13. Penn State - I still like this team. They're young in key spots, but they are good enough to go 9-2 or better.
14. Oregon - Belloti looks to be putting together a quality team.
15. Boston College - Wake had these guys beat. I dropped them one on general principal.
 |
[Photo: Did someone mention angels and wings?]
17. Florida State - Will the last FSU fans who apologizes for dogging me out for not believing in this team please cut off the lights?
18. West Virginia - I need to see more of these guys.
19. Michigan State - John L. Smith is a tard. How do you screw up a final possession of a half so badly?
20. Florida - the Meyer Express still struggles to score points. If LSU holds on to the ball a little better this is a 2 TD beating.
21. Louisville - I wonder if Tuberville smiles when he hears that Petrino has lost another game? I would.
22. Tennessee - I feel bad about putting these guys here. Vandy played us tougher.
23. Virginia - Who knows. Can they handle success? Will they wet the bed vs. Maryland?
24. Colorado - I should be on the CU payroll. I've had them ranked more than anyone else in America.
25. Minnesota - Only ranked here because the idea of ranking TCU, Fresno, Georgia Tech, Cal or Nebraska sickens me.
Dropped Out
Cal
New:
UVA
October 16, 2005
Georgia's Offense vs. the "Big Six" and rest of the nation
I'm going to start with the broader numbers and jump into the "Big 6" (so-called wizards of offensive scheme) a bit lower in the article.
Just some thoughts to chew on:
Per the NCAA's stats, take a look at these numbers for Georgia's Offense:
Total Offense -- 454 YPG (18th Nation/1st SEC)
-- Note: only 3 teams with undefeated records above us in this category. Texas Tech, Southern Cal and Texas.
Scoring Offense -- 32.117 PPG (29th Nation/2nd SEC)
-- Note: Only 1 undefeated team ranked lower than us in this category. Bama.
Rushing Offense -- 189.7 YPG (27th Nation/2nd SEC)
-- Note: Only 2 undefeated teams ranked above us in this category. Texas and USC
Kickoff Returns -- 17.5 yards/return (105th in Nation)
-- Note: That blows.
Passing Offense -- 264.3 YPG (27th Nation/1st SEC)
-- Note: Only 3 undefeated teams ranked above us in this category. Texas Tech, USC and UCLA
TDs Per Game -- 3.7 (Ranked 43rd Nationally)
FGs Per Game -- 2.17 (Ranked 4th Nationally)
-- Note: If we went down the field and scored just 1 more TD per game instead of having to settle for a Field Goal b/c of a holding call, a dropped pass, an over thrown WR, a delay of game or a false start, we would be averaging 36.2 PPG. And our scoring per game would jump from 29th in the country to 18th or higher.
Taking the Next Step:
Only 2 things are holding back this offense from being absolutely ridiculously good. The first is redzone issues, and the second is the horrible kickoff returns that start far too many drives with lousy field position. Luckily, our punt return team is exceptional and ranked 9th nationally with a staggering 16.29 yards/return average.
As a point of comparison, the so called "Big Six" Offensive Geniuses by CollegeFootballResource.com. Who are the Big Six? To quote College Football Resource:
"The Big Six teams we are referring to are the six teams who have pulled away from the other 113 teams in college football in regards to scheme sophistication on either offense, defense, or both. The Big Six are---USC, California, Louisville, Boise State, Florida and Utah."
The group has also been called the "Gang of Six" by Heisman Pundit. How are these "scheme wizards" performing this year?
USC - 6-0 (#1 AP)
Florida - 4-2 (#18 AP)
California - 4-2 (#25 AP)
Louisville - 4-2 (Unranked)
Boise - 4-2 (Unranked)
Utah - 3-4 (Unranked)
Well geez, that's not very high rankings. Looks like the Big 1 to me. Boring old Georgia, Alabama, LSU, Penn State and Ohio State are all ranked higher than the second best "Big Six" Team. More fun with numbers:
Total Offense of Big 6 vs. UGA:
USC - 1
Louisville - 9
Georgia - 18
Cal - 19
Utah - 20
Boise - 25
UF - 53
***Petrino's stats without the 600+ yards of total offense vs. provisional Div I-A team Florida Atlantic are not quite as impressive. His total offense stats would fall to 16th instead of 9th. Not far from non-genius Richt.
Scoring Offense of Big 6 vs. UGA:
USC - 2
Louisville - 3
Cal - 16
Georgia - 29
Boise - 32
Florida - 53
Utah - 76
More fun with numbers..the Big Six have lost to teams with mostly unexceptional offenses including (rankings show national total offense rankings)
Georgia - 18th ranked
UCLA - 27th ranked
Oregon State - 28th ranked (twice!)
Alabama - 48th ranked
LSU - 51st ranked
West Virgina - 72nd ranked
South Florida - 74th ranked
TCU - 75th ranked
SDSU - 67th ranked
UNC - 82nd ranked
Anyway, just something to think about as the hype on those 6 programs fades a bit.
Just some thoughts to chew on:
Per the NCAA's stats, take a look at these numbers for Georgia's Offense:
Total Offense -- 454 YPG (18th Nation/1st SEC)
-- Note: only 3 teams with undefeated records above us in this category. Texas Tech, Southern Cal and Texas.
Scoring Offense -- 32.117 PPG (29th Nation/2nd SEC)
-- Note: Only 1 undefeated team ranked lower than us in this category. Bama.
Rushing Offense -- 189.7 YPG (27th Nation/2nd SEC)
-- Note: Only 2 undefeated teams ranked above us in this category. Texas and USC
Kickoff Returns -- 17.5 yards/return (105th in Nation)
-- Note: That blows.
Passing Offense -- 264.3 YPG (27th Nation/1st SEC)
-- Note: Only 3 undefeated teams ranked above us in this category. Texas Tech, USC and UCLA
TDs Per Game -- 3.7 (Ranked 43rd Nationally)
FGs Per Game -- 2.17 (Ranked 4th Nationally)
-- Note: If we went down the field and scored just 1 more TD per game instead of having to settle for a Field Goal b/c of a holding call, a dropped pass, an over thrown WR, a delay of game or a false start, we would be averaging 36.2 PPG. And our scoring per game would jump from 29th in the country to 18th or higher.
Taking the Next Step:
Only 2 things are holding back this offense from being absolutely ridiculously good. The first is redzone issues, and the second is the horrible kickoff returns that start far too many drives with lousy field position. Luckily, our punt return team is exceptional and ranked 9th nationally with a staggering 16.29 yards/return average.
As a point of comparison, the so called "Big Six" Offensive Geniuses by CollegeFootballResource.com. Who are the Big Six? To quote College Football Resource:
"The Big Six teams we are referring to are the six teams who have pulled away from the other 113 teams in college football in regards to scheme sophistication on either offense, defense, or both. The Big Six are---USC, California, Louisville, Boise State, Florida and Utah."
The group has also been called the "Gang of Six" by Heisman Pundit. How are these "scheme wizards" performing this year?
USC - 6-0 (#1 AP)
Florida - 4-2 (#18 AP)
California - 4-2 (#25 AP)
Louisville - 4-2 (Unranked)
Boise - 4-2 (Unranked)
Utah - 3-4 (Unranked)
Well geez, that's not very high rankings. Looks like the Big 1 to me. Boring old Georgia, Alabama, LSU, Penn State and Ohio State are all ranked higher than the second best "Big Six" Team. More fun with numbers:
Total Offense of Big 6 vs. UGA:
USC - 1
Louisville - 9
Georgia - 18
Cal - 19
Utah - 20
Boise - 25
UF - 53
***Petrino's stats without the 600+ yards of total offense vs. provisional Div I-A team Florida Atlantic are not quite as impressive. His total offense stats would fall to 16th instead of 9th. Not far from non-genius Richt.
Scoring Offense of Big 6 vs. UGA:
USC - 2
Louisville - 3
Cal - 16
Georgia - 29
Boise - 32
Florida - 53
Utah - 76
More fun with numbers..the Big Six have lost to teams with mostly unexceptional offenses including (rankings show national total offense rankings)
Georgia - 18th ranked
UCLA - 27th ranked
Oregon State - 28th ranked (twice!)
Alabama - 48th ranked
LSU - 51st ranked
West Virgina - 72nd ranked
South Florida - 74th ranked
TCU - 75th ranked
SDSU - 67th ranked
UNC - 82nd ranked
Anyway, just something to think about as the hype on those 6 programs fades a bit.
October 14, 2005
Georgia vs. Vandy: PlayStation Preview (From Jerome)
JeromeFromDecatur brings insight into UGA vs. Vandy
“пожалуйста!”
Holy Sh*t.
The Dawgs Go Ivan Drago on Vanderbilt 82-24.
In a contest that can only be compared to the 1985 Ivan Drago-Apollo Creed exhibition match, the Georgia Bulldogs killed Vanderbilt last night. Warning. This is not a metaphor. Not hyperbole. The Dawgs beat Vanderbilt 82-24. And the ramifications go beyond the scoreboard. It wasn’t pretty, it was over quick, and at the end, ethical questions were being asked about how much is too much in sports.
(Photo: More Machine than Man)
Consider the numbers:
Georgia 82 Vanderbilt 24
Georgia : 815 yards of total offense.
DJ Shockley: 7 touchdown passes, 662 yards passing.
But as dominating as the victory was for Georgia, post-game speculation ran rampant as to why Jerome didn’t substitute at any point in the game. Why did he not call off the Dawgs. Why did he refuse to punt on any possession (5 for 9 on 4th down conversions). And why did the Dawgs feel the need to make Vanderbilt look so much like...Vanderbilt.
When asked by journalist and Monday morning quarterback Scott Kennedy exactly what D.J. Shockley was doing in the shotgun scrambling around in the forth quarter tossing the ball deep downfield with a 50 point lead Jerome said,
“Let me answer that question with a question.”
Kennedy nodded.
”Why anything?”
Kennedy raised an eyebrow and Jerome walked off.
As Jerome walked off the field at Vanderbilt stadium, the ever persistent Ryan Jordan continued to ask Jerome why the Dawgs ran up the score. In a rare moment of unabashed honesty, Jerome snapped, “Do the words “1994 Homecoming” mean anything to you? I was there Jordan. I was there. Were you?”
(Jerome and Drago: Similar Styles, Similar English Speaking Skills, Similar Results)
As Jerome berated Jordan, Vanderbilt Chancellor Gordon Gee was conducting a press conference of his own.
"This is it. No more. There is a wrong culture in athletics, and I've declared war on it," the Vanderbilt Chancellor yelled. “Something horrible happened out there today. A game was played. And feelings were hurt. We can’t have that. No sir. No sir-e Bob. And after today there will be no more football at Vanderbilt. It’s over. No more. And JeromeFromDecatur should be investigated by the NCAA.”
When told that Chancellor Gee was throwing in the towel and the future of Vandy Football was in jeopardy, Jerome said, “If it dies, it dies.”
[Photo: 1890-2005]
A chilling statement. A statement that as of now, the NCAA has refused to comment on as the undefeated and #2 ranked Dawgs head home to battle Arkansas next week.
By: JeromeFromDecatur
“пожалуйста!”
Holy Sh*t.
The Dawgs Go Ivan Drago on Vanderbilt 82-24.
 |
(Photo: More Machine than Man)
Consider the numbers:
Georgia 82 Vanderbilt 24
Georgia : 815 yards of total offense.
DJ Shockley: 7 touchdown passes, 662 yards passing.
But as dominating as the victory was for Georgia, post-game speculation ran rampant as to why Jerome didn’t substitute at any point in the game. Why did he not call off the Dawgs. Why did he refuse to punt on any possession (5 for 9 on 4th down conversions). And why did the Dawgs feel the need to make Vanderbilt look so much like...Vanderbilt.
When asked by journalist and Monday morning quarterback Scott Kennedy exactly what D.J. Shockley was doing in the shotgun scrambling around in the forth quarter tossing the ball deep downfield with a 50 point lead Jerome said,
“Let me answer that question with a question.”
Kennedy nodded.
”Why anything?”
Kennedy raised an eyebrow and Jerome walked off.
 |
(Jerome and Drago: Similar Styles, Similar English Speaking Skills, Similar Results)
As Jerome berated Jordan, Vanderbilt Chancellor Gordon Gee was conducting a press conference of his own.
 |
When told that Chancellor Gee was throwing in the towel and the future of Vandy Football was in jeopardy, Jerome said, “If it dies, it dies.”
[Photo: 1890-2005]
A chilling statement. A statement that as of now, the NCAA has refused to comment on as the undefeated and #2 ranked Dawgs head home to battle Arkansas next week.
By: JeromeFromDecatur
Quick Predictions for the Weekend
Here are a few quick hitters on some of the weekend's biggest games:
USC vs. Notre Dame -- The only stat I needed to know. "Both offenses are among the top 10 nationally, but the big difference is USC is 38th in total defense while Notre Dame is 94th." (Source: ESPN) Notre Dame hasn't really stopped anyone. I think the Trojans win. If the Trojans come out ready to play in the first half --- for a change -- they win by 2 TDs. If not, they still win.
LSU vs. Florida -- Things get harder for Urban Dukakis every week. LSU will start blitzing Leak when he gets off the bus. They will continue to blitz him during warm ups, and I'm expecting some blitzing during the post-game press conference. Addai is probably the single most underrated player in the SEC, and I don't think the Gators can stop him or the LSU passing game. If LSU plays for 4 quarters, they win.
Ohio State vs. Michigan State -- At some point, you have to be able to score SOME points. Ohio State's offense makes Georgia's look like something out of Tecmo Bowl by comparison. I hate picking the Spartans b/c they are such headcases, but I like Michigan State in this one.
To use Kyle King's term my game of "Disinterest" would be Kansas State vs. Texas Tech. Two teams I don't care about who've played no one battling in a Lubbock pissing match. Hopefully, Kansas State will win so that I can bring the hammer on TTU in the rankings.
Speaking of T. Kyle King, he breaks down the weekend's national games in *detail*.
He also goes deep inside the Georgia vs. Vandy affair. My favorite line is from the Feel Good Stat of the Week. "In 2005, Vanderbilt has outscored the opposition by ten points (141-131). In 2005, Georgia has outscored the opposition by a hundred points (159-59)."
I don't know what the spread on the Georgia game is, but I think we win by 21+ points. We're Georgia. And Under Richt we don't cover.
pwd
USC vs. Notre Dame -- The only stat I needed to know. "Both offenses are among the top 10 nationally, but the big difference is USC is 38th in total defense while Notre Dame is 94th." (Source: ESPN) Notre Dame hasn't really stopped anyone. I think the Trojans win. If the Trojans come out ready to play in the first half --- for a change -- they win by 2 TDs. If not, they still win.
LSU vs. Florida -- Things get harder for Urban Dukakis every week. LSU will start blitzing Leak when he gets off the bus. They will continue to blitz him during warm ups, and I'm expecting some blitzing during the post-game press conference. Addai is probably the single most underrated player in the SEC, and I don't think the Gators can stop him or the LSU passing game. If LSU plays for 4 quarters, they win.
Ohio State vs. Michigan State -- At some point, you have to be able to score SOME points. Ohio State's offense makes Georgia's look like something out of Tecmo Bowl by comparison. I hate picking the Spartans b/c they are such headcases, but I like Michigan State in this one.
To use Kyle King's term my game of "Disinterest" would be Kansas State vs. Texas Tech. Two teams I don't care about who've played no one battling in a Lubbock pissing match. Hopefully, Kansas State will win so that I can bring the hammer on TTU in the rankings.
Speaking of T. Kyle King, he breaks down the weekend's national games in *detail*.
He also goes deep inside the Georgia vs. Vandy affair. My favorite line is from the Feel Good Stat of the Week. "In 2005, Vanderbilt has outscored the opposition by ten points (141-131). In 2005, Georgia has outscored the opposition by a hundred points (159-59)."
I don't know what the spread on the Georgia game is, but I think we win by 21+ points. We're Georgia. And Under Richt we don't cover.
pwd
October 13, 2005
Great Article on the Tight Ends: From the Albany Paper
I honestly don't do cut and pastes, but I couldn't find a link to this anywhere on their site. Check out the Albany Herald and buy a subscription. That way I don't have to hear any grief about the C&P. Great article.
Bulldogs' dynamic duo
Leonard Pope and Martrez Milner are making life easier for Georgia
quarterback D.J. Shockley. David Hale
ATHENS - Facing third-and-12 near midfield Saturday, D.J. Shockley dropped back to pass, looking for an open receiver to sustain a crucial drive early in the Bulldogs' game against Tennessee. He found tight end Martrez Milner over the middle for 20 yards and a first down, and Georgia went on to score its first touchdown of the game on that drive.
As the final seconds ticked off the clock in the second quarter, Shockley again faced a crucial third down, this time deep in Volunteers territory. He again looked to his tight end, this time at Leonard Pope, who corralled Shockley's pass, then rumbled over several Tennessee defenders for 9 yards and a first down. Again the Bulldogs scored on the drive.
Martrez Milner (87) and Leonard Pope (81) team up to give the Georgia Bulldogs one of the top tight end combinations in the country. Finding one of his tight ends in crucial moments has become the standard for Shockley. The dynamic duo of Milner and Pope has been a revelation for the Georgia offense and has tormented opposing defenses through its first five games.
"Martrez and Pope cause so many mismatches for the defense that it causes them to get the ball a lot," Shockley said. "In our offense they're usually our first or second read. They do good jobs of running routes and getting open, so it makes it easy on my part when they're running and getting open and all I've got to do is give it to them."
But before the season started, few members of the Georgia coaching staff expected Shockley to have two receiving targets at tight end.
Milner, the 6-foot-4-inch, 250-pound junior, arrived in Athens in 2002 and was red-shirted that season. Pope, who stands just three inches taller but seems enormous even by Milner's standards, came a year later and shared reserve duties. Each finished 2003 with just a single catch, but Pope, a native of Americus, was named to the SEC all-freshman team and seemed to edge Milner on the depth chart.
The trend continued in 2004. Pope flourished in his sophomore season, catching touchdowns in five of his final six games, easily securing the starting job and earning first-team All-SEC honors. Milner, meanwhile, suffered back spasms throughout the season, limiting his play. He became an afterthought in the Bulldogs' offense, finishing the year with just four receptions.
"Coming in from high school, I did good for a moment and then he did better than me. I got hurt and he excelled," Milner said.
And so far in 2005, Pope has picked up right where he left off last season, hauling in 13 catches for 199 yards and a touchdown in four games and barreling around, over or through would-be tacklers. But while Richt knew Pope would provide Shockley with a solid target in the passing game, it took some extra work to bring Milner along.
"I sat down with him one day, and I had some tape, and I showed him the best of Martrez Milner, and then I showed him some things that weren't very good," Richt said. "One guy you would say was a draft pick for sure, the other guy you might not even bring in as a free agent."
Richt watched the tapes with Milner, illustrating both his potential and his liabilities, and challenged him to get better.
"I didn't want to hurt his feelings," Richt said, "but the reason I did it was to say, 'If you can consistently play (to your potential), you're really going to help yourself and help this team. You're very capable, and we believe in you, but if it's hot and cold it's very difficult to get excited about getting you playing time or getting you in there when it counts the most.' "
Milner took the meeting to heart. Instead of sulking about his reduced role in the offense, he worked harder.
Instead of worrying about backing up Pope on the depth chart, he challenged himself to outplay his teammate during practice. Instead of another year of inconsistency, he wanted the entire 2005 season to be a "Best of Martrez Milner."
"It was a good day for me," Milner said. "It gave me a rude awakening, but the coaches still believed in me. The coaches took the time to show me my ups and my downs and it really proved to me that the coaches hadn't given up on me. I'm really thankful for that and I'm just trying to take advantage of the opportunity I have."
Milner's progression began in the preseason. Despite knowing he'd be behind Pope on the depth chart, he excelled throughout camp and was rewarded in Georgia's opening game against Boise State with a premier role in the offensive attack. He finished the game with three catches for 111 yards, including a 56-yard touchdown reception. He added a second touchdown two weeks later against Louisiana-Monroe and has remained a favorite target for Shockley.
"I feel like my role has changed," Milner said. "Coming into the season, I was behind Leonard, but as of right now I'm trying to make plays when I get the ball and it seems like I'm getting looks more often."
In many ways, Milner's sudden success mirrors Pope's 2004 season and Richt doesn't think that's simply a coincidence.
"I think (Milner's progress) had a lot to do with Leonard's success," Richt said. "Seeing a guy that came in after him move past him, and Leonard had moved past him, Martrez didn't like it. At first, I don't think he knew how to react, but after a while I think he said, 'If I don't get going and competing here, I'm going to be left in his wake.' So he did, he had a great summer and a great camp and has played beautifully."
Milner agreed and said his relationship with Pope has been a major catalyst in his breakout season.
"Off the field, we're like brothers," Milner said. "We push each other hard each and every day."
Pope doesn't think Milner is doing much different this season but said the early success provided the groundwork for a strong season.
"His confidence has really gone up," Pope said. "He's making a lot of big plays, catching the ball and blocking pretty good."
Whatever the cause, the results speak for themselves and give Richt's offense a dimension few SEC opponents can match.
"To me, they're co-No. 1s," Richt said. "They're both talented guys who can make a lot of plays in this league."
And while it may have taken a few years for Milner to garner that title, he's relishing the chance to make up for lost time. In fact, even Pope is enjoying the success of his teammate, even if it may be at the expense of some of his playing time.
"When one tight end succeeds, all of us succeed," Pope said. "We sweat and bleed and work together every day. Martrez is a great tight end, and I'm really proud of him. He's earned every bit of the success that he's getting right now."
From the Albany Herald.
Bulldogs' dynamic duo
Leonard Pope and Martrez Milner are making life easier for Georgia
quarterback D.J. Shockley. David Hale
ATHENS - Facing third-and-12 near midfield Saturday, D.J. Shockley dropped back to pass, looking for an open receiver to sustain a crucial drive early in the Bulldogs' game against Tennessee. He found tight end Martrez Milner over the middle for 20 yards and a first down, and Georgia went on to score its first touchdown of the game on that drive.
As the final seconds ticked off the clock in the second quarter, Shockley again faced a crucial third down, this time deep in Volunteers territory. He again looked to his tight end, this time at Leonard Pope, who corralled Shockley's pass, then rumbled over several Tennessee defenders for 9 yards and a first down. Again the Bulldogs scored on the drive.
Martrez Milner (87) and Leonard Pope (81) team up to give the Georgia Bulldogs one of the top tight end combinations in the country. Finding one of his tight ends in crucial moments has become the standard for Shockley. The dynamic duo of Milner and Pope has been a revelation for the Georgia offense and has tormented opposing defenses through its first five games.
"Martrez and Pope cause so many mismatches for the defense that it causes them to get the ball a lot," Shockley said. "In our offense they're usually our first or second read. They do good jobs of running routes and getting open, so it makes it easy on my part when they're running and getting open and all I've got to do is give it to them."
But before the season started, few members of the Georgia coaching staff expected Shockley to have two receiving targets at tight end.
Milner, the 6-foot-4-inch, 250-pound junior, arrived in Athens in 2002 and was red-shirted that season. Pope, who stands just three inches taller but seems enormous even by Milner's standards, came a year later and shared reserve duties. Each finished 2003 with just a single catch, but Pope, a native of Americus, was named to the SEC all-freshman team and seemed to edge Milner on the depth chart.
The trend continued in 2004. Pope flourished in his sophomore season, catching touchdowns in five of his final six games, easily securing the starting job and earning first-team All-SEC honors. Milner, meanwhile, suffered back spasms throughout the season, limiting his play. He became an afterthought in the Bulldogs' offense, finishing the year with just four receptions.
"Coming in from high school, I did good for a moment and then he did better than me. I got hurt and he excelled," Milner said.
And so far in 2005, Pope has picked up right where he left off last season, hauling in 13 catches for 199 yards and a touchdown in four games and barreling around, over or through would-be tacklers. But while Richt knew Pope would provide Shockley with a solid target in the passing game, it took some extra work to bring Milner along.
"I sat down with him one day, and I had some tape, and I showed him the best of Martrez Milner, and then I showed him some things that weren't very good," Richt said. "One guy you would say was a draft pick for sure, the other guy you might not even bring in as a free agent."
Richt watched the tapes with Milner, illustrating both his potential and his liabilities, and challenged him to get better.
"I didn't want to hurt his feelings," Richt said, "but the reason I did it was to say, 'If you can consistently play (to your potential), you're really going to help yourself and help this team. You're very capable, and we believe in you, but if it's hot and cold it's very difficult to get excited about getting you playing time or getting you in there when it counts the most.' "
Milner took the meeting to heart. Instead of sulking about his reduced role in the offense, he worked harder.
Instead of worrying about backing up Pope on the depth chart, he challenged himself to outplay his teammate during practice. Instead of another year of inconsistency, he wanted the entire 2005 season to be a "Best of Martrez Milner."
"It was a good day for me," Milner said. "It gave me a rude awakening, but the coaches still believed in me. The coaches took the time to show me my ups and my downs and it really proved to me that the coaches hadn't given up on me. I'm really thankful for that and I'm just trying to take advantage of the opportunity I have."
Milner's progression began in the preseason. Despite knowing he'd be behind Pope on the depth chart, he excelled throughout camp and was rewarded in Georgia's opening game against Boise State with a premier role in the offensive attack. He finished the game with three catches for 111 yards, including a 56-yard touchdown reception. He added a second touchdown two weeks later against Louisiana-Monroe and has remained a favorite target for Shockley.
"I feel like my role has changed," Milner said. "Coming into the season, I was behind Leonard, but as of right now I'm trying to make plays when I get the ball and it seems like I'm getting looks more often."
In many ways, Milner's sudden success mirrors Pope's 2004 season and Richt doesn't think that's simply a coincidence.
"I think (Milner's progress) had a lot to do with Leonard's success," Richt said. "Seeing a guy that came in after him move past him, and Leonard had moved past him, Martrez didn't like it. At first, I don't think he knew how to react, but after a while I think he said, 'If I don't get going and competing here, I'm going to be left in his wake.' So he did, he had a great summer and a great camp and has played beautifully."
Milner agreed and said his relationship with Pope has been a major catalyst in his breakout season.
"Off the field, we're like brothers," Milner said. "We push each other hard each and every day."
Pope doesn't think Milner is doing much different this season but said the early success provided the groundwork for a strong season.
"His confidence has really gone up," Pope said. "He's making a lot of big plays, catching the ball and blocking pretty good."
Whatever the cause, the results speak for themselves and give Richt's offense a dimension few SEC opponents can match.
"To me, they're co-No. 1s," Richt said. "They're both talented guys who can make a lot of plays in this league."
And while it may have taken a few years for Milner to garner that title, he's relishing the chance to make up for lost time. In fact, even Pope is enjoying the success of his teammate, even if it may be at the expense of some of his playing time.
"When one tight end succeeds, all of us succeed," Pope said. "We sweat and bleed and work together every day. Martrez is a great tight end, and I'm really proud of him. He's earned every bit of the success that he's getting right now."
From the Albany Herald.
81Dog says Urban Meyer and Mike Dukakis...Separated at Birth?
Is it just me, or does this look like Mike Dukakis seated in the tank in 1988?
Perhaps Urban is channelling the spirit of Dukakis. He's certainly doing about as good a job with his intial SEC campaign as Mike did with the 88 Presidential campaign. For those lacking a sense of history, please note that in late August, before the campaign began, Mike was a heavy favorite. Mike was going to revolutionize the federal government, just like he'd done in Massachusetts. The old order? No good. Outdated. Didn't have a chance.
Well. You know how it came out. Mike was cocky at first; under the pressure of national attention and a bigger stage than he was used to, his team shot itself in the foot several times. By the end of October, he'd blown all that big lead and was scrambling to hang on. He didnt. Now, he's a historical laughingstock.
Et tu, Urban?
SEC Office Reviewing Final Minutes of UGA vs. UT Game
Knoxville, TN Oct. 12, 2005
Compiled from SEC wire reports
Final score: University of Georgia 27, University of Tennessee 22 Further appeals anticipated.
A press release this morning from the SEC offices in Birmingham disclosed that following a closed door meeting, the SEC Football Officiating Association has revised the final score (pending possible additional appeals) of last Saturday's game between the University of Georgia and the University of Tennessee after reviewing an appeal and additional game films submitted by Tennessee head coach Phillip Fulmer.
The Tennessee films clearly reflect an additional late score by Tennessee reserve extra-point holder Jimmy-Joe Hatfield, who was shown holding a football as he crossed the goal line and into the end zone on his way to the Tennessee locker room. Although the game clock appeared to have expired before Hatfield scored, the touchdown (and two-point conversion) was allowed, since, as noted by SEC Supervisor of Officials, Bobby Gaston, "It appeared that Hatfield could have started his run before time had expired."
At a later news conference, Gaston added, "Mentally, many other Tennessee players appeared to already be in the locker room with well over eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter."
Upon hearing of Gaston's remarks, Coach Fulmer indicated that his staff would continue diligently to further analyze the game films to determine if an additional appeal would be filed to disallow Georgia's final touchdown due to the resulting significant disadvantage to Tennessee in personnel numbers resulting from his players early departure. Disallowance of Georgia's final touchdown, apparently would result in a late victory for Tennessee.
Gaston remarked that his office would be open to Coach Fulmer's appeal, noting that "The rules are clear in their intent that neither team be at a disadvantage in available personnel. That's the main reason that football scholarships are now limited in number by the NCAA."
"Georgia clearly had more players mentally available in the late stages of the game than did Tennessee. This could be interpreted to be a deliberate violation of the intent of NCAA rules by the University of Georgia. These games should be fair for everyone. Especially to Coach Fulmer", Gaston remarked as he departed the news conference.
Former Georgia Tech coach Bill Curry, currently a college football game analyst for ESPN offered his support to Fulmer, noting, "My Georgia Tech teams experienced this same unfair disadvantage when playing the University of Georgia on many occasions. I wish I had thought of turning them in for this flagrant, repeat violation myself."
Sent to me by a friend. Working to find out if he wrote it or someone else did.
Compiled from SEC wire reports
Final score: University of Georgia 27, University of Tennessee 22 Further appeals anticipated.
A press release this morning from the SEC offices in Birmingham disclosed that following a closed door meeting, the SEC Football Officiating Association has revised the final score (pending possible additional appeals) of last Saturday's game between the University of Georgia and the University of Tennessee after reviewing an appeal and additional game films submitted by Tennessee head coach Phillip Fulmer.
The Tennessee films clearly reflect an additional late score by Tennessee reserve extra-point holder Jimmy-Joe Hatfield, who was shown holding a football as he crossed the goal line and into the end zone on his way to the Tennessee locker room. Although the game clock appeared to have expired before Hatfield scored, the touchdown (and two-point conversion) was allowed, since, as noted by SEC Supervisor of Officials, Bobby Gaston, "It appeared that Hatfield could have started his run before time had expired."
At a later news conference, Gaston added, "Mentally, many other Tennessee players appeared to already be in the locker room with well over eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter."
Upon hearing of Gaston's remarks, Coach Fulmer indicated that his staff would continue diligently to further analyze the game films to determine if an additional appeal would be filed to disallow Georgia's final touchdown due to the resulting significant disadvantage to Tennessee in personnel numbers resulting from his players early departure. Disallowance of Georgia's final touchdown, apparently would result in a late victory for Tennessee.
Gaston remarked that his office would be open to Coach Fulmer's appeal, noting that "The rules are clear in their intent that neither team be at a disadvantage in available personnel. That's the main reason that football scholarships are now limited in number by the NCAA."
"Georgia clearly had more players mentally available in the late stages of the game than did Tennessee. This could be interpreted to be a deliberate violation of the intent of NCAA rules by the University of Georgia. These games should be fair for everyone. Especially to Coach Fulmer", Gaston remarked as he departed the news conference.
Former Georgia Tech coach Bill Curry, currently a college football game analyst for ESPN offered his support to Fulmer, noting, "My Georgia Tech teams experienced this same unfair disadvantage when playing the University of Georgia on many occasions. I wish I had thought of turning them in for this flagrant, repeat violation myself."
Sent to me by a friend. Working to find out if he wrote it or someone else did.
October 12, 2005
Blog Poll -- Week 7 Consolidated Rankings
Brian has the latest Blog Poll up. My ballot is here.
My biggest take away from seeing the other ballots is that I really shanked with having UCLA undefeated at this point. When I submitted my ballot on Monday, I didn't spend enough time on UCLA. However, lest any of the Pac-10 folks attempt to point out my anti-Pac10 bias, I must remind you. I have had Oregon ranked higher than the broader Blog Poll almost every week this year. I'm not anti-Pac 10 as much as I am anti-Cal.
The UCLA error was an error of omission not comission.
You can also find it here:
1 Southern Cal (47)
2 Texas (6)
3 Virginia Tech
4 Georgia
5 Florida State
6 Alabama
7 Miami (Florida)
8 Penn State
9 Notre Dame
10 Louisiana State
11 UCLA
12 Florida
13 Michigan State
14 Texas Tech
15 Boston College
16 Ohio State
17 Cal
18 Auburn
19 Tennessee
20 Oregon
21 Louisville
22 Minnesota
23 Wisconsin
24 Colorado
25 West Virginia
My biggest take away from seeing the other ballots is that I really shanked with having UCLA undefeated at this point. When I submitted my ballot on Monday, I didn't spend enough time on UCLA. However, lest any of the Pac-10 folks attempt to point out my anti-Pac10 bias, I must remind you. I have had Oregon ranked higher than the broader Blog Poll almost every week this year. I'm not anti-Pac 10 as much as I am anti-Cal.
The UCLA error was an error of omission not comission.
You can also find it here:
 |
2 Texas (6)
3 Virginia Tech
4 Georgia
5 Florida State
6 Alabama
7 Miami (Florida)
8 Penn State
9 Notre Dame
10 Louisiana State
11 UCLA
12 Florida
13 Michigan State
14 Texas Tech
15 Boston College
16 Ohio State
17 Cal
18 Auburn
19 Tennessee
20 Oregon
21 Louisville
22 Minnesota
23 Wisconsin
24 Colorado
25 West Virginia
DawgPost.com Releases "Greatest Hits" from its Message Board
Scott Kennedy of DawgPost.com has been archiving The Porch's (premium board) best posts. A few weeks back, he made the archive site available to anyone.
My personal favorite is the Bill Brasky thread about incoming UGA WR Mike Moore. I'm biased because I had a hand in it. But the background on it is what kills me.
Background: Every hard core UGA recruitnik knows that "Ghost" is one of the most passionate (if not always lucid) Dawg fans around. He's one of those guys that puts rumors about recruiting out there and really fans the flames of excitement during the recruiting season (either flames of anticipation or nervousness). For several months after signing day his hype about Mike Moore was at a fever pitch with favorable comparisons to Randy Moss, Chris Carter and possibly Jesus. Linked here is a thread on Mike Moore as the Real Life Bill Brasky. If you like Parody, it's a great read. (Note: it's made funnier by the fact that Moore is redshirting this year)
For Brasky info. For Brasky quotes.
Some other good threads:
My personal favorite is the Bill Brasky thread about incoming UGA WR Mike Moore. I'm biased because I had a hand in it. But the background on it is what kills me.
Background: Every hard core UGA recruitnik knows that "Ghost" is one of the most passionate (if not always lucid) Dawg fans around. He's one of those guys that puts rumors about recruiting out there and really fans the flames of excitement during the recruiting season (either flames of anticipation or nervousness). For several months after signing day his hype about Mike Moore was at a fever pitch with favorable comparisons to Randy Moss, Chris Carter and possibly Jesus. Linked here is a thread on Mike Moore as the Real Life Bill Brasky. If you like Parody, it's a great read. (Note: it's made funnier by the fact that Moore is redshirting this year)
For Brasky info. For Brasky quotes.
Some other good threads:
UT vs. UGA -- Thoughts
Thoughts on the Game:
OL -- Our OL played it's best game of the season. Both of our centers played exceptionally well vs. Mahalona and company. Sure, Inman is still struggling to kick out on the screens, and Jones blew some assignments that almost got DJ killed. But, the centers played so much better than I think many people I thought possible. On a good day this group could play with anyone.
[Photo: Tanner and Schnetzner prepped for Mahalona all week by eating nothing but Pineapples]
WR - This group is coming along. Freshmen don't make bigger plays on the road than Kenneth Harris did on the 40+ yard post pattern from DJ in the 4th Quarter. That crowd was out of control. Mo Mass is improving at a geometric rate, and even his blocking is coming along. On the other hand, Bailey seems to be regressing. He hasn't made a big play since....well...Boise? McClendon dropped the first ball of the year that mattered, but he still made some critical catches to move the chains. My starting WR corp for Vandy would be:
1. BMac - our best WR this year
2. Mo Mass
3. Harris
4. Bailey
All of that said, this group vs an elite secondary is still not a great source of confidence. UT's DBs other than Allen were marginal, and after Allen left they were really bad. Luckily, we don't run into any elite DB groups for several weeks if ever.
RBs - Their stats would be better if we ran the ball from the I formation more often because Southerland is flat out killing linebackers this year at Fullback.
[Photo: Southerland is neither man nor beast. He's Manimal.]
QB - DJ is playing good steady ball and moving the chains. He had around 250 yards of total offense vs. the Vols. The fumble was a great strip by Mahalona. DJ wasn't doing his normal "hold it like a loaf of bread" routine on that play. As for the INT...well...QB's throw INTs. It happens. Through 5 games, DJ has only 4 turnovers (3 INTs and 1 fumble) vs. 11 TDs (8 passing/3 rushing). That's an outstanding ratio and beats Greene's stats his SR year though the same point.
TE - Has there ever been 2 tight ends this good on one team?
[Photo: Did I ever tell you that Leonard Pope is 8'3" tall and weighs 600 pounds? He sweats Gatorade and once breast fed a flamingo back to health.]
DL - I haven't seen everyone's DL. But if there's a better group than this one, I haven't seen it. Hopefully, big Gerald's head is ok. His medical reports are starting to sound like Brock's with the concussions. This group could play with any OL in the country.
LBs -- Coach Janeck has these guys ready to play. If one drops, he just slides another one over. Yes, we're thin on numbers, but the time spent cross training these guys for multiple positions is paying HUGE dividends. No stars. All production.
DBs -- Demario Minter came up huge in this one. He finally gets the first INT of his career. If there's a better safety in college ball than Greg Blue, who is it.
[Photo: Minter's INT was his first]
Special Teams -- Thomas "T-Money" Flowers (as the ladies call him...no I'm not kidding) put on a show for the punt return for TD. Gordon Ely-Kelso played so well, that I think he should get to go skinny dipping again with the Dean's daughter or anyone else he wants.
Overall - a great win. It could've been better, but I'm pretty pleased.
PWD
 |
[Photo: Tanner and Schnetzner prepped for Mahalona all week by eating nothing but Pineapples]
WR - This group is coming along. Freshmen don't make bigger plays on the road than Kenneth Harris did on the 40+ yard post pattern from DJ in the 4th Quarter. That crowd was out of control. Mo Mass is improving at a geometric rate, and even his blocking is coming along. On the other hand, Bailey seems to be regressing. He hasn't made a big play since....well...Boise? McClendon dropped the first ball of the year that mattered, but he still made some critical catches to move the chains. My starting WR corp for Vandy would be:
1. BMac - our best WR this year
2. Mo Mass
3. Harris
4. Bailey
All of that said, this group vs an elite secondary is still not a great source of confidence. UT's DBs other than Allen were marginal, and after Allen left they were really bad. Luckily, we don't run into any elite DB groups for several weeks if ever.
 |
[Photo: Southerland is neither man nor beast. He's Manimal.]
QB - DJ is playing good steady ball and moving the chains. He had around 250 yards of total offense vs. the Vols. The fumble was a great strip by Mahalona. DJ wasn't doing his normal "hold it like a loaf of bread" routine on that play. As for the INT...well...QB's throw INTs. It happens. Through 5 games, DJ has only 4 turnovers (3 INTs and 1 fumble) vs. 11 TDs (8 passing/3 rushing). That's an outstanding ratio and beats Greene's stats his SR year though the same point.
 |
[Photo: Did I ever tell you that Leonard Pope is 8'3" tall and weighs 600 pounds? He sweats Gatorade and once breast fed a flamingo back to health.]
DL - I haven't seen everyone's DL. But if there's a better group than this one, I haven't seen it. Hopefully, big Gerald's head is ok. His medical reports are starting to sound like Brock's with the concussions. This group could play with any OL in the country.
LBs -- Coach Janeck has these guys ready to play. If one drops, he just slides another one over. Yes, we're thin on numbers, but the time spent cross training these guys for multiple positions is paying HUGE dividends. No stars. All production.
 |
[Photo: Minter's INT was his first]
Special Teams -- Thomas "T-Money" Flowers (as the ladies call him...no I'm not kidding) put on a show for the punt return for TD. Gordon Ely-Kelso played so well, that I think he should get to go skinny dipping again with the Dean's daughter or anyone else he wants.
Overall - a great win. It could've been better, but I'm pretty pleased.
PWD
October 11, 2005
Blog Poll Ballot -- Week 7
More details and commentary coming late today. My Week 6 Ballot can be found here.
Week 7:
1. Southern Cal - If they did lose to ND -- which they won't -- how far would they fall?
2. Texas - This is a good football team. Not because of what they did to a bad OU team. But because they are talented, and they can finally play without the 800 lb Stoops monkey on their back. I think they will make the Rose Bowl before USC even would.
3. Virginia Tech - They should whip Maryland before getting ahold of BC.
4. Alabama - I still have them ranked above UGA because I think beating Florida is more impressive than beating Tennessee.
5. Georgia - I knew the defense was good. I had no idea that the OL would beat the UT Dline that badly.
6. Penn State - I saw these guys vs. Minnesota in person and knew they were good. They pour the coals to Michigan this week.
7. Miami (Florida) - I get more grief for ranking these guys ahead of FSU than you can imagine. Honestly, FSU played like complete shit and beat Miami. If they play again on a neutral field this week, I think miami wins. The Colorado win just keeps looking better. If they both have the same record at the end of the regular season, I'll rank FSU higher. But not for now.
8. Louisiana State - We'll know a BUNCH more about this team after this week.
9. Notre Dame - I'm mostly curious to see if ND can make a game of it vs. USC.
10. Florida State - They will likely be #8 or so next week.
11. Florida - I'm hoping for a biblical beatdown by LSU upon Meyer's house.
12. Auburn - I am umcomfortable with this placement. I should probably have AU and MSU flipped.
13. Michigan State - How did these guys lose to UM? Oh yeah, they are MSU. That's just what they do.
14. Boston College - I think this is too high. Next week, I plan to revise this down.
15. Ohio State - I'm eagerly awaiting the MSU vs. OSU score. I'd love to see MSU beat them silly...even though I loathe John L Smith.
16. Texas Tech - The weakest schedule in the Top 25? In two weeks Mack Brown's boys are going to beat them silly.
17. UCLA - I was glad to see the no scheduling, weak ass Cal team get slapped. Take a look at the schedule for these guys and you see a 10-0 team rolling into USC in the final week. I'll move these guys much higher next week. They are too low here.
18. Louisville - Petrino is an ass.
19 Oregon - Duck is fatty.
20. Colorado - at Texas this coming week. Ouch. If they give 'em a game, I'll keep them here. Barnett is a scumbag.
21. Wisconsin - Feel good story no more.
22. Minnesota - There was a trap door to the Minnesota season last week that Mason managed to not stand on and fall into.
23. Tennessee - Hanging on by a thread.
24. West Virginia - I need to watch these guys again. That tickle pile vs. Syracuse in Week 1 or 2 was some of the worst football I've seen in years.
25. Cal - It sickens me to rank these chumps. Go Beavers.
Dropped Out:
Georgia Tech, Arizona State
New:
Minnesota and West Virginia
Week 7:
1. Southern Cal - If they did lose to ND -- which they won't -- how far would they fall?
2. Texas - This is a good football team. Not because of what they did to a bad OU team. But because they are talented, and they can finally play without the 800 lb Stoops monkey on their back. I think they will make the Rose Bowl before USC even would.
3. Virginia Tech - They should whip Maryland before getting ahold of BC.
4. Alabama - I still have them ranked above UGA because I think beating Florida is more impressive than beating Tennessee.
5. Georgia - I knew the defense was good. I had no idea that the OL would beat the UT Dline that badly.
6. Penn State - I saw these guys vs. Minnesota in person and knew they were good. They pour the coals to Michigan this week.
7. Miami (Florida) - I get more grief for ranking these guys ahead of FSU than you can imagine. Honestly, FSU played like complete shit and beat Miami. If they play again on a neutral field this week, I think miami wins. The Colorado win just keeps looking better. If they both have the same record at the end of the regular season, I'll rank FSU higher. But not for now.
8. Louisiana State - We'll know a BUNCH more about this team after this week.
9. Notre Dame - I'm mostly curious to see if ND can make a game of it vs. USC.
10. Florida State - They will likely be #8 or so next week.
11. Florida - I'm hoping for a biblical beatdown by LSU upon Meyer's house.
12. Auburn - I am umcomfortable with this placement. I should probably have AU and MSU flipped.
13. Michigan State - How did these guys lose to UM? Oh yeah, they are MSU. That's just what they do.
14. Boston College - I think this is too high. Next week, I plan to revise this down.
15. Ohio State - I'm eagerly awaiting the MSU vs. OSU score. I'd love to see MSU beat them silly...even though I loathe John L Smith.
16. Texas Tech - The weakest schedule in the Top 25? In two weeks Mack Brown's boys are going to beat them silly.
17. UCLA - I was glad to see the no scheduling, weak ass Cal team get slapped. Take a look at the schedule for these guys and you see a 10-0 team rolling into USC in the final week. I'll move these guys much higher next week. They are too low here.
18. Louisville - Petrino is an ass.
19 Oregon - Duck is fatty.
20. Colorado - at Texas this coming week. Ouch. If they give 'em a game, I'll keep them here. Barnett is a scumbag.
21. Wisconsin - Feel good story no more.
22. Minnesota - There was a trap door to the Minnesota season last week that Mason managed to not stand on and fall into.
23. Tennessee - Hanging on by a thread.
24. West Virginia - I need to watch these guys again. That tickle pile vs. Syracuse in Week 1 or 2 was some of the worst football I've seen in years.
25. Cal - It sickens me to rank these chumps. Go Beavers.
Dropped Out:
Georgia Tech, Arizona State
New:
Minnesota and West Virginia
October 10, 2005
Kenny Rogers new Song "The Vol Fan"
As everyone knows by now, the Vols invited Kenny Rogers to sing at halftime of the UT vs. UGA game. All in attendance know that his mic kept cutting in and out during the performance. We here at the Georgia Sports Blog are excited to report that Kenny wrote a new variation of his classic hit "The Gambler" after the game. The new version is called "The Vol Fan".
The Vol Fan
On a warm fall evenin', watchin' a team bound for Shreveport,
I sat down by a Vol Fan; he was much to bummed to speak.
So we took turns a starin' cross the field to the beat down
'Til frustration overtook him, and he began to speak.
He said, "Son, I've made this team out of helping coach 'cruitin'
And knowin' what kids want to hear by their long and outstretched palms.
So if you don't mind my sayin', I can see you're poised for gloatin'.
For a taste of your donuts, I'll give you some advice."
So I handed him my box, and he ate down my last glazed one.
Then he bummed a cigarette and asked me for a light.
And Neyland got deathly quiet, and his face lost all expression.
Said, "If you're gonna be a Vol Fan, you gotta learn to do it right."
You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away and know when to run.
You never count beatin' Georgia, when you're living as a Vol fan.
There'll be time enough for countin' when Richt retires.
Now ev'ry booster knows that the secret to recruitin'
Is knowin' who to throw away and knowing who to keep.
'Cause ev'ry kid's a felon and ev'ry Clausen's a loser,
And the best that we can hope for is to beat Vanderbilt."
So when he'd finished speakin', he turned back towards the exit,
Crushed out his hopes and dreams and walked off away.
And somewhere in the darkness the Vol Fan, he cried softly.
But in his final words I heard, advice all Vols can keep.
You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away and know when to run.
You never count beatin' Georgia, when you're living as a Vol fan.
There'll be time enough for countin' when Richt retires.
By: Paul Westerdawg
Image from Six Meat Buffet.
The Vol Fan
On a warm fall evenin', watchin' a team bound for Shreveport,
I sat down by a Vol Fan; he was much to bummed to speak.
So we took turns a starin' cross the field to the beat down
'Til frustration overtook him, and he began to speak.
He said, "Son, I've made this team out of helping coach 'cruitin'
And knowin' what kids want to hear by their long and outstretched palms.
So if you don't mind my sayin', I can see you're poised for gloatin'.
For a taste of your donuts, I'll give you some advice."
So I handed him my box, and he ate down my last glazed one.
Then he bummed a cigarette and asked me for a light.
And Neyland got deathly quiet, and his face lost all expression.
Said, "If you're gonna be a Vol Fan, you gotta learn to do it right."
You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away and know when to run.
You never count beatin' Georgia, when you're living as a Vol fan.
There'll be time enough for countin' when Richt retires.
Now ev'ry booster knows that the secret to recruitin'
Is knowin' who to throw away and knowing who to keep.
'Cause ev'ry kid's a felon and ev'ry Clausen's a loser,
And the best that we can hope for is to beat Vanderbilt."
So when he'd finished speakin', he turned back towards the exit,
Crushed out his hopes and dreams and walked off away.
And somewhere in the darkness the Vol Fan, he cried softly.
But in his final words I heard, advice all Vols can keep.
You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away and know when to run.
You never count beatin' Georgia, when you're living as a Vol fan.
There'll be time enough for countin' when Richt retires.
By: Paul Westerdawg
Image from Six Meat Buffet.
October 9, 2005
UT vs. UGA -- Non-Football Observations
The "Kenny Rogers Incident"
Kenny Rogers played halftime. That's right, long-time Athens resident Kenny Rogers played halftime for the Vols while they spelled his name on the field. It was a 3 song set, and likely the largest crowd that Kenny has played since his landmark concert at the Cherokee Indian Casino in 1997.
If we have any students with a sense of humor, he already has 200 For Sale signs in his front yard. In Kenny's defense, maybe he lost a bet to Dolly Parton over the 2004 game. He could've addressed that issue during the 2 songs he played with the volume THANKFULLY off on his mic.
The only bigger slap in the face would've been if Michael Stipe had been standing on the field singing Orange Crush.
Ironically many of the UT fans in attendance took his advice with 6 minutes left. "You Gotta know when to Fold 'em". They hit stadium exits running wide open.
For more on Kenny's visit to Neyland visit Six Meat Buffet.
Knoxville Police Stop Flag Waving
After the 2004 game, Jason Allen ran the UT flag around Sanford Stadium before planting it in the G at midfield. It's very common for the road team to march their flag around the other team's endzone after a road win. Apparently, the Knoxville Police force -- who is growing accustomed to dealing with home losses -- now PREVENTS visiting team cheerleaders and players from flying the large flags after the game. The cops refused to let our cheerleaders bring the flags out.
If that weren't ridiculous enough, the Knoxville Police Department then went to the Redcoat Band Director and refused to let the band play more than 2 songs after the game. So the band sang "Glory, Glory" and "What's that Coming Down the Tracks." Then the Cops forced them to stop singing. The cops were literally standing on the band director's platform next to the drum major's platform. I almost expected them to start shooting if anyone started humming.
This was all within the first 10 minutes after the game. Normally, you get a good half hour of post-game gloating before the cops turn off the lights or throw you out. Sore damn losers.
Speaking Of Leaving Early:
Even the UT player parents starting bolting when Fulmer didn't go for it on 4th and 10 with 6:30 left in the game down by 13 points. When the players' families don't stick around, you know it's bad.
BTW -- some classic lines are already building on the comments for this article. If you got this page from the front of the site, click on the comments for more.
Image from Six Meat Buffet.
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If we have any students with a sense of humor, he already has 200 For Sale signs in his front yard. In Kenny's defense, maybe he lost a bet to Dolly Parton over the 2004 game. He could've addressed that issue during the 2 songs he played with the volume THANKFULLY off on his mic.
The only bigger slap in the face would've been if Michael Stipe had been standing on the field singing Orange Crush.
Ironically many of the UT fans in attendance took his advice with 6 minutes left. "You Gotta know when to Fold 'em". They hit stadium exits running wide open.
For more on Kenny's visit to Neyland visit Six Meat Buffet.
Knoxville Police Stop Flag Waving
After the 2004 game, Jason Allen ran the UT flag around Sanford Stadium before planting it in the G at midfield. It's very common for the road team to march their flag around the other team's endzone after a road win. Apparently, the Knoxville Police force -- who is growing accustomed to dealing with home losses -- now PREVENTS visiting team cheerleaders and players from flying the large flags after the game. The cops refused to let our cheerleaders bring the flags out.
If that weren't ridiculous enough, the Knoxville Police Department then went to the Redcoat Band Director and refused to let the band play more than 2 songs after the game. So the band sang "Glory, Glory" and "What's that Coming Down the Tracks." Then the Cops forced them to stop singing. The cops were literally standing on the band director's platform next to the drum major's platform. I almost expected them to start shooting if anyone started humming.
This was all within the first 10 minutes after the game. Normally, you get a good half hour of post-game gloating before the cops turn off the lights or throw you out. Sore damn losers.
Speaking Of Leaving Early:
Even the UT player parents starting bolting when Fulmer didn't go for it on 4th and 10 with 6:30 left in the game down by 13 points. When the players' families don't stick around, you know it's bad.
BTW -- some classic lines are already building on the comments for this article. If you got this page from the front of the site, click on the comments for more.
Image from Six Meat Buffet.
October 7, 2005
Georgia Sports Blog in the News
Things have been crazy the past two weeks.
Friday, Oct. 7th -- SIonCampus interviewed me and 4 other college football bloggers to ask questions about our dream team. They included my comments on Leonard Pope, Reggie Bush and Jesse Mahalona. (To clear something up. There aren't 2 guys running this site. Paul Westerdawg and Decatur Dawg are the same guy. My email is the old decaturdawg handle. Thus the confusion).
Thursday, Oct. 6th -- AOL's Sports Bloggers Live had me on the show to talk about the UGA vs. UT game. The broadcast is now available as a PodCast and an MP3 download from the link above. Other guests of note on the show were SI.com's Peter King and Fox's Ken Rosenthal. On Monday, they had Reggie Jackson. You can hear my interview at the 42 minute mark.
Last Friday, Sept. 30th -- I participated in an SIonCampus panel discussion to talk about football polling. This is the article where SIonCampus referred to me as among "the greatest football minds of our generation." Granted, the comment was tongue in cheek, but the resulting ego explosion has been unbearable for all who know me. Total comedy.
Friday, Oct. 7th -- SIonCampus interviewed me and 4 other college football bloggers to ask questions about our dream team. They included my comments on Leonard Pope, Reggie Bush and Jesse Mahalona. (To clear something up. There aren't 2 guys running this site. Paul Westerdawg and Decatur Dawg are the same guy. My email is the old decaturdawg handle. Thus the confusion).
Thursday, Oct. 6th -- AOL's Sports Bloggers Live had me on the show to talk about the UGA vs. UT game. The broadcast is now available as a PodCast and an MP3 download from the link above. Other guests of note on the show were SI.com's Peter King and Fox's Ken Rosenthal. On Monday, they had Reggie Jackson. You can hear my interview at the 42 minute mark.
Last Friday, Sept. 30th -- I participated in an SIonCampus panel discussion to talk about football polling. This is the article where SIonCampus referred to me as among "the greatest football minds of our generation." Granted, the comment was tongue in cheek, but the resulting ego explosion has been unbearable for all who know me. Total comedy.
SIonCampus - Orson Swindle Blows the Doors off
I already linked to the SIonCampus feature for the week discussing the Ultimate team.
Orson brings the most of the month with his listing. This is must read for the Rohan Davey references if nothing else.
Orson brings the most of the month with his listing. This is must read for the Rohan Davey references if nothing else.
Georgia vs. Tennessee Quick Thoughts
4 Keys to the Game:
Core Premise: Georgia has more overall talent and better coaching. As long as Randy Sanders is at UT, we will always have a great shot to win. The outcome comes down to these 4 things.
1. Intensity - Which team wants it more. Arnold Harrison told me that the team felt that there was no possible way that UGA could lose to UT in 2004. After beating the Vols 4 in a row and beating the hell out of LSU the week before, it was a foregone conclusion that UGA would win. He said, "that's why we lost." If the Dawgs have prepared the past 2 weeks for this game like it's the biggest game of the year, then we should win. If not, we've ALREADY lost.
2. Georgia's Centers vs. Jesse Mahalona - Mahalona is an old Hawaiian word for Unstoppable Can of Whoop Ass. Georgia must find a way to contain a guy who ranks between the Pineapple and Don Ho as greatest Hawaiian exports in history.
3. DJ Shockley vs His Legacy - He's smart enough and talented enough to beat the Vols. So far, he hasn't really nutted up like he did in the past. If the line gives him some time, he should be fine. If not, I worry about a Chernobyl sized meltdown.
4. Turnovers - In reality, this is the #1 key to every game.
Story that CBS will Cover:
Off the Field Issues for UGA and UT -- The biggest difference in off field issues between Georgia and the Vols...Georgia players got out of jail early on Good Behavior. Vol players had to do their full prison sentence.
In all seriousness, most of our kids got in trouble for Boys will be Boys stuff. For instance, we had our punter get arrested for skinny dipping with the dean's daughter. Are you kidding me? In the old days, he would've gotten a helmet sticker for that.
Predicted Score:
UGA 24 vs. UT 23
BTW -- Catch the rest of my comments on the game via AOL's Sports Bloggers Live Show now available as a PodCast. The show aired Thursday Night. The download button for the PodCast is available in the upper right hand side of the screen.
Tech and UGA Complete Sweeps of Their Conferences
From SaxonDawg
[Another poster] told me last week that this was the first class of UGA players to beat everyone in the SEC during their four years.
On the Buzzoff board tonight, it was reported that Chan's teams have now LOST to each ACC team at least once during the chanman's regime--also in its fourth year. That's a notable accomplishment in a league that includes Duke, Wake and several others that put up a big fight if you try and lose to them.
We could check that out, but if it's true--UGA seniors have beaten the whole SEC, Tech's have lost to the whole ACC--why, that needs publicity and appropriate public celebration. Maybe we could get the governor to issue a proclamation recognizing the two intra-league "sweeps."
(Editor's Note: In GT's defense, I don't think that they have lost to Boston College yet under Gailey. In Boston College's defense, they haven't played Georgia Tech yet -- PWD)
[Another poster] told me last week that this was the first class of UGA players to beat everyone in the SEC during their four years.
On the Buzzoff board tonight, it was reported that Chan's teams have now LOST to each ACC team at least once during the chanman's regime--also in its fourth year. That's a notable accomplishment in a league that includes Duke, Wake and several others that put up a big fight if you try and lose to them.
We could check that out, but if it's true--UGA seniors have beaten the whole SEC, Tech's have lost to the whole ACC--why, that needs publicity and appropriate public celebration. Maybe we could get the governor to issue a proclamation recognizing the two intra-league "sweeps."
(Editor's Note: In GT's defense, I don't think that they have lost to Boston College yet under Gailey. In Boston College's defense, they haven't played Georgia Tech yet -- PWD)
Inside Scoop on Tech's Latest Shattering Defeat
By SaxonDawg
Two facts that help to explain the end of Tech's come-from-ahead loss against powerful NC State and Don Vito Amato:
1. Why was the last time out used? My source says that Chan called it to remind Reggie about the number of downs so there would be no more time management snafus.
2. The UnCatch - What happened here was that during the timeout, while Chan was reviewing the number of downs one more time, Calvin Johnson was asking how many yards he had so far. "I'm the best receiver in America, you know," he said to P. J. Daniels. When he was told he had just over 100, he said, "I need me a The Catch. I GOT to get me a The Catch. I'm the best receiver in America, you know." So when Reggie came back to the huddle, Calvin told him to throw the ball high and outside. "I'll flip all around in the air and make me a The Catch," said Calvin. "I'm the . . ."
"We know," chan-ted the rest of the offense.
"We can make it even better," said an N. C. State linebacker who had wandered into the huddle. "When you're just about to haul in your The Catch, bounce it to me. I'll bounce it back. It'll be all over ESPN Sportscenter."
"Awesome," grinned Calvin, a construction management major.
The rest is history.
By SaxonDawg
Two facts that help to explain the end of Tech's come-from-ahead loss against powerful NC State and Don Vito Amato:
1. Why was the last time out used? My source says that Chan called it to remind Reggie about the number of downs so there would be no more time management snafus.
2. The UnCatch - What happened here was that during the timeout, while Chan was reviewing the number of downs one more time, Calvin Johnson was asking how many yards he had so far. "I'm the best receiver in America, you know," he said to P. J. Daniels. When he was told he had just over 100, he said, "I need me a The Catch. I GOT to get me a The Catch. I'm the best receiver in America, you know." So when Reggie came back to the huddle, Calvin told him to throw the ball high and outside. "I'll flip all around in the air and make me a The Catch," said Calvin. "I'm the . . ."
"We know," chan-ted the rest of the offense.
"We can make it even better," said an N. C. State linebacker who had wandered into the huddle. "When you're just about to haul in your The Catch, bounce it to me. I'll bounce it back. It'll be all over ESPN Sportscenter."
"Awesome," grinned Calvin, a construction management major.
The rest is history.
By SaxonDawg
