General Thoughts:
People are going to complain about striking out on prospects like Tunsil, Adams, Foster, and Kamara. But with all of those misses late, it's easy to forget about the prospects Georgia already had locked up heading into the homestretch...and there are a bunch of great ones. The fact of the matter is that Georgia had an solid class before the month of February. This is a class full of four star athletes that love the Dawgs (Todd Gurley and Jarvis Jones were rated four stars) and is a BIG class. With the large number of signees, Georgia addressed all of their needs (safety, cornerback, linebacker, defensive line, and running back). At positions that are already set, they inked important developmental prospects that have big-time potential. It is also important to note the amount of early enrollees this class has (13). Those guys are currently in the midst of mat drills and have already adjusted to college life. They also have the opportunity to get their feet wet in spring practice. Come summer camp, these guys will be ready to compete for PT.
DL John Atkins 6'4 310 Hargrave Military (Chatham, VA)
A great athlete for his size, he should see playing time immediately at either defensive end or nose tackle.
LB Davin Bellamy 6'5 240 Chamblee HS (Chamblee, GA)
Bellamy has all of the physical tools you look for in a pass rusher. His best asset is his explosive first step.
DB Paris Bostick 6'1 215 Plant HS (Tampa, FL)
A physically imposing safety that could end up being a linebacker when all is said and done.
OL Aulden Bynum 6'5 260 Valwood School (Valdosta, GA)
Athletic and long, he is the lone offensive tackle in this class. With continued development, he could be a good one.
OL Josh Cardiello 6'3 280 Buford HS (Buford, GA)
A tough, mobile interior lineman that looks to follow in David Andrews' footsteps at center.
LB Reggie Carter 6'1 230 South Gwinnett HS (Snellville, GA)
A versatile defender that has played almost every position in the front seven. He enrolled early and should play in 2013.
TE Jordan Davis 6'4 225 Thomson HS (Thomson, GA)
Long, lanky and surprisingly athletic, he was one of the top prep tight ends in the state. Lots of experience as a blocker.
WR Reggie Davis 6'0 170 Lincoln HS (Tallahassee, FL)
He's got great straight-line speed and could make an early impact returning kicks.
RB Brendan Douglas 6'0 220 Aquinas HS (Augusta, GA)
Will provide depth and physicality in the backfield. He's got the size and speed to play both running back and fullback.
LB Leonard Floyd 6'4 240 Hargrave Military (Chatham, VA)
Rangy and very athletic, he's got a lot of potential as a pass rusher off the edge.
DB Shaquille Fluker 6'1 205 East Mississippi C.C. (Scooba, MS)
Fast and hard-hitting, his game is similar to that of former dawg Shawn Williams. Could start immediately.
DB J.J. Green 5'9 185 Camden Co. HS (Kingsland, GA)
Tough, stout, fast, and versatile, Green could conceivably play on offense (RB/WR), defense (CB), and special teams.
DL DeAndre Johnson 6'3 310 Northgate HS (Newnan, GA)
Has the size you look for in a 3-4 nose tackle. He's at his best taking on double teams and clogging up the middle.
DB Kennar Johnson 6'2 185 Gulf Coast C.C. (Perkinson, MS)
A versatile defensive back with good size, he could play at both cornerback and safety a la Sanders Commings.
WR Rico Johnson 5'11 170 Swainsboro HS (Swainsboro, GA)
One of the fastest players in the country (4.2 speed), he'll be a dangerous deep threat the moment he steps on campus.
LB Tim Kimbrough 6'1 235 Warren Central HS (Indianapolis, IN)
A runstopper. Stout and instinctive, he's at his best filling running lanes. I think he'll play early.
OL Brandon Kublanow 6'3 290 Walton HS (Marietta, GA)
An intimidating interior lineman, Kublanow is great at finishing blocks and reminds me of Ben Jones.
DB Brendan Langley 6'1 188 Kell HS (Marietta, GA)
Excellent athleticism and length. Could also play basketball at UGA. He's got the skills to make an impact immediately.
WR Uriah LeMay 6'2 200 Butler HS (Matthews, NC)
A physical wide receiver prospect that is great at beating the press, blocking, and breaking tackles after the catch.
DB Tray Matthews 6'1 195 Newnan HS (Newnan, GA)
One of the top safeties in the nation, he's solid against both the run and pass. Should play a lot this season.
DB Quincy Mauger 6'0 200 Kell HS (Marietta, GA)
Smart and stocky, Mauger will be an asset both on defense and special teams. Could play either safety position.
DL Chris Mayes 6'4 320 Gulf Coast C.C. (Perkinson, MS)
A mountain of a man, this JUCO transfer could end up being Georgia's starting nose tackle this season.
LB Shaun McGee 6'3 235 Brookwood HS (Snellville, GA)
Athletic and long, he has a skill set that translates well to both inside and outside linebacker.
LB Johnny O'Neal 6'2 233 West Laurens HS (Dublin, GA)
Physically, he's ready to play now. Powerful, explosive, and well-built. Will be in the mix at inside linebacker.
QB Brice Ramsey 6'3 195 Camden Co. HS (Kingsland, GA)
He has all the tools you look for in a QB. Under the tutelage of Coach Bobo, he should develop into a star.
LB Ryne Rankin 6'0 220 East River HS (Orlando, FL)
A coaches' son, he is a tackling machine with great toughness and instincts.
WR Johnathon Rumph 6'5 215 Holmes C.C. (Goodman, MS)
Big, physical, and athletic, I wouldn't be surprised if Rumph turns out being one of the SEC's top wideouts this season.
OL DeVondre Seymour 6'5 300 North Gwinnett HS (Suwanee, GA)
The adopted son of UGA great Richard Seymour. He is likely headed to prep school for a year (academics).
WR Tramel Terry 5'11 190 Goose Creek HS (Goose Creek, SC)
South Carolina's "Mr. Football," he's drawn comparisons to former Florida Gator Percy Harvin.
RB A.J. Turman 6'0 205 Boone HS (Orlando, FL)
A tough, durable back that should play his freshman year due to low numbers at the running back position.
DB Shaquille Wiggins 5'9 165 Sandy Creek HS (Tyrone, GA)
He's small but has blanketed WRs of all sizes throughout his highschool career. One of the top CB prospects around.
DB Reggie Wilkerson 5'11 170 North Marion HS (Ocala, FL)
Early enrollee. Starred at both CB and WR at the high school level. Has the length and ball skills to be a good one.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Malcome to Leave Team...This Time For Good
It's worth noting that this news may have an impact on this year's recruiting class. Prized target Alvin Kamara (Norcross High School) is down to Alabama and Georgia, and with one less back on scholarship Georgia's depth chart could have more an appeal for him. Kamara has stated that he doesn't shy away from competition but he can't ignore the fact that he would be one of just four scholarship backs at Georgia (Alabama has around double those numbers). Next season, current commit A.J. Turman (Boone High School in Orlando) and/or Kamara could conceivably play immediately.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Malcolm Mitchell, Wide Receiver
Personally, I think this is good news. Coach Grantham has said that he believes Mitchell has the tools to be an all-SEC defensive back, and I believe him. The problem (a good problem) is that he can be an all-SEC receiver too. There's no doubt he can play both corner and wideout (he's already done it), but would Mitchell be better served to focus on one position? I think so.
Mitchell has great speed and can cut, start and stop on a dime. Those skills translate to both sides of the ball, but I've always been partial to him playing receiver. Yes there's more depth at receiver (other than Damian Swann, UGA doesn't have any proven commodities at CB heading into next season), but #26 is UGA's biggest offensive playmaker and has a skill set the other UGA receivers don't have.
Opposing defensive backs have to hate facing him. His deep speed has to be respected, which gives him a lot of room to work with in terms of the short/intermediate game. I feel like half of his catches this season are from those comeback/hook routes...and while they're not bombs, they do plenty of damage because of his ability after the catch (see the Florida game). He's also dangerous with wide receiver screens and reverses. He's a playmaker- pure and simple- and is a guy this offense needs.
Coach Ball has to be excited that he has Mitchell for the full duration of practice. Ball, in my opinion, has done an excellent job developing Georgia's wideouts, and now he'll have Mitchell's complete attention. A full offseason to hone his craft and master his routes...MM is poised for a huge 2013 season.
Friday, December 14, 2012
BOWL PREVIEW
Here's a look at the 2012-2013 bowl games. Stay tuned for talk on Georgia's upcoming matchup with Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl...
NEW MEXICO - Nevada vs. Arizona
Score Prediction: Arizona 38, Nevada 28
This matchup features two solid offenses. Arizona is the favorite, as Nevada has lost 4 of their last 5.
FAMOUS IDAHO POTATO - Toledo vs. Utah State
Score Prediction: Utah State 34, Toledo 31
Utah State is a pretty good team and ranked in the top 25. They face quite a challenge with Toledo's
high-powered offense.
POINSETTIA - BYU vs. San Diego State
Score Prediction: SDSU 24, BYU 23
This is actually one of the better bowl game matchups in my opinion. Both teams have finished strong and
play pretty good defense.
BEEF 'O' BRADY'S - Ball State vs. UCF
Score Prediction: UCF 33, Ball State 24
UCF is a pretty good team and although Ball State sports a dangerous offense, I expect them to get the win.
NEW ORLEANS - East Carolina vs. Louisiana-Lafayette
Score Prediction: Louisiana-Lafayette 40, ECU 37
East Carolina has the ability to put up a lot of points, but I don't think they'll get enough stops in this one.
LAS VEGAS - Boise State vs. Washington
Score Prediction: Boise State 30, Washington 21
Boise seems to always do well in their bowl games...
HAWAII - SMU vs. Fresno State
Score Prediction: Fresno State 30, SMU 17
Fresno State (9-3) are riding a 5 game winning streak while SMU (6-6) had to win their last game to get
bowl eligible. I'll take the Bulldogs.
LITTLE CAESARS - Central Michigan vs. Western Kentucky
Score Prediction: Central Michigan 23, WKU 21
This has suddenly turned into a potential game to watch now that WKU has hired the infamous Bobby
Petrino.
MILITARY - Bowling Green vs. San Jose State
Score Prediction: Bowling Green 27, SJSU 23
I must say...I hardly know anything about either of these teams...SJSU did just lose their coach to Colorado,
however.
BELK - Duke vs. Cincinnati
Score Prediction: Duke 29, Cincinnati 27
Cincinnati just lost their head coach to Tennessee. I like Duke winning by a hair.
HOLIDAY - Baylor vs. UCLA
Score Prediction: Baylor 49, UCLA 38
This game will feature a whole lot of offense and not much defense. Baylor is the team with the momentum,
having won three straight and knocking off Kansas State.
INDEPENDENCE - Ohio vs. Louisiana-Monroe
Score Prediction: ULM 35, Ohio 28
Haven't seen Ohio play this season, but I did see ULM beat Arkansas and take Auburn down to the wire.
RUSSELL ATHLETIC - Virginia Tech vs. Rutgers
Score Prediction: Rutgers 24, VT 23
There probably won't be a lot offense in this one. VT's chances rest on the arm of quarterback Logan
Thomas, who's had an up-and-down season.
MEINEKE CAR CARE - Minnesota vs. Texas Tech
Score Prediction: Texas Tech 33, Minnesota 23
With Tuberville skipping town with no warning, it'll be interesting to see what kind of mindset this Texas Tech
team will have. I think they'll rally and get the W.
ARMED FORCES - Rice vs. Air Force
Score Prediction: Air Force 35, Rice 32
It's the Armed Forces Bowl...Go Falcons!
PINSTRIPE - Syracuse vs. West Virginia
Score Prediction: West Virginia 40, Syracuse 38
This should be an entertaining and high-scoring game. Syracuse will have the home field advantage, but I
think the Mountaineers come out on top.
KRAFT - Navy vs. Arizona State
Score Prediction: Arizona State 31, Navy 27
I'll be rooting for Navy, but Arizona State fields a more talented squad.
ALAMO - Texas vs. Oregon State
Score Prediction: Texas 27, Oregon State 24
This looks like a pretty even matchup on paper. Texas will have the benefit of playing in their home state.
BUFFALO WILD WINGS - TCU vs. Michigan State
Score Prediction: TCU 23, Michigan State 17
Both of these teams have lost 4 of their last 6 games. I think the Horned Frogs defense will be the difference
in this contest.
MUSIC CITY - NC State vs. Vanderbilt
Score Prediction: Vanderbilt 31, NC State 20
NC State heads into this game without a head coach, while Vanderbilt is a program on the rise. The 'Dores
have won six straight and I think they'll keep that momentum heading into what should be a home game.
SUN - Georgia Tech vs. USC
Score Prediction: USC 43, Georgia Tech 38
Georgia Tech cannot get behind if they want to win this game. The Jackets should put up a lot of points and
yardage, but USC will too.
LIBERTY - Tulsa vs. Iowa State
Score Prediction: Iowa State 40, Tulsa 37
Iowa State actually beat Tulsa 38-23 in week one. A similar result wouldn't be a surprise.
CHICK-FIL-A - Clemson vs. LSU
Score Prediction: LSU 28, Clemson 21
Clemson has enough offensive firepower to hang with anybody, but these ACC-SEC matchups have been
dominated by the SEC.
GATOR - Northwestern vs. Mississippi State
Score Prediction: Northwestern 27, Mississippi State 24
After starting off hot, Mississippi State lost 4 of their final 5 games. That being said, this should be a tightly
contested game.
HEART OF DALLAS - Purdue vs. Oklahoma State
Score Prediction: Oklahoma State 38, Purdue 21
I expect Oklahoma State to win this one; it should essentially be a home game for them and the 6-6
Boilermakers just hired a brand new coach.
OUTBACK - Michigan vs. South Carolina
Score Prediction: South Carolina 35, Michigan 27
Michigan hasn't seen a defensive line like South Carolina's. Should be a good game, but South Carolina
should win the battle at the line of scrimmage and therefore the game.
ROSE - Stanford vs. Wisconsin
Score Prediction: Stanford 30, Wisconsin 20
If you like running backs, this game features two good ones. Considering the coaching changes at Wisconsin,
Stanford is the favorite here.
ORANGE - Florida State vs. Northern Illinois
Score Prediction: FSU 47, NIU 17
All due respect to NIU (they've had great year), but they really don't belong in a BCS bowl. Everybody's
said it, and maybe that will give them some fuel to attempt the upset...FSU's talent and NIU's coaching
changes could easily make this one a blowout, however.
SUGAR - Florida vs. Louisville
Score Prediction: Florida 28, Louisville 13
One of the headlines in this matchup will be Louisville head coach Charlie Strong facing his old team. Strong
has done a great job at Louisville, but his team doesn't have the talent to knock off an SEC power at this
point.
FIESTA - Kansas State vs. Oregon
Score Prediction: Oregon 38, Kansas State 30
To me, this is the most intriguing matchup of the bowl season. Kansas State's power vs. Oregon's speed...I
like Oregon pulling away late in the second half.
COTTON - Oklahoma vs. Texas A&M
Score Prediction: Texas A&M 35, Oklahoma 33
Just like old times...this would've been a traditional Big 12 game just a year ago. I like Johnny Football
getting A&M the win, but OU quarterback Landry Jones will put up some points, too.
BBVA COMPASS - Pittsburgh vs. Ole Miss
Score Prediction: Ole Miss 27, Pittsburgh 24
Can you see the pattern yet? I really like the SEC winning most (if not all) of their bowl games. Rebs in a
close one.
GODADDY.COM - Kent State vs. Arkansas State
Score Prediction: Kent State 34, Arkansas State 24
Both of these teams are in the midst of hiring new head coaches which should make for an interesting game. I
like the Golden Flashes by a score or two.
BCS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP - Notre Dame vs. Alabama
Score Prediction: Alabama 31, Notre Dame 23
I just can't see Notre Dame winning this one. I'll be surprised if the SEC doesn't come away with yet another
championship.
NEW MEXICO - Nevada vs. Arizona
Score Prediction: Arizona 38, Nevada 28
This matchup features two solid offenses. Arizona is the favorite, as Nevada has lost 4 of their last 5.
FAMOUS IDAHO POTATO - Toledo vs. Utah State
Score Prediction: Utah State 34, Toledo 31
Utah State is a pretty good team and ranked in the top 25. They face quite a challenge with Toledo's
high-powered offense.
POINSETTIA - BYU vs. San Diego State
Score Prediction: SDSU 24, BYU 23
This is actually one of the better bowl game matchups in my opinion. Both teams have finished strong and
play pretty good defense.
BEEF 'O' BRADY'S - Ball State vs. UCF
Score Prediction: UCF 33, Ball State 24
UCF is a pretty good team and although Ball State sports a dangerous offense, I expect them to get the win.
NEW ORLEANS - East Carolina vs. Louisiana-Lafayette
Score Prediction: Louisiana-Lafayette 40, ECU 37
East Carolina has the ability to put up a lot of points, but I don't think they'll get enough stops in this one.
LAS VEGAS - Boise State vs. Washington
Score Prediction: Boise State 30, Washington 21
Boise seems to always do well in their bowl games...
HAWAII - SMU vs. Fresno State
Score Prediction: Fresno State 30, SMU 17
Fresno State (9-3) are riding a 5 game winning streak while SMU (6-6) had to win their last game to get
bowl eligible. I'll take the Bulldogs.
LITTLE CAESARS - Central Michigan vs. Western Kentucky
Score Prediction: Central Michigan 23, WKU 21
This has suddenly turned into a potential game to watch now that WKU has hired the infamous Bobby
Petrino.
MILITARY - Bowling Green vs. San Jose State
Score Prediction: Bowling Green 27, SJSU 23
I must say...I hardly know anything about either of these teams...SJSU did just lose their coach to Colorado,
however.
BELK - Duke vs. Cincinnati
Score Prediction: Duke 29, Cincinnati 27
Cincinnati just lost their head coach to Tennessee. I like Duke winning by a hair.
HOLIDAY - Baylor vs. UCLA
Score Prediction: Baylor 49, UCLA 38
This game will feature a whole lot of offense and not much defense. Baylor is the team with the momentum,
having won three straight and knocking off Kansas State.
INDEPENDENCE - Ohio vs. Louisiana-Monroe
Score Prediction: ULM 35, Ohio 28
Haven't seen Ohio play this season, but I did see ULM beat Arkansas and take Auburn down to the wire.
RUSSELL ATHLETIC - Virginia Tech vs. Rutgers
Score Prediction: Rutgers 24, VT 23
There probably won't be a lot offense in this one. VT's chances rest on the arm of quarterback Logan
Thomas, who's had an up-and-down season.
MEINEKE CAR CARE - Minnesota vs. Texas Tech
Score Prediction: Texas Tech 33, Minnesota 23
With Tuberville skipping town with no warning, it'll be interesting to see what kind of mindset this Texas Tech
team will have. I think they'll rally and get the W.
ARMED FORCES - Rice vs. Air Force
Score Prediction: Air Force 35, Rice 32
It's the Armed Forces Bowl...Go Falcons!
PINSTRIPE - Syracuse vs. West Virginia
Score Prediction: West Virginia 40, Syracuse 38
This should be an entertaining and high-scoring game. Syracuse will have the home field advantage, but I
think the Mountaineers come out on top.
KRAFT - Navy vs. Arizona State
Score Prediction: Arizona State 31, Navy 27
I'll be rooting for Navy, but Arizona State fields a more talented squad.
ALAMO - Texas vs. Oregon State
Score Prediction: Texas 27, Oregon State 24
This looks like a pretty even matchup on paper. Texas will have the benefit of playing in their home state.
BUFFALO WILD WINGS - TCU vs. Michigan State
Score Prediction: TCU 23, Michigan State 17
Both of these teams have lost 4 of their last 6 games. I think the Horned Frogs defense will be the difference
in this contest.
MUSIC CITY - NC State vs. Vanderbilt
Score Prediction: Vanderbilt 31, NC State 20
NC State heads into this game without a head coach, while Vanderbilt is a program on the rise. The 'Dores
have won six straight and I think they'll keep that momentum heading into what should be a home game.
SUN - Georgia Tech vs. USC
Score Prediction: USC 43, Georgia Tech 38
Georgia Tech cannot get behind if they want to win this game. The Jackets should put up a lot of points and
yardage, but USC will too.
LIBERTY - Tulsa vs. Iowa State
Score Prediction: Iowa State 40, Tulsa 37
Iowa State actually beat Tulsa 38-23 in week one. A similar result wouldn't be a surprise.
CHICK-FIL-A - Clemson vs. LSU
Score Prediction: LSU 28, Clemson 21
Clemson has enough offensive firepower to hang with anybody, but these ACC-SEC matchups have been
dominated by the SEC.
GATOR - Northwestern vs. Mississippi State
Score Prediction: Northwestern 27, Mississippi State 24
After starting off hot, Mississippi State lost 4 of their final 5 games. That being said, this should be a tightly
contested game.
HEART OF DALLAS - Purdue vs. Oklahoma State
Score Prediction: Oklahoma State 38, Purdue 21
I expect Oklahoma State to win this one; it should essentially be a home game for them and the 6-6
Boilermakers just hired a brand new coach.
OUTBACK - Michigan vs. South Carolina
Score Prediction: South Carolina 35, Michigan 27
Michigan hasn't seen a defensive line like South Carolina's. Should be a good game, but South Carolina
should win the battle at the line of scrimmage and therefore the game.
ROSE - Stanford vs. Wisconsin
Score Prediction: Stanford 30, Wisconsin 20
If you like running backs, this game features two good ones. Considering the coaching changes at Wisconsin,
Stanford is the favorite here.
ORANGE - Florida State vs. Northern Illinois
Score Prediction: FSU 47, NIU 17
All due respect to NIU (they've had great year), but they really don't belong in a BCS bowl. Everybody's
said it, and maybe that will give them some fuel to attempt the upset...FSU's talent and NIU's coaching
changes could easily make this one a blowout, however.
SUGAR - Florida vs. Louisville
Score Prediction: Florida 28, Louisville 13
One of the headlines in this matchup will be Louisville head coach Charlie Strong facing his old team. Strong
has done a great job at Louisville, but his team doesn't have the talent to knock off an SEC power at this
point.
FIESTA - Kansas State vs. Oregon
Score Prediction: Oregon 38, Kansas State 30
To me, this is the most intriguing matchup of the bowl season. Kansas State's power vs. Oregon's speed...I
like Oregon pulling away late in the second half.
COTTON - Oklahoma vs. Texas A&M
Score Prediction: Texas A&M 35, Oklahoma 33
Just like old times...this would've been a traditional Big 12 game just a year ago. I like Johnny Football
getting A&M the win, but OU quarterback Landry Jones will put up some points, too.
BBVA COMPASS - Pittsburgh vs. Ole Miss
Score Prediction: Ole Miss 27, Pittsburgh 24
Can you see the pattern yet? I really like the SEC winning most (if not all) of their bowl games. Rebs in a
close one.
GODADDY.COM - Kent State vs. Arkansas State
Score Prediction: Kent State 34, Arkansas State 24
Both of these teams are in the midst of hiring new head coaches which should make for an interesting game. I
like the Golden Flashes by a score or two.
BCS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP - Notre Dame vs. Alabama
Score Prediction: Alabama 31, Notre Dame 23
I just can't see Notre Dame winning this one. I'll be surprised if the SEC doesn't come away with yet another
championship.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
POSTGAME THOUGHTS: UGA 28, ALABAMA 32
-Heartbreaking loss. Our guys played their tails off and came up just a few yards short.
-It's a shame somebody had to lose that game. What a game and what a performance by both teams. You'll be seeing that game on ESPN classic. A couple yards here or there, and it could just as easily be UGA heading down to Miami.
-Richt really hit it on the head: it's disappointing we lost, but you can't be disappointed in the team's effort. Our guys didn't choke. They didn't even really lose. Alabama just made the final play to win.
-If you haven't seen the postgame press conference you can watch it here: http://www.georgiadogs.com/allaccess/?media=356343. I love Richt's response to the question from Oliver (around the 13 minute mark). Our guys left it all on the field yesterday. They didn't lose because Aaron Murray can't win the big game or because Richt can't win the big game. Bama is a great team and made a great play tipping the ball on the final play. Murray didn't choke (in fact, getting us down to the 5 with no timeouts and little time was pretty clutch if you ask me) and Richt had our boys ready. Anybody who watched that game can see that.
-Speaking of Mr. Oliver, it looks like I'll be giving the new 92.9 sports station a try.
-Out of everything that happened yesterday, I have to say I'm most disappointed with David Pollack. C'mon man. Does your blood run red and black? I'm questioning that. Picking against your team is unacceptable. Sure, in your line of work you have be unbiased...but still...
-Not trying to take anything away from Alabama at all, but I have to complain a little about the officiating. In a game like that, every yard was important which means all those flags did make a difference.
-The roughing the passer call was terrible (2nd quarter). 'Tree hit McCarron in the chest with his shoulder right after he threw it. Could've easily made the same call against Alabama for that hit on Murray after his interception.
-The holding call on Andrews was bad too, and the ref seemed to throw the flag quite late (maybe he had trouble pulling it out?). The call was far from obvious, and never once was a Bama called for holding despite our defenders being ridden down to the ground in the same fashion on almost every play. Just would've liked some consistency...
-The pass interference in the second half was yet another I disagreed with (it was an uncatchable ball, and it was quite similar to plays on a couple balls intended for Conley where defenders were draped all over him...wasn't called those times).
-In the end, it was the tipped ball to Conley that won it for Bama (and by the way, don't put any blame on #31...he did what he's supposed to do as a receiver and that's catch it...it's instinct). At the time, I questioned why we didn't spike it. But a day later and after hearing Richt's statements on the play, I understand why it was called (personnel on the field, actually going for the fade route behind Conley). And again, that play wasn't a bad one for Georgia or the "wrong" thing to call, it was just good play by that Alabama defender.
-That play is what's going to be talked about for obvious reasons, but there were a couple other parts of the game that, if they had gone differently, could've given Georgia a BCS Championship berth.
-I think Alabama really won it in their drive following the blocked kick/TD return. We had the momentum and a 21-10 lead. But that huge special teams play put our defense right back on to the field without any rest. That's when Bama went to the power running game behind that all-American offensive line. They drove it down the field...ran it down the field...and then got the score and the two point conversion making it 21-18. It was neck and neck the rest of the way, allowing Alabama to do what they do best on offense (running it with Lacy and Yeldon). Had UGA gotten a stop on that drive- giving the D a chance to catch their breath- Alabama may have found themselves playing from behind the rest of the way (and thus out of their gameplan and into our defense's strengths). Huge, difference-making drive.
-The defense had some key missed tackles in the second half. Alabama had some 10 yard runs that should've been 5 yard runs and some 20+ yard runs that should've been 10 yard runs. Much of that is due to fatigue, and you have to give credit to those two hosses Alabama has in the backfield, too.
-Our defense got worn down. But as Richt says, if you're tired, just get off the field in three plays. That being said, our offense had too many three-and-outs.
-It was really feast or famine for the offense. Overall, they played well against an elite defense, but it seemed like they either drove all the way down or didn't drive it at all. Those three-and-outs hurt. The three-and-outs, combined with the fact that we running up-tempo stuff a lot of the time meant "no rest for the weary."
-In the first quarter, two key penalties and a sack led the long 50 yard field goal by Marshall Morgan that just missed the uprights. Definitely could've used those 3 points.
-In general, coming up with 0 points off the 2 turnovers we forced in the first half really hurt us in the end.
-And obviously, Murray throwing the pick at the end of the first half was a killer. We were driving and getting into field goal range. Instead, Murray underthrows a deep ball, leading to the pick and big return. Bama ended up taking those 3 points and getting the lead going into the break.
-Now, onto some positives...and there's a lot of them despite the game being recorded as an L in the column.
-What a gutsy performance by Todd Gurley. He went right into the teeth of one of the top defenses in the nation and churned out an impressive 122 yards. He earned every one of 'em.
-One of my concerns heading into the game was the o-line. They looked a little shaky on a couple occasions, but for the most part they stood tall and had a solid performance. They gave Murray time in the pocket, giving us a chance at the end of the game.
-Murray had the bad pick and missed on a couple throws, but overall he played well. Like I said above, that last drive was clutch. 265 yards against a team like Alabama is not something many quarterbacks have been able to do this season.
-Big performance by the tight ends. Artie Lynch had a drop or two, but was huge in that final drive and also had the big throw on the fake punt (loved that call by the way). Jay Rome had a 19 yard TD grab, and that's his second straight game finding paydirt. Would've liked to have seen a ball thrown his way at the end of the game.
-Tavares King: 142 rec. yards. His last catch was his biggest and he held on despite taking quite a shot.
-Malcolm Mitchell had a couple great catches, too.
-I really thought the game was over after we had to punt it with a little over two minutes. With the way the Alabama running game was performing at that time in the game, I didn't see our tire, worn-out defense would get the stops. But they did. As rough as the D had for most of the second half, they really dug deep in the fourth quarter and found a way to get some key stops. There's something to be said for that.
-Also, have to say our goalline D was very stingy. Great job at that part of the field.
-Big games from Tree and Jarvis Jones. Both had a bunch of tackles, and #29 added a couple more TFLs and sacks to his tally.
-Well...I'm bummed...But again, I'm proud of this team.
-These dawgs have proved they're one of the best teams in the nation. If you ask me, they deserve a BCS bid. That's not likely to happen, but unfortunately that's the way it is. Sounds like the Cotton or Chik-Fil-A Bowl are the most likely destination. Stay tuned.
-Go Dawgs!!!!!
-It's a shame somebody had to lose that game. What a game and what a performance by both teams. You'll be seeing that game on ESPN classic. A couple yards here or there, and it could just as easily be UGA heading down to Miami.
-Richt really hit it on the head: it's disappointing we lost, but you can't be disappointed in the team's effort. Our guys didn't choke. They didn't even really lose. Alabama just made the final play to win.
-If you haven't seen the postgame press conference you can watch it here: http://www.georgiadogs.com/allaccess/?media=356343. I love Richt's response to the question from Oliver (around the 13 minute mark). Our guys left it all on the field yesterday. They didn't lose because Aaron Murray can't win the big game or because Richt can't win the big game. Bama is a great team and made a great play tipping the ball on the final play. Murray didn't choke (in fact, getting us down to the 5 with no timeouts and little time was pretty clutch if you ask me) and Richt had our boys ready. Anybody who watched that game can see that.
-Speaking of Mr. Oliver, it looks like I'll be giving the new 92.9 sports station a try.
-Out of everything that happened yesterday, I have to say I'm most disappointed with David Pollack. C'mon man. Does your blood run red and black? I'm questioning that. Picking against your team is unacceptable. Sure, in your line of work you have be unbiased...but still...
-Not trying to take anything away from Alabama at all, but I have to complain a little about the officiating. In a game like that, every yard was important which means all those flags did make a difference.
-The roughing the passer call was terrible (2nd quarter). 'Tree hit McCarron in the chest with his shoulder right after he threw it. Could've easily made the same call against Alabama for that hit on Murray after his interception.
-The holding call on Andrews was bad too, and the ref seemed to throw the flag quite late (maybe he had trouble pulling it out?). The call was far from obvious, and never once was a Bama called for holding despite our defenders being ridden down to the ground in the same fashion on almost every play. Just would've liked some consistency...
-The pass interference in the second half was yet another I disagreed with (it was an uncatchable ball, and it was quite similar to plays on a couple balls intended for Conley where defenders were draped all over him...wasn't called those times).
-In the end, it was the tipped ball to Conley that won it for Bama (and by the way, don't put any blame on #31...he did what he's supposed to do as a receiver and that's catch it...it's instinct). At the time, I questioned why we didn't spike it. But a day later and after hearing Richt's statements on the play, I understand why it was called (personnel on the field, actually going for the fade route behind Conley). And again, that play wasn't a bad one for Georgia or the "wrong" thing to call, it was just good play by that Alabama defender.
-That play is what's going to be talked about for obvious reasons, but there were a couple other parts of the game that, if they had gone differently, could've given Georgia a BCS Championship berth.
-I think Alabama really won it in their drive following the blocked kick/TD return. We had the momentum and a 21-10 lead. But that huge special teams play put our defense right back on to the field without any rest. That's when Bama went to the power running game behind that all-American offensive line. They drove it down the field...ran it down the field...and then got the score and the two point conversion making it 21-18. It was neck and neck the rest of the way, allowing Alabama to do what they do best on offense (running it with Lacy and Yeldon). Had UGA gotten a stop on that drive- giving the D a chance to catch their breath- Alabama may have found themselves playing from behind the rest of the way (and thus out of their gameplan and into our defense's strengths). Huge, difference-making drive.
-The defense had some key missed tackles in the second half. Alabama had some 10 yard runs that should've been 5 yard runs and some 20+ yard runs that should've been 10 yard runs. Much of that is due to fatigue, and you have to give credit to those two hosses Alabama has in the backfield, too.
-Our defense got worn down. But as Richt says, if you're tired, just get off the field in three plays. That being said, our offense had too many three-and-outs.
-It was really feast or famine for the offense. Overall, they played well against an elite defense, but it seemed like they either drove all the way down or didn't drive it at all. Those three-and-outs hurt. The three-and-outs, combined with the fact that we running up-tempo stuff a lot of the time meant "no rest for the weary."
-In the first quarter, two key penalties and a sack led the long 50 yard field goal by Marshall Morgan that just missed the uprights. Definitely could've used those 3 points.
-In general, coming up with 0 points off the 2 turnovers we forced in the first half really hurt us in the end.
-And obviously, Murray throwing the pick at the end of the first half was a killer. We were driving and getting into field goal range. Instead, Murray underthrows a deep ball, leading to the pick and big return. Bama ended up taking those 3 points and getting the lead going into the break.
-Now, onto some positives...and there's a lot of them despite the game being recorded as an L in the column.
-What a gutsy performance by Todd Gurley. He went right into the teeth of one of the top defenses in the nation and churned out an impressive 122 yards. He earned every one of 'em.
-One of my concerns heading into the game was the o-line. They looked a little shaky on a couple occasions, but for the most part they stood tall and had a solid performance. They gave Murray time in the pocket, giving us a chance at the end of the game.
-Murray had the bad pick and missed on a couple throws, but overall he played well. Like I said above, that last drive was clutch. 265 yards against a team like Alabama is not something many quarterbacks have been able to do this season.
-Big performance by the tight ends. Artie Lynch had a drop or two, but was huge in that final drive and also had the big throw on the fake punt (loved that call by the way). Jay Rome had a 19 yard TD grab, and that's his second straight game finding paydirt. Would've liked to have seen a ball thrown his way at the end of the game.
-Tavares King: 142 rec. yards. His last catch was his biggest and he held on despite taking quite a shot.
-Malcolm Mitchell had a couple great catches, too.
-I really thought the game was over after we had to punt it with a little over two minutes. With the way the Alabama running game was performing at that time in the game, I didn't see our tire, worn-out defense would get the stops. But they did. As rough as the D had for most of the second half, they really dug deep in the fourth quarter and found a way to get some key stops. There's something to be said for that.
-Also, have to say our goalline D was very stingy. Great job at that part of the field.
-Big games from Tree and Jarvis Jones. Both had a bunch of tackles, and #29 added a couple more TFLs and sacks to his tally.
-Well...I'm bummed...But again, I'm proud of this team.
-These dawgs have proved they're one of the best teams in the nation. If you ask me, they deserve a BCS bid. That's not likely to happen, but unfortunately that's the way it is. Sounds like the Cotton or Chik-Fil-A Bowl are the most likely destination. Stay tuned.
-Go Dawgs!!!!!
Thursday, November 29, 2012
PLAYERS TO WATCH - UGA VS ALABAMA
FOR GEORGIA-
1.Aaron Murray (QB)
This will be the biggest game of Murray's career. He's been playing great the past few weeks but can he keep it up against a great defense?
2.Todd Gurley (RB)
To have a chance in this game, Georgia has to stay balanced. Have Gurley churn out yards consistently will ease Murray's burden and make the Bulldog offense very difficult to stop.
3.Malcolm Mitchell (WR)
Mitchell is an impact player and should have several chances- at both wide receiver and returner- to make some momentum-changing plays.
4.Alec Ogletree (LB)
Ogletree has really stood out the past couple of weeks and I expect that to continue this weekend. His skill set will be very important going up against a balanced Alabama attack.
5.Jarvis Jones (LB)
After playing two option teams, #29 now gets to face an offense more suited to his skill set. Alabama has one of the top offensive lines in the nation, but Jarvis is one of the nation's top pass rushers. The defense really feeds off of him and a big, disruptive game from him will make things very difficult for A.J. McCarron and the Tide offense.
FOR ALABAMA-
1.AJ McCarron (QB)
Looking at the stats, McCarron should be the top quarterback UGA faces this season. He's not a big scrambler but can if he has to. What stands out with him is his decision-making. He rarely makes a mistake and is great at taking what the defense gives him. If Georgia can't get pressure or stacks up against the run, it'll be a long game.
2.Eddie Lacy (RB)
Lacy is one of the nation's top running backs and will be a big challenge for the Georgia defense. As good as "Gurshall" has been, Lacy and freshman T.J. Yeldon may be just as good. Both are balanced backs that have both speed and power. As usual, Alabama will try to get the running game going early and these guys will get plenty of carries.
3.Amari Cooper (WR)
This talented freshman is Alabama's biggest threat on the outside. He's McCarron's top target and has over 750 rec. yards and 8 TDs on the year. His game is speed and quickness, so the dawgs can ill afford to give him space.
4.C.J. Mosley (LB)
This season's Alabama defense doesn't seem to have the "star players" they've had in the past (see McClain, Hightower, Dareus, Upshaw, Cody, etc.). That being said, this year's defense is still one of the best in the land. Their linebacking corps is as solid as they come and is led by the guys inside: Mosley, Nico Johnson, and sophomore Trey Depriest. Mosley is the Tide's leading tackler by a fair margin (92 total) and also has 6 TFLs, 4 sacks, and a couple interceptions.
5.Michael Williams (TE)
Williams is the sleeper of these 5 guys listed. As a big blocking tight end, he doesn't get much publicity despite being one of the conference's best at his position. He only has around 300 receiving yards, but he can do a lot of damage in the redzone. He's a guy the dawgs will definitely have to keep an eye on.
1.Aaron Murray (QB)
This will be the biggest game of Murray's career. He's been playing great the past few weeks but can he keep it up against a great defense?
2.Todd Gurley (RB)
To have a chance in this game, Georgia has to stay balanced. Have Gurley churn out yards consistently will ease Murray's burden and make the Bulldog offense very difficult to stop.
3.Malcolm Mitchell (WR)
Mitchell is an impact player and should have several chances- at both wide receiver and returner- to make some momentum-changing plays.
4.Alec Ogletree (LB)
Ogletree has really stood out the past couple of weeks and I expect that to continue this weekend. His skill set will be very important going up against a balanced Alabama attack.
5.Jarvis Jones (LB)
After playing two option teams, #29 now gets to face an offense more suited to his skill set. Alabama has one of the top offensive lines in the nation, but Jarvis is one of the nation's top pass rushers. The defense really feeds off of him and a big, disruptive game from him will make things very difficult for A.J. McCarron and the Tide offense.
FOR ALABAMA-
1.AJ McCarron (QB)
Looking at the stats, McCarron should be the top quarterback UGA faces this season. He's not a big scrambler but can if he has to. What stands out with him is his decision-making. He rarely makes a mistake and is great at taking what the defense gives him. If Georgia can't get pressure or stacks up against the run, it'll be a long game.
2.Eddie Lacy (RB)
Lacy is one of the nation's top running backs and will be a big challenge for the Georgia defense. As good as "Gurshall" has been, Lacy and freshman T.J. Yeldon may be just as good. Both are balanced backs that have both speed and power. As usual, Alabama will try to get the running game going early and these guys will get plenty of carries.
3.Amari Cooper (WR)
This talented freshman is Alabama's biggest threat on the outside. He's McCarron's top target and has over 750 rec. yards and 8 TDs on the year. His game is speed and quickness, so the dawgs can ill afford to give him space.
4.C.J. Mosley (LB)
This season's Alabama defense doesn't seem to have the "star players" they've had in the past (see McClain, Hightower, Dareus, Upshaw, Cody, etc.). That being said, this year's defense is still one of the best in the land. Their linebacking corps is as solid as they come and is led by the guys inside: Mosley, Nico Johnson, and sophomore Trey Depriest. Mosley is the Tide's leading tackler by a fair margin (92 total) and also has 6 TFLs, 4 sacks, and a couple interceptions.
5.Michael Williams (TE)
Williams is the sleeper of these 5 guys listed. As a big blocking tight end, he doesn't get much publicity despite being one of the conference's best at his position. He only has around 300 receiving yards, but he can do a lot of damage in the redzone. He's a guy the dawgs will definitely have to keep an eye on.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
WEEK 14 PREVIEW
LOUISVILLE AT RUTGERS
Score Prediction: Rutgers 24, Louisville 21
Rutgers got embarrassed last week losing big to Pittsburgh. Louisville has lost back-to-back games against the likes of Syracuse and UConn. Somebody has to rebound.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS VS KENT STATE
Score Prediction: NIU 37, KSU 27
This is actually a very big game, with Kent State having a decent chance at getting into a BCS bowl. I like the Huskies in an upset.
UCLA AT STANFORD
Score Prediction: Stanford 34, UCLA 24
Interesting rematch game. Stanford won game 1 by a few scores Saturday but the game could be a lot closer this weekend.
OKLAHOMA AT TCU
Score Prediction: Oklahoma 35, TCU 22
This one will be close early, but Oklahoma should pull away sometime in the second half.
OKLAHOMA STATE AT BAYLOR
Score Prediction: Oklahoma State 44, Baylor 40
Both of these offenses should put up a ton of points. Baylor is tough at home but I like Ok State in a very tight game.
TEXAS AT KANSAS STATE
Score Prediction: Kansas State 37, Texas 27
Both of these teams are coming off disappointing losses. Kansas State should win at home in Manhattan.
FLORIDA STATE VS GEORGIA TECH
Score Prediction: FSU 38, GT 24
These two teams, and the ACC in general had rough outings last weekend. FSU is the more talented team but Tech's offense could give them a little trouble.
NEBRASKA VS WISCONSIN
Score Prediction: Nebraska 27, Wisconsin 23
The Cornhuskers have won 6 straight while the Badgers have lost 3 of their last 4.
Score Prediction: Rutgers 24, Louisville 21
Rutgers got embarrassed last week losing big to Pittsburgh. Louisville has lost back-to-back games against the likes of Syracuse and UConn. Somebody has to rebound.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS VS KENT STATE
Score Prediction: NIU 37, KSU 27
This is actually a very big game, with Kent State having a decent chance at getting into a BCS bowl. I like the Huskies in an upset.
UCLA AT STANFORD
Score Prediction: Stanford 34, UCLA 24
Interesting rematch game. Stanford won game 1 by a few scores Saturday but the game could be a lot closer this weekend.
OKLAHOMA AT TCU
Score Prediction: Oklahoma 35, TCU 22
This one will be close early, but Oklahoma should pull away sometime in the second half.
OKLAHOMA STATE AT BAYLOR
Score Prediction: Oklahoma State 44, Baylor 40
Both of these offenses should put up a ton of points. Baylor is tough at home but I like Ok State in a very tight game.
TEXAS AT KANSAS STATE
Score Prediction: Kansas State 37, Texas 27
Both of these teams are coming off disappointing losses. Kansas State should win at home in Manhattan.
FLORIDA STATE VS GEORGIA TECH
Score Prediction: FSU 38, GT 24
These two teams, and the ACC in general had rough outings last weekend. FSU is the more talented team but Tech's offense could give them a little trouble.
NEBRASKA VS WISCONSIN
Score Prediction: Nebraska 27, Wisconsin 23
The Cornhuskers have won 6 straight while the Badgers have lost 3 of their last 4.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
POSTGAME THOUGHTS: UGA 42, GEORGIA TECH 10
-Great game. This was a game Georgia had to win, and crazy things can happen in these rivalry games. Georgia took control from the get-go and the game was never in doubt. Tech never seemed to capture any momentum.
-Beautiful first drive. Malcolm Mitchell had a great return that set the tone. Four plays later, Todd Gurley was in the endzone. I don't think Tech was ready for the offense's tempo.
-"Gurshall" rebounded from a tough outing against Georgia Southern (who pretty much sold out to stop them) and combined for around 160 yards and 4 touchdowns against the Jackets. Kudos to the offensive line for opening up some humongous holes for those guys to run through.
-Aaron Murray had another great game. 14/17 for 215 yards. 2 TDs, no interceptions. And yet again, he did a great job of spreading the ball around as 8 different bulldogs caught balls. Georgia's passing game is tough to stop because defenses can't key on one guy.
-The tight end continues to become a bigger part of the offense (as opposed to earlier in the season). Lynch had several tough grabs over the middle, and Jay Rome notched his first career touchdown.
-Defensively, several guys stood out.
-First...Alec Ogletree. The guy was all over the field and really got the crowd and his teammates going with those body slam tackles. That poor little Tech running back must be pretty sore today. NFL scouts have to be drooling when they watch "Tree" play.
-Bacarri Rambo also had a great game. He played like a ballhawk...2 forced fumbles and an interception.
-Christian Robinson is an option defending specialist. Like last week, he finished with double digit tackles and also had a couple stops behind the line. He and nose tackle John Jenkins had good games stopping Tech's interior rushing attack.
-Ray Drew got some PT later in the game and made several tackles crashing down on Tech's dive play.
-Overall, the defense gave up some yards yesterday but got stops at key moments. The defense got a couple fourth down stops and a couple turnovers that stopped Tech's drives cold. Once the dawgs went up 35-3, Tech could no longer run the offense they'd like to.
-A special shout out to all the dawg seniors...make no mistake, the leadership of this group is a big reason why the dawgs are in the position they're in right now. DGDs!
-It's going to be a long week at work waiting for the SEC Championship on Saturday.
-The dawgs are hitting their stride and now can focus completely on this monumental matchup that's been looming for weeks. Win this one, and it's off to Miami.
-GO DAWGS!!!!
-Beautiful first drive. Malcolm Mitchell had a great return that set the tone. Four plays later, Todd Gurley was in the endzone. I don't think Tech was ready for the offense's tempo.
-"Gurshall" rebounded from a tough outing against Georgia Southern (who pretty much sold out to stop them) and combined for around 160 yards and 4 touchdowns against the Jackets. Kudos to the offensive line for opening up some humongous holes for those guys to run through.
-Aaron Murray had another great game. 14/17 for 215 yards. 2 TDs, no interceptions. And yet again, he did a great job of spreading the ball around as 8 different bulldogs caught balls. Georgia's passing game is tough to stop because defenses can't key on one guy.
-The tight end continues to become a bigger part of the offense (as opposed to earlier in the season). Lynch had several tough grabs over the middle, and Jay Rome notched his first career touchdown.
-Defensively, several guys stood out.
-First...Alec Ogletree. The guy was all over the field and really got the crowd and his teammates going with those body slam tackles. That poor little Tech running back must be pretty sore today. NFL scouts have to be drooling when they watch "Tree" play.
-Bacarri Rambo also had a great game. He played like a ballhawk...2 forced fumbles and an interception.
-Christian Robinson is an option defending specialist. Like last week, he finished with double digit tackles and also had a couple stops behind the line. He and nose tackle John Jenkins had good games stopping Tech's interior rushing attack.
-Ray Drew got some PT later in the game and made several tackles crashing down on Tech's dive play.
-Overall, the defense gave up some yards yesterday but got stops at key moments. The defense got a couple fourth down stops and a couple turnovers that stopped Tech's drives cold. Once the dawgs went up 35-3, Tech could no longer run the offense they'd like to.
-A special shout out to all the dawg seniors...make no mistake, the leadership of this group is a big reason why the dawgs are in the position they're in right now. DGDs!
-It's going to be a long week at work waiting for the SEC Championship on Saturday.
-The dawgs are hitting their stride and now can focus completely on this monumental matchup that's been looming for weeks. Win this one, and it's off to Miami.
-GO DAWGS!!!!
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