Mark Bradley

By JB

December 15, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Auburn needed to hit a home run…..They bunted. Lowder and Jimmy Raines like to pay the money for Coach’s to go away…..They need to come up with the big bucks coming in. Losing 10 straight in his second year is worrisome. It’s a gamble. you won’t have any Bama recruits defect over this hire, but you will push some fence sitters Bama’s way. tough times on the Plains.

By Bo

December 15, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Another great job! Agree on Braves, still have time but Peavy would help get it rolling.

I was a Auburn Fan but not anymore. Don’t believe I’d let my son play for a loser.Tubby Ok. buT Jake….he!! NO! He’ll go to GT.

By Bobbydawg

December 15, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

How soon we forget how great a coach we have. Extend his contract and lock him in for aqs long as possible or face the sheer stupidity going on in the plains. We are a dominant force in the SEC. 2008 was not our year, but with CMR we will always be in the discussion.

By Dave In Tampa

December 15, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Adam writes for Dalton paper….. No need to say anymore. I would want no other coach than CMR. One “off” year and most people are writting him off. I should say bandwagon jumpers. True UGA people back their players and coaches. CWM is pushing our patience however. Let’s see what happens next year. It will be a challenging season with that Schedule. Opening up at OSU is a tall order. If CWM does well, most is forgiven.

Dawgs are a strong team. Foes don’t hate us because we have a bad team year in and year out. It’s because we are always near the top. Now, it’s time to be at the top. Next two years will be telling times.

Go Dawgs! Beat the Spartans.

By TURTSNAP

December 15, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

I, too, scratched my head when I saw and read about the new Auburn coach…. HUH?????

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

A word here (actually a request): If y’all run across something Buzz-worthy on the Internet, please don’t be afraid to call it to my attention. I look at a lot of sites, but I’m betting you folks look at some I don’t see.

So, please: Send me the link. mbra14@gmail.com

Thanks in advance. (And note that I gave reader Bill Norton a shout-out above for his Richmond submission. So Buzz fame could be yours!)

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Hey Mark, thanks for the shoutout to my buddy Adam over at the Dalton Daily Citizen. I’ve been giving heck to the UGA fans on that column’s message board for weeks.

By braves4 ever

December 15, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Mark ,if the Braves don’t get off their duff and do some serious deals we out here in denzy land are NOT going to buy tickets and come see a AA team play.I can enjoy my son’s league a whole lot more,at least he at 12 has a chance to win when they take the field.The Braves don’t have a prayer in the East much less with the likes of NY,Bos,Tampa etc in the big race. Please tell Frank that the natives are getting very restless and he better get it done!

By SALTYDAWG IN N.GA

December 15, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

i live in dalton and read the daily citizen often. krohn is as big a gt nerd as ive seen. dont put much thought into the bs he tries to stir. as for auburn. wtf. must be someone they can control?

By Vol4ever

December 15, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

The Braves have become a has been franchise. They are not going to spend the mopney to become a winner. Example? Well they need a power hitter and they just gave one of the best away (Texierra). BTW, I’ve been a avid Brave suppoter since 1975.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Hey Dave, you realize everyone has to start somewhere, right? You think Tim Kurkjian became ESPN’s baseball guru right out of school? Think John Clayton jumped straight from school to NFL sidelines? Think Chris Mortensen didn’t have to earn his way onto NFL Countdown and his cell phone just came pre-programmed with the numbers of all NFL execs?

It’s obvious you’re still bitter over the loss and feel Saint Richt can do no wrong, but don’t take that out on Adam. Dude’s getting paid money to write about sports; you’re just punching away on the keyboard like the rest of us couch commando living room commentators.

“Foes don’t hate” UGA “because [you] are always near the top.” People dislike UGA because their fans are among the most annoying, obnoxious, drunk and classless fans in major sports.

Already making excuses for next year, it being a “challenging season” and all? Can’t start too early, I guess. Hopefully (for you) Father Richt can get his team to act more like choirboys than jailbirds.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

I don’t want to speak for Frank Wren, but I’m fairly certain he feels your concern, braves4 ever. But just because everybody else is overpaying for pitching doesn’t mean you have to follow suit. I’m guessing the Padres’ price comes down with every week Jake Peavy remains on their roster, and wasn’t that what Wren wanted — to do the deal but give up less?

By don't hate

December 15, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Isn’t it funny that we traded Tex last season because our front office knew that they wouldn’t be willing to spend the money on him in the off-season.

Oh how far we have fallen. We are now a middle-tier team. We will never have big-name free agents come here anymore, which isn’t always a big deal, I suppose.

It’s sad.

By Patrick

December 15, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Do you think that if Vazquez is the “best” offseason move that Wren pulls off and the Braves finish in 3rd or 4th again, will ownership put fans out of their misery and fire Wren??

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Timmy K. worked in Baltimore before going to ESPN. Mort worked for a small paper in the L.A. area and then here. John Clayton was at one of the Pittsburgh papers.

You’re right. We all have to start somewhere. I started at The Cats’ Pause making $125 a week. And got fired after 3 months. But that’s another chapter in the memoirs that nobody will ever read.

By DawgGirl32

December 15, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Doesn’t Adam have something better to do than worry about Mark Richt’s sunglasses?

No? Oh. Okay. Guess when you work a paper that no one reads you have to do something to keep yourself busy.

Yeahhh I think Auburn just dug their hole a little deeper. It might be a while before they have another winning season. It’s a shame, too, because I actually really like their team and their fans. That being said, I think it’s a testament to Mark Richt’s idea on coaching stability.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

SaltyDawg, Adam has written exactly two (2) articles concerning GT. The first was a month before the Big Game and predicted a GT victory (he was right). The second was the column referenced above.

And why must people always refer to GT folks as nerds? First of all, like that’s supposed to be an insult? And second, can’t you come up with anything better than that?

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Patrick, if Opening Day arrives and Javier Vazquez is the best the Braves have done, there will be a lot of upset folks. And I’ll be among them.

But we’re a ways away from that. And just remember: This time a year ago the Tigers looked like the greatest team ever assembled. How’d they do?

By DawgGirl32

December 15, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Tron5000- you obviously don’t come on this blog very often. Please take a look at some of the especially clever insults the intelligent tech fans think of on their blogs. We call them nerds. They call us mutts, puppies, butt sniffers, leg humpers….you get the idea.

By Geezer

December 15, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

It seems all Frank Wren knows how to do is sport a goofy smile and blow deals…middle tier team - that is being awfully generous.

By Baracked the vote.

December 15, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

Mark, if everyone else is “overpaying for pitching” then they are no longer overpaying are they? the money it takes to acquire pitching has just increased, again. i can understand if it is just the yankees, but its not. the braves front office is delusional if they think someone is going to take less money to play for a 3rd or 4th place team. Plus, the talent isn’t being developed in the farm system.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Several teams overpay for pitching, but nobody overpays the way the Yankees do.

And let’s give smiling Frank some credit: Do you think the Tigers would like to have that Renteria-for-Jurrjens trade to do over?

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

DawgGirl, don’t you have something better to do than whine about a local sportswriter’s article about Saint Richt?

No? Oh. Okay. Guess when you’re a dried-up bitter shell of a woman you have to do something to keep yourself busy.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

What the Braves can expect from Vazquez:

These are not bad things. I mean, he is what he is. There could be some upside to this deal. This guy could win 15 to 18 games. The NL is a different beast. In the NL you rarely face a lineup with 9 solid hitters. You’re lucky to have 6 or 7 in an average NL lineup. But someone has to persuade this guy to pitch down in the zone. He has some of the same problems as Millwood and Russ Ortiz.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

What the Braves can expect from Vazquez:

These are not bad things. I mean, he is what he is. There could be some upside to this deal. This guy could win 15 to 18 games. The NL is a different beast. In the NL you never face a lineup with 9 solid hitters. You’re lucky to have 6 or 7 in an average NL lineup. But someone has to persuade this guy to pitch down in the zone. He has some of the same problems as Millwood and Russ Ortiz.

By Justin

December 15, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Well Mr. Bradley I feel in todays market you have to throw out the old school thinking of not overpaying because it simply does not work. The Braves held firm at the package for Peavy and they didnt get him the braves held firm at 80mil over 5 years (reportetly) and Burnett said no thanks. with todays market you have to break the bank on someone or your simply gonna be the losers. The last big name free agent the Braves signed was Greg Maddux and the only reason we signed him is because the Barry Bonds deal fell through and The Braves were winning and they are definately not doing that to lure anyone to Atlanta so they need to dish out the money or just keep teasing everyone.

By braves4ever

December 15, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Mark, We all must decide from time to time if what we want is to “costly” and Im sure the Braves front office has this in mind. Its just we know to be competive in todays league it will cost more than a budget drawn up for 2001. You must agree that when the Braves wanted to win it was with deep pockets.That’s the question we all are wondering out here “do they want to Win and at what level are they happy” You can bet if Authur Blank was owner it would be different

By Silverbritches

December 15, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

Since when is 9 snd soon to be 10 win season considered an off year? Wit hthe way UGAs defense played we shouls have lost 2 or three more games. If your blood runs red and black look forward to next season if not jump off the bandwagon and get on GTs before it fills up. OH WAIT, to late its alreadcy full. Give them a loss or two and there will be room. Again, all you bandwagon fans, hit the road. Do you want to be Auburn’s shoes? Think about how bad things could be. I give Tech, Bama, and UF all the credit in the world for putting UGA on its butt, but IGA will be back and things will change. If it doesn’t, I will be sitting in Sanford stadium Yelling for the Dawgs anyway.

By UGA Grad

December 15, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Mark, you may know whether anyone on the Falcon’s staff looks back at the play by play and gets a clue. I checked the play script on espn.com after the game. We had 32 first down plays - 26 runs and 6 passes on first down. This left us with second and eight or greater 16 times. It seems as though we were just getting in a hole on first downs. On the six first downs where Ryan threw, he was 5 for 6 with plays of 30, 26, 18, 12, and 14 yards. Is anybody on the coaching staff paying attention to this? A ratio of 26 to 6 is way too predictable.

By TRONblows

December 15, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Tron5000, with a name like that I wouldnt draw attention to myself. How about using Turk 182, or Papa Smurf? Sounds more masculine. Unless your taking estrogen leave the women alone.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

UGA Grad, I guarantee you the Falcons — and every team — charts its own tendencies. That has gone on since Tom Landry unveiled the umbrella defense in New York in the 1950s.

I would also note that Ryan wasn’t having his best day, and Turner was in the process of gaining 152 yards. I know it looks imbalanced on paper, but sometimes game situations make for funny statistics. And the last thing you want against Tampa is to get sacked on first down and leave your quarterback facing second-and-15.

By Robert

December 15, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

As long as Towers demands Tommy Hanson, Peavy will not be part of the Braves. At this point and because of him trying to rip teams off, I would not even offer Escobar if Towers came calling.

I would offer Morton, Lock and Hernandez. Thats all I would give at this point in time. After all, Peavy doesnt want to be a Brave anyway. Let him rot with the Padres.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

What do you mean referring to my screen name? At least I use one and only one, and don’t mask my posts behind some nonsense such as yourself.

Ever seen Chappelle’s Show? You know the character Tron, the richest man in the world? Yeah, that’s where it comes from.

And if I were you and didn’t know the difference between “you’re” and “your,” I wouldn’t call attention to myself. That application for MENSA membership arrive yet? No? Don’t worry; it probably just got lost in the mail.

By UGA Grad

December 15, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

I can understand that Ryan wasn’t having his best day. That is even more reason to give him an opportunity to pass when it isn’t expected and isn’t long yardage. Did you note that he was 5 for 6 with yardage of 30, 26, 18, 12, and 14 on those 5 plays? The other pass was incomplete. He didn’t get sacked passing on first down, nor did he get intercepted on first down. However, we did get stuffed on the run several times on first down leaving 2nd and long, then 3rd and long..

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Rofl!!!! Turk 182…..

That is GREAT

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

The Dodgers have been overpaying for players for years and what has it gotten them. They sold the farm to sign Kevin Brown and it was a bust. Also, the Yankees have the highest payroll and can win a post-season series … ummm, remember, they didn’t even make the post-season this year. Building a good team requires mixing the right blend of young talent, veterans, egos and leaders. You can do alot more with good team chemistry than a collection of overpaid jerks.

I think the Braves are close. We probably won’t see it this year. But they are close. Contrary to what most people say, they still have one of the best farms in baseball. It’s a little thin now, but it’s still better than most. People also need to remember the pitching we already have. JJ is only going to get better. Campillo looked good last year. Morton will be better. Now they’ve added Vazquez. Smoltz might be back. Glavine might be back (though I doubt he will be effective).

I mean, things could be worse, people. By the way, the Braves went 72-90 because of injuries. I’m not saying they would’ve won the East, but that wasn’t a bad team last year. It was just a bad year, altogether. Skip died, for Christ’s sake. It was just a horrible year to be a Brave or a Braves fan.

By RealityYech

December 15, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Poor Adam probably actually wonders why he’s stuck writing in Dalton.

There’s nothing funnier than an angry, frustrated, envious Tech fan.

Maybe if his columns came out in spanish, more people than just his immediate family would read his “work.” LOL!!!

What no one at the AJC (Tech Buzz) is piecing together, is the fact that UGA had their worst defense this decade. Tech had their best offense in decades, but yet, they could only squeak out with a 3 point win? Take away the unforced pick 6 UGA wins by 4. Take away the unforced muffed kickoff return and UGA wins by 11.

Nerd fans are truly drinking the koolaid if they think UGA’s defense will be SECOND TO LAST IN THE SEC again, or worse, next season.

Another year of film and preparation and we’ll all see why NO ONE runs the prehistoric triple option anymore :)

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Tron — I had a hot hand in a dice game. I bought this baby straight cash … I plea the fif!

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Take away those 45 Tech points and Georgia would have won 42-0.

Take away those 409 rushing yards and Tech wouldn’t have gained an inch.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Nerds

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

UGA can’t take losing to Florida AND Tech in one year. So much for that pre-season Number 1. Hey Georgia fans — Make sure you’re watching Jan. 8 when the Gators kiss the glass football the second time in three years. Also, be ready for Tech and UF to spank that rear again in 09. Paul Johnson is bringing the glory back to Tech!!

PS — I’m a Tech fan and a card-carrying member of the Gator Nation. I double-hate UGA.

Losers.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

UGA can’t take losing to Florida AND Tech in one year. So much for that pre-season Number 1. Hey Georgia fans — Make sure you’re watching Jan. 8 when the Gators kiss the glass football the second time in three years. Also, be ready for Tech and UF to spank that rear again in 09. Paul Johnson is bringing the glory back to Tech!!

PS — I’m a Tech fan and a card-carrying member of the Gator Nation. I double-hate UGA.

Losers.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Hey RealityYech, dog fans are truly drinking the kool-aid if they think GT’s offense won’t be 4th in the ACC in scoring and first in rushing again, or better, next season.

Make you feel like a big man to talk trash about a sportswriter because he happens to be starting out a small-town newspaper? At least someone’s paying him for his opinions; yours obviously don’t mean much to anyone important or your name would be at the top of this blog, not just another random UGA “we’re better than you even though we lost and it’s because our team had a horrible year but we’ll be back with a vengeance” pipe-dream rant thrown in.

Wanna talk about the “prehistoric triple option”? Navy and Tech ranked #1 and #3, respectively, in the NCAA in rushing yards this year. 2 of the top 3 rushing teams employed the “prehistoric triple option.”

Calling GT fans nerds is like calling UGA fans drunks. It’s kind of lost its meaning.

By Ed

December 15, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Chizik got the Auburn job after going 0-8 in the Big XII without having to play Texas, Texas Tech, and Oklahoma.

0-8 without having to play the 3 best teams in the conference?

Good luck, Auburn.

By One Man's View

December 15, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

I think all this ohing and awing over 9-5 for the Falcons is counterproductive. The fact is that they have done some really dumb shoot-youself-in-the-foot stuff this yr. It is not an exaggeration to say that they could be 11-3. The idea that they will be even better next yr is not necessarily so. Schedule will be tougher. They need to stop being so doggone self-congratulatory and start play like they believe they belong. Seize the moment.

RE: Braves. Being a keen observer of the Braves for 40 yrs, I can say that they are truly dreadful. I (tho can’t prove it because I don’t have a column) knew that they were no better than middle of the packers last yr befor yr. started. They have few decent field playrs and last yr their pitching staff was a bunch of has beens. What’s changed? C. Jones is about done. McCann is good but needs to lose 50 lbs. Escabar is good. Who else they got. Nobody. Frenchie is a french fry at the plate. Look for the Braves to be third-tier this yr. You read it here.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

I hate Auburn too. I’m sponsoring “Sucker-punch a Tiger Fan Day” next year. By the way, what the hell is up with their mascot. So they got a war eagle named Tiger, but their mascot is a tiger? I don’t get it. Georgia sucks but at least their mascot is consistent.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Somebody do me a favor. Click on that Chizik YouTube link above and tell me if I’m the only person who finds it mildly amusing. I promise I won’t be offended.

By Herschworld

December 15, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

what’s the difference between a UGA fan and Baby? Baby’s aren’t pretentious, they are bald but don’t paint pictures of dog heads, when they cry it’s not about how the coaching staff sucks, and when they sh** it comes out the rear instead of thier mouth

By Mobile Dawg

December 15, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Mark, tell Adam to listen to the lyrics from the Toby Keith song, “The Critic” and apply them.

I guess he drove his 94 economy car on down to Athens to be with Richt because he sure knows everything about what he does. Ahh, but everyone’s got to make a living doing something. I guess “Smart A* Humor“‘s better than welfare though.

By Jeff Patton

December 15, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Good news Tech….You will at least sell one game out next year…When GEORGIA plays there!

By DawgGirl32

December 15, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Tron5000 this is a blog. People usually come on blogs and comment about the articles. You can call it whining, or you can call it commenting. My 22 year old “dried-up bitter shell” self prefers to call it commenting. Good one, by the way. If I were 45, divorced, and depressed, I might take offense.

On another note: Charles Barkley is outraged that Auburn, his alma mater, picked Gene Chizik over Turner Gill as their new HC and is positive that this is due to the fact that Turner Gill is black. What do you guys think? Is there any truth to it? Are we still living in a world where race plays into these kind of decisions?

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Chipper’s done. Winning a batting title is easy. Anyone could do it. And McCann sucks. He only went .301/23/87 last year. What a tub of lard. Yunel Escobar is a bum. Johnson made 14 errors last year. He’s a double-A player at best. Yeah, French is done. He should just hang ‘em up.

Get real. Braves fans are a joke. I’m almost ashamed to be one. You heard it here first.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Exactly, DawgGirl. We should be discussing the articles. Instead, you and your ilk prefer to rip apart the writer because he works for a small newspaper.

And you have to admit, my “dried up” insult directed at you was better than calling you “mutts, puppies, butt sniffers, leg humpers.” You opened the door. I just chose to walk through it.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Get his a@# DawgGirl, he’s a punk.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Barry, you’re a douche. Do you share a bunk with Tron?

By Herschworld

December 15, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Maybe now Frank Wren should scout the California Penal Leagues. I hear they got mad pitching talent

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

DawgGirl - As sad as it makes me, I do think that race still plays a roll more decisions than we know of, especially in the deep south.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Goldglover Brandon Phillips made 8 errors. 14 isn’t too shabby.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Good news, Jeff Patton…You will lose at least one game next year…When UGA plays at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Let’s not be too hard on Mr. Adam Krohn. He got your attention, didn’t he?

By Johnny DangerDawg

December 15, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

ESPN made a good point that almost every baseball park will suffer from fans spending less money this year. But there will always be some rich folks in NYC who can afford to spend $2000 on a trip to the ballpark. For almost every other city, increasing the payroll is not possible until the economy rebounds.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Tech sell out a game? This made me lol…

By Barry

December 15, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

WTF??? — The truth hurts for Dawg fans, I’m sure.

HERSCHWORLD — We got a few potential all-stars here.

ONE MAN’S VIEW — You are wrong. I rest my case.

WTF??? — Auburn should’ve hired Bo Jackson as head coach. Bo knows coaching.

By DogCatcher

December 15, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Everything is race with Charles B. He was complaining 3 or 4 years ago when they changed the course at Augusta and made it longer which helped Tiger and he said they were trying to keep a black man from winning- not to bring any race but look at the records- Croom had how many years to do what he did? It has nothing to do with color-CG was a winner at Tech what happen he never beat UGA-Also look at Terry Bowden at AU-Look at Mike Shula-now just compare- Tyrone W-Croom,Shannon at the U-what kind of records do they have? Just trying to call it like it is-got nothing to do with the color of the skin-if you want to open that can-then look at how many black athletes compared to the other races? I bet that stat will blow you away as well-Dawgy girl sorry to hear about your 22 year old dried up shell-thats a shame.

By One Man's View

December 15, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

C. Jones, McCann, Escabar, & French Fry were so good last yr that they were the fifth worst team in the NL last yr and fading fast. For the Braves fans that came on board after 1991, they can’t seem to understand that talent wins games, not rep. The era is over. The Braves as a team are mediocre at best.

By Mobile Dawg

December 15, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Mark, it is a land where we have the right to free press and free speech. Mr. Krohn certainly has the right to criticize Mark Richt and IMO has chosen a sarcastic, condescending, and negative approach, however he certainly knew he would draw the ire which is exactly your point, and makes him a target in return. I would have never known he existed had you not supplied the link.

DawgGirl, surely you’re not that naive to think that race doesn’t play a part. You must be young. There will always be people, of all creeds and colors, where bias sinks it’s roots.

By Johnny DangerDawg

December 15, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Adam Krohn, like many others, blames UGA’s problems this year on the fact that they wore black jerseys for a couple games and once upon a time did a TD celebration. GET OVER IT PEOPLE! Hey, maybe the ‘87 Chicago Bears lost games because they did the Super Bowl shuffle the year earlier. Maybe Alabama will stink next year because a coach this year said that UGA was going to their own funeral. Maybe Ohio State is going to start losing now because Jim Tressel (at a basketball game before his first season as OSU coach) got on a mic and guaranteed a Buckeye victory over Michigan. Maybe motivation always backfires and we should all bash coaches and players who try to generate excitement.

By CHARLOTTE DAWG

December 15, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

DawgGirl32,

Yes, we still live in that world.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Tech will not dominate the UGA/Tech series again, EVER. Florida? That is a different story. I wish that Notre Damneit would hurry up and run off Fat Ba&tard so Meyer would take that job.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

DawgGirl, don’t sweat the Yeck fans. They don’t fraternize much with the opposite sex.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

ONE MAN — The era was over back as early as ‘02 or ‘03. By the way, name one GM in baseball that wouldn’t call McCann one of the top 3 catchers in baseball. The Braves were bad because of injuries. The greatest error was putting faith in Glavine and Smoltz. Also, just so you’ll know, I loved the Braves when they lost 100 games and had guys named Horner, Murphy, Mahler and Chambliss. They can lose 100 more next year and I’ll still love them. But to disregard the quality players they do have, and to talk like they’re going to be a “third-tier team” is just plain crazy.

By DogCatcher

December 15, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

WTF??—-what Tech fans get tired of is hearing how the beloved Dawgs are the best year and year out and that obvious showed this year as well with St Richt as he tried to control “America’s Most Wanted Team” It gets old hearing about what a good ole boy he is and he can’t even control his own players-yes I know lets bring up all the Houston’s, Hamilton’s and whoever else at Tech-Isolated instances and all happen to be in different years-UGA had more off field iussues with the law than TECH has had in a decade. You may think what you want when it comes to TECH and winning more games in the series with UGA and I don’t care who they have at FL spurrier did the same thing before myer didn’t he?- track CPJ’s past-He is a winner and the kids buy into him-we will see Tech winning more often than not-I will also say I doubt we see a run of 7 games in a year against us with CPJ at the Helm-so I hope you understand-which based upon your sign on I see you may have issues with that uh WTF???? THWG!!!!

By One Man's View

December 15, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Barry,

Did you read orig post. I think it was stated that McCann and Escabar were good. Did you miss that. C. Jones is about done. Last yr he turned into almost a contact hitter. You’re battling windmills.

It takes nine players to win. 2.5 down. Name the other 6.5. Please.

I do agree era has been over for yrs. I think 1 out 100 fans may have realized it at the time. I know the ATL sports dept did not.

I have been keeping up with Braves since before move to ATL. But I’m not a fan of any team.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Dogcatcher - Don’t be mad… UGA had a down year, Tech won. But it still will not have an impact on Tech always playing second fiddle to UGA year in and year out. Tech fans hate UGA because the Dawgs are everything the skeeters ain’t.

By leland

December 15, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Mr. MB—hiring Chizik is nothing but race prejudice is what it is. You don’t believe me, ax Charles Brackley. YP. Leland

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

WTF, WTF? Don’t be mad…UGA just got beat on their home turf three (3) times, GT just being the latest perpetrator. But your “year in and year out” nonsense did not have an impact on this year’s game and will not have an impact on next year’s.

“Dawgs are everything the skeeters ain’t” all right. Everything like loud, obnoxious, rowdy, gutter-dwelling lower forms of human existence.

By Cali Dawg

December 15, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Hey folks, if you need blow steam, use the ajc vent section. I don’t like scrolling for five minutes just to find one coherent and reasonable response. Tron5000 and Barry, that means you…Think of something that makes sense.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Tron, you are such a tool…. From what I’ve seen the only obnoxious people on the blog are Techies. Now, with all that said please come and help your momma. She dropped her teeth under my desk and she can’t find them.

By TronKiller

December 15, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Seriously Tron, Could you write something new for this blog instead of the copy & paste job you’ve done so far? That stuff might work in Dalton, but this is big boy talk. Now wait your turn and speak when spoken too.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

And by the way, you want to run that d&ck sucker behind that keyboar? Where are you located?

By Pitbull

December 15, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

So a Dalton newspaper sports writer doesn’t like the fact that CMR wears sun glasses.

Somebody tell that sports writer that small people concern themselves with small things.

And I have found most sports writers to be small people.

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Keyboar… Damn nerds get me frustrated…

I’d better stop, he might pull a Bama fan on me and come to my house and shoot me with a shotgun…

By Tron5000's Mom

December 15, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Tron5000, I told you not to go online while I wasn’t at home! You’d better quit running your mouth to these UGA fans, I’d hate to have to carry you back to the ER for another CT Scan. Your Daddy WTF??? is going to whip your a@# when he hears of this….

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

“[S]peak when spoken too [sic] “? I will, since obviously many people are speaking to me, yourself included. So thanks for the invitation.

“[B]ig boy talk”? You mean like your boy WTF there resorting to insulting one’s mother? OK. I’ll stick around and play a while with the big boys.

And like that guy even has a desk. He’s likely referring to the card table in his living room on which sits his emachine constantly alternating between WOW, pornhub and ugadawg4life.com.

Speaking of computers and web sites, I wonder why the following one has not been updated lately:

http://matthewstaffordforheisman.com/Home_Page.php.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

ONE MAN — First of all, it takes 25 players to win.

Granted, Chipper can’t play 150 plus ballgames anymore, but they do have some depth in the infield to address that issue. Prado can offset Chipper’s playtime. So can Infante. They are both good ballplayers. Scrappy and gritty. Kotchman is a very good defensive 1st baseman. I think he made 2 errors last year in 140 plus games. He’s an average hitter, and he’ll go about .280/15/75. I like Kelly Johnson and I believe next year he will have a break out season. We saw signs of that down the stretch this year. I don’t think the Braves can afford to move Yunel and I don’t think they will.

I like Anderson in center. He’s a good base stealer too. They also have Blanco out there and Schafer will get his shot this spring. Diaz is slated to return and the Braves still have money and possibilities when it comes to signing or trading for a power-hitting outfielder. (They will HAVE to sign someone). French will be back. That guy is too good to play that poorly.

The bullpen was a mess last year because of some injuries and they were tired and overworked. Gonzalez and Soriano will be back.

It all falls back on starting pitching. I feel that JJ, Campillo and Vazquez are going to be effective. I feel that the Peavy talks might heat back up. I think Morton will be a solid fifth starter next year. And what about Smoltz? You can NEVER count that guy out. I’ve written him off three times now and he’s come back to prove me wrong.

Basically, it’s anybody’s guess with any team. If CC goes down after the allstar break and Jeter rolls his ankle and the Yanks will be screwed. If Rollins goes down and Hamels battles elbow problems, the Phillies could end up in third. New superstars will emerge, veterans will fall. Some teams will exceed expectations, some will fall well short.

We shall see.

By chazz

December 15, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

I have been critical of Richt along similar lines. Why are the AJC guys piling on, though? I guess when your home team gets its butt kicked year after year, pulling an upset is a big deal. Enough is enough. 19 season ending injuries later, the dogs are poised for another 10 winner. Say what you will.

By Tron5000's Mom

December 15, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Actually Tron, I have been gainfully employed for my entire adult life. I would be willing to bet that my salary would make you feel very insecure about yourself. You are a loser, have to come online and talk like a big man but if actually confronted by someone who is self-confident you would cry like a b&tch.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Tron and WTF: Cage match!

Meanwhile, not one of you has responded to my heartfelt request to watch the doggone Chizik video and give me your feedback. Obviously I’m not getting through here.

I guess I’ll have to audit Dave O’Brien’s next class at the AJC — Training the Denizens.

By War Eagle

December 15, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

I disagree with Auburn and CGC hire, but maybe its best they could get for Bobby Lowder, Pat Dye, Jimmy Raines, Eron McWhorter, and Ms Newton. I will support CGC, hope he can get some offense going, the well has been try for several years… If our young QBs Caudle and Trotter cant play SEC type of football, Auburn is in for a long unlisted journey in the Top 25

By WTF???

December 15, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Ooops.. Forgot to change back my s/n…. LOL!!!! Tron, you suck and I would really enjoy whipping your a*….

By Barry

December 15, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Hey Cali Dawg — You need to read all my repsonses.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

You’re right, Mark. That video was awesome. Especially the frame with “SABAN LOL.” I actually did LOL at work. Funny, that doesn’t usually work with me.

By Barry

December 15, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

MB —

I’ll check it out tonight. Can’t get Youtube at work.

Got a link?

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Mom, what are you doing here? If a high salary is what you need to feel secure about yourself, right on. Personally, the things in life that make me feel good about myself are the beautiful, wonderful fiancee who loves me very much, the greatest group of friends anyone could ask for, the family that loves and supports one another in times both good and bad, the job that I love going to every day, the good health with which I have been blessed, and every now and then a couple wins by my favorite teams.

And are you really worked up by someone on the other side of a computer screen, whom you have never met, that you are actually contemplating how much you would enjoy inflicting physical harm upon that person? Perhaps you should spend less time worrying about me and more time with an anger management specialist.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Tron, I agree. I laughed at the “Saban LOL” part, too.

Barry, it’s here.

By Dave In Tampa

December 15, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Trol5000:

I’m not bitter one bit. That same writer up in Dalton was singing CMR’s praise this time last year. UGA and Tech coaches have been doing commercials for local staions ever since I can remember. Why do you speak so negatively of CMR. What has he personally done to you?

My main point is that bandwagon jumpers are now questioning CMR. He has done noting but good things since arriving at UGA. CWM needs to improve obviously. UGA has been near the top ever since his arrival. Next two years will be big years to see if he gets us over the top. That was my point.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

Actually, Dave, no he wasn’t. Adam didn’t even work at that paper last year. So you either are ignorant and have no idea of what you speak, you like to make stuff up out of thin air, or you are just lying to try to make some kind of point. I don’t care which, as they are all equally loathsome.

Yep, next 2 years should be big for Saint Richt. ‘Cause I guess that’ll be about the end of CMR’s and UGA’s 9-year plan, huh?

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

See, here’s how it’s supposed to work: I ask for cooperation from the constituency, and Jennifer A. responds with this very useful link that pertains to Jake Peavy and, quite possibly, the Braves.

I’m in her debt. You should be, too.

By ceph

December 15, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Richt spends most of his time on the sideline looking up at the screen, adjusting his mouthpiece, and getting his sunglasses just right, coaching,forget it,he has got to be looking good!!! I wouldn’t buy anything from that capet company just because of that dumb commercial. He and his wife both look like they had just gotten out of bed, the only thing missing is pajamas. Everytime I see his wife she looks like she has just escaped from a tornado, no makeup and her hair has never seen a comb!

By James E. Williams

December 15, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

I’m a UGA fan and i think it’s a shame that CMR is in his 8th season as headcoach and how many NT have we competed for 0, Urban Cryer is about to play for his 2nd NT in 3yrs and Slick Saben almost played for his 2nd NT when do we get that chance don’t get me wrong CMR has done a good job (it would be great if we had a NT) during his tenture but to be GREAT YOU HAVE TO WIN NT’s, ask DOOLEY?????????????

By Tron has no job

December 15, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Tron, you’ve been on here for 5 hours? Really? And you’re not a loser? LOL…I HAVE seen that Chappelle’s Show sketch, and if memory serves me correctly, he was rich because he won everybody else’s reparation money in a dice game. Oh, and he was unemployed. Sounds about right! See ya later dork!

By TRONblows

December 15, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

TRON5000, Let me guess you won the spelling bee at your middle school and you are trying to bask in a bygone glory. Some people work and don’t have time to find someone to proof read a blog. Your obviously out of work and have nothing better to do. As for using a different screen name that comment can go in your FOS category. By the way, how many comma splices can you fit in one blog. Shouldn’t you be in a GT blog?

By BravesFan79

December 15, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Chill fellow fans…. i believe were stronger with Escobar than without. Peavy or no Peavy. If we cant get a deal done for Peavy WITHOUT trading escobar or the stud rookie pitcher, it would be better for us to wait till August and trade for a TRUE ace when Houston and Toronto are in sell mode.

Resign Smoltz and Ohman, move the outfield wall back, and play small ball, and stay around .500 and in the wildcard hunt until we can swing a trade for a TRUE ace (Oswalt or Halladay) in July or August.

Id MUCH rather see us go this route than try and pass off someone like Oliver Perez (not to mention overpaying) as a top of the rotation starter.

By CA

December 15, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark

The Link to Adam Krohn is a good read.

Thanks for posting it.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

You know you’ve had a good day when you can make others resort to using b******* versions of your screen name as your own. What I say is actually affecting you to the point that you have to change your screen name before posting. That’s awesome.

By Tron has no job

December 15, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

I think you meant “b* versions of MY screenname as your own”, right English teacher? Don’t you have some hotpockets burning in the microwave, and some Jerry Springer to go watch you unemployed POS?

By TRONblows

December 15, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

BARRY………..Are you kidding me? Tech beats UGA once in how many coaching changes and you all want fool yourself into thinking GT is worthy of anything other than a pat on the back? Please. Why did you guys not play for the ACC championship? GT out played UGA and that is a fact. When your coach wins 9 to 10 games a year thans are then you can brag, till then just be happy and thankful for a winning season. By the way, who recruited all the players on this years GT team? GT fans are a bunch of loafer wearing estrogen filled wanna be men. The white out was a novel idea wonder where that idea came from?

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

And you guys are right; I don’t have “a job.” I have 2. Actually, more like a career and a side job, but they both pay actual, real money and everything!

By tron has no job

December 15, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

Collecting beer cans from the side of the road is not a career.

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

The whiteout turned out a little better than that affair in Athens vs. Alabama, did it not?

I’d love to continue this, but unfortunately I must go buy some Christmas presents. Now how would I be able to do that without a job? You guys have fun coming up with clever ways to spin my name, and try to find some more members of my family to insult. Going after someone’s mother is so 90s.

By TRONblows

December 15, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Tron5000 is your supposed fiance aware of you affection towards the guy who works at the worlds worst newspaper? Anyway, Congrats on your engagement. Who is the lucky guy? Adam? Seriously, unemployment must really suck for you. keep your chin up, atleast your fiance, Adam, is working.

By KJ

December 15, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Well, Krohn is certainly aptly named, being similar to a disease that affects the bowels, given that he’s full of sh!t. He’s like RambleON with a journalism degree.

You would think that at least the NATS fans in the media would act like they’ve been there before when they pull the occasional win out of their hats, but so much for that, I guess.

By TRONblows

December 15, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

TRON5000, get back on here when Tech wins it’s pathetic conference. How did you guys fair in the ACC championship? Typical GT fans. Team wins some ball games and they think they are legit. Oh, all day on a blog and now you go buy gifts? Two jobs? Well, give you credit there. Does it really count as a white out if only 12 people wore white?

By Barry

December 15, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

MB —

So you think Peavy might be available at a “yard sale” price?

By BobDog

December 15, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

The video was okay but nothing that great.

I am a UGA grad, but much of my childhood I was an Auburn fan (Sullivan and Beasley, Jimmy Sidle, George Rose)

It is sad to see a program with the tradition and history of Auburn football self destruct before our eyes. How in the world could the leadership at Auburn really believe that they will be better off with these changes? The new Mississippi State. Sad to see it.

By Dalton

December 15, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Hey folks, you can bash the writer, but please don’t bash the town. Dalton, GA is a very nice city in Northwest Georgia, and a wonderful place to live.
By the way, I think Moreno will be back next year at UGA for unfinished business. Not so sure about Stafford. What do you think, Mark?

By Barry

December 15, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

TRONBlows —- I always thought Chan did a great job at recruiting, but the simple fact is that he never got the job done. He didn’t win the ACC and he didn’t beat UGA. The Jackets didn’t play in the ACC championship this year because of the tiebreaker. They played well against the team that won the ACC and they beat BC (both on the road, I might add). 9-3 heading to a major bowl game is not a bad place to be. This was a YOUNG team, too. Beleive me, this is the beginning of a nice ride for Tech. Paul Johnson won here like he won at Navy. That’s all he knows how to do.

They will in the ACC next year. In fact, don’t be surprised if they crack the top 10. I’m not saying they’ll win the national championship, (because the Gators are going to repeat next year) but they will me tough.

As for, UGA? Enjoy that spanking you’re gonna get in Jacksonville next year. Maybe the pain will subside before you get stung in Atlanta next year. Oh, and you gotta go to Tuscaloosa next year. Enjoy that one. Well, that’s three losses, right there. Have a happy 2009.

By Dalton

December 15, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Barry…check your facts before blogging. UGA doesn’t go to Tuscaloosa next year. They do get LSU at home, though. AND they get a bye week before the FLA game. I think they’ll be ready for Timmy next year.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Maybe not a yard sale price. Maybe a President’s Day sale price.

I think Moreno will leave. I’m not yet sure about Stafford, though my guess is that he’ll go, too. (But these are just guesses, I should stipulate.)

By Dalton

December 15, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

MB…With Turner Field being a pitcher’s park, why don’t the Braves consider becoming a speed team? What players could they sign or trade for that could make them dangerous on the bases and help them play small ball to score more runs?

By Barry

December 15, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Dalton — My fault. Thought they played Bama every year. Well, they’ll need more thana bye to deal with Tebow.

And right you are about the Braves playing more small ball.

By Corey

December 15, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

The Braves reportedly aren’t expecting to pursue Lowe or rekindle talks with the Padres for Peavy. I can understand Lowe, who is 35 and looking for 4 years @ 16.5 mil per. But, I can’t understand Peavy. He is one of the top pitchers in baseball, he’s just 27, and he’s signed at a reasonable cost (by today’s standards).

Just because Wren got frustrated with the Padres (along with every other Braves fan), doesn’t mean we shouldn’t get back together and get this done. It makes too much sense for both sides.

Reportedly, we were real close to the deal that included Escobar and Gorkys Hernandez. The Padres wanted us to include Morton instead of Reyes and wanted Jeff Locke or Tyler Flowers to be substituted for Boyer.

Look, if Wren can get Peavy for Escobar, Hernandez, Morton & Locke, he should do it. Hands down. As these past days have shown, you won’t get near the pitcher Peavy is for even more money. And, even if you are willing to overpay for an older, lesser pitcher, there is no guarantee they will sign with you anyway.

I realize Escobar is good and cheap. But, he won’t be cheap after 2010, and we would have Peavy locked down thru 2013 @ an average of 16.2 mil per (or thru 2012 @14.75 per if the option isn’t picked up). To see the going rate for young, dominant starters, see Santana’s and CC’s contracts.

I say trade for Peavy, sign Furcal, give the 2B job to Infante & Prado, move Kelly to left, and sign Smoltz. If there’s enough left over after that, sign Ben Sheets. Let’s get back to pitching (and the playoffs).

By Ed

December 15, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Mark, the Chizik youtube was fairly amusing. I agree that his hiring is a headscratcher. As for the Saban LOL part? Saban is still the guy who went 6-6 and lost to La.-Monroe last year. That alone should bar him from laughing at anyone for at least the next 5 years.

By Chris

December 15, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

Another pointless column and drivel from the hacks at AJC. It wasn’t worth the scan I gave it. Woah, those are seconds off my life I’ll never get back.

By fieldofdreams

December 15, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

Sign Peavy, let Glavine go, make a reasonable deal with Smolt-zeus, depend on Vasquez to eat innings, pray that Hudson can recover by mid-season, give the ball to Jurrgens, and hope that the Hanson boy is ready for the bigs. We won’t win the division, but even with an outfield of young prospects. we’d stay in the race.

By RealityYech

December 15, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Cute deflection Bradley. However, I challenge you to prove me wrong. Show me when the last time was UGA’s defense was as horrendous as it is this year, and the last time Tech had an offense equal to theirs this year in the same season. You’d probably have to go back decades. And like I said which isn’t debatable, Tech could only squeak by with a 3 point victory against our pathetic defense that will be heads and shoulders improved next season.

Tron, you’re the posterboy of a Tech fan. Once every 8 years you get a little lead in your pencil since your passed-over-trade-school team was able to sneak out a victory. You get a little confident and decide you’ll, in typical Tech fashion, talk trash from the safe confines of your mama’s basement on the internet. You’re just as angry, jealous and miserable as you were before the game. You hoped a Tech win over UGA would bring you some enjoyment since you haven’t been able to experience the feeling in near a decade, but only to be disappointed since you realize now you’re still in your mama’s basement playing Dungeons and Dragon’s on your nephew’s computer.

Now go back to letting DawgGirl slap you around silly :)

By Dixie Dawg

December 15, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

The Braves need new ownership. I also think its insane to have to give up Escobar for Peavy, a dude who doesn’t want to come here. The only way the Braves should pursue Peavy is if they take Escobar off the table. If the Braves had more money to spend, then they wouldn’t be in this situation. Once again, that points to the cheap a* ownership of Liberty Media. I knew it was the beginning of the end for the Braves when MLB approved the sale to LM. What a freaking joke of a MLB franchise we have, and I’m a Braves fan, believe it or not. We just need new owners. Anyone disagree?

By Jeff Bumgarner

December 15, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Regarding the Braves and the seemingly inability to make a deal. First, AJ doesn’t deserve a deal any better than what he was offered by Atlanta. You’d think the Braves had learned their lesson with oft-injured pitchers—aka Mike Hampton. Maybe next off-season is the time to throw $$$ around, but unless they were going after CC Sabithia, better to save those dollars for next year. Honestly, does AJ Burnett really deserve to be in the top 10 of baseball salaries? Of course not, and thank God somebody else was stupid enough to pay him all that cash. Seriously Braves, wait for free agency next year, when you might actually get what you pay for…

By Tron5000

December 15, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Hey RealityYech, I hope you didn’t stand in line too long at UGA Fan Day to get Mattie Stafford’s autograph on your preseason #1 SI cover. I hear it was up to 4 hours. That #1 ranking that the UGA fans loved to hoot and holler about? Yeah, that was the same issue that predicted a 3-9 finish for GT (1-7 in ACC).

You speak of your defense being “heads and shoulders improved next season.” First, I don’t know why you’d think that, since it looks like Ol’ Willie will still be there. You got some stud incoming freshmen or something? And second, you do realize that Paul Johnson hasn’t even installed half of his offense, right? As in, the offense that ran for over 400 yards against UGA will be more diverse next year, and likely more efficient after another spring and summer of working on it. And wait until a couple more years, when Coach Johnson will be running his offense with the players that he actually recruited to fit and run his system.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Dalton, I don’t think the Braves will become a small-ball team because they don’t have that small-ball mentality. They’ve never had Astroturf as their home surface, and that’s the way most baseball folks become advocates of speed and singles.

And the game has changed since the Cardinals and Astros were winning division titles in the 1980s with a band of light hitters. Nowadays second base is expected to be a power position; back then the Cards and Astros barely had one power position.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

RealityYech, I’ll have to give you credit: You’re the only person I’ve come across who saw 2008 as the year Tech had a huge personnel/scheme edge on Georgia. Wasn’t it supposed to have been the other way around?

By Dalton

December 15, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

Maybe not small-ball, but someone who threatens to be standing on third only moments after his single. We’ve had them before…Ralph Garr, Otis Nixon, even Furcal to an extent (if Bobby would let him run). It’s nice to play with an early lead, and I think speed would help that happen.

By Mark Bradley

December 15, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

I’m not saying I disagree. I’m old enough to recall Maury Wills in his prime, and I well remember how disruptive Kenny Lofton was in the 1995 World Series against the Braves.

What I am saying is that I really don’t see a massive redo regarding offensive philosophy as long as Bobby Cox is the manager. His teams play a certain way, and that way has won him 15 division titles. And if you’re going to play small-ball, you really have to commit to it. You can’t do it with just one man.

By Joe

December 15, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

The Braves should sign Barry Bonds I mean at least people would have a reason to come to the games to see him because this season looks like it’s going to be boring with the team the braves are going to put out on the field in 2009.

By JackDawg1

December 15, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

I am very proud of CMR. He is the Lou Holtz Award winner, which is a humanitarian Award, and would not want any other coach influencing our sons than Coach Richt. If wins is all you care about and not MEN, there are plenty of shallow champs out there for you to cheer for. SEE Ya! Sic’em Dawgs!

By JackDawg1

December 15, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

I am very proud of CMR. He is the Lou Holtz Award winner, which is a humanitarian Award, and I would not want any other coach influencing our sons than Coach Richt. If wins is all you care about and not MEN, there are plenty of shallow champs out there for you to cheer for. SEE Ya! Sic’em Dawgs!

By Dalton

December 15, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

You can’t argue with a successful formula. I just hope we can get the right pieces to the puzzle. What about Adam Dunn for first base? I know he has very little range in the outfield, but could he play first? 40 HR in each of the last 4 years is quite a feat. He can also be patient at the plate and coax his share of walks. Chipper, Dunn, McCann??

By Wow

December 16, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

By RealityYech December 15, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Cute deflection Bradley. However, I challenge you to prove me wrong. Show me when the last time was UGA’s defense was as horrendous as it is this year, and the last time Tech had an offense equal to theirs this year in the same season. You’d probably have to go back decades. And like I said which isn’t debatable, Tech could only squeak by with a 3 point victory against our pathetic defense that will be heads and shoulders improved next season.

Tron, you’re the posterboy of a Tech fan. Once every 8 years you get a little lead in your pencil since your passed-over-trade-school team was able to sneak out a victory. You get a little confident and decide you’ll, in typical Tech fashion, talk trash from the safe confines of your mama’s basement on the internet. You’re just as angry, jealous and miserable as you were before the game. You hoped a Tech win over UGA would bring you some enjoyment since you haven’t been able to experience the feeling in near a decade, but only to be disappointed since you realize now you’re still in your mama’s basement playing Dungeons and Dragon’s on your nephew’s computer.

Wow, so many things wrong with this post. First, your defense gave up 45 flipping points, what more do you want GT to do on offense? The most ever scored against UGA in Athens is like 52. Seems like they did pretty well. UGA had a good offense this year, that’s why they scored 42. Dumba**. Second, head and shoulders improved? Ok Cleo, we’ll see… Third. Once every 8 years? Do you not remember the 90’s moron? Just like a UGA fan to completely ignore the fact that before their 7 win streak they were absolutely horrible for, what, 20 years. Finally, you’re on the same internet as everybody else, this argument doesn’t make any sense. It’s not like you’re sitting at some crazy party or having a threesome with supermodels or something.
In conclusion, one of the stupidest posts I’ve probably ever seen on AJC. We are all now dumber for having to read through your incoherent drivel. May God have mercy on your soul.

By Tron5000

December 16, 2008 7:38 AM | Link to this

Um, JackDawg, I think Saint Richt (Hosannas in his name) has been failing a bit on the “influencing our sons” part. How many UGA players have been arrested since January? Yeah, great influence you got there. The 2008 10-year reunion will only consist of about 20 players, since the st will likely be incarcerated or not allowed to leave their home state pending trial.

By Tron5000

December 16, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this

Should’ve said “rest”, not “st.” Stupid keyboard.

Mark, there’s a lot of action on this edition of the Buzz. Nice work; you got the people talking, and that’s what it’s all about.

Dalton, I too am intrigued by the notion of Adam DUnn. He whiffs a lot and is certainly a liable in the OF, but dude can jack some balls (4 straight seasons with exactly 40 HR…that’s weird) and will take some walks as well. But I’m not sure about him at 1B. Isn’t that why the Braves got Kotchman in the deal? Now, I know Kotch is no Tex, but he came on strong at the end of the year and I’d like to see what he can do with a full season in the NL and the chance to get to see a few pitchers more than once.

THIS JUST IN: Braves in verge of signing Rafael Furcal (according to mlb.com and foxsports.com). So obviously, Fookie, Yunel and KJ can’t all play the infield; laws of physics prohibit two objects from occupying the same space. So does this indicate that the Braves are shopping Yunel or KJ? Will we be receiving a pitcher for one of these guys? Things have gotten a bit more interesting.

By Tron5000

December 16, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

So I noticed there’s now a report on the potential Furcal deal on the main Sports page, about 40 minutes after I posted the news here. Don’t I even get a shout out or something?

By the way, my boy Adam from Dalton broke the news to me this morning, then I saw the stories from FoxSports and MLB. So it looks like the kid at the small-town paper is on top of the news while everyone else is still sleeping.

By Kelley

December 16, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

I miss John Schuerholz.

By CMR

December 16, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

I am one cool dude. My hair, tan and shades prove it!

By 2N4YEARS

December 16, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

AUBURN sold their Buick before they settled on a replacement. They were in search of a Mercedes, but bought a Pinto?? Hhhmmmm. Not sure I understand this thinking. Hire a guy who was at AU when they went 13-0. Wasn’t Tuberville also there during that 13-0 record? OK. I’m lost. Wake me up, wake me up!!!!!

By Mark Bradley

December 16, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

Consider yourself shouted, Tron.

By UGA is so last year

December 16, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

That Daltom article was about the best read I had in years. I agree and posted in another article that the series streak is held by GT at 8 games in a row. UGA could not break it nor will they ever. But, GT will break it. We will get 9 in a row. One down, 8 to go. Count on it sad, loser puppies!!!

By Ed

December 16, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Nick Saban: myth v. reality

Myth: Nick Saban is a great coach who strikes fear in the hearts of his opponents.

Reality: Nick Saban is the author of the following won-loss seasons at elite BCS programs:

1995 Michigan State 6–5–1 1996 Michigan State 6–6 1997 Michigan State 7–5 1998 Michigan State 6–6 (Saban got the LSU job after going 9-2 with MSU in ‘99. After looking at his 25-22-1 record leading up to ‘99, I think Saban must have had some dirt on the athletic director to have survived that long)

2000 LSU 8–4 2002 LSU 8–5 2004 LSU 9-3 (not bad, but included a defensive meltdown against Iowa in the bowl game - isn’t he a defensive guru?) 2007 Alabama 7–6 (including a home loss to La.-Monroe)

Saban’s NFL record:

2005 Miami Dolphins 9–7 2006 Miami Dolphins 6–10

As far as I can tell, the Saban mystique is built on one 13-1, split national championship season at LSU (2003). No one has gotten more mileage out of one great year, except for maybe Phil Fulmer after ‘98. Keep in mind that Johnny Majors, Les Miles, and Danny Ford have won national titles, as well. I look forward to the day that this fraud is exposed once and for all as the above-average coach he really is.

By UGA is so last year

December 16, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Ed, what about this year? Does that not count for Saban?

By typical bulldawg fan

December 16, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Hey auburn, how do you trade out a perennial winner for a 10 game losing streak? Chew on that awhile!

Tubbs will come back to haunt you

By monty

December 16, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

UGA GRAD

I totally agree, play calling seems to be, “we’re running Turner, you kmow we are running Turner, try to stop him.” I would also venture to guess from my observations that most of Ryans 1st down throws were in the 1st half. I would love to see Ryan get to free wheel just a little more late in the game rather than just taking a hold-on approach.

Turner is a tough dude and I know he delivers a pounding, but he also has to expend alot of energy on 1st down runs just trying to gain 1 yard. My guess is he would love to have a few runs when they weren’t expecting him to run straight up the gut.

By monty

December 16, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

I said weeks ago as the talk about Burnett got heated that we didn’t have enough money to compete with the big boys and that no one should expect to sign him. However, the Yankees hace proved in years past that money doesn’t mean you can buy a World Series. We just need to be shrewd evaluators of talent, whether it’s talent that is coming or going.

By Ed

December 16, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

UGA, sure this year counts for Saban. That’s a point I made in an earlier post -Saban always seems to get maximum credit for his good years, but absolutely none of the blame for his mediocre years, which is remarkable considering how many mediocre seasons he’s had.

By RealityYech

December 16, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Ahh come on Bradley!!! You’re the paid “professional” here. Why on earth would you be so opposed to pointing out the OBVIOUS!?! That being UGA’s defense is the worst in years, in some categories nearing the worst in program history. Oh, what’s that? You’re afraid it’ll diminish the little 3 point Tech win? LOL, thought so!

Tron, does your mommy not insist on you getting out of the house and getting a job? Why do you spend your days mad at the world venting on here? Why so miserable? Is it because you’ve come to the realization that PJ’s little gimmick offense doesn’t have the life span to make it for longer than one year off the element of surprise? Or is it because unlike Mark “I sit on stingers” Bradley you’re figuring out you’re losing 3 of the best defensive players Tech has ever had, and unlike real programs like UGA, Tech can’t reload and you’re going to have one of the worst defenses in the pathetic ACC next year? LOL, 4th best offense in the ACC? Yeah, I think Peachtree Ridge would finish at least 2nd in that joke of a conf. LOL!!

FYI, “nerd” is actually PC for tool, loser, dipsh*t, whichever is most fitting for yourself. Somehow I figure all would apply :)

Yeah Wow, I do remember the 90’s. 7-3 against the leftovers from North Ave. You couldn’t even pretend to be a proud defending “National Champion” after your SHARED title with a better team, LOL!!

It’s like shooting fish in a barrel!!

By Mark Bradley

December 16, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

I believe we’re talking in circles. You’re saying Georgia’s defense was unusually lousy. I’m wondering why it was unusually lousy. Because four months people thought this D shaped up to be a quick-striking bunch of playmakers — not big, but fast and hard-hitting. Apart from Rennie Curran, I never saw any of that.

By dawg4life

December 16, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Dear Uga is so last year..I will bet you that you come out of the closet before tech wins 9 in a row.

By Dawg4life

December 16, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

One year out of Eight and Bradley jumps on the wagon. Paul Johnson wouldnt make a scab on Richt’s #$%.

By Tron5000

December 17, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the shot, Mark.

And from what I hear, Rennie Curran is a pretty cool dude. My brother and sister go to Brookwood and have nothing but good things to say about the guy.

And if the Braves must part with Yunel in a deal for Peavy, I’m all for it. Not very often you have the chance to snag an A-Number-1 pitcher, much less one who is still under contract for 4 more years.

Make it happen, Frank.

By Tron5000

December 17, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

Shoulda been “shout,” not “shot.” Stupid Christmas parties.

‘Case I got no “shot” from Mark. Even though that would be really cool.

By ............................................BuLLdawg

December 17, 2008 6:31 AM | Link to this

Braves baseball discussion just prior to Christmas, or frankly any other time - now, I’ve got proof you have nothing to say Mark Bradley.

By Tron5000

December 17, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

Hey….BuLLs—-, apparently you missed the parts where Mark discussed GA, Division II football, and the Falcons.

But I can understand why you just skimmed over the UGA part. Can’t blame ya.

By Keeper

December 17, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

Pretty good piece here on the former Southwest DeKalb QB:

http://www.timesdispatch.com/rtd/sports/college/collegefootball/article/WARD1720081216-205306/153003/

Championship game is Friday night at 8:00 on ESPN2.

By RealityYech

December 17, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

hey Tron,

Are you excited about when you get to go to Brookwood 5 years from now? Why does your mommy homeschool you but yet lets your big sis and bro go to public school? Are you the blacksheep? LOL!!!

By Tron5000

December 17, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Hey RealityYech, that “joke of a conf.” otherwise known as the ACC was 6-4 against the SEC this year. This number includes GT’s 2-0 (soon to be 3-0) record against the SEC.

That “gimmick offense” won national championships at GSU, propelled Navy to 10 wins and 5 straight bowl games, and is currently employed by the #1 and #3 rushing teams in the NCAA.

UGA didn’t even play the week before the GT game. They had a whole two weeks to study film, learn GTs offense and scheme and practice against it. But it didn’t work. So are they going to spend the entire next 50 weeks just preparing for the Jackets?

So we’re losing 3 of our best defensive players from a great D. You’re returning almost all of the ones from a sorry one. And you’re also losing your best two (Heisman candidate?) players on offense, while we return our best 3.

And that National Championship of which you speak was 10 years after UGA’s last one. But you always have that preseason #1 to be proud of, I guess.

By RealityYech

December 19, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Poor Tron, on Christmas break but doesn’t have any friends to play with. When is mommy gonna take you up to Gwinnett Place to sit on Santa’s lap? LOL!!

Yes, that joke of a conference is going to be sitting at home and watching the SEC going for it’s SEVENTH National Title since the conference’s realigned, that’s right, S-E-V-E-N-T-H. Third in a row. The ACC sucks so bad that it’s only two titles since the realignment came from FSU, a program that the ACC bought hoping it would elevate the conf. to the same level as the SEC, only to just pave FSU’s path to number 1 rankings all the more easy during the 90’s.

Yes Tron, it is in fact a gimmick offense. Sorry that hurts your feelings, but there’s a reason it’s a dead in college football. Ever bother to ask yourself why on earth it’s not being used all over the nation if it’s soooo good? If you bothered to watched the game against UGA while sitting on your daddy’s lap, you noticed UGA was positioned perfectly every time, we just had the worst tackling defense in program history this season. Tech’s runners were never running in wide open spaces, UGA’s defenders just had brain freezes this year when it came to tackling. If we would have tackled half as well as UNC did we would have won 42-0, well, 42-7 with the freebe Stafford gave you.

UF returned all their defenders from last season from a horrible defense, look how much they improved this season. Jeff Owens is coming back, which is bad news for every team we face. We put up 42 points on a “supposed” great Tech D this year. A D that had 3 studs on it but yet were dominated by a freshman and sophomore UGA O-line. Baaaaaad news for Tech next year. You couldn’t stop UGA’s offensive line that was stacked with kids with the three best defenders Tech has had in decades.

UGA has the most recent SOLE National Championship, as opposed to Tech’s SHARED titled with a better team.

If you want some more spankings little fella you know where to find me. I love owning Tech losers :)

By gtfan

December 21, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

hey reality… you can jabber all ya want but please wipe the tobaco juice off your chins please. you must get that bad habit from yur mama. tell her i said hello btw.

bottom line is ‘what have ya done for me lately’…

jackets 45 bullfrawgs 42.

i would call any win over a team that was concensus no 1 (arent the frawgs no 1 every year? lmao) at their place after they had 5 weeks to practice d for our o an A## WHOOPING.

five weeks!

we whooped yur A##S. 400+ yards on the no 14 rush d in the country.

as you d coordinator said…. we will out athlete them. hahahahaha.

here is hoping you ‘out athlete’ us every year now that we have a coach.

i watched the game again last nite and have to comment. what is it with your coach?

sun glasses funny gayish looking hairdo and jumping up and down in the middle of a group of players looked awfull silly to me.

and he is stupid enough to want a playoff. now that is hilarious.

you guys cant beat fla and have a hard time with uk an vandy. gt will own you now that pj is our coach.

and he wants a play off. the only chance the bullfrawgs will EVER have at a nc is if it is MYTHICAL.

if a play off is implimented the only nc your team will ever see is preseason.

45-42 state champs

BTW… the mens restroom is out of tp and a uga fan crapped on the floor… again. get to it!

By gtfan

December 21, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

this n that…

if i heard the word chizik i would think i was hearing a polish immigrant describing why he needs to find a restroom.

mention chizik to a uga grad an they immediately get that ‘not again’ look before they grab thier latex gloves, a bucket/mop and head for the men’s restroom. sound familar reality?

hey mark…. is this the year that our state fb teams set a record for w/l’s?

10-3 10-3 and 11-5 seems like it could be an all time record?????

and ill pass on the tron shoutout for trivia thank you very much.

By RealityYech

December 22, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

LOL!! Tron, how freakin’ pathetic are you!?!?! Do Yech fans have an ounce of dignity? LOL!!! I slap the pi$$ outta your friendless a$$ on your ridiculous TRON handle, so you switch to a new one thinking no one would notice? LOL, I love owning cowardly Yech fans!! Tell me when your balls drop boy!!!

Speaking of mamas, chins and juice. The last time I saw your mom I politely wiped my juice off her chin for her since I’m such a gentleman :)

What have you done for me lately? 2 conference titles and 3 BCS bowl games in 8 seasons. Johnson won’t win a single conf. title nor take the scumbags of North Ave. to one BCS game before his contract is bought out and he’s sent packing like every other Yech coach in the modern era.

We had 500+ yards. Haha, I love how Yechies lie about their opponents and how great they were when they win, which is obviously rare like once every 8 years rare. We were second to last in the SEC, but yet you want to say we were 14th in the nation? What a moron!!!

Yet again the SEC is going to compete for ANOTHER National Title. Third year in a row, while the best team in the ACC is playing the mighty Bearcats!!!! LOL, the worst BCS conference in the nation, pathetic, and Yech can’t even earn a chance to play in the title game!!! LOL!!!!

What kind of sweet deals will the Yechies offer next year to try to get an actual crowd to attend? Some more 3 game packages with a free coke and hotdog? LOL!!! What a disgrace to southern football!!! But oh so funny!!!

Hey, Joey Hamilton just got arrested again. Care to crack your piggy bank and go bail him out? LOL!!!!!