AJC > Sports > Blog > Archives > 2008 > January > 07 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USDogs are preseason No. 1
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
TONY BARNHART’S EARLY TOP 25 FOR 2008
(Last season’s record in parentheses)
1. Georgia (Last season: 11-2) The Dogs return 17 starters and will add redshirt RB Caleb King (below) and incoming freshman A.J. Green, one of the top high school receivers in the country. The road schedule looks really tough. Make your plans for Jacksonville (vs. Florida) now.
2. USC (11-2) Arkansas transfer Mitch Mustain will compete with Mark Sanchez to replace John David Booty at quarterback. Either one will do the job well, and the Trojans will just keep rolling.
3. Ohio State (11-1 entering championship game) Only two seniors were in the starting lineup for Monday night’s BCS championship game with LSU. The Buckeyes again will be the class of the Big Ten in 2008.
4. Florida (9-4) The Gators return two of the best offensive players in college football, Heisman Trophy winner QB Tim Tebow and WR Percy Harvin. Next season they will finally have a big-time running back in USC transfer Emmanuel Moody.
5. Missouri (12-2) If RB Tony Temple is granted another year of eligibility due to a medical hardship, he’ll join QB Chase Daniel and WR Jeremy Maclin to form the nation’s best offense.
6. West Virginia (11-2) Pat White (right) will return at quarterback, but we’re not so sure about RB Steve Slaton. But if he comes back the Mountaineers will be favored to win the Big East again under new coach Bill Stewart.
7. LSU (11-2 entering championship game) The Tigers lose the most successful senior class in school history, but a ton of great players return. Among them will be Ryan Perrilloux, who will finally get his turn to be the full-time QB.
8. Illinois (9-4) The Illini got hammered in the Rose Bowl, but they return QB Juice Williams and WR Arrelious Benn. Ron Zook will miss RB Rashard Mendenhall, who decided to turn pro.
9. Texas (10-3) Coach Mack Brown found out late in the season that he needed to start giving his team some tough love. With QB Colt McCoy returning, look for the Longhorns to play Missouri for the Big 12 title.
10. Clemson (9-4) If everybody returns, Clemson could win the ACC championship next season. QB Cullen Harper of Alpharetta will be a senior and could have running backs James Davis and C.J.Spiller again. The defense returns nine starters.
11. Kansas (12-1) Quarterback Todd Reesing (3,486 yards, 33 TDs) will return for his junior season, but the defense will be without CB Aqib Talib, who is turning pro.
12. Auburn (9-4) Tommy Tuberville’s change in offense will pay dividends in 2008 as QB Kodi Burns becomes a star. The Tigers will have to replace defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, who left for Texas.
13. Oklahoma (11-3) It will not be a fun offseason in Norman after the Sooners got embarrassed (48-28) in the Fiesta Bowl. But there is reason for optimism. QB Sam Bradford (3,121 yards, 36 TDs) returns, as does RB DeMarco Murray (764 yards, 13 TDs). The Sooners will miss RB Allen Patrick (1,009 yards).
14. Arizona State (10-3) With QB Rudy Carpenter (3,202 yards passing) coming back, the Sun Devils will be the second-best team in the Pac-10.
15. Virginia Tech (11-3) Both quarterbacks, Tyrod Taylor and Sean Glennon, plus running back Branden Ore return for the ACC champions. The Hokies will miss linebackers Vince Hall and Xavier Adibi.
16. BYU (11-2) With sophomore QB Max Hall (3,848 yards, 26 TDs) returning next season, the Cougars will again be the class of the Mountain West.
17. Tennessee (10-4) The Volunteers have to find a new quarterback and replace most of their offensive staff, but there are a lot of good young players on this team, including sophomore DB Eric Berry.
18. Wisconsin (9-4) Sophomore RB P.J. Hill will be a Heisman Trophy candidate as the Badgers challenge Ohio State and Illinois in the Big Ten.
19. Wake Forest (9-4) The Deacons won nine games this season after winning the ACC championship in 2006. QB Riley Skinner (2,204 yards, 12 TDs) returns.
20. Texas Tech (9-4) QB Graham Harrell (5,705 yards, 48 TDs) returns for his senior season with a chance to break every major passing record at Texas Tech. Harrell will have the nation’s best young receiver, rising sophomore Michael Crabtree, again as his primary target.
21. Penn State (9-4) The Nittany Lions have to replace QB Anthony Morelli and RB Rodney Kinlaw, but Joe Paterno is ready to return for his 43rd season as head coach.
22. Michigan (9-4) Rich Rodriguez takes over a program that loses a bunch of good seniors, but his offense will be hard to handle for the rest of the Big Ten. By the end of the 2008 season, the Wolverines will be pretty competitive.
23. Boise State (10-3) With Hawaii coach June Jones gone to SMU, look for Boise State to return as the WAC’s best program. TB Ian Johnson returns for his senior season, but the Broncos have another great back in Jeremy Avery.
24. Connecticut (9-4) With sophomore RB Andre Dixon (828 yards rushing) and junior QB Tyler Lorenzen (2,367 yards, 13 TDs) both returning, the Huskies could challenge West Virginia in the Big East.
25. Oregon State (9-4) The Beavers return a pair of talented quarterbacks in Sean Canfield (1,661 yards) and Lyle Moevao (876), who will fight it out in the spring for the starting job. But Oregon State will miss RB Yvenson Bernard (1,214 rushing yards, 13 TDs).
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By jeff
January 7, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
I know they stunk in the fiesta bowl but not having Oklahoma even in the top 25…?
By jeff
January 7, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
I know they stunk in the fiesta bowl but Oklahoma not even in the top 25?
By Yellow Jacket 56
January 7, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
I sure hope Georgia is ranked number one at least at the end of the season when we play them. I would love nothing better than to upset them and their national title hopes.
By Steve
January 7, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Not that I’m complaining about you putting the Dogs #1 on your poll, but did you forget about the Sooners? They’ll be pretty good next year also.
By QMAN
January 7, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
GO DAWGS!!! LET’S KICK SOME A$$ NEXT YEAR!
By Go Dawgs!
January 7, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Where is OU?
By Ben S.
January 7, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Good List! Don’t see Missouri staying that high very long. If a team makes it out of that SEC schedule with 1 loss, then they deserve to be playing for the NC. I looked at Georgia’s schedule…BRUTAL. Away games with LSU, Florida, Auburn, Kentucky, Arizona St., and South Carolina (all teams who were top 10 in the nation at one time this year). Should be an exciting year in the SEC.
By Michael G
January 7, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
I am a big Dawg fan, and I do like your pandering to us dawg fans, but this list cannot be taken seriously since you have not put Oklahoma anywhere in the top 25. As was said to Forrest Gump, “Are you crazy, or just plain stupid?”
By Chris J
January 7, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Oklahoma?
By Caleb King
January 7, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
GATA Tony! Dawgs roll and will prove this is justified! Stafford will be > Teabag in ‘08!
By DublinDawg
January 7, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
Does Oklahoma suddenly suck now? They’re not on here, or did I miss something?
By Maryland Dawg
January 7, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
I couldn’t be moving back to Atlanta at a better time. This team should be scary and if Willie keeps this defense humming, we are going to be damn hard to beat. Have a good spring boys and let’s get ready for something special.
Go Dawgs!!!
By mong
January 7, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
oklahoma not even in the top 25? wow.
By Paul Johnson's Toupe
January 7, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe the nerd gnats and the South Carolina Lamecocks aren’t in there Tony. They are always preseason favorites. Just ask their fans.
By WTF???
January 7, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
FSU @ 25!!!
No freakin way.
By Michael G
January 7, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Tony, it’s time for you to leave New Orleans. You have obviously had 1 too many Hurricanes to drink!
By L-Dogg
January 7, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
“”What a joke!** Another example of why polls shouldn’t even be thought about until a month after the season begins. Unbelievable that anyone considers Barnhart an “expert.” He fits right in with the rest of the AJC staff.
By Ted
January 7, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
BYU, Texas Tech, Boise St., UConn….but no Oklahoma??? WOW! Who are you and what did you do with Tony Barnhart!?
As long as Tommy Bowden is @ Clemson they will never win the ACC. Other than that the list looks pretty good.
By IMF
January 7, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
It’s a little know NCAA bi-law that when you lose your 4th straight BCS game, you are automatically suspended from the top 25 for two games.
By me
January 7, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
Still having the love fest for Bobby, Tony. FSU is going to have over 20 players suspended for at least two games after the cheating scandal. The surprise team in 2008 will be Oklahoma State which returns a good offense with an improving defense. The other team will be Miami with the number one recruiting class, including 6 players from the number one high school football team in the country. The question is can Shannon learn from his coaching mistakes of the past year?
By DogsRUs
January 7, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
I a big Dawg fan, and would love them to prove me wrong, but #1 pre-season? Not yet. Also, while Florida may have a heck of an offense (though I’m still not convinced Teebow is superman - both Georgia and Michigan exposed him, IMO) will they have a defense? And, yeah, Oklahoma has got to be in there somewhere. Connecticut?
That said, if this last season proved anything it proved that polls much before the sixth game of the season are a joke.
By John in Tampa, FLA
January 7, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
Word of the day: fantasy
By Vince L.
January 7, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
they need to make it likesome kid’s sports where they give every kid that shows up a trophy, maybe then Bulldog fans will suck it up and stop whining like a real man would. Black Jerseys in ‘08! and black skirts, too!
By Dawgs75
January 7, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
I am a huge Dawg Fan but number 1 is a little high, I think you did that to get all the UGA haters on here. Illinois is not a top ten team, are you serious? The rest of the rankings are ok but I think Fla is to high as well. Get Miss out of the top ten as well. No Hawaii??
By NorCal Dawg
January 7, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
I agree, Jeff. TB must have forgotten about Oklahoma.
Returning 16 starters from a Big 12 championship team has to warrant a top 25 ranking.
By PTC DAWG
January 7, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
No GT, no Crackolina? I can’t believe it.
DAWGS roll!!
By Big Dawg
January 7, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Tony a little wishful thinking huh in putting the Dawgs as the pre-season # 1. While I believe they will be in the top 5 I would be greatly surprised to see them as # 1. Anyway pre-season ranking other than being in the top 5 doesn’t really mean that much its the last poll that counts and here’s for he Dawgs being # 1 after the BCS Championship next January in Miami.
Go Dawgs
By YUP
January 7, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Ok, you were out in the “Big Easy” when you wrote this, and mabey had abeverage or two? No Oklahoma? There is not that much beverage in the “Big Easy”.
By Big Ed
January 7, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
If Ohio State wins tonight they will be the 2008 preseason #1. If they don’t USC will take the top spot. It won’t last long though. While the Dawgs are playing teams like Georgia Southern and Central Michigan to start the season in 08, USC and Ohio State play each the second game of the season. Whoever wins that game will be Number ONE. If you want to be somebody you have to play somebody.
By FLA DAWG
January 7, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
I hope The Dawgs are preseason #1. Do you think the BCS will give them two chances to retake that spot during the season if they lose two games like LSU?
Glad to see you have Mizzou in the top 5. I have been singing their praises all year. They are the real deal.
As far as Ohio State is concerned, if they play the same schedule as this year then yeah, they’ll be up there with one or two losses!
By Quiche
January 7, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
What has Yellow Jacket 56 been smoking up there??? Delusional!
By DaWG75
January 7, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Are you serious Techie? Get a life, you guys couldn’t beat West Ga. next year.
By Clay
January 7, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Jeff, it is strange OU is not on this list. I’m sure Tony was just thinking about how the Tech fans are going to skewer him for being a Georgia Homer…
By David
January 7, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Look out for Pitt to crack the top 25 as the recruiting is finally catching up (See WV year end!) Georgia may get to or even be at the top at somepoint, but will not be able to hang.
By Bigdawg
January 7, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
Illinois? Really? And FSU is in there but not OU? We dogs would love to start the season as number 1…but do you really think that will happen?
By John
January 7, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
Surprise, surprise, surprise. The AJC love fest with the Dawgs continues. I’m sure if you did this same column in LA the Trojans would be #1. In Ohio the Buckeyes would be #1, and so on. UGA should and will be very good in 2008. But to be #1 from start to finish is very difficult now days, especially in the SEC. Don’t get to excited yet, it’s a long way until the championship game in 2009 and a lot could happen with and “to” the Dawgs between now and then.
By JMar
January 7, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
No way is Illinois top 10 after losing Bronco. That team will be worse next year, not better.
By Michael G.
January 7, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Tony, your computer should have a breathalizer connection to it so you can’t post anything while you’re drunk! Take a couple of aspirin, drink several cups of coffee, and try this list again in a couple of hours when you have had a chance to sober up!
By bg
January 7, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
I hope you are right about the Dawgs! Where is Oklahoma in your predictions? I can’t imagine them completely left out.
By Burgher Man
January 7, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
A typical SEC Homer! You think the world revolves around you….IT DOESN’T!
By Prognosticator
January 7, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Want to wait to see who all goes pro before making the picks? Care to weigh in on tonights game or is that too solid of a topic to go out on a limb?
2008 Picks:
Read ‘em and weep (and save this post).
By Big dawg
January 7, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Well man,You got the first two right but the last twenty three prove that you need to apply at walmart because you have no buisness talking sports!!
By USMCDAWG
January 7, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Good article Tony. Your one of the better sportswriters/analyst around. But you’ve got 3 4 loss teams in the top 10, and no Oklahoma?
By USMCDAWG
January 7, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
Good article Tony. Your one of the better sportswriters/analyst around. But you’ve got 3 4 loss teams in the top 10, and no Oklahoma?
By Call it Like it is
January 7, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Oh Brother, u got to be Kidding on the GA #1 ranking?
LOL!!!!
By daman
January 7, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
This is going to be one of the most fun football seasons ever in 08, watching all the buildup and hype over a doggie team that couldn’t even win their own SEC division get beat like a bad habit next year.
We’ve all seen and heard it all before with the THUGA fans in the offseason having multiple orgasms while they dream of a NC next season….only to laugh hysterically at them as they lose, and lose….and lose.
Heeee heee heeeee!!! Gonna be fun!
By Redundancy
January 7, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
OK! We get it! Oklahoma wasn’t in Tony’s top 25!
By Blackdawg
January 7, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Heck Yea, with the AJC National Championship we won this year, and 2008’s, that makes 8 National Championships in football!!!!!!
GOOOOO DAWGS, SPOON’EM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By MS
January 7, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
First - the Fiesta Bowl wasn’t even covered by the AJC other than the box-score on the next to last page.
Now leaving Oklahoma out of the top 25?
Nice BCS coverage AJC. There are other worthy teams out there besides the Dawgs and Jackets - I guess since West Virginia owns the state of Georgia we’ll just not cover their games?
By Ricky
January 7, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Barnhart simply forgot about OU!
By Dawgbyte
January 7, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
This must be a record. Only the 7th of January and we already have a Bug fan talking about “upseting” the Dawgs. 7 and counting.
By DB
January 7, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Where’s Hawaii? 8-) The OhioState-USC game Sept 13 should be a great one. So much for the weak schedule.
By ClemsonDude
January 7, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Clemson at no. 10????? I believe it when I see it. The Tigers has been trying to turn the corner to the football super powers the last 2 or 3 seasons. They have enough talent to win the ACC championship this upcoming season but do we have a coach that can do it. This Clemson fan is getting very impatient. I love my Tigers but tired of being disappointed each seasons. GO TIGERS!!!!!
By Pete
January 7, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Is this guy for real. He must be a Georgia alum. There’s ten teams on his 2008 rankings that are so much better then Georgia. I’m from the Midwest and believe me they don’t see Georgia like you do here. This guy is reading to much of this newspaper
By BigDawgFan
January 7, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
lets see now, Akron, Kent State, Youngstown State, and Washington - Man, what a rough schedule ! How in the world did they go undefeated through all that power ?
By Clay
January 7, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
One of my favorite activities is reading “I can’t wait until we beat UGA next year” from the blind loyalists from Tech. Next year never seems to come—and it won’t come next year, either. Paul Johnson is installing the triple option (even after he said he wouldn’t) and this year’s recruiting class is not looking good at all. He’s lost three players and he’s only picked up a QB who had to de-commit from MTSU first. One O-lineman, zero defensive ends and no defensive tackles. No player rated higher than 3 stars. But, keep dreaming about how you’re coming into Sanford Stadium next year and knocking off the Dogs!
By TIGER FAN!!!! grrrrrrrrrr
January 7, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Aren’t you jumping the gun a little, Tony???
By pedro
January 7, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
OK David, whatever dufas! nobody cares about a p** poor pitt team!!
I’m sure you’s guys might make the fudge pac bowl next year!!!
By Newrandyt
January 7, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
Pre-season. Maybe. But four weeks in, TN higher, USC higher, GA lower, Illinois lower, Missouri lower, Fl, AL and Oklahoma higher. Dawgs get lucky at the beginning of the season, get exposed at mid season, and by the end od the season everyone, the two or three losses and rank them higher.
By Newrandyt
January 7, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
Pre-season. Maybe. But four weeks in, TN higher, USC higher, GA lower, Illinois lower, Missouri lower, Fl, AL and Oklahoma higher. Dawgs get lucky at the beginning of the season, get exposed at mid season, and by the end od the season everyone forgets, the two or three losses and rank them higher.
By Tommydoubter
January 7, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Clemson in the Top 10? Don’t get the hopes of the Tommy Bowden zombies up like that. Tommy will choke in the end and they won’t even reach the ACC championship game. I would put Clemson between 22 and 25 FWIW.
By reservoirDAWG
January 7, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Are you flippin kidding me. We don’t need and most don’t want a poll until about the fifth week.
By Boise to Men
January 7, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
How would you succinctly describe the chasm between GIT and UGA? See above.
By TIGER FAN!!!! grrrrrrrrrr
January 7, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
GO LSU!!!!!!! GRRRRRRRRRRRR! WOOHOO!!!!!!!
By TIGER FAN!!!! grrrrrrrrrr
January 7, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
GO LSU!!!!!!! GRRRRRRRRRRRR! WOOHOO!!!!!!!
By Newrandyt
January 7, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Well Tony, at least Prognosticator is a bigger fool, so you are still the number 1 picker on this blog. His 11 - 21 picks proves that guy is smokin something not healthy.
By boots
January 7, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Love seeing the same guy write the same thing under different names about 10 times… “OK not in the top 25?” Would seem that way.
Tony, did this come from just your opinion or did you base it on your conversations with the other writers during your dinner? (Hope it was a great one.)
Also, noting that the Dawgs have 5 opponents in your top 16 (four of the five in “away” games), 2 in your top 10 and likely will be playing the past two National Champions. Yikes! The only way we run that schedule and end in the top 2 will be to avoid injuries and stupid behavior in the off-season. We can & will do it though. Go Dawgs!
By Big Boy
January 7, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
TO YELLOW JACKET: YOU MUST BE DELUSIONAL. YOU LOST YOUR WHOLE OFFENSE IN CHOICE, NO ESTABLISHED QB, NEW SYSTEM. GET A GRIP ON REALITY, YOU WILL BE LUCKY TO FINISH 6-6. IT’S GOING TO BE A LONG ROAD FOR THE BUMBLE BEES.
By David Lee
January 7, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
Mr. College Football, you make want to put OU in there somewhere…dam_ you are complete jack leg.
By bubba
January 7, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
dogs better get to top in 08…how many of that group will go pro before 09?
By JDW
January 7, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
Well Ed I am pretty sure your brain is not the part that earned you the nickname “Big”. With ASU, AL, TN, LSU, FL, & AU on the schedule along with S Carolina, Tech, and KY it is quite likely the DAWGS will have the toughest schedule in the country next year. On the other hand, assuming they still plan to play next year after tonights beat down, OSU is padded up with such quality opponents as Youngstown State, Ohio, Troy (who might beat them), MN, Purdue, and Nortwestern assuring a quality rank in the mid 50’s. USC has an OK schedule and I expect we could well see them in Miami next year.
By TDone
January 7, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
Tony is just trying to sell newspapers by hyping the Muttlanders. Not only is he being a homer, he knows they will eat it up like chewing tabacco.
By not having OU in the Top 25, shows his agenda.
As for the rest of you Muttlanders, what do the following have in common?
2000: Alabama
2001: Georgia Tech
2003: Auburn
2004: Muttland
2005: Miami
2008: Muttland
All were expected to contend for a national championship and fell flat.
By doggonegadawg
January 7, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
For all you “Okies” out there I have but one question for you and you can ask it for the last four years: Where is Oklahoma? Oh, yeah, down there with Notre Dame. Overrated and choking in the end.
By Big Dawg
January 7, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
Whether you Tech fans like it or not UGA will be one of the top 3 teams coming into the year next season.
Sure we talk up our team, but at least we always finish in the top ten!! when was the last time Tech had anything to bragg about?
Facts are Facts!!Tech Sucks!!They lost to fresno st and if anyone doesnt know, Hawai beat them!! You have nothing to bragg about and never will!! so go play with your buzz vibrator and leave us alone with your petty input!!!!!!!!1
By Gregg
January 7, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Tony, you lose a lot of creditability not having OU in the top 25.
By Techisback
January 7, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Tony you fat stupid a88. You hated UGA @ the begining of the season. you were trashing them as a matter of fact. Your insite is a tired act! Your book sucks. You forgot about OU dipstick. Sucking on the doggie stick
By prattvillenolzfan
January 7, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Personally, I’d replace Mizzou with Oklahoma….I look @ Mizzou as a 1 hit wonder….Glad to see you still think my noles have a chance…08 is definately the year Bowden has been waiting for, NO EXCUSES next year. The noles has their easiest non-conference schedule (almost SEC like) in the past few years. With another year of seasoning under the coaches they now have, things are definately looking up. I personally see FSU as a top 5 team next year, not necessarily #1 material. As much as it pains me to say this, I see year 08 as the year of the Gator…..
By Bob
January 7, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Tony,
Not ready to see Dawgs #1 pre-season. I think 3 or 4 more accurate. I don’t think Michigan exposed Tebow. I think Michigan exposed a Gator defense that seemed to get worse as the season rolled on. If they don’t fix their defensive problems they are going to be hurting again this year.
By Reservations
January 7, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
There are plenty of “cool” seats remaining for the 2008 ROADY’S Humiliation Bowl. With all the hot air surrounding the regime change at GIT, I expect this game to be MUCH better attended!!! Don’t disappoint, nerdphiles.
By Ken
January 7, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Tony “Mr. Georgia Football” Blowhard, you are totally insane. Georgia will be number one only in the imaginations of Georgia alumni and their fans. You’ve been drinking too much and your sense of reasoning is severly impaired.
By SugarHillDawg
January 7, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Hey Prognosticator! Unless UF comes up with a defense by next year you are CRAZY!!! They got pushed around by a team that lost to Appy state!!
By auburneng1
January 7, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Tony:
That would be KODI Burns……
By Johnson's To Do List
January 7, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
By Tony
January 7, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
NO OKLAHOMA?! SURELY BARNHART THIS WAS AN OVERSIGHT. PLEASE EXPLAIN.
By KR
January 7, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
I’ll pick on my own school: Auburn at #12? We have a new and basically unproven Offensive Coordinator, an as yet to be named Defensive Coordinator and a barely tested Kodi Burns at quarterback. I’d say it’s a wee bit early to be predicting the kind of success that goes with a #12 rank.
Not too sure about UGa at #1 either. They’re good; top 5 to be sure, but don’t read too much into the blowout of Hawaii.
Only about 8 months until the 2008 season kicks off…
WAR EAGLE!
By doggonegadawg
January 7, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Hey Big Ed: You shouldn’t criticize UGA’s non-conference schedule. Have you looked at Ohio State’s this year? And after USC and Ohio State play each other next year when will they play Arizona State, Alabama, LSU, Florida, Tenn. & Auburn? They need to stroll through that line-up and finish undefeated. Oh yeah, USC does play Arizona State. For your information we are somebody because we do play somebody. And which of these two teams won the last six straight and beat four nationally ranked teams? I hear silence.
By mj4uf
January 7, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
I thought Nick Saban was a lock to win the national championship for the next 5 years at Alabama?
By Ohiostatebuckeye
January 7, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
Oklahoma needs to earn a ranking, they have not won a bowl game in 7 years! I am glad to see the Dawgs palying Arizona State this year it should help because ASU have a good team. UGA needs to kick but in thier division which they should win!
The Ohio State U is always the best!
P.S. No more talk about who is playing the best at the end of the year! USC played a home game and the team had to travel over 3,000. Let’s not give them too much credit they still lost to Arizona!
By crs
January 7, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Playing 5 of the top 16, you wont win a national chamionship, sorry, get over it now, DOGS will be VERY good next season maybe even GREAT at times but that schedule they play is the TOUGHEST i have ever seen. I have a hard time seeing the dogs manuever through it with less than 3 losses. Thats schedule will takes it toll and god forbid we are #1 and then absolutly everyone has a great week of practice because they all want to know you off. Wins next year almost certainly Georgia Southern, Central Michigan, Kentucky, Vandy, Georgia Tech. Should win, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama. Toss up, Florida, LSU, Auburn, Arizona St. At best of the toss up, you win 3. And the shoulds you probably lose one of them too.
By Thorpe
January 7, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Once again BOSTON COLLEGE is overlooked by a so-called “expert.”
By BLACKEDOUT
January 7, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Where’s Hawaii?
By ES
January 7, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Florida that high?They will have that same pathetic defense minus Derrick Harvey.Florida fans enjoy your 1 luckfest year.USC will be number one thanks to the Rose Bowl not allowing Ga vs USC.
By tiger7_88
January 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Oh, my… I just continue to love this. Build’em up, Tony! You and Bradley! UGa’s the best! Hype! Hype! Hype! The Dawgie Nation is lappin’ it up!
(The inevitable collapse will be so much more sweeter… it’s gonna be hilarious!)
By jabster
January 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Note to all Dog fans: Nobody in their right mind thinks that Tech will be a top 25 team until they prove it. So STFU already.
However, if UGA goes undefeated into COFH, it will add a new wrinkle to COFH. Y’all take care of your business (Vols, Chickens) and we’ll take care of ours (UVA, BC).
Clemson? Clempsun belongs in the top 25 about as much as Tech, and for the same reasons.
VPI-higher.
Wake-top 25 but lower.
Half @$$ U-No way. Expect Bowden to start receiving gold watches in the mail from concerned alumni. Tech FINALLY beats the CrimiNoles in conference play.
Bubble ACC teams: UVA, Maryland, BC, Ga. Tech, I Plow Thirty Acres Yearly.
ACC Prediction: Atlantic: Wake Forest BC (as a distant second) Maryland Auburn With A Lake Free Shoes U NCSU
Coastal: Turkey Hoagies Ga. Tech (as a distant second) UVA Carowhina Candy Canes Puke
VT beats Wake in ACCCG.
By Ain't Life Grand
January 7, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
The current NC hasn’t been decided and we’re already talking 2008. DAWGS in top three. That’s good enough at this point.
By Rob
January 7, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
I like being in the top 5… but this may be the kiss of death!
But.. interestingly enough.. if OSU & USC go undefeated next year… and Georgia is ranked outside of the top 2… we could very easily be left out.
We better go undefeated if we’re going to have a chance…
By Luckeyes
January 7, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
To the blog interloper, the Luckeyes aren’t always the best. They weren’t last year and they’re not this year. Living on fumes!
By Ricky
January 7, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
Barnhart simpy forgot OU!
By Ricky
January 7, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Barnhart simply forgot OU!
By BoroDawg
January 7, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
It’s mighty funny how tech fans can’t brag on their team at all next year so they root for all of UGA’s competitors. Wouldn’t be nice if you could actually pull for your own team and not the 100 or so other teams in college football. Pretty sad.
By Big Dawg
January 7, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
Florida lost to every good team they faced!!! LSU,AUB,UGA and Michigan who wasnt even ranked! 4 games!!!4 games!!! they will not be #1 next year, get off the gator band wagon and see that Tebow is all they have. One man will not give them a championship next year. A heisman maybe but never a championship! florida was overranked and played poor all season, Last year they were great but this year they sucked!! tebow was all they had. the losses say it all.
By For Oncst and For All
January 7, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
Where was Coarch Superior this Bowl season? Don’t ever forget, “he can have 400 years at South Carolina and he won’t win anything.” And please, Gamehens, you are NOT USC and NOT Carolina. Those belong to schools who have earned the right to be called USC and Carolina. And before you crow about finally beating the DAWGS this year, check the alltime record…off the top, I’d say 44-14….
By TechmaninAthens
January 7, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
I love high expectations and objective pronostications. Don’t let your tail wag too much Barnhart.
By TechmaninAthens
January 7, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
I love high expectations and objective pronostications. Don’t let your tail wag too much Barnhart.
By chris
January 7, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
can you read they are #13
By TechmaninAthens
January 7, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
I love high expectations and objective prognostications. Don’t let your tail wag too much Barnhart.
By Big Al
January 7, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Tony the Homer Has Spoken!!!! I hope UGA is ranked #1 going into the season. Gonna be hell explaining how Jawja has blown another chance.
By paul
January 7, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Oklahoma is at 13 are all of you blind or JUST STUPID
By Juice
January 7, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Okay GA fans, you either exposed an unworthy Hawaii team that didn’t belong or you crushed a previously unbeaten football power. You cannot have it both ways.
Experts tend to agree that Hawaii was overrated and that unfortunately dilutes Georgia’s otherwise impressive win, so let’s not get too giddy. Next year, win your division and we’ll take you more seriously.
By GADAWG47
January 7, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
Tony, Great choices. I really like your #1 pick. I really dont care if we start #1 I just hope we finish the season as #1.
Gooo Dawgs…..Sic EM!!!!
By D.Coursey
January 7, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
OU is # 13
By TechmaninAthens
January 7, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
I love high expectations and objective prognostications. Don’t let you tail wag too much Barnhart.
By Tville Dawg
January 7, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
Maybe my list is different from the rest of you guys, but I see Oklahoma at No 13.
Or did Tony go back and revise after getting so much grief?
By Chan Gailey
January 7, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Dream on UGAy fans. Dream on.
By bill stewart
January 7, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Rich Rodriguez is vastly overrated…he is a no one without Pat White.
By James Thompson
January 7, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
I thought I saw Ok listed at # 13
By OxyMORON
January 7, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
Tech Man in Athens LMAO.
By SetVICKfree
January 7, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
Can anyone tell me where I can get the new vick jersey? It’s white with black stripes, has VICK on the back and the number 33765-183!
By Holy Toledo
January 7, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
jabster Are you talking to yourself? If so, that’s good, ‘cause you are the only one that can understand it.
By Squeezed
January 7, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
To “Juice”, I’d say you took us very seriously this year. Thank you very much.
By KontraDikshun
January 7, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
I see the educational requirements for Georgia fans have yet to improve. OU is 13th in Tony’s poll. Before you come with your witless criticisms, get you head out of the Alpo bag and try READING.
By gosmokey
January 7, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
You Dawgs better be ready for the Big Orange this time - they are the new thorn in your sides. WTF! - Blowing out mere Hawaii justifies a #1 ranking…pleeaassee!!
By David P.
January 7, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
First, you leave out the Sooners. Then, you put them at No. 13. Tony … everyone knows the Sooners will be a top 5 team, maybe even No. 1 on some ballots.
By Tville Dawg
January 7, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
paul:
I missed it also on the first pass. Tony omitted OU from the original list and revised it.
Sorry guys-should get myself another pair of reading glasses.
By HBC Fan
January 7, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
The dogs will stumble in Columbia and ruin their season. Watchout for the HBC and the Cocks.
By STephen
January 7, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
Tony, Interesing top 25…I have Florida at 3 or better…Georgia no worse than 3rd. Im a dawg till I die, and i know gators are strong and the game in Jax will be a war next year
By Mark Richt
January 7, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
Chan, glad to see you on the blog. Too bad Tech fired you. But, you must be able to run with the BIG DAWG to survive. I hope Coach Johnson understands this as well. Have a great day, and keep in touch.
By Holy Toledo
January 7, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
Don’t you love it when someone writes something that is not even remotely funny and someone else LHAO? They must be institutionalized on different floors.
By Contradiction
January 7, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
It’s YOUR, not “you”. Before you criticize anybody, check your OWN SPELLING, einstein. Obviously , GIT “grad”.
By Capt
January 7, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Hey….look who is whining now….it ain’t the dawg fans.
By Tville Dawg
January 7, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Love the editor’s comment-Tony has made a “rare mistake”
Come on Tony, you are not leaving yourself any room for future prognostication errors.
Just kidding-appreciate your column.
By Henry G
January 7, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Where are the Gamecocks? You left out the Gamecocks. Why’d you do that?
By jay
January 7, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
If Emmannuel Moody is so good, why could he not break out of the pack at USC? Sounds like the Gators got a malcontent rb. Wait till he finds out there is only one ball and one Teeblow.
By AltamahaDawg
January 7, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
I have no doubt the Gators are going to be in the mix. I don’t doubt Moody is a good player, but does anyone else have trouble believing that they were a legit top 5 team except that at this one position, RB, they didnt quite have maybe as good of a player as he might be?
By Dawg Pound
January 7, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
FYI OU was listed as 13. This may be a little low, but they were included. This ranking doesn’t even count, only the last one before the bowls start and the final one count.
Therefore, don’t pay much attention to the details of rank, but rather use it as a marker for which teams to watch next season. With this in mind and UGA schedule, they are a team to watch and could have the biggest impact (other than how each team performs with respect to their schedule) on the overall final rankings. UGA is arguably the number one team to watch as they will have a huge impact on the final outcome. UGA plays Florida, LSU, Auburn and Tenn. All in the top 20 teams to watch. All said and done the SEC again looks to pretty formidable with 5 teams in the top 20. Other SEC teams may be viable top 20 teams as well.
Any SEC team has a pretty tough schedule! I hope the first prediction is accurate for the final outcome. GO DAWGS!!! and the rest of SEC!
By World of Make Believe
January 7, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
What is with this BS? Little, early, eh, and agree, there are teams not on the list that should be, other. UGA will be good next year, but not #1 after my Gamecocks get thru with them early in the season. Barnhart lives in a fantasy world. 2008 will be even more exciting than 2007 - watch out! BTW writer, For Oncst and For All: We are Carolina and are USC. If you can spell, USC spells University of South Carolina. Has nothing to with So Cal. Who cares about all time record? The time is now and we beat UGA in 2007 and will again in 08. Gamecocks rule in 2008! Go Captain Spur! 7 more months until kickoff!
By brenda
January 7, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
As my UGA Bandwagon co-workers always say” pre season ranking means nothing”.
By Holy Toledo
January 7, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
KontraDickshun Before you get too holier-than-thou, why don’t you read at the top of the page where Oklahoma was first omitted, then was added. Not that I give a sh!t where Okla. and its’ arrogant coach are ranked, as long as it is below UGA.
By wild billhiltner
January 7, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Delusion - Bradley, baby - Bradford and Murray are tons better than Stafford and Moreno - that’s just a microcosim of the way the whole Sooners team is better than UGA - Vegas would make the Sonners give 7 to 9 at GA.
By AL4BAMA
January 7, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Tony, if you have Tennessee in the poll, you should have Alabama, too. Explain to me how Tennessee is going to be better than ‘Bama next season when the Tide crushed the Vols in ‘07. Who will be the Vols’ QB?
By Ed in kansas
January 7, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
Oklahoma retuns most their starters 13 is way to low.
By Trip
January 7, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
I thought the Oklahomies were ranked 13 Jeff. Look again.
By Ben
January 7, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
Hey Prognosticator! Not by the hair of your chinny chinny chen! What are you smoking?
By AFnPC
January 7, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
First off, Tony, if you’re writing this column to publish after tonights game, then do so. Don’t talk about the Ohio State team in passed tense just yet. Also, I know you won’t make the mistake of misspelling Auburns juggernaught of a quarterback KODI Burns next year as he torches Tennessee, Georgia, LSU, and Bammer en route to an SEC Championship. Final thought, Will Muschamp will not be missed once TT hires Reggie Herring, Jon Tenuta, or any other DC with the slightest bit of talent.
WAR EAGLE!!!
By Cockolina
January 7, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
Let’s remind EVERYONE what South Carolina’s record was this year? OK, I’ll do it…6-6. .500, mediocre, no bowl, lost last five games in a row, no 2007 ranking, no bowl money for team or SEC, just SOL. PATHETIC. I understand Coach Mediocre is a candidate to replace June Jones, so he can get as far as possible away from Washington and South Carolina. Too bad it didn’t work out, right Coach Holtz?
By Tony Barnhart
January 7, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
Sorry for leaving out the Sooners. They played awful the other night but they weren’t that bad.
Got them at 13 behind Mizzou and Texas in the Big 12.
Dropped Florida State out. Seminoles have a lot to prove next year.
TB
By oasis
January 7, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
The Dogs will fall down the polls next year like the coyote falling off the cliff in the roadrunner cartoons. This is going to be fun to watch. Lookout below!
By Paul From Milton
January 7, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Georgia will be talented but how many Dawgs could start for Southern Cal? And USC has an easier schedule than UGA next year. UGA may start the season at #1 but no way they finish there.
By alabamadawg
January 7, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
excuse me, but I think some people are forgeting about Bama…they’ll be in the top 25, count on it.
By Big Dawg
January 7, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
OH GOD, how did we attract the gamecock fans? as you can see as always you are not ranked, nobody cares that you beat an injured dawgs team! half our players were injured and it will not happen for another hundred years again! sucking would be an understatement speaking of the ridiculous chicken boys!!I cant believe you have the nerve to post anything on this page you imbosil, go play in the street! or smoke crack, whatever it is you pathetic chicken fans do! we could care less to hear anything from you chicken terds!!!!!!not to mention you digrace the SECs rep badly!
By Dawg Pound
January 7, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Al4bama…Alabama is a team that could make the list in the end, and probably will. It is just an unprov