Mr. College Football

By 82DAWG

May 6, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

Its entertaining to speculate at this time of the year. Even with a new QB, LSU is so deep, its just hard to imagine them not in the top 10.

By SecIsFootball

May 6, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

Tony…reading through, you can come to the conclusion that based on your 20 down to 11 rankings, you have AU in the top 10. I dont necessarily disagree with them being there but to have LSU behind them at 12 doesnt seem right. LSU is returning a TON of talent on both sides of the ball and essentially having to repalce their QB. As for Coaches, they replace Pelini with 2 coaches from the existing staff and this years D should be just as good. AU on the other has is replacing both their offensive and defensive coordinators,implementing a spread offense, they have not made a decision on who their starting QB should be and the have had inconsistent play at the WR for the last 2 years. Like I said, maybe AU is deserving of a top 10 ranking but LSU is still loaded at every position and will be a very good team despite the loss of Perrilloux. They definitely are better off without that cancer.

By Gen Neyland

May 6, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

Of the 55 sacks AZ ST gave up, Carpenter was responsible for his share due to his holding the ball, waiting for something to open up. Maybe he’s the loose link in the sack debt.

We Pumpkin Watchdogs looked for 3-4 defensive sets in 2007. I have to think we’ll see more of it in 2008. Chavis is good at what he does, so he’ll find a way. As long as Crompton can develop into a ‘it’s not all on me’ QB, the offense will produce enough to win a few…

By David

May 6, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

So the remaining will probably be as follows:

1. Georgia
2. USC
3. Oklahoma
4. Ohio St
5. Florida
6. Cal?
7. Missouri
8. West Va?
9. Auburn
10. Clemson

By FLA DAWG

May 6, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

I’m a big supporter of LSU - always have been. I know there is usually a “Carryover Effect” for the reigning Nat Champs each year but I have to think that having lost so many of their big play makers that the Tigers will lose more than 2 this season. They play Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Arkansas. I wish them luck except against The Dawgs.

By JB

May 6, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

Well the Dawgs will be in the Top 5.Tony will not have them at 1 to avoid the “HOMER” label. Georgia could easily lose 2 - 3 games this year. Alabama, TENN, LSU, FLA, AU will ALL be close and could go either way late in the game. Georgia will need some luck….yes luck to win the NC. I don’t see a melt down like last year at TENN. Number 24 (Knowshon) has given this team a swagger they have not had before. It’s gonna be fun.

By JB

May 6, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this

OH YEA, I hope we break out the black when the Vols come calling. I want to wipe the smirk off that fat boy’s face.

By Richt's Daddy

May 6, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

JB, of course you will break out the black when Tennessee comes to town. It has now been established that when a superior team (be it FLA, AUB, LSU, or UT) comes calling, the black jerseys must be worn, tradition be damned, because that’s the only hope you have. You break out the black jerseys, Richt will do a cannonball into a glass of milk from the top of the stadium as the team enters the field dancing to Soulja Boy. In fact, these should be the new traditions at uga.
Since coaching isn’t getting it done against Phat Phil and Superman probably won’t be playing with just one arm this year and the Gambler has bowed at the feet of the Almighty Spread Offense and there’s no Chan to kick around any more, you’re gonna have to rely on a dancing, diving, fashion coordinator to somehow get you some wins this year. I pray the dawggies can find their way home from ASU. No dawg has been seen west of Fayetteville (or north of Lexington) in probably 50 years. Good luck.

By Gen Neyland

May 6, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

JB

If a frog had wings…Now wouldn’t you be wearing a smile if your team had pulled off two consecutive bunbusters over an SEC East foe, one at home and one on the road..? This should be your year to make amends and atone for us taking out our frustrations on you…Good Luck, but with the Dawgs depth and talent, luck shouldn’t have a thing to do with it…

By Spike

May 6, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Tony, great column because there was no mention anywhere of NOTRE DAME!! See Tony, I knew you could do it. Atta boy!! And where are the GT Jackets??

By Jumbo

May 6, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Larry Munson once said you gotta have lineman to win. LSU is very strong on both sides of the ball plus they have alot of talent returning. They won a NC with Mauck and Flynn so they will be a tough team even without Perrilloux. I would have ranked them about 7th.

By joe

May 6, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

BJ,

That fat boy has owned you lately, eh?? But you are right, UGA could lose 2 or 3, but let’s hope they are 5-0 when you get to see that smirk again…that would be the best scenario for a great game on Oct 11. However, if he beat UGA, that smirk will be as big as his belly.

By joe

May 6, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

BJ,

That fat boy has owned you lately, eh?? But you are right, UGA could lose 2 or 3, but let’s hope they are 5-0 when you get to see that smirk again…that would be the best scenario for a great game on Oct 11. However, if he beats UGA, that smirk will be as big as his belly.

By boomer

May 6, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

You got the Tigers from Baton Rouge rated way to low….they will have the best O & D lines in the country…Look out!!

By Hoopie1

May 6, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

I think that Va Tech is rated too high. No defense and still much criminal attitude.

It is tuff job teaching the left coast folks how to be football tuff. Dennis Erickson can do it and he is starting to teach the talent he has. The soft west coast schedule should limit injuries/attrition and if he can keep the team tuff, they may surprise folks and end up higher.

By KR

May 6, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Tony,

I have to agree with the crowd. To have LSU ranked lower than Auburn doesn’t make any sense. There are too many unknowns and too msny new components down on the Plains to go with that idea.

Or, are you telling us that Auburn doesn’t even crack the TB Top 30… I don’t think I’d agree with that either.

WAR EAGLE!

By Vol4ever

May 6, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Don’t look past us poor wretched Vols now!

By Hoopie1

May 6, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

I agree with KR. AU has some major unknowns that could very possibly turn out great…….or not! Top Ten looksw like a reach. It will be fun finding out.

WDE

By Bamafan

May 6, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Vols will have a very good offense, but defense is the problem. The db’s will be very good, but the linebackers and defense lineman are not the best in the SEC. They will win 9 or 10 games as they all ways do. ROLL TIDE!!

By mcdawg

May 6, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

dawgs are without a doubt top 5, arguably top 3 but not convinced on number one-O-Line is a huge question mark in my mind (they may need half a season to develop into a unit and our schedule may expose that) gotta go with USC or OSU at No. 1-glad to see the Big 12 with a bit more parity these days

By George

May 6, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

how can everyone say Auburn has so many unknowns???? They have 2 qbs probably 3 for that matter that are 1000 % better than either one of the ones at LSU. They have one of the best O lines not only in the SEC but in the country. Some great recievers returing. Yes the defense has some holes but it is no contest compared to what LSU has lost and the lack of experience they will have even if they do have talent.

By George

May 6, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

how can everyone say Auburn has so many unknowns???? They have 2 qbs probably 3 for that matter that are 1000 % better than either one of the ones at LSU. They have one of the best O lines not only in the SEC but in the country. Some great recievers returing. Yes the defense has some holes but it is no contest compared to what LSU has lost and the lack of experience they will have even if they do have talent.

By shane #1

May 6, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

I agree that Tony ranked the Cajuns too low. Also, don’t be suprised if Notre Dame makes it into the top twenty this year. Weis will no longer be calling plays, Tenuta will toughen up Their defense, and They have plenty of good athletes. IMO, the SEC west will be between LSU and Auburn. If Tubby can score points and keep the smash mouth toughness that Auburn is noted for, They will win plenty of games. I have no clue about UT, They have been so inconsistent over the past five years that I cannot read the Vols at all. UT put a beat-down on My Dogs last year, suffered a beat-down from a mediocre Bama team, then squeaked by Vandy and UK to win the East. It seems almost like the Fat One is content to coast untill His back is against the wall, then He becomes a hell of a coach. Fulmer and Spurrier remind Me of an old school NFL veteran qb. He is not able to do it on every down anymore, but when the game is on the line he can step up and make a play that shows you why He will be a first ballot Hall of Famer. UGA and UF have the talent to rule the SEC east, but there are two wild cards in the deck, named Spurrier and Fulmer.

By m

May 6, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Opinions should have no place in college football…only on the field results. But apparently you haven’t heard that Chan Gailey is no longer at Tech. He is gone FOREVER…hallleeeedamloooyah. And if you recall, Tech FINISHED the season in the TOP 25 for 5 years in a row before the Gailey disaster came. So now that Tech has a real college football coach, you are showing your ignorance by not having Tech in your TOP 40. Mark it down.

By GT

May 6, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

How does the ACC get the most first round draft choices yet the teams never end up being any good? Va. Tech on paper should lose to Virginia, and the hot potato will start to be Butch Davis at Carolina. I bet the teams of the ACC will improve this year and the draft status will worsen. Clemson will beat Alabama out the shoot, Miami is back recruiting like the old Miami, but that will take a few years to replace what they had. You keep waiting for FSU to kick in with Fisher, if he is as great as all have said. What we need in the ACC is some good redneck hype, but even that won’t help an improving but still awful Duke. The fact they got a much recruited quarterback does promise something like beating Tech or Maryland, but not this year. Wake still shows coaching works over talent is they are in the same ballpark, which may be Tech’s story too. I think Tech will be pretty good right out of the box, there problem was coaching not talent. The Hawks remind me of Tech, if the crowd picks them up they can do anything but if left to be motivated by the coaches of either team last year a lesser team can beat team. I love the coach that says they’re grown men they shouldn’t need motivation while he is losing his job being stubborn. If you can’t motivate find yourself a different career, but that might be why the ACC has more first round draft choices but less teams in the top 20.

By Jason Cyrus Ohanian

May 6, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

I think the point about LSU is the loss of Ryan P and that they have to replace a lot of talent. Yes, they are deep and have lots of great talent, but they are unproven. It took a lot of luck for them or anyone else to have a chance to win last year as there was no dominant team (see first 2 loss champ in 50 years). Even with all that talent last year, LSU still lost to two of the lesser teams in the SEC.
Plus I think that Miles is a bad coach (I watched his Okie St. teams give away way too many games) which does not help them out.

By Jason Cyrus Ohanian

May 6, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

I think the point about LSU is the loss of Ryan P and that they have to replace a lot of talent. Yes, they are deep and have lots of great talent, but they are unproven. It took a lot of luck for them or anyone else to have a chance to win last year as there was no dominant team (see first 2 loss champ in 50 years). Even with all that talent last year, LSU still lost to two of the lesser teams in the SEC.
Plus I think that Miles is a bad coach (I watched his Okie St. teams give away way too many games) which does not help them out.

By Jason Cyrus Ohanian

May 6, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

I think the point about LSU is the loss of Ryan P and that they have to replace a lot of talent. Yes, they are deep and have lots of great talent, but they are unproven. It took a lot of luck for them or anyone else to have a chance to win last year as there was no dominant team (see first 2 loss champ in 50 years). Even with all that talent last year, LSU still lost to two of the lesser teams in the SEC.
Plus I think that Miles is a bad coach (I watched his Okie St. teams give away way too many games) which does not help them out.
Hook ‘Em

By george

May 6, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

TB Top 30? Are these teams the most likely to contract Tuberculosis or something? What a twisted poll!! You people are sick!!!

Oh…and f you commissioners who think a playoff won’t work. I hope you all die painfully and your kids do too.

And screw Notre Dame just because!

By MRJ

May 6, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

I think LSU at about 12 and Auburn about 10 is probably right. LSU was getting the benefit through spring, and though I think they’ll be fine this year, I don’t really thing there is much reason to put them 5-8 spots ahead of AU like we saw earlier this year. I think the 2-3 spot differential here is about right, as LSU is slightly behind at picking a QB, and the game is at night, in Auburn. Could go either way, but I think the home team has earned the edge this year.

UGA is certainly NC caliber, but their schedule will probably keep them from it. Winner of AU-LSU goes to the SECCG, as does winner of UF-UGA. Unlike others, I don’t think the East has much of an edge for the SEC title.

By Jason Cyrus Ohanian

May 6, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

I think the point about LSU is the loss of Ryan P and that they have to replace a lot of talent. Yes, they are deep and have lots of great talent, but they are unproven. It took a lot of luck for them or anyone else to have a chance to win last year as there was no dominant team (see first 2 loss champ in 50 years). Even with all that talent last year, LSU still lost to two of the lesser teams in the SEC.
Plus I think that Miles is a bad coach (I watched his Okie St. teams give away way too many games) which does not help them out.
I also think you got Texas about right as unfortunately we have to wait until 2009 to be dominant again. We will have another okay 10 wins season in 2008. Hook ‘Em

By dkg

May 6, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Tony,

I didn’t realize Pitt had changed coaches this offseason. And to think, they found one with the same last name as the previous coach. By the way, who is Dan Wannstedt, and where has he coached before? Is he any kin to Dave?

Just kidding. I’m over 50 now and can’t remember names myself lots of times. Just having a little fun.

By GoVolsPark

May 6, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

GO VOLS! Expect three in a row from the kids in orange between the bushes in Athens…..start scratching those heads after another UT blowout of the Puppies…. can’t wait to see you all whimpering your way out of the game again!

By SecIsFootball

May 6, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

George…who in the world are these receivers you have at AU who are so good? WR, if you ask any sensible AU fan, will be a big question mark as none of your receivers have really stepped up the last 2 years. Your OL is not even the best in the SEC much less the country. As for QB, the only thing Burns has on any LSU QB is a few more snaps. The AU DL and LB’s will be solid but the weak spot, as of right now will be the DB’s. Me thinks you are going to end up very disappoited based on the expectations you seem to have.

By root4au

May 6, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

AU’s D will be nasty this year. Loaded across the front with the best LB’s in the sec. IF and it’s a big IF, the offense can be a little better than last year and not turn the ball over, AU should win the west.

By Cuz

May 6, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

I too would have ranked the Cajuns in the top ten. UGA, somewhere around three. Just to brutal a schedule.

And always the wild card. UT could put it all together. After their first game last year, I did not think they would make it to the SECC much less hand us the whupping in Knoxville that they did.

I am not convinced that UF will be that great but they could still walk away the winner in JAX.

All of this is purely speculation, but kinda fun before the season kicks off. This gives us football adicts something to mouth off about.

Hey I like the idea of CMR doing a cannonball into a giant glass of milk. That would fire me up. Maybe we could get UGA to parachute into the stadium with a big black parachute with a red G. No that is some kinda pre-game show. Woof, Woof , Woof.

By War Eagle

May 6, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

If TB has Auburn in top 10, I will comment then…unfavorable??

By Joe

May 6, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Georgia will do what they always do when they are picked to win it all.

Lay an Egg.

Go Vols

By Big Orange in 08!!!

May 6, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

I hope you guys do wear those black uni’s when we come down there to Sanford. If we both have won out by that time (yes we can beat the Gators), it is very possible then it will be an 8 o’clock CBS game according to cbssportsline.com. You guys can have a black out and all that cool stuff that worked last year and we’ll see what happens. Should be an awesome event if both us are undefeated. I would say UGA would be #1 or 2 depending on the tOSU vs. USC game and the Vols would have climbed into the top 5 w/ wins over UCLA, Fla. and Auburn. Long shot but it is very possible.

Oh yeah those Vol LB’s some of you were talking about, just as fast anybody’s in the SEC. Wait and see

By Miles

May 6, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Wednesday’s top ten is less than 24 hours away…

By Marvin

May 6, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

I wonder what Jason Cyrus Ohanian thinks?

By Tiger'85

May 6, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Having played at AU in the early/mid 80’s….some of these “fan” comments amuse me. It’s definitely entertaining, to say the least.

As for Auburn, 2008. Personally, I think they have #12-#15 “talent” with a nice #4-8 schedule. If the wr’s and bd’s step up, and we limit injuries..there’s a shot a great season. Getting LSU, UT, and UGA at home, are huge. The trips to Morgantown and T’loosa will be fights. A realistic call would be 9-10 wins…a season where we get the breaks could result in 11-12 wins. Now comes the SECC game….which could mean having to beat UGA in the Dome…a few weeks after brawling with them in JH…with Bama squeezed in the middle. As an AU man, I’d rather see UF(good chance) or UT(not happening) come out of the East. Hey, if AU makes it, they will have earned it.

AU FANS: just kick back and lay low, we’re going to have a good squad, time will tell if it can be great. Let the others do the talking for now. War Eagle !!

By S. Carolina Rider

May 6, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

David, Georgia number one?? Yeah right! They gotta get past Steve Spurrior and the GAMECOCKS!! They crushed the DOGS last year at the house, ya’ll try and look past them again and you gonna mess around and get your feelings hurt. GA #24 RB is NICE.. but GA has a huge question mark on that Oline. He’ll get his but I hope he doesn’t get busted up in the process. Plus, Georgia’s secondary is suspect.

GA is a top 10 team but needs to improve if they wanna stay there. Especially after they drop another to S.Carolina this year..#1 my A$$

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Isn’t it funny how techies always cry that it’s so much harder to be an athlete at tech than at UGA? Not only are their academic arguments laughable but check out how they deal with dopers compared to UGA! It’s on the front page of AJC sports in the sportsbuzz section. What a joke!

By Gen Neyland

May 6, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Regarding Ryan the Peril and Les Miles’ early release program, me wonders if ol’ Les wouldn’t have made such an example if he didn’t see something he liked out of spring ball from one of his BU QB’s..? Depth will open doors (e.g., Coker—Creer). If the HC takes a stand when all he has for back up is a Rudy, then I’ll sing his praises for the gambit…We’ll see.

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Big Orange in 08!!!, I hope we are both undefeated coming in to our matchup too! We shouldn’t have any lack of enthusiasm against your vols this year, that’s for sure. Please kill UF! I hope UGA saves the black jerseys for UF though. They will be inspired for the celebration penalties last year but we should have little trouble with them either. GO DAWGS!

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

S. Carolina Rider, are you smoking crack? I wouldn’t call 16-12 crushing anyone. I’ll look forward to hearing what you have to say when we destroy your little chickens in columbia this year. It WILL be fun!

By Jon Planche

May 6, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Tony, I can understand not having SC in your top 20 or even top 30. But you did not even have them in your honorable mention category yesterday. I’m sorry, but that is an oversight on your part. You are definetley the best business, and I enjoy your work. But we did beat UGA last year and I know we fell apart down the stretch; however, we were two plays away from 8-4. (Tenn. Clem) Keep up the good work, but you have it wrong with the Gamecocks.

By PTC DAWG

May 6, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Dawgs gotta be in the top 3, no doubt about it.

I’ll be VERY surprised if UT lays another butt kicking on UGA this year, but I guess anything could happen. That is why they play the games, but I think Fulmer is already missing Cutcliff.

Oh yeah, look for Tebow to lead UF to 4 more losses, again.

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Jon Planche, make the copper bowl and then ask for respect.

By Joe

May 6, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

It’s so funny, and yet very fitting, that South Carolina fans can’t even spell their Coach’s (read: God’s) name.

Wow! Looks like another year of USuC getting their butts handed to them by Clemson. I don’t think UGA will have any problems with them either.

By shane #1

May 6, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Gen Nyland, One thing to consider. Miles may have been tired of Ryan and looking for an out. With a failed drug test He was covered in case 2008 is not LSU’s year. Perrilloux had been a thorn in Miles’ side since coming to Baton Rouge, failing a drug test gave Miles an excuse to get rid of the young man without catching heat from boosters and fans if the back-up qbs can’t bring LSU a winning season. Remember that above all else a HC must be a politician. Even the most fanatical booster can’t complain if a kid is kicked out for drug use, at least not publicly.

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

I agree PTC DAWG, UF got very lucky to win their nc with CUM coaching Zooks recruits. They are steadily going downhill with his style of coaching and his recruits. UT can play with anybody but if they were to win here (which I don’t see), it won’t be like last season. Remember, that’s the game that woke UGA up! That date is circled on the calendar and don’t look for UGA to get caught sleeping anymore.

By BARNS-SMELL

May 6, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

LSU does not have a good coaching staff and won purely on Saban’s talent the past few years. They peaked by “Sliding” into the national championship after losing to a poor Arkansas team that had their head coach on his way out the front door. The SEC WEST is wide open, and Alabama has the best coaching staff and young talent (#1 recruiting class in the nation) and will surprise many this year…I guarantee it.

By BARNS-SMELL

May 6, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

LSU does not have a good coaching staff and won purely on Saban’s talent the past few years. They peaked by “Sliding” into the national championship after losing to a poor Arkansas team that had their head coach on his way out the front door. The SEC WEST is wide open, and Alabama has the best coaching staff and young talent (#1 recruiting class in the nation) and will surprise many this year…I guarantee it.

By AltamahaDawg

May 6, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Jon, also 1 play away from going 5-7, what is your point? By that standard, we were 1-play away from a NC. Several teams were. That and a dollar buys a cup of coffee.

By Volsowndawgs

May 6, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Do you people really believe that ga will win it all? Just because they had a decent team last year and return some decent prospects, does not make them a #1 team. You’d do well to win the SEC East, then see where they stand. ga has the absolute WORST fans in college football.

By greggieuk

May 6, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

While I’m an SEC fan, West Virginia has the best team overall. Speed, experience and tough defense. I doubt anyone will stop Pat White and Noel Devine, probably the best tandem in football.

By PTC Dawg

May 6, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

So now I read where we were “decent” last year in the eyes of one Vol fan. I wonder where he rated his team? Keep in mind UGA finished #2 in the Nation.

Just trying to keep things in perspective.

By AltamahaDawg

May 6, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Lets just hope that Phil isnt about to get fired prior to the Georgia game for a change this year.

By The General

May 6, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

I hope UGA is ranked #1. It will be so much fun listening to the excuses again this year: “we had a week off and got rusty,” “we listended to Tony and he was wrong,” “we didn’t breakout the black soon enough,” “we brokeout the black too soon,” “we had how many punts blocked?”

Punt Georgia, punt!

By AltamahaDawg

May 6, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

We think our Dawgs will win it all, makes us the WORST fans in college football? Do you understand the concept of “fans”?

By BLACKEDOUT

May 6, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe a UT fan claims UGA has the worst fans. UT has the fattest, ugliest, trailer trash, Wal Mart jersey wearing, inbred, moronic fans in the nation. You make West Virginia fans look like Ivy Leaguers. I hope you have a fun summer vacation in Pigeon Forge with the rest of the orange trash.

By heeldawg

May 6, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Comments on the comments:

1. Georgia’s schedule is very tough. We’ve established that. Yes, it will be hard to negotiate without a loss. Yes, the team is talented (not just “decent,” as one Vols fan said). Okay, okay, okay.

As I’ve said umpteen zillion times, the winner of Georgia-Florida and Auburn-LSU will play for the SEC title. The SEC Champ will have a bye for one of the two BCS national title game slots. PROBABLY, the winner of the Southern Cal-Ohio State game will have the other slot.

Does this mean that Georgia will overlook South Carolina? Of course not. In fact, you can pretty much guarantee that that is one game that the Dawgs will not overlook. I’m not going top re-post what I wrote yesterday, but Georgia did not come ready to play last season. That will most emphatically not be the case this year. A beat-down to end all beat-downs is coming, and it will not be a pretty sight. Spurrier’s visor may just end up permanently implanted in somebody’s cranium—perhaps even his own.

1. Despite the fact that Les Miles is certifiable (and won’t have the talent next season to bail out his idiotic decision-making, like he did last year), the Tigers still have the best linemen in the SEC, and are a default top-10 pick until proven otherwise—even without their version of Quincy Carter calling signals next season. The question is, do they have any playmakers on offense? That is the lone variable that could spell their demise as a top-10 team next season.

2. Good post Tiger ‘85. I agree with you—Auburn has good (not great) talent, but a favorable schedule and a solid defense. The offense was the team’s Achilles’ heel last year. If the O works as well as it did at Troy, the Tigers could have a special season.

By Buffalo Chip

May 6, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Hey, Mr. Haircut: Where are the Buffs? Hawk is doing an awesome job at high altitude. Don’t unerestimate Colorado!

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Volsowndawgs, you are a very stupid person. We’ll see what kind of fans UGA has when we travel to Arizona this season. I’m sure UGA’s fans have probably already bought all available tickets allowed us. If not yet, I’m sure they will before the season starts. I can also remember the retarted rose bowl chairman talking about how much he liked the idea of a USC/UGA matchup because of the great following that UGA fans show in road games. Of course that’s before he renegged and took a sorry a$$ #14 Illinois instead because they were scared of us. Point is, you’re dead wrong about UGA fans so STFUB!

By ET

May 6, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

The SEC is loaded. The conference schedule will be a horrific blood bath. No one may survive enough road trips to make the top four or five. This may be the year of undue rewards for conferences with only one or two top teams. The SEC has got to win every non-conference game it has against BCS schools to head off a calamity at the end.

By Big Earl

May 6, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

For a Vols fan to actually say that Georgia has “the absolute WORST fans in college football” while not giving a single reason really shows their stupidity. The fact that virtually EVERY Vols fan I’ve ever talked to absolutely HATES their head coach and mocks his weight problem like children after all he’s done for UT (i.e. won a National championship in addition to numerous SEC championships) not only speaks to their stupidity but also to their complete lack of class. That having been said, they are still only the 2nd worst fans in all of college football. Florida fans are hands down #1.

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

ET, with all due respect,”This may be the year of undue rewards for conferences with only one or two top teams” is an understatement. This happens more seasons than not because the SEC always beats each other up while the other conferences only have a couple of good teams in them and they usually skate in the CG because they either go undefeated or even lose one of only a couple of tough games and still get in. OSU and USC immediately come to mind, not to mention OU and Texas. The SEC champ is and always will be the best team in the country in my mind. Look at our record in bowl season. It speaks for itself.

By reservoirDAWG

May 6, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

In other news, former GT qb and current GT athletic department member Joe Hamilton, was pulled over and arrested last night on Techwood Ave. He was charged with DUI, open container, possesion of marijuna and hit and run. Another brilliant GT alum.

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Have any SEC teams that made it to the NCG lost since spurrier’s gators lost to Nebraska back in the mid 90’s? If so, let me know.

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

reservoirDAWG, that’s ok though. He’ll just have to go to rehab and everything will work out. LOL!!!

By SecIsFootball

May 6, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Big Earl…You ever think that as a fan base you will be treated as your treat others? I have been to UT, LSU, MSU, Ole Miss, Vandy, S. Carolina, Kentucky and UGA. I have never had an issue with any fans from UF or UT and i would venture to say the BAMA rivalry with UT is more intense than UGA’s as it dates back a long way, similar to AU and UGA. However, I have been to one campus where the fans make visitor feel completely unwelcome and that is UGA. I have heard that from a number of people. One of my friends says that AU is by far the worst but I have had enough bad experiences at UGA and heard of plent of others to where I won’t go back there for a football game. Fact is, I grew up watching UGA football as both of my parents went there and it is embarrassing to see how things have changed. I know every school has their idiot fans but UGA fans on game day have taken it to an extreme.

As for your comments about supporting the coach and showing class, I believe it was UGA fans who supported your HC ordering the team to get a 15 yard unsportsmanlike call against UF this past season. It was something that was clearly not needed as UGA was by far the better team last year. That was a very surprising, no class move by your Coach who normally I think very highly of.

Take this however you want to and attack if you wish, just remember that old saying about stones and glass houses!

By ATL GATOR

May 6, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

QUINCY CARTER - Part 2

By P Dawg

May 6, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

We all know how SEC fans can be. The vast majority are fine but there will always be that small percent that will give the visitors a less than comfortable feeling. What I’m wondering is how the folks out in the desert will welcome us Dawg fans. Has anyone blogging here ever been to a game out there? If so, how did they react to visitors?

By Gen Neyland

May 6, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

BLACKEDOUT

Take ‘UT’ out of your comment and it could be a generic post with a ‘fill in the blank’…Remember, one’s fanbase of Skoal dipp’n, trailer trash’n, toothless redneck, foul mouth’n drunks is anothers fanbase in different colors…mostly Crimson…

By johnc22

May 6, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

BLACKEDOUT - you are my hero!

Hearing a Vol fan talk trash about another team’s fans is a laugher.

I was at the game in Knoxville in 2004 when Auburn’s Campbell, Cadillac and Ronnie Brown put a king-size whipping on the Vols (in the first half alone) and it was so much fun watching all the shocked, teary-eyed hillbillies crying on their way back to the trailer parks. My guess is less than 25% of them have been to UT, let alone any institution of higher learning.

I still have a copy of the Knoxville Sunday Paper and the big bold headline: VOLS HOME SCHOOLED!!

By Vols Rule SEC

May 6, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

This will be an interesting year for SEC football. I have to think UT can win it all (I do every year). You gotta have faith. But if we don’t I would much rather any other SEC win it all rather than ACC, BIG 10, or PAC 10.

By Big Earl

May 6, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

SecisFootball:

First, my comments were in response to the UT fan who belitted UGA’s fans with no reasons whatsoever. Since you did not take issue with my response to him, I can only assume you think it’s OK for UT fans to call Fulmer childish names and demand he be fired every year after he’s given his all for UT both as a player and coach. Now that’s my definition of sorry fans!

Second, if you’ve been treated poorly in Athens, I’m inclined to think you need to look at the company you’re keeping there. You stated your moma and daddy went to UGA. Based on your attitude towards UGA, maybe they and all their friends don’t want you hanging around them ruining their gameday.

Third, regarding the 15 yard penalty agains UF, you conveniently don’t mention the fact that CMR stated he never intended for the entire team to rush the field. He was only trying to fire up a Bulldog team who has been getting kicked in the teeth for several years in Jacksonville. It worked! You also forget that at the time this occurred, we didn’t know UGA was by far the better team as you stated. The penalty happened after UGA’s 1st touchdown.

Last, you don’t state an affinity for any SEC school. I tend to cheer for most SEC schools too when they’re playing out of conference games, but what kind of a fan doesn’t have a team they call their own? …how pathetic!

By Big Earl

May 6, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

SecisFootball:

First, my comments were in response to the UT fan who belitted UGA’s fans with no reasons whatsoever. Since you did not take issue with my response to him, I can only assume you think it’s OK for UT fans to call Fulmer childish names and demand he be fired every year after he’s given his all for UT both as a player and coach. Now that’s my definition of sorry fans!

Second, if you’ve been treated poorly in Athens, I’m inclined to think you need to look at the company you’re keeping there. You stated your moma and daddy went to UGA. Based on your attitude towards UGA, maybe they and all their friends don’t want you hanging around them ruining their gameday.

Third, regarding the 15 yard penalty agains UF, you conveniently don’t mention the fact that CMR stated he never intended for the entire team to rush the field. He was only trying to fire up a Bulldog team who has been getting kicked in the teeth for several years in Jacksonville. It worked! You also forget that at the time this occurred, we didn’t know UGA was by far the better team as you stated. The penalty happened after UGA’s 1st touchdown.

Last, you don’t state an affinity for any SEC school. I tend to cheer for most SEC schools too when they’re playing out of conference games, but what kind of a fan doesn’t have a team they call their own? …how pathetic!

By shane #1

May 6, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

It is a sad commentary on American society that some college football fans behave so terribly. Most are very good people, but just one can get out of line and sully the reputation of everyone. For example, I have been to many games in many places and have been exposed to rude behavior in only two, Knoxville and Jacksonville. So I could say that the worst fans are Gators and Vols. Is that fair? No, because in both cases it involved young men that had too much to drink and could have happened anywhere that college aged kids drink too much, even Athens! I will say that the most polite fans I have met have been Ol’ Miss fans. The young ones still address older people as Sir and Maam.

By Zeb McKluskey

May 6, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Good job Shane, that’s been my take all along. You’re going to have “behavior modification” going on at every school on game day. Unfortunatly it’s the fans who take it to the extreme and show their azz that puts a bad taste in a visitors mouth. But I have never grouped an entire fan base as the “worst”. To me that’s just ignorant.

By Bamafan

May 6, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Hey General Neyland, Take another shot of Jack Daniels!! You want to make fun of the Crimson Tide Nation, well you at your orange clad fan base that looks like it picking up trash on I-40 with a guard right behind it!! MORON VOL FAN!!

By heeldawg

May 6, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Agree with Shane #1—Ole Miss fans are the most polite I’ve ever seen (even the students). The women there are generally beautiful, too (although Georgia’s women are certainly in the same league!).

IMHO, Rudest fans EVER: Georgia Tech

Ugliest “Women”: Georgia Tech

Most Arrest-Documented Marijuana use:

Georgia Tech

Most unrealistic expectations for the 2008 season: Georgia Tech

It’s a grand slam!

By Miles Turner

May 6, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

I can see that most of your readers will be in for a shock this fall. LSU has the best offensive line in the school’s history, and the defensive line will be better than last year’s line. This assesment has been written many times by both local (Baton Rouge) and by national sports writers. The quality of the lines is not based on untested talent. We are talking about 2-deep and sometimes 3-deep experience—-and talent——and size——and strength——and quickness off the ball! Your readers (and you, for that matter) just assume that we have lost too many good players, because we won the national championship in 2007-2008. The 2008-2009 LSU football team will be better than the 2007-2008 team. And the quarterback argument is not valid. Yes, I believe that 2 of the remaining quarterbacks are more than adequate now—-and they will be exceptional down the road. But with those lines, it won’t matter! Now—-will the 2008-2009 team win as many games? There are too many variables involved to predict such. Maybe—-maybe not. But, they will be better!

Miles Turner

By Joe Hamilton

May 6, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

I have a great idea ! Does giving weed to prospective recruits violate NCAA rules ?

By CarolinaJacket

May 6, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

I generally agree with Shane and Zeb, all schools have classy fans AND classless fans. Just read these blogs. I’ve never understood why folks can’t make their points without all the name calling and insults. Its funny, when I hit my pub with fans from almost every major southern school as well as some midwestern ones, we can have a lively debate about our teams yet keep them civil. Maybe we need more beer drinkers.

By Jumbo

May 6, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

P Dawg, I’m a LSU season ticket holder and alum. I went to the AZ St game there in 2005. Their fans are low key and I know they thought the Tiger fans were a bunch of crazies. I am sure they will feel the same about you guys. We had no problems with them at all and the ones I met were very friendly. Go SEC!!

By Football Fan

May 6, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Remember when Penthouse Magazine used to do an article every year on the bottom 20 college D1 football teams in the country?

Tech made the list (more than once I think) and it was really funny. Those were the only articles I ever read in that magazine. Does it still exist?

By Volunqueer

May 6, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about the rest of you but I have encountered good and bad fans from EVERY SEC school - and I venture to guess that the bad ones were either young & drunk or ‘sidewalk fans.’ I know when I see a fellow UT fan behaving badly, I try to tell them to show some class, but what do you do with the ones that never gained any class, due to being expelled?

Back to the REAL topic…

I actually think the Vols are right where they should be - a team with potential but they have to put it all together and prove themselves against the naysayers.

As far as UGA, I don’t expect the butt kicking they got 2 years ago (where they were winning handily at halftime) nor do I expect to see the total stunning collapse by the Dawgs last year in K-town.

But any UGA fans that think it will be a cakewalk is in for a rude awakening. The conference will be loaded yet again this season.

GO VOLS - BEAT UCLA!

By shane #1

May 6, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Heeldawg, Amen on Miss women! I don’t think it’s an accident that a state with a population that small has so many Miss Americas. I think there should be an investigation, I know there must be some ugly women somewhere in that state. Do They lock Them in closets? BTW, Ol Miss was selected as having the prettiest co-eds in Div 1, UGA came in at # 3. Still not bad, and You better believe it helps in recruiting, because UGA has more of Them!

By The General Feeling

May 6, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Dawg fans seeking validation… so what’s new? Ya’ll be watching again this year…count on it.

By shane #1

May 6, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

The new apr report has been released and UGA has made great progress. UGA was ranked at # 37 in the country in the football catagory, ahead of UF and VANDY! FSU was rated ahead of Tech, but I guess We know how that happened! That should change next year after the cheating scandal is cleaned up. Both Ga institutions were in the top fifty, that is something We can all be proud of, since this report includes ALL NCAA football schools, including the Ivy League, the Service Academys, and private schools.

By GreveHallVol

May 6, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

UT fans are the finest most hospitable fans in the country. The ones that claim otherwise have probably never even been to Neyland Stadium. In the spirit of the Honorable General Bob Neyland and Davy Crocket. GO VOLS

By tblade92

May 6, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

I LOVE THE SEC!!! ‘93 LSU Grad

By AltamahaDawg

May 6, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

Let me get this right, you have had more than enough bad experiences, during all those many once in your life, 5 years ago, that Alabama played in Athens. uh huh…..

By AltamahaDawg

May 6, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

Penthouse had articles?

By SECisFootvall

May 6, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Big Earl…I have posted on here a number of times and several times in this tread so I guess I assumed you know I was an Alabama fan. My fault for not mentioning it.

As for my gameday experience, I come up there and hung with friends. Several of them apoligized to me on the way back to the tailgate for how the UGA fans were acting. Now, I guess it is bad when your fans act they way they do that others have to apoligize for them, huh. But I guess it was just me and one other Vol fan. I am sorry you cannot grasp the fact that there are fans out there that dont think football was created at UGA and Mark Richt is not the greatest coach in the world.

As for the 15 yard penalty….I watched the game and while he said he didnt tell the entire team to go on the field, he had a smirk on his face and didnt seem too upset it happened. In the end though, he told his players that when UGA scored he wanted them to celebrate and a penalty was fine with him. I heard him say it after the game and then read his apology he issued for asking his team to do so.

By AltamahaDawg

May 6, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

I have been to a game in Tuscaloosa before, and treated poorly by Bama fans, care to make any generalized sweeping assumptions out of that?

By AltamahaDawg

May 6, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Oh and BTW, when you changed you name back after posing as somebody else earlier, you mispelled football.

By T Tech

May 6, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

17 for Texas Tech is low considering the fire power they have coming back this year… oh and yes I think they can beat OU - check 2 of the last 3 years…

By War Eagle Atlanta

May 7, 2008 1:36 AM | Link to this

I feel comfortable when TB picks Auburn to be in the top 10; not so much with the rest of the AJC…

Wait. TB IS the AJC, at least as far as CFB is concerned…

By SecIsFootball

May 7, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this

AltamagaDawg….Never changed my named or posed as someone else. I have posted as this name only on this blog. Sorry for the Caps in the wrong place. My bad. I am sorry you had a bad time in Tuscaloosa. Too bad UGA fans justify the way fans are treated. It is embarrassing to me when visiting fans are treated poorly on my campus.

By P Dawg

May 7, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

tech needs to beat fresno state if they want respect.

By Archie

May 7, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

I also think Texas Tech is going to have a big year! The schedule sets up nice with a rebuilding A&M team on the road, a stiff test at Kansas and Kansas State, then late season games with Texas at home and OU on the road. One loss on the season is a legit possibility. Could this finally be the year a team besides Texas or OU play in the Big 12 Championship game?

By AltamahaDawg

May 7, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

OHHHHHHH, so its all about social graces to you. You were never trying to indicate it was just a UGA problem? Got it. So basically, you dont like rude people at football games and your school has just as many as mine? I totally misunderstood your intentions earlier.

By Oledawg

May 7, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

One of…oh hell,..The best prognos I’ve seen this year. Kudos on Mizzou, Fl.,Clemson, and Aub. in your top 10. OSUand W.V. are not as good as Wis.,LSU,andTex in my book, but I concede that a lot of parity creeps in for those teams. BYU is to be more exciting this year, but don’t feel they are better than ASU.

Dislike seeing the dogs ranked initially high by so many who last year didn’t think they were good enough for #2 before the championship nor better than #5 in BSU standings at the end. That was as close to a hose job that I have seen in my football fan years, but have to admit it pales in comparison to Mizzou’s. The downgrading of LSU because of Perilous Low is idiotic to me. Think of your favorite team and pretend it is game day with LSU and tell me honestly how you feel about the game before it is played. Take a long look at every player position and tell me you don’t have the highest respect for teams like LSU, FL.,Aub., Tenn.,Va.Tech, etc. getting experience in early games and pounding the punk out of teams you have placed ahead of them as the season progresses. Instead of qualifying your prognos to go through the summer, why don’t you hitch up your pants and stand behind this power ranking for the year?.

You made some difficult decisions and had to place some teams where you did. I have slammed other 07 weak sister writers who NOW pick Ga tops , but finally have read some pretty good picks from you that are plausible. I will follow you more in the coming season with AJC as well as TV. Good Luck!

By SecIsFootball

May 7, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg…I guess you dont see any reason to respect another person just because they cheer for another team. That visiting fans dont belong in Athens, huh? If I hear about or see someone being treated poorly in Tuscaloosa, I am literally embarrassed by it. So, if you want to call it social graces, fine with me. Maybe some UGA fans should try that so not to make people’s game day experiences a bad one. But based on your responses, its not like you would care anyway.

By AltamahaDawg

May 7, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Based on your responces, you totally ignore my point no matter what I say. Do you really not get what I’m saying? Let me break it down. You and I act nice at games, some Dawg fans and some Bama fans do not. Get it? You conclude its because Dawg fans are so bad, then you must include your own in that generalization. Try substituting “bama” for “dawg” in every point you have made.

And while we are at it, remember back to when you were a student at Alabama. So “i come up there and hang with friends” and go to your games with the one other TN fan (I assume both clad in the colors and vocal about it) sit near you and you Alabama student buddies. I am absolutely certain, I’d have the good sence to know how that’s going to go.

BTW, I’ve read you in here for a long time and respecting other fans is really not somethign I think you have any standing to preach about.

By SecIsFootball

May 7, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg…Because I disagree with people in here means I am not respectful. I dont come in here and make ridiculous predictions about my team and didnt dispute TB’s ranking for us. I dont resort to the name calling man in here that others do but because I may agrue a point, that makes me a bad person and disrespectful. was it because I said I thought LSU was underranked and AU was overranked? Or is it because I dont come in here and kiss UGA or CMR’s rear end thinking he is the greatest coach in the game? What have I said or done that you would take as disrespectful. The point of these blogs are to be able to give you opinion on what is written and I do that without low blows or jabs at someone because they are a fan of another team. Just becuase someone is not a bulldog fan doesnt mean they arent entitle to their own opinion, even if that opinion doesnt result in claiming UGA is the basis for the existance of college football.

By AltamahaDawg

May 7, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

You got to be joking.

By SecIsFootball

May 7, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg…you got me. I am really just kidding. I am on here all the time throwing names around at people. I know as well as you that anything that is not UGA is not worth talking about anyone who doesnt support UGA is an idiot. Does that make it all better for you? I guess that is the only way it works on here because if you dare speak out about UGA or CMR, it is rude and disrespectful!

By Bill Daniel

May 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

Is it the GA bias against LSU or what? LSU w/o Perrilloux will still have the best offense in its history. While not as experienced the LSU QB will be surrounded by as a very top OL and TE with at least 4 NFL draft candidates, probably five with the new RT candidate. They have a great group of RB and arguably the best group of WR in the country. The two QB candidtaes are top grade if inexperienced.

ON the D side they have a great DL in depth, excellent LB and the candidates for the CB jobs are some of the best in the country.

I don’t know where you guys get your info. Read mandell’s column on this.

By AltamahaDawg

May 7, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

No, I meant you gotta be joking to ignore my point for the fourth time, and then go off on some drama queen rant about how UGA doesnt rule the universe.

By bbtick

May 8, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

GT, as painful as it was to read your post, I have to admit that you are making a terrific point here. The ACC in general is doing a terrific job with player development, but is really faltering on the national stage in head to head match-ups with power teams from power conferences. (1-9) in BCS bowls and (1) of only (2) power conferences to never earn an at-large spot in a BCS Bowl. I don’t know what the answer is, but you are right…how does our league continue to shine on draft day, but can’t find a way to win big games???