AJC > Sports > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 20 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USSome final thoughts on the Georgia schedule
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I wrote a piece last Sunday comparing Georgia’s 2008 schedule to the schedules of the last 10 BCS champions. We all know Georgia has a tough schedule and some of you are getting sick of talking about it. And this is the last time I’ll write about Georgia’s schedule for a while.
But here is an element of Georgia’s schedule that I really didn’t have the space to explore in great detail on Sunday.
When it comes to analyzing a tough schedule, it’s not just WHO you play and WHERE you play them. Another big factor that makes a schedule really difficult is WHEN you play somebody. In other words, who did you play the week before and who did your opponent play the week before?
For example: Last season Georgia had its one precious open date the week before it played Florida in Jacksonville. Florida, conversely, had to work pretty hard to beat Kentucky 45-37 in Lexington. You can’t overstate the importance of that fact in the eventual outcome of the game (Georgia, 42-30). Georgia played with a lot of energy in that game but I think that energy came more from the off week than the Bulldogs’ en masse end zone celebration.
When you look at Georgia’s schedule through that prism, you see some real danger spots.
Arizona State, Sept. 20: This would be a tough game under any circumstances because of the travel. But what makes it doubly tough is that Georgia will play at South Carolina the week before it goes to Tempe. South Carolina has some issues on offense but you know the Head Ball Coach is going to have something extra for Georgia. He always does. Georgia should win but it will be a very difficult game because of the South Carolina defense. Arizona State has UNLV at home the week before it plays Georgia, which is the third of four straight home games to open the season for the Sun Devils.
Alabama, Sept. 27: After two straight road games to South Carolina and Arizona State, Georgia gets the Crimson Tide at home. Alabama will have played at Arkansas the week before. So that should be a push. But after two straight weeks on the road will Georgia be mentally fatigued? Georgia gets a week off after this game and the danger is looking ahead to that break. Will Mark Richt have to pull out the black jerseys to get his guys geeked up?
Florida in Jacksonville, Nov. 1: When Georgia dominated the series against Florida in the Vince Dooley years, the Bulldogs always had an open date or a very winnable game the week before going to Jacksonville. Some of that scheduling flexibility was taken away when the SEC went to divisional play in 1992. I went back and looked at the 44 seasons that have been played since Vince Dooley became head coach in 1964 and I believe the trip to LSU (Oct. 25) represents the best team the Bulldogs have played the week before Florida in that span. In 1969 Georgia played Tennessee, the eventual SEC champions, the week before Florida and lost (17-3) in Athens. Florida has a home game with Kentucky the week before it plays the Bulldogs. Even if Georgia wins at Baton Rouge, the game will take a physical toll on the team.
At Auburn, Nov. 15: Late November games are tough on everybody in this league because by then the injuries are starting to mount up. But Auburn will catch the Bulldogs at the end of that four-game stretch away from Athens (at LSU, Florida in Jax, at Kentucky, at Auburn). The week before that game Auburn will play Tennessee-Martin, a Division I-AA team that went 4-7 last in 2007.
The one place where Georgia does catch a break is that the Bulldogs have a week off before the host Tennessee in Athens. Tennessee doesn’t have an open date but it does have Northern Illinois, which has a new coaching staff now that Joe Novak has retired.
If you’re a Bulldog, it’s just something to think about.
Comments
By Red Clay Hound
May 20, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
I’m already nervous just thinking about it.
By james t
May 20, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
I’m just glad we have a coaching staff & the players to even consider a national championship with this schedule… GO DAWGS!
By Munson's Call
May 20, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
That is brutal. All I can say is if there is a loss it can’t be in the SEC East. It has to come from either ASU, LSU, or Auburn to allow the Dogs to make it to Atlanta for the SEC Championship game.
By Fisher
May 20, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
you know what we could use? another article about how hard the UGA schedule is in 2008. Or maybe on about how the second coming of christ, matt stafford, is going to get his completion percentage out of the 50s this season. We definitely need more articles about how the BCS is a total sham and UGA was cheated out of the 2008 title, but its ok because they have already won the 2009 BCS, instantly giving legitimacy to the system youve spent the last year railing against. keep up the good work AJC sports writers.
By CrystalRouge
May 20, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
What about Saturday night in Baton Rouge…the most intimidating setting in college football? Forget Ryan P…LSU is the defending Champs with the best O & D Lines in College Football…..or maybe you don’t consider this a danger spont, but an automatic Loss?
By Atlanta Gator
May 20, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
Here’s the Scoop: If the Dawgs win out, they’re in the title game, no questions asked. Lose one, and it’s a well-timed loss, and the Dawgs are probably still play in the BCS game. Lose two, it’s probably over for their BCS title hopes, and if both losses are SEC losses, the Dawgs are probably out of the SEC game. Those are some pretty high stakes in combination with the 2008 UGA football schedule.
By truthman
May 20, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
Hey, the schedule is what it is. We gotta play it regardless, so, as Alfred E. Newman would say, “What, me worry?”
By shane #1
May 20, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
I am a believer in the old axiom that to be the best You have to beat the best. UGA has a team that is still young and a patsy schedule will not teach Them what is necessary to be a champion. OSU had soft schedules in 06 and 07 which helped Them get to the BCSCG, but did not help Them win! It may be necessary to bloody this team a little this year so that They will know what it takes to be a champion. Then if They have the desire and the work ethic and UGA continues to recruit well the championships will come.
By joe
May 20, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this
Who goes to the SEC Championship game from the eastern division will depend on one thing: How UGA, UF and UT fare against one another..whoever goes pretty much has to be 2-0 against the others. 1-1 is possible (see UT in 2007), but you need alot of help in that case…0-2 finds you in Shreveport come December.
By Miles
May 20, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this
The winner of The Cocktail Party will play in the BCS Championship. Go Georgia! Go Florida!
By Bama Dog
May 20, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this
Hey Fisher,
If you had enough sense to read the headline, you knew the jest of the article and since you hate the Dogs so much, why waste your time reading it and bit*hing?
By Spike
May 20, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
Tony, I don’t see Tech on the list. How, oh how, could that be?
By PTC DAWG
May 20, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
I’m thinking the fan who thinks 2 SEC East losses means Shreveport is somewhat uninformed.
Fact is UGA could easily go 10-2, and be a better team than the one that finished 2nd in the Nation last year.
By Jeff Sutton
May 20, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
Tony, did you forget about the bye week Florida had from 1993 to 2003 before the Georgia game? Florida also had a buy week in 2005 and 2006 before the Georgia game. To your point, bye weeks mean alot. Just don’t tell me that’s why Florida lost last year.
By Jeff Sutton
May 20, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
Tony, did you forget about the bye week Florida had from 1993 to 2003 before the Georgia game? Florida also had a bye week in 2005 and 2006 before the Georgia game. To your point, bye weeks mean alot. Just don’t tell me that’s why Florida lost last year.
By Jeff Sutton
May 20, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
Tony, did you forget about the bye week Florida had from 1993 to 2003 before the Georgia game? Florida also had a bye week in 2005 and 2006 before the Georgia game. To your point, bye weeks mean alot. Just don’t tell me that’s why Florida lost last year.
By tjs
May 20, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
With two pattsies on the schedule, not counting Tech, 10-2 at best, and 9-3 at worst are almost guaranteed..National champs I think not, but if Dawgs do not accomplish the above, then CMR is not doing his job. tjs
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
This November’s WLOCP in J-action-ville will be the best game of the season. The SEC West’s winner won’t be able to play against the East’s this year. Winner goes to the BCSC. Good luck to both teams and may the best defend the SEC’s dominance of CFB. Go Gators!
By chc4
May 20, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
I hope these really are Tony’s “final thoughts” on this subject. This story is being shoved down our throats at least 3x per week. Can’t we just enjoy where we are right now without having to read about Moreno/Stafford going pro or the schedule? My gosh. It’ll all play out.
By HBC Fan
May 20, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this
I’m sorry, but who was it that beat the pups last year? Spurrier and UT?
You UGA fans are always like this. National Champs in August…2-3 losses by December.
By P Dawg
May 20, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this
The fact is you need a great group of coaches, a great group of players, and you also need the ball to bounce your way throughout the season. If UGA can manage an undefeated season in 08’, they WILL go down as one of the greatest teams of all time after going through that schedule. It’s an AWFUL lot to ask for or expect though. Go for it Dawgs!!!
By ozzfest
May 20, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
As a UGA season ticket holder, I welcome the schedule, ESPECIALLY THE TRIP TO ARIZONA. If Georgia fans had not become so complacent with playing Utah State, Kent, and Ga Southern, this would be just another year. I am 39 and have waited a LIFETIME to cross the Mississippi River to see the Dogs play a regular season game. To hell with those that question the schedulemaker.
By P Dawg
May 20, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
Come on people. Give Tony a break. Anything UGA football is greatly appreciated, Tony! Thanks!
By mcdawg
May 20, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
Auburn was the game i was looking at as the real stumbling block-but great teams create their own momentum-i think we have some guys on this team w/ the killer instinct (Moreno, A. Allen, R. Jones, and Stafford)-i’m more worried about a lethargic start and the O-Line jelling
By SwinfordDawg
May 20, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
In response to crystalrouge: OK, Baton Rouge is a not an easy place to play and yes your beloved tigers are defending national champs but it seems you have overlooked one very important thing. LSU graduated (or booted) all their playmakers (minus maybe one). Lets recap LSU lost: -Matt Flynn -Ryan Perrilloux (which may be a blessing for LSU) - Jacob Hester - Early Doucet - Glen Dorsey - Ali Highsmith - Jonathan Zenon - Craig Steltz - Chevis Jackson Not to mention some second and third string depth at some positions.
LSU is young and inexperienced with the exception of the offensive line and defensive line. Lets talk about the offense first. Ok the o-line is great but that doesn’t mean a thing if you don’t have any specialty players behind them. Just look at Georgia Tech last year. With the loss of hester, flynn and doucet there is no threat on offense. Sure you have LaFell and Dickson but who is going to throw to them. LSU doesnt have a QB that has seen the field yet. LSU will have to rely a lot more on the running game this year and they don’t have the depth or strength to do that. Now Lets look a the defense. OK LSU has some talent on the D line but let me just remind you that they lost their golden DT dorsey who on just about every play accounted for not one but two offensive lineman. Dorsey took the pressure off the rest of the line which is part of why they had such great success. Not to say that their D line will be bad just giving you something to think about. The main concern on defense is losing three very good and seasoned DBs. LSU will be young and inexperienced in the secondary. Needless to say the pass game will be more of an option this year against LSU.
Sure LSU backed into a national championship game last year against an overrated Ohio State team and won. Big deal. Im sick of hearing about how good LSU is going to be this year. I think they are way overrated considering the number of playmakers and amount of talent they are losing. I don’t see LSU making it to the SEC championship game this year and for sure will not finish in the top 15 this year. What i’m trying to say is if the Dawgs come prepared to Baton Rouge I don’t even see this game being close. CrystalRouge you and the rest of the LSU fan base should not be looking forward to this game.
By HamDawg11
May 20, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
I think that if UGA is going to get it done, it needs to be this year. The 2008 team has a lot of Senior leadership as well as some very experienced Juniors that can carry them far and keep them focused. The schedule for 2009 doesn’t seem as daunting as ‘08, but look at the guys we’ll be losing:
Brannan Southerland - top 3 FB @ UGA? Mo Mass - sure handed rec who makes the tough catches Tripp Chandler - not irreplaceable, but a solid TE Dannell Ellerbe - great LB with strong leadership on team CJ Byrd - solid safety, versatile Asher Allen - one of the top CB’s in SEC…bolts for NFL $$$ Matt Stafford - ‘09 looks to be a slim year for QB’s, good chance he takes the $$ and runs Knowshon Moreno - should stay for RS Junior season, but could opt for big pay day if season pans out Jeff Owens - huge stopper in the middle, great all around DL Geno Atkins - how many solid DL’s have stayed all 4 years? K. Harris & D. Goodman - depth @ WR Brian Mimbs - we don’t talk about him much because he’s solid, he’ll be missed Jeff Henson & Rowdy Francis - long snapper and holder…two very technical ST guys with experience, it’ll hurt not having it in ‘09 J. Lomax & J. Wynn - these guys will be all over QB’s in ‘08, whose gonna do it in ‘09?
Not to predict a gloomy ‘09 because there’s still a ton of young guys that will mature between now and the ‘09 season, but ‘08 is realistically our best opportunity to cash in on upper-classmen leadership. Let’s get behind ‘em and bring a championship home to Athens. It’s been waaaaayyyyy to long!!
GO DAWGS!!!
By Haywood Jablowme
May 20, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
Even if we run the table, I suspect the UGA haters will prevail, and we wont see a BCS title game. Think Auburn in 04…..the politicians that run the BCS will think of some reason to keep UGA from the game.
By Joe Mac
May 20, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Talk of Georgia’s national championship will not make it beyond Columbia or Baton Rouge. Enjoy the preseason title while you can.
By Spike
May 20, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
Hey HBC Fan.. At least we did not have the meltdown your ‘Cocks pulled off by losing the last six in a row. We got stronger as the year went on, not weaker. When is the last time your sorry team even finished with two losses by December?
By SC
May 20, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
I hope Georgia loses 3 or 4 games this year.
By Mike
May 20, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
As a Tech fan, I have to say that is a brutal schedule. If the Dawgs win out with that schedule, how could anyone argue with them in the BCS title game? Frankly, I think even a very good UGa team may lose a couple along the way with that schedule, but even two losses (depending upon who beats ‘em) may get ‘em in like LSU did last year. Three loses would be too much to overcome. Like james said right up front, be happy you have everything coming together to have these kind of fun discussions before the season starts. (Oh, and I am glad that if you do win the title, it will have been with a worthy schedule, not like your last title in 1980 where your opponenets oveall had less than a 0.500 record). Good luck, Dawgs (except in one game!)
By Brad Sexton
May 20, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
shouldn’t South Carolina be on there as well since we did beat you last year?
By Timothy
May 20, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
The Dawgs have a brutal schedule for 2008. Shane #1 is right - to be the best you have to beat the best. Jeff Sutton is right… the Florida Gators did have bye weeks before they played the Dawgs from ‘93 to ‘03 in which they won over the Dawgs; plus, the same for the Dawgs and I do believe that the bye weeks have something to do with the winning teams in the Showdown in Jacksonville. Will it have an effect this year? Only the teams will determine that.
Well, Dawgs, your schedule is brutal, we believe in your abilities to go undefeated and win the BCS Championship - which you should have been in the championship game in January ‘08. Show the nation what we the Bulldog Nation already knows - UGA Bulldogs #1!!
By potato dawg
May 20, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Although our schedule is very tough I think it is definitly manageable. The frist 6 gamies are not that bad, because we get a bye to rest before playing Tennessee. The last half of the season is a lot trickier. The four sec road games back to back will be a challenge. IMO the Auburn game could be the most dangerous to get pass. It will be the fourth of consecutive road game, these games make for short practice weeks and the traveling does take some toll on the players. Auburn should be very comfortable with their new offense by this time. We will need some luck not to step on a land mine with this loaded schedule, but one lost will not ruin this season. Playing such strong competion should make us ready to play for the conference and National championships. This team has the ability to be very special this year and next. I’m looking forward to a fun season. How bout them dawgs
By Dawg Hater
May 20, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
I hope Georgia loses every game on schedule. Not likely, but wishful thinking.
By UnderDawg
May 20, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
I hope (the fake) USC loses all their games like they did the first season “Granny Clampett” Holtz was coaching. Loved that melt-down you boys pulled last season. Ranked as high as 6th and then finished 6-6? Makes me howl with laughter every time I hear about how Spurrier is gonna turn things around in Columbia. You are nothing but paper chickens who last won a conference title in 1969. If that’s all we had at UGA to hang our hats on, we might as well quit playing football.
By StopUrWhinning
May 20, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Fortunately for the dawgs, early losses to South Carolina and Tennessee can be overcome on their march to the Outback Bowl.
By Fred Stewart
May 20, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
by Buff I’ve always had my doubts about the “DAUGS” upcoming seasons… most of the time I’ve been pleasently suprized at the outcome (sounds like Tony). This year I have high hopes for the season. This bugs me. I really think we have the chance to go all the way. And everyone else is doubting. If it happens… I’ll be on top of the world…but not suprized.
By Fred Stewart
May 20, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
by Buff I’ve always had my doubts about the “DAUGS” upcoming seasons… most of the time I’ve been pleasently suprized at the outcome (sounds like Tony). This year I have high hopes for the season. This bugs me. I really think we have the chance to go all the way. And everyone else is doubting. If it happens… I’ll be on top of the world…but not suprized.
By GT80
May 20, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
Haywood, you scenario would be the sweetest thing ever.
Look, even as a Tech fan I’ve got to believe that if the Dogs run the table they are in the BCS. This is an absolutely brutal schedule and I’d be amazed if there isn’t at least a loss in there. Maybe even 2 or 3. But good luck.
And one more thing, again, even as a Tech fan, I thought the black jerseys were a cool thing. Just don’t go making it an every other week occurance, or even an every year occurance or it will lose it’s glamour.
You Doggies better enjoy this year because Chan is no longer on the Flats. Coach Johnson will not tolerate mediocrity like Chan did.
By The General Feeling
May 20, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this
Georgia fans overused the “off-date” excuse last year after loosing badly to Tennessee for the second straight year. So what will the excuse be this year? Dawg fans are always giddy in June and July but come October they have been slapped in the face with a bit of reality. All this talk of National Champion is silly when Matt Stafford has not yet proven he can beat mid-level SEC teams like Vandy, USC, and Kentucky much less Tennessee or a healthy Florida.
By Haywood Jablowme
May 20, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this
Fortunately for the Chokin Chickens, going 6-6 again this season will pave the way for that Toilet Bowl bid they hope and pray for.
By baloney
May 20, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
At the very least UGA willbe able to talk about how they would have won the NC if it hadn’t been for their schedule.And if they do win it they can talk about being maybe the best college football team ever assembled. And they can talk about a 3 peat.
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Oh, Puh-leez ! A bye week before an important game is hugely favorable. Although I think the better team won last year’s game in Jax, the week off beforehand favored UGA enormously! This year however, Uf has UK at home and UGA goes to LSU. Come November 1st, we’ll all see if last year’s bye was the difference. Go Gators !
By leland
May 20, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Dear Mr. CF—even if Georgia get theirselves all tired out and sweaty after playing LSU before the Florida game, it can always run the entire team or maybe even the entire student body in attendance out on the field when and if it scores on Florida. If the original, illegal stunt by Richt last year did not shame him and the Georgia fan, surely what I suggest would not. Your pal, Leland
By UnderDawg
May 20, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
It doesn’t matter WHO is “on the flats” as history has shown us. The only winning coach in the series Tech has had since Dodd was O’Lardy…or was his name O’Liar?…and HIS record was tainted with illegal players. You could have Bill Billecheck on the flats and would still lose…oh, wait, I forgot…he cheats, too, doesn’t he?
By Karma...
May 20, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news doggies, but you best enjoy the preseason hype for all it’s worth.
Reality is you used every trick in your bag last year and luckily it worked! But sadly in the end all you have to show for it is getting passed over for the big show and having to settle for beating an overrated WAC team.
In 2008 you best count UF & AU as AUTOMATIC losses!
The endzone celebration, it worked! But do you think UM and those young gators have forgotten?
The “blackout” beating, it worked! But do you think TT and those young tigers have forgotten!
I’m sorry but it’s best to burst your bubble now then come October. That would be embarassing!
By Gary
May 20, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
I agree that we’re worrying too much about the schedule. First, we really don’t know for sure how tough these games will be until the season gets under way. Second, if you want to be #1, then you have to prove you can beat the best, weeek in and week out. I think we all agee that the dawgs have the talent to do that. Now they just need to man up and prove it on the field every single week. That’s what it takes to be champs. Go Dawgs!
By Spike
May 20, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Uhh Leland..(Gator fan) That would be ” gets themselves…”. UF English major?
By Herschel
May 20, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
EVERYONE WATCH US TODAY ON JIM ROME IS BURNING!!!
By D.Ellis
May 20, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Central Michigan will not be a cake walk as well. They return a starting QB that had 4900 yards of total offense…46td’S AND 2 1,000 YARD WR’s. Thats going to be a fun game to watch. Schedule is what it is. No excuses needed. The goal is not the NC. The goal is the SEC championship. Year in and year out more on the point….the winner of the SEC is is always in the NC title game talk. That is where we want to be. SEC champs…with a shot at playing for the NC. THE GOAL SHOULD ALWAYS BE YEAR IN AND YEAR OUT WITHOUT EXCEPTION TO BE SEC CHAMPS. just my thoughts
GO DAWGS!!!!
By Sven Ottke
May 20, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
Whew! Tony hit his quota early in the week. This gives him time to run another article on UGa’s chances to win a nat’l championship over the next 3 days! Like Tony says, it’s all about time management…..and fawning all over UGa. Keepp up the good work, Ms. College Football.
By Herschel
May 20, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Spike, keep on doin the right thing!
By Herschel
May 20, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
GOAL ALWAYS BE NATIONAL CHAMPS!! YEAR IN AND YEAR OUT! CAN I STILL SUIT UP? I DO HAVE ELIGIBILYT
By mightyKC
May 20, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
Factoid of the Day:
In 1996 and 2006, UF had the nation’s toughtest schedule (by anyone/everyone’s account).
Agree that “when” & “where” are big factors, but the Dawgs ‘08 schedule is no harder than UF’s in those championship years. If they are good enough, it can be done.
And for all the folks that think we are going to have a 2-loss team play for the NC in ‘08, I don’t think it will happen again for a while (even w/ OSU/USC, and UF/UGA reg season matchups). Last year was an oddity…don’t expect the WVA’s and other scrub teams (that shouldn’t be there anyway) to always take that late season loss.
By Just Thinking
May 20, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
You know .. its funny .. I have had this computer for over 4 months now and have never cleared any of my Internet files. Looking at the top of this page I notice that I have never clicked on the “Tech” link (it’s still blue). I wish some of of these Wrambling Idiots would practice the same and stay away from UGA blogs.
By The General Feeling
May 20, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Richt pull-out all his tricks last year and all it got you was a seat at home watching Tennessee and LSU.
By Herschel
May 20, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this
Just thinking You are so right, i just told myself that same thing 5 minutes ago
By AltamahaDawg
May 20, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
That’s all well and good if UGA didnt have plenty of “karma” still due it from the year with those guys. The idea that in the 100+ yr history of those rivalries, some jersey, or penalty is going to dictate who is motivated, and who is not……. Man do I hope Fl and Auburn are pinning thier hopes on that.
Incidentaly, kicking off from the 7.5 yard line didn’t exactly spot us any points. And I dont believe that Auburn had difficulties tackling darker colors. Didn’t both of those teams actually have the lead at some point in the game ??? Worked? Payback? I’m sure they hated to lose, but thats it in a nutshell.
By Herschel
May 20, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
My karma ran over my dogma!!!
By mark
May 20, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
To all of you other SEC fans in here: Since Richt got here we routinely finish better than most of you and play in better bowls as well. Yes we get tripped up here and there from some of you but every team does, that’s why there aren’t numerous undefeated teams at the end of the year.
Minus the Auburn undefeated year, LSU a couple of times and FLa’s title year we routinely finish better by season’s end. We are in the top 3-5 in games won. If we weren’t good and didn’t scare you, you wouldn’t hate us!!
By Steve Superior
May 20, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
I remember when Oklahoma State was on the dawgs schedule they had the best offense in ncaa history. After 50 years of playing east-west-north-south something, you accidentally get a top 25 (not even top 10) team on your schedule and you cry like, well little puppy dogs. LSU is playing Va Tech, Florida plays FSU….quit your yapping or I won’t wait till September to roll up my paper.
By General
May 20, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this
Mark, I know UGA is the best program in all of college football, but what happened last year in Knoxville?
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this
Mark: Nobody hates you. Now go back to your bedroom and pull the pillow over your head. Love, the SEC
By gatormike
May 20, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
As a Gator, I really like all of this talk about UGA because it keeps all of the limelight on the Dawgs. This allows the Gators to simply stay in the shadows of the hype. In the past, Gator Teams have been sporadic in handling the pre-season hype. This year UGA gets the attention while the Gators get ready. Yes, the UGA schedule is a tough one but there are a couple of patsies in the mix. UF also has two patsies on the schedule, but the rest of it is not a pushover. UT may well have the best schedule lineup to prevail over both UGA and UF. If UGA runs the table, I will salute them, but I do not believe it will happen. If UGA looses to the gamchickens this year, I hope the UGA nation shuts up. I am still amazed that some UGA fans really believe they should have been in the BCS Game when they did not even make the SEC Championship Game. Good luck to every team in the Mighty SEC and GO GATORS! The Gators will do the dancing in Jax this year.
By J
May 20, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
I belive that injuries to teams are often overlooked and can make or break a season. However, I feel that Georgia has a lot of depth at most positions and will be in a better position to overcome these injuries than other teams on the schedule which is why I believe that the Dawgs will have an unforgettable 2008 season. RUN THE TABLE DAWGS!
By Hairy
May 20, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
I wish all u gaytors and volunqueers and techsters would leave our blog. this is UGA only!! haven’t u idiots figurred that out yet???
By Hairy
May 20, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
UGA is the class of the SEC! We will run the table this year.
WOOF WOOF
By JB
May 20, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
The Dawg Haters on this blog have NOWHERE to go…Who cares about Carolina. Where is the State paper over there creating a Buzz….Pardon the pun, there’s nothing to crow about in Columbia. Tenn. hates their coach, Urban Cryer is a little jerk. Who could root for that little weasel. Auburn, When does the Tubberville Exit chant start this year. Tech…? well, 2 or so years away from having HIS type players. Saban too busy looking in the mirror. We Dawg fans have a lot to be thankful for. You gotta love our program. The other guys are on the OUTSIDE looking in.
By 78 DAWG
May 20, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
No body can deny the DAWGS have the toughest schedule! But the DAWGS are the best team in the country and the gayturds could only get lucky for so many years. The off week helped the gayturds in the past but last year it was the celebration not off week CMR is a genius. You gayturds have no class you put it in your face. Look at our schedule every year Auwbarn, gayturds, vowels, yech out of conference, whos is tougher than that. The DAWGS should be nc with 3 losses. We’ll beat Arizona state by 2 touchdowns more than Pete Carrolls criminals
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
Hairy: REAL CLASSY dance in the end-zone last year!
By Vince
May 20, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Its all about O-line depth and O-line technique and play calling - most important thing now.
By Tigers03
May 20, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
swinford,
I didn’t even finish reading your entry but I can tell you what is behind the LSU O-Line…FIVE RUNNINGBACKS that will open up our passing game.
By Tigers03
May 20, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
swinford,
I didn’t even finish reading your entry but I can tell you what is behind the LSU O-Line…FIVE RUNNINGBACKS that will open up our passing game.
By Hairy
May 20, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Haterz can leeve!
By Hairy
May 20, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
JB… A true blue Red Faced DAWG!!! Everybody else is second to UGA!!!
By Hairy
May 20, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
JB… A true blue Red Faced DAWG!!! Everybody else is second to UGA!!!
By JB
May 20, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
Headline I want posted in locker room this year. CBS to Spurrier, ” coach, great win”. ” Heck, it’s just Georgia”
By My name is Bill W.
May 20, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
One game at a time folks. As a Dawg fan I have seen UGA play to the other teams level many, many times over the years- UAB in ‘03, Marshall that same year, USC last year, etc, etc..Coach Richt will not allow that this year IMO hence the “one game at a time” philosophy. With that said, UGA goes undefeated next year but one game at a time.
Anonymous
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
78 DAWG:
Beating UGA 12 out of the last fifteen years is LUCKY? Go back in your Dawg house and be quiet - barking little puppy.
By Steve Spurrier
May 20, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
Heck, it is JUST Georgia. Whoop te do!
By Steve Spurrier
May 20, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
Hairy you are obviously one of the Red faced and Stupid fans that trash up the Bulldawg nation on a weekly basis in Athens!
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
78 DAWG: Sorry - it’s fifteen out of the last eighteen years !
By Steve Spurrier
May 20, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
Well find a way to beat em again this year too!
By Ted Striker
May 20, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Every case you made for this being a very difficult schedule seems spot on.
That said, it’s impossible to predict when your opposition is going to suffer key injuries, bad bounces, losing streaks, and unanticipated occurances that change the course of a competitive battle.
It’s the “anything can happen on any given day” factor — just look at some of the teams who tanked at weird times last season. Or at teams who came on like Lombardi’s Packers when they had no business even being in the game.
Yeah, the schedule is difficult…but…play em one at a time.
By T'Ville Dawg
May 20, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
We’ve had a total lack of discussion concerning depth. The talent is in the barn and the ability of the coaches to bring the younger players along will be key to handling the brutal schedule. I’m sure that CMR will give the starters a rest if the game is in hand, which could well be the case, in the opening non SEC games and even the SC game. Caleb King subbing for Moreno is not going to be a picnic for opposing defenses.
The DAWGS demonstrated in the Sugar Bowl that rotation is the key to keeping fresh legs on the field. Also, the aforementioned quarterbacks on the other teams can be neutralized by keeping them on the sidelines by Stafford and Company.
I am extremely encouraged by the stable of talent at UGA fighting each other for playing time.
By 78 DAWG
May 20, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
when we had hearst it rained so hard it saved you gayturds and most years the officials were paid off or something. The DAWGS have always been the better team! You got luck, just look at the evidence, we own you and the sec. If we don’t beat the gayturds this year, I’ll say that we have lowered our academic and moral standards just to win football games and we are still 2nd or 3rd best team in half a conference. But if we win WE ARE the GREATEST and WE OWN the whole state of floridia.
By StopUrWhinning
May 20, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
HAIRY - if all the gaytors, Volunteers and cocks left the board, then only idiots would be left and who would lead the conversation. Now, back to your life of delusion. Woof - woof!
By MVP
May 20, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Keep cry mutts about how tough your schedule is. About time the leghumpers have a schedule like LSU,TN and FL and those three teams will beat UGA. CHOKE THE OFFICAL DRINK OF THE GEORGIA BULLDAWGS!
By Mirna from smyrna
May 20, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Please stop with the schedule talk. Mr. CFB - take off until mid August. I can’t belive I am getting tired of your stuff right know. Normally I enjoy every thing you come up with but put a sock in it for a while!!!
By Steve Spurrier
May 20, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
78 DAWG, You are clearly living in Fantasy land. Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, Lsu, and an undefeated Auburn team have all won National Championships since the Bulldogs won theirs in 1980!!! Even Georgia Tech has won one since then. FSU and Miami have won several, so if you are fortunate enough to beat the Gators for the 4th time in 19 years, you clearly own nothing in the state of Florida.
By WarEagle
May 20, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Now I will start off by saying that I am an Auburn fan that is a student at Georgia Tech (so 99% of you should automatically hate me). I read the UGA blogs just like I read most local publications on all of the SEC, and being from Atlanta, whenever I go to ajc sports I’m constantly bombarded with reduntant complaining about your schedule on the front page. So I will comment:
Your schedule is a typical SEC schedule. “Mr. College Football” likes to disect that the timing, locations of the game “blah blah blah” make this one “brutal” (if I had a dime for every time I saw that word). Really the only thing that sets this apart from anyone else in the SEC is the game against ASU. ASU! While having some success, they are definitely no harder than many previous SEC champ’s out-of-conference major matchups. Last year’s LSU vs VT comes to mind as being WAY harder. Or UF against FSU all the time. Or look at this year’s Auburn vs. West Virginia. All are much more difficult matchups than UGA vs. ASU
Funny thing is that none of these schools get so hung up over their schedule. They were not nearly as obsessed with their perception of how hard it was. Is it because you guys are slightly lowering expectations? That if you win out it must be because you are an awesome team, but if you lose a couple games its because the schedule was so hard? Which is it? National Champs have an internal locus of control. You have to accept everything that happens as result of your personal accomplishments. Besides the brutality of your schedule being an illusion, it doesn’t matter and we don’t need 2000 blogs a day about it.
I honestly don’t think that UGA should be so cocky. I think it’d be to your benefit not to be preseason top 3. I mean, you guys think you finished so hot but let’s look back at it:
Auburn was beating you into the 4th quarter with perhaps one of the most ineffective offenses in the SEC, and you didn’t woop GT nearly as much as you should have. Both of those games have misleading margins of victory, yet you guys are supposedly the preseason national champs.
Besides the obvious of USC, I put Oklahoma way ahead of you. You guys will lose more than one game. Don’t count on the absolutely insane upsets and moving up and down the ranks that we had last year.
By gatormike
May 20, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Everyone should agree that this is fun. Thanks to the AJC and Tony, we can keep SEC Football rolling every day. I realize that this is really a Dawg net, but I enjoy all of the barking and howling. It is also very funny that the UGA Fans are quick to nail the Gators and gamechickens, but they sure like to take vacations to the Florida and South Carolina Beaches. That is ok with me because I like Atlanta, and I am a Braves fan. By mid October the stage will be set. Keep on howling and barking. I love it. Again, thanks to all of the UGA folks for letting all of us SEC Fansus play in this AJC blog. It is a hoot! GO GATORS!
By YELLOWJACKETS REQUIRED
May 20, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Whur Is ZEB????????????
By Dusty
May 20, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
I think uga loses 3 games this year and goes to outback or capital one bowl.
By Dusty
May 20, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
I think uga loses 3 games this year and goes to outback or capital one bowl.
By GoDawgs701
May 20, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
Gators wear jean shorts!
By Hairy
May 20, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Gatormike… No one gave u permission to log onto this blog. F*the gators!
By David C
May 20, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Georgia is a good solid well coached team, we are built on good young players, i strongly feel we have enough depth at every position that we can keep guys rested so they can handle this schedule from hell. As long as we stay healthy we are going to be fine!
GOO DAWGS!
By Ed
May 20, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
No need to worry about it because there’s nothing anyone can do to change the situation. Just play each game hard and let the chips fall where they may.
By Steve Spurrier
May 20, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
Wow, GoDawgs701… You REALLY told them!!!
By SwinfordDawg
May 20, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Tiger03
I don’t think you get it. Sure LSU has 5 running backs. Im sure Notre Dame had 5 running backs last year. What i was saying is those backs are at best mediocre. The Running game will be at best decent. For the Run game to open up the pass game it would have to be more than that. Second, Lets just assume that they had top quality running backs like Knowshon Moreno Kaleb king. Even then they would have to have a QB that knows what is going on which obviously LSU does not yet. Now correct me if i’m wrong but i don’t think any of LSU’s current quarterbacks have seen much playing time and for sure have not started a single SEC football game. I calling it now. LSU will struggle offensively for the majority of the year and might shape up in time for a bowl game.
By WestVaJoel
May 20, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Maybe the most difficult schedule in the nation for 2008. Most difficult road schedule for sure and also UGA trying to get to, and win, a conference championship will be an uphill battle. 13 games—I say they lose two games, which would still make it a great season and possibly keep them in the national championship hunt—if they don’t lose late in the season. GO MOUNTAINEERS!
By Pdog
May 20, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
If only we could keep Tennessee under 40 we have a chance! I mean they have only beaten us by an average of 19 points over the last couple of seasons. Oh well. Third straight year to go to Athens feeling the orange crush. Maybe we should wear that boot again, I used to remember beating TN back in the day! But I guess 3-3 after 6 games is pretty good, I mean we do have the toughest schedule in the galaxy! I mean come on guys don’t you know that every summer we are actually crowned the national champions!
By Steve Spurrier
May 20, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Pdog, well said. UGA are ALWAYS national champs in their own minds.
By Steve Spurrier
May 20, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
Whomever is updating this blog needs to be faster. The return time is awful!
By SECCoachnDallas
May 20, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
THE COOTS are the best team in Richland County, S.C. What a joke to the SEC their school has become. Spurrier is winning golf tournaments and not recruiting this year as is obvious by the lack of results so far. He and Jerri are building their retirement home in Florida (not S.C.) and how long do you see him coaching after it is completed? Why would a recruit want to go to SC? They do not go to bowl games, the coach will not be there after this coming season, 20 wins in 3 seasons is their heritage and mediocrity is their their future.
By Hatch Attack
May 20, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
Man I’m glad the pups are overlooking us. I mean yeah we’re the first game out and true our guys are smaller and the fact still remains that we play in the FCS or whatever I-AA is now, but I’d be willing to bet all the money I have, that Michigan did the same thing last year…”Ah its just little ol Georgia Southern from I-AA. We can beat them with our eyes closed with one hand tied behind our backs…”
Hey it maybe wishful thinking on my end, but no one excpeted App to do what they did. And I know for a certainty that no one in the US, particularly in the state of Georgia, thinks that the Eagles have even the slightest chance of knocking off the pups at Sanford, but you never know. Could the pups be 0-1 after Aug. 30?
By Hatch Attack
May 20, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
Man I’m glad the pups are overlooking us. I mean yeah we’re the first game out and true our guys are smaller and the fact still remains that we play in the FCS or whatever I-AA is now, but I’d be willing to bet all the money I have, that Michigan did the same thing last year…”Ah its just little ol Georgia Southern from I-AA. We can beat them with our eyes closed with one hand tied behind our backs…”
Hey it maybe wishful thinking on my end, but no one excpeted App to do what they did. And I know for a certainty that no one in the US, particularly in the state of Georgia, thinks that the Eagles have even the slightest chance of knocking off the pups at Sanford, but you never know. Could the pups be 0-1 after Aug. 30?
By Joe Hamilton - A Tech Man
May 20, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
Could one of my fellow Tech graduates come down and help a brother out by posting my bail? If you help me get my SUV out of impound I will even give you a ride home.
Maybe we could stop off somewhere and have some drinks.
By WarEagle
May 20, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
Someone above just said that LSU has no quarterback with SEC experience shortly after they bragged about Caleb King. I’m not saying he won’t be good (he wooped my HS’s butt), but does anyone else see the contradiction? He hasn’t exactly started an SEC game either.
Let’s keep it at Knowshown until King makes an impact.
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
Hairy:
Didn’t you learn to share when you were a little pup? I guess some Dawg fans never grow up.
By SwinfordDawg
May 20, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
OK WarEagle good point. Well just leave it at Knowshon
By G8R GRAD
May 20, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
78 Dawg:
Get your facts straight. UF’s academic credentials and endowment are head-and-shoulders over UGA’s. Do your homework before you bark, Bulldog boy!
By Spike
May 20, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Hatch Attack.. I want some of that action, before they take you back to the nut house. How much money do you have?
By Herschel
May 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
I am ready to fight Spurrior… Aanytime, anywhere!
both of us are!
By biggest patsy of the year
May 20, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Mr Football mentioned when-funny, dogs start the season two weeks later than others! Hope you lose just one!
By razordawg
May 20, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
just bring it….
By GATORZONE
May 20, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
More than 45 percent of the University of Florida football student athletes earned above a 3.0 grade point average in the 2008 Spring semester, head coach Urban Meyer announced Thursday
By DearingStDawg
May 20, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
War Eagle,
First of all, Georgia is playing Arizona State in TEMPE. LSU played VT in Baton Rouge. That’s obviously a big difference. You might want to check your facts next time.
Also, Auburn was never beating us in the 4th quarter last year. Georgia scored at the end of the 3rd to go up 31-20. Again, you should check your facts. Plus, we scored 2 more times in the 4th and beat Auburn by 25, so in general I wouldn’t bring that game up as an Auburn fan.
Lastly, this goes out to all of the haters; Georgia comes into the 2008 season with an incredibly loaded and talented team. That much is undeniable. Our schedule is also very difficult, with several big home and road games sandwiched together. That too is undeniable. You can hate the fact that we’re ranked so high in the preseason, but when we start winning games, don’t be too suprised.
By Gators2xNationalChamps
May 20, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Georgia fans wear Camouflage jorts!
By Spike
May 20, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
GATORZONE… Any information about bonus points earned on the use of the dead girls credit card?
By kevinhawk247
May 20, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Quote from Steve Spurrier:
78 DAWG, You are clearly living in Fantasy land. Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, Lsu, and an undefeated Auburn team have all won National Championships since the Bulldogs won theirs in 1980!!!
Fact is, Auburn didn’t win the national championship the year they went undefeated. Auburn didn’t even get to play in the championship game because the 2 teams ahead of them in the final poll were also undefeated. Probably should have gotten a shot at it, but reality is, they didn’t. The Citadel on the schedule that year really hurt ‘em.
By georgiagirl
May 20, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
G8R GRAD, KARMA, GATORS FANS, AUBURN FANS AND GAMECOCKS (that choke in the end) please take the time to look in the mirror and know that you are not GOD and can not tell the future. Not one of you knows who will win out or lose just a bunch of a@@es running your mouths. You have 3 months and then we will see who does what. And South Carolina Gamescocks beat UGA 1 time in 6 years and now you are the football gods. You have no life, I am a Georgia fan and could care less what you think about UGA, if you don’t like them or the fans then get the he!! off the UGA blog, go to your own blog, cry babies. CRY US A RIVER, WHO CARES. GO DAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO SEC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By hsf
May 20, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
You dawgs have conveniently forgotten the whipping Tennessee puts on you just about every October. The Vols always look at GA as a “W” on the schedule. So much for your Nat’l Championship if you can’t win the SEC East (see 2007).
By KJ
May 20, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
About time the leghumpers have a schedule like LSU,TN and FL
Yeah, because that’s, like, never happened before.
Idiot.
By MVP
May 20, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
GeorgiaGirl diaper needs changing, And her mutts haven’t won a nc in 27 yrs either and counting….keep crying GeorgiaGirl. CHOKE THE OFFICAL DRINK OF THE GEORGIA BULLDAWGS!
By GATORZONE
May 20, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Georgiagirl. I know it burns your a$$ about the Gamecocks crowing, but you may want to look in the mirror on that issue. Afterall, you did beat Florida for the 4th time in the last 18 years and really barked about it. Also, this is a college football blog. Although most info is about UGA, this is not a specific Bulldog blog.
By jecorey90
May 20, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
To all you other (fans). You are reading a Georgia blog,page, whatever. Respect that fact and take your shoes off before you