Mr. College Football

By Get over it

August 28, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

It’s only funny because you know it’s not far from the truth. Alabama has become a laughing stock. They still long for a coach that’s been dead for 20 years. They still live in a dilusional mindset that they’re still a powerhouse. And let’s face it…they’ve been caught cheating before (just ask Phil Fulmer). Alabama fans should just suck it up. Everyone outside the town of Tusculoosa sees them as the Alabama Crimson Punchline.

By steve

August 28, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this

A sense of humor?Are you kidding me? That was to funny!!2 days to GO!!! Go Dawgs!!!

By Atlanta Gator

August 28, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this

Tony——I agree some folks need to lighten up, especially some of the crazies who frequent these AJC college football blogs. However, the example of Koenning is a bad one. Koenning accused Bama and two of its players of participating illegal recruiting practices. For Koenning to hide behind the “I was only joking” defense says a lot more about his character than it does about his sense of humor, or the sense of humor of any fans. Frankly, it wasn’t funny. If it were true, it should be reported. If not, he should learn what’s funny and what’s not. Generally speaking, impugning another person’s integrity is not considered the basis for belly laughs.

By Jumbo

August 28, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this

Good point Tony. Head coaches have become more and more restrictive of the assistants and players being available to the media. It does hurt the fans but I can see why they do it. These coaches are under alot of pressure and can’t afford to have any distractions especially during game week.

By Roswell Ed

August 28, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

So, your writing about it, what does that say about you? Go figure?

By Hootie Bookems

August 28, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

I actually agree with Tony. Ligthen up people.

By rpdan

August 28, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

The problem is, that the NCAA recently put Alabama on severe probation based on accusations and innuendo of this sort without more proof. Evidently, accusations like this is all it takes to be found guilty (Unless you are USC). The NCAA isn’t like the US court system. There is no standard of proof. This has resulted in Alabama enduring embarrassing losing streaks for almost a decade while trying to get back to full strength. No laughing matter.

By reality check

August 28, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

Never heard of Vic Koenning before now.

I think a sense of humor is highly overated when it comes to football.

On a related matter I just heard that Nick Saban is only going to dress half his players for the Clemson game.

The other half are able to dress themselves.

By Dallas Dawg

August 28, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

Gee Tony, I figured you would be bright enough to figure out why this might upset the people in Alabama considering what they have gone through the last 8 years.

I was at UGA when Robert Edwards was driving a nice shiny ride, we students alsways wondered where that came from considering he came from from a well publicsized poor family with 15 or so siblings.

Go to the mirror Tony and ask yourself where does this stuff happen, YOU KNOW, you have seen it first hand.

I’ll be the first to step up as a UGA alumni, we do it, thay do it, everyone does it. Deal with it, thats the way it is!

GATA Go Dawgs

By TM

August 28, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

Bama should take it as a compliment. They are getting some good players and Vic was just saying they have two of the highest quality recruits. Simple as that. Lighten up! Have a sense of humor!

By Jumbo

August 28, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

I agree too that he should not have said it as that was dumb. It just creates problems for Bama which is uncalled for. Geaux Tigers!

By Dallas Dawg

August 28, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Get over it, you a douche!

By Dallas Dawg

August 28, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Get over it, you a douche!

By Dallas Dawg

August 28, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Get over it, you a douche!

By Jim

August 28, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Tony-

Would you have written the article if it was a joke about UGA? I think it would have been front page AJC.

Actually it was a stupid thing for him to say no matter who it was about or who he the coach for

By SecIsFootball

August 28, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Tony….while I agree this was taken a bit too far, I agree with Atlanta Gator in that if Koenning or any other coach wants to be funny, dont do so at the expense of a college freshman by calling their integrity into question. Alabama is coming off of a probation that set the program back pretty far as it was supposed to and was justified. The school has been working hard to clean the program up and for a professional coach to call 2 players into question to try and be funny is, well, not very funny.

By Flibbetigibbet

August 28, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Koenning’s comment was most likely true. Alabama boosters have been shelling out cash and cars like they were Monopoly money and Hot Wheels over the last couple of years. Too bad he didn’t stand by the allegations, but it’s just a matter of time before all the shenanigans in Alabama catch up with UAT.

By Alfonzo S. Tangerine

August 28, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

“The problem is, that the NCAA recently put Alabama on severe probation based on accusations and innuendo of this sort without more proof.”

Logan Young was convicted in federal court of buying Albert Means for Alabama. That goes way beyond “innuendo.” How much more proof do you bammies require?

By Another Ed

August 28, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

The issue really is that nobody has a sense of humor any more. It does not matter the group or who says what, someone is offended. This is not only in sports, the same is true in politics or matters of faith. Some people simply cannot take a joke.

By dorsey hill

August 28, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

first, its not surprising to find bammers a little sensitive when it comes to this topic given the recent issues with the NCAA and the resultant mediocrity. Second, calling into question two kids character is not a good or smart move. Vigor highs coach has stated that this guy won’t be allowed back on campus.

By tech-hater

August 28, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Rammer jammer, yellowhammer,

5-10 in the slammer!

Parole, Tide, Parole !!

By Bobbyb

August 28, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

Flibbetigibbet , You must be an aubbie. You tell me what college doesn’t have boosters that dole out money and tell me how your players have nice cars, not working , etc. It’s not just bama. It’s all of the schools you idiot

By Eric1

August 28, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Is it barely possible that he really did see those players driving away in luxury cars? I certainly wouldn’t be shocked. What does surprise me is that Saban may not be able to attend the game this weekend. It seems he broke his leg when he fell out of the tree where he was raking leaves. How could he be so careless. War Eagle!!

By saint nick

August 28, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

I listen to the radio all day everyday in Bama, and NOONE cares about this idiot that should have kept his mouth shut. Actually I am glad he started running his mouth, a lot of HS coaches in the Mobile area are telling Bowden to keep his staff away from there respective schools. That means that more of the top players stay at home at UA or AU. Hey Alfonzo, Albert means didn’t play at Bama!!!The dead guy your referring to, TRIED to get him to Bama. If you don’t think boosters at YOUR school isn’t giving $100 handshakes, you are an idiot!!!!! It goes on at EVERY schools. Cars are not being bought, its CASH for good play!!!!!!!!!!!!!This is true at EVERY major school in the country. The NCAA just picks and chooses which schools to hammer, i.e. Tennessee with Tee Martin, Notre Dame with that old woman saying that she payed some players, USC(no explanation needed), the list goes on and on. It’s a great joke until your school is “starring down the barrel” as the NCAA so put it.

By Oh My!

August 28, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

My only complaint is that football players need to be more fuel conscious. I think a Vespa makes more sense.

By alex

August 28, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Wow, Tony, you’re usually a fairly smart guy, but this article shows your naivete on several fronts.

First, your own industry, the media, is more responsible for our current state of affairs than anything. Sportwriters are now “agenda makers” instead of reporters. Reporters are looking to make a name for themselves at any cost. Yes, the internet allows it to be fueled, but you guys are the ones that perpetuate it.

Second, when you say past comments would have barely caused a ripple…are you in a coma? That’s EXACTLY how these stories become big. Coach X doesn’t want to say anything directly negative about a school or program, so he “insinuates” a certain act or behavior has taken place, then comes back later and says he was joking. Koenning was following the script to a T, and you should know that.

Third, you didn’t state the obvious in this particular story…Koenning was SHUT OUT in recruiting in South Alabama. How about mentioning the potential for sour grapes. These guys are competitive you know.

Other than this article, Tony, keep up the good work.

• Alex Smith

By KR

August 28, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

It was a pretty stupid comment to make. It doesn’t deserve the attention it’s getting, but that’s the way of the world these days.

But I have to wonder: should a coach from Clemson even be making comments like that? The old saying “People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones…” comes to mind.

I, for one, am looking forward to tonight’s matchup. Finally, we can see which teams can actually back up their fans’ talk.

By joe

August 28, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Tony,

I for one, have not lost my sense of humor. I find it hilarious that bama still has to deal with the ramifications of getting caught, then fanning those flames by claiming Fulmer, Spurrier, and Tuberville conspired against them by turning them in to the NCAA. Their only argument is claiming everyone does it and they were somehow singled out from the other 119 D1 teams. Oh my sides hurt from laughing so much…

By Roswell Ed

August 28, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

I AM THE REAL ROSWELL ED!!!

Quit using my name you goober.

That other guy is an idiot living in his grandmothers basement because his mom kicked him out.

Humor is an art…those comments were not artistic. They were easy and a cheap laugh. Were’nt there pics of a clempson player circulating last year with him in a limo with wads of cash? Also, poor timing. Don’t rile up the team that has potentially less talent. Now it’s personal.

By SecIsFootball

August 28, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Eric1…being an Aub, I know you are hoping that is the case, arent you. Pretty sad!

By TXinGADawg

August 28, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Well said, Atlanta Gator. The tone of some of the vitriol on these blogs is disturbing. And, as mentioned, Koenning’s off the cuff comment speaks volumes about his character. “I was just joking”, that is what the meek do when the spotlight turns back on them to substantiate their opinions/comments. Weak.

By Another Ed

August 28, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Hey Saint Nick

I do believe Means did start out at ‘Bama and then went to Memphis.

I do agree that there are rogue boosters out there giving out cash here and there and there is no way it can be governed. That does not mean everyone should try to get away with it.

By saint nick

August 28, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Point being, NOONE cares in the Bama nation what this sour A$$ had to say, whats sad is he had to blow up the blogs to be relevent. Clemson will get dusted Sat. 31-20. Football season begins tonight, with Stephanus Maximus and the Lamecocks, Time to shutup and putup.

By Dave

August 28, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Alabama is a team just coming off probation I have no doubt another team joking about something like that is like rubbing salt in an open sore. This is just plain dumb for an opposing coach to give the other team bulletin board material so close to a game when this team has had problems beating SEC teams.

By Colonial Dawg

August 28, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

At the risk of having my “Dawghood” questioned I have to agree with Atlanta Gator. He should choose his topics a little more carefully.

To Flibbetigibbet- my wife uses this word all the time. I am glad to finally know how it is spelled.

2 days, 2 hours, and 10 minutes

By bamafan

August 28, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

The Clemson coach was stupid for telling the reporters the joke in the first place. Saban did the same thing about 18 months ago about the LSU fans from lower LA. Auburn fans should not throw barb’s against Bama, who has been on probation more!! EASY ANSWER, THE COW COLLEGE HAS AND WAS ON PROBATION IN 57 WHEN THEY WON THE NATIONAL TITLE!! All fans from other schools will point to Bama is cheating again from this stupid joke from the clemson coach. The bad thing is the 2 players in question have to hear about this stupid story from the media and fans for a long time!! ROLL TIDE!!

By TrueCrimson

August 28, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

I can laugh at it. It doesn’t bother me. The problem is with “journalists” such as Josh Moon and Paul Finebaum trying to make a living as muckrakers. That, and the fact that the Internet has given a public voice to so many doofuses that couldn’t make it through their public school system.

And you guys want to deride Coach Saban for trying to keep his coaches and players away from these scum-bucket “journalists”.

We live in a Jerry Springer society. It’s a sad state of affairs, but what can you do?

By Monty

August 28, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

“Bulletin board” material is way overrated. I’m a Bammer but I don’t see how this guy’s comments have any affect on the game. I hope our players were practicing this week and planning to play the game at 100% effort — whether he made these comments or not. Pregame hype is exactly that — hype.

Tide beats Clemson 31-13 with or without these comments.

RTR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By FLA DAWG

August 28, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

I don’t know Koenning and I would be the last to want to defend a Clemson man but what’s the big deal? Most jokes are based in some truth - so it would seem in this case.

Instead of Koenning having to be politically correct sports writers and newspeople need to stop being ridiculous over every word a coach or player utters.

By TrueCrimson

August 28, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Sense of Humor Test:

A small zoo in Auburn, Alabama obtained a very rare species of gorilla. Within a few weeks the gorilla, a female, became very difficult to handle. Upon examination, the veterinarian determined the problem. The gorilla was in heat. To make matters worse, there was no male gorilla available.

Thinking about their problem, the Zoo Keeper thought of Bobby Lee Walton, a part-time worker attending college in Auburn who was responsible for cleaning the animal cages. The Zoo Keeper thought they might have a solution. Bobby Lee was approached with a proposition. Would he be willing to mate with the gorilla for $500.00?

Bobby Lee showed some interest, but said he would have to think the matter over carefully. The following day, he announced that he would accept their offer, but only under five conditions:

‘First’, Bobby Lee said, ‘I ain’t gonna kiss her on the lips.’ The Keeper quickly agreed to this condition.

‘Second’, he said, ‘She must wear a ‘Dale Earnhardt Forever’ T-Shirt.’ The keeper again readily agreed to this condition.

‘Third’, he said, ‘You can’t never tell no one about this.’ The keeper again readily agreed to this condition.

‘Fourth’, Bobby Lee said, ‘I want all the children raised Southern Baptist.’ Once again it was agreed.

‘And last,’ Bobby Lee said, ‘I’ll need another week to come up with the $500.00.’

RTR!!!

By Rob

August 28, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

I gotta agree. I think for people to get so up in arms about his comments is a little much. ‘bama should be using it for motivation. How boring would it be if these teams behaved like Ivy League schools? We all need to lighten up.

By TM

August 28, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

If this really did hurt the poor wittle Crimson Tide’s feelings, what about the master trash-talker Ole Ball Coach Spurrier? His comments from the past,present, and futre would make Vic’s seem like a compliment. Can they handle it when King Visor lays down a touchy comment or two?

By dawgeatvol

August 28, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

It became an issue because the journalist decided to print it, instead of recognizing it for the joke (albeit a bad one) that it was. If coaches are going to clam up and give “yes” or “no” answers to the media, rest assured it has little to do with the reaction of fan bases to some comment. More than anything it has to do with the fact that the media has the scoop mentality and will print anything to sell papers.

By bama12titles

August 28, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

As a Bama fan I can tell you that nobody in the state really cares much what this guy said. Its not a big deal to us but I do feel bad that this adult decided to impugn the character of 2 teenagers for what he said was “a joke”.

As for UGA and Auburn fans poking fun at Bamas probation ills in the 2000s let me say that those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw rocks. Need I remind you of the lack of institional control in the Harrick run basketball program at UGA. Everyone has their share of $100 handshake boosters and its impossible to keep tabs on what hundreds if not thousands of boosters are doing. At least in our case it was 2 out of control boosters without the school’s knowledge as opposed to the actual coaches themselves doing the cheating like at UGA.

Lastly, the facts according to the NCAA scoreboard still show that BAMA has suffered under 2 major infractions cases while UGA and Auburn are both tied for 3rd with several other schools at 6 major infractions cases. You should learn something before you run your mouth about someone elses NCAA troubles.

By bamafan26

August 28, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

i’ve been a diehard bama fan my whole life. i say it all the time, it’s a lesson in humility. i don’t know of any of my other bama fans that think we’re still a powerhouse by any means. his comments hit on a pretty touchy subject, and were just made in poor taste, or were at least delivered as such. The Bear was an absolute legend, and a great coach, but is dead. I think Bama fans hang on to him so much because he was who he was and because he was so successful, and we’ve had very very little success since 93. It’s hard to go from being used to always being a contender to seeing the program drop to what it is today. Hopefully Saban is the real deal. What Shula did to the program is an absolute ambarassment.

By The Realist

August 28, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Hey Tony, what if someone called you a child molestor. It would p** you off wouldnt it. Think about what this says about the players at Bama. I am sure they are p** off, too. If I were one of thier parents, I would be visiting an attourney and suing Koenning’s but off. That is the problem these days….the media doesnt respect anyone, and therefore the American public follows suit.

By Fort Worth Dawg

August 28, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Florida, Auburn, Clemson, Tennessee: Rednecks turn orange in the fall. No sense of humor, indeed.

By Ben

August 28, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

I am in the sports radio biz and the reporter who asked Vic that question is on my show every week. I asked him about it today and there is no question it was toungue in cheek. He told me all you had to do was see his facial expression and that would be evident. Should he have said it? Probably not, but this has gotten ridiculous. If I were Konning, I would make my answers yes, no, or no comment from this point on.

By Mark

August 28, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

It’s always been very obvious that the AJC has nothing but malevolence for Alabama going back to the Bisher vs. Bryant days and up to the newspapers conduct during Alabama’s recent troubles with the NCAA. Fact: The NCAA said that it was unprecedented for a college team to be penalized so severely for booster related violations. Fact: It is still unprecedented, leading to the conclusion that Alabama is held to a higher standard. Fact: The AJC covered every salacious detail while having one article about a head coach at GT paying players directly. In reality your paper participated in the media circus surrounding Alabama football during that time. The University of Alabama and it’s fans will always take any accusations seriously after being penalized so severely for violations that had nothing to do with any University employees or even anyone who had ever attended Alabama. Also for all those that say Alabama fans live in the past. Its very simple, those who have no tradition despise those who do. Sorry

By Paladawg

August 28, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Aw, lighten up, folks. After all, this is a CLEMSON guy saying something stupid. Need I say more?

By Mark

August 28, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Tony,

Of course you are wrong. Good ol Vic waited several hours before he stated “It was just a joke”, I cheap shot that Saban handled with class that Alabama football now has. He could of shot back like most other SEC coach would have done, but soon all SEC and other conferences will not “joke” with the tide.

By Scott138

August 28, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

The Clemson faithful would have been upset if Saban had insinuated that Clemson had to basicly Buy Bowers for him to be there. Maybe people are a bit too sensative but don’t think that it doesnt apply accross the board.

By accidentalfriend

August 28, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

I have a funny feeling the real answer to this question will be worked out on Saturday evening in the Georgia Dome. Let’s just pretend that the outcome of the game will settle this issue as to who has a good sense of humor or not. Don’t be surprised if the answer turns out to be; “Be careful what you say before you play the game. It might be the difference in getting your butt kicked over something you said as a joke.” Only it won’t be a joke any longer! The real question is, why would any coach give another team such ammunition all because they had something to prove? A whole hopeful (Clemson) season gets ruined because of their coach’s big fat mouth! Clemson doesn’t even see it coming, but I’ll bet you he (Koenning) NEVER does it again.

By Paladawg

August 28, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark, how do you think Dawg people feel about the incessant racial rantings of Terrence Moore? Or the constant snide remarks - apparently considered humorous - by Jeff Schultz? Or the fact that NATS received more coverage of their CO-National Championship in 1991 than UGA did for an undisputed title in 1980? Face it, if UGA had eleven players declared academically ineligible all at once, or one indicted by a federal grand jury for drug trafficking, or a couple that beat up a GIRL in a pizza parlor, the AJC would put it on page A1 above the fold. And we’ve ben enduring such tripe for decades - the way that AJC treated Eric Zeier and David Greene during their record-breaking careers is absolutely shameful. Any quarterback from NATS with such qualifications would have been hyped for the Heisman on a daily basis.

By Dogs#1=sec down this year?

August 28, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

humor…I laugh every time I hear a dog barking about being the NC.

ps…better try hard this year….both Talladega guy and Proshawn might be gone.

By iTide

August 28, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

Ha Ha, good one “Get Over It”. “Bama has been caught cheating before, just ask Phil Fulmer” Wait, I can’t ask Fat Phil, he knows nothing. Remember he claims he never spoke with the NCAA. Oh yes, and he would not testify under oath so he took a $10,000 fine.
Bottom line is that it was not a very funny joke. I understand he was just kidding around but that is not funny after being on probation for 5 years. Yes, you Georgia, Auburn, Tennessee, and Florida fans point fingers and laugh now but your time will surely come. When it does, it is not fun watching your team and school suffer. We sometimes forget it is a game of young men. Jokes that could potentially hurt them or their education are not all that funny.

By jaylissa

August 28, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Ha Ha, good one “Get Over It”. “Bama has been caught cheating before, just ask Phil Fulmer” Wait, I can’t ask Fat Phil, he knows nothing. Remember he claims he never spoke with the NCAA. Oh yes, and he would not testify under oath so he took a $10,000 fine.
Bottom line is that it was not a very funny joke. I understand he was just kidding around but that is not funny after being on probation for 5 years. Yes, you Georgia, Auburn, Tennessee, and Florida fans point fingers and laugh now but your time will surely come. When it does, it is not fun watching your team and school suffer. We sometimes forget it is a game of young men. Jokes that could potentially hurt them or their education are not all that funny.

By Chris

August 28, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

I see Georgia fans are still mad they have been mired in mediocrate for so long. Don’t hate on Alabama we have more national titles than Georgia does conference championships. Your just mad because we are almost back and you can’t stand it. All programs cheat, there are the caught and uncaught get a life. Roll Tide

By High Tide

August 28, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Ha Ha, good one “Get Over It”. “Bama has been caught cheating before, just ask Phil Fulmer” Wait, I can’t ask Fat Phil, he knows nothing. Remember he claims he never spoke with the NCAA. Oh yes, and he would not testify under oath so he took a $10,000 fine.
Bottom line is that it was not a very funny joke. I understand he was just kidding around but that is not funny after being on probation for 5 years. Yes, you Georgia, Auburn, Tennessee, and Florida fans point fingers and laugh now but your time will surely come. When it does, it is not fun watching your team and school suffer. We sometimes forget it is a game of young men. Jokes that could potentially hurt them or their education are not all that funny.

By Frank

August 28, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

It is amazing how jealous everyone else still is over the unprecedented dominance Alabama had over college football and particularly southern football in the 1960’s through 1970’s. Virtually every school has been on probation, Alabama the most recent. Auburn has been on probation more than every other school in the SEC. Why else whould anyone want to play (or even visit) there? Problem with Koenning’s “joke” if you read what he actually said was that “he was serious” during the middle of his “joke”. Why wouldn’t you take someone as serious when they stand up in a press conference and say that they are serious?

By Diamond Dawg

August 28, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Tony,

The problem was that it just wasn’t funny. If the joke would have been “ha, ha” funny, then no problem. He’s obviously no Chris Rock.

I believe you can still have a sense of humor, as long as it’s a good one, but this isn’t something to joke about. I think you’re way off base here.

By chris

August 28, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

If the comments are just a joke and we Alabama fans should just lighten up; let’s see what kind of cars C.J. Spiller and James Davis are driving. Lets have Koennig tell what kind of cars his players are driving. Remember its just a joke!!! What kind of car does Cullen Harper have. Remember its just a joke. I guarantee Koennig will not diclose that information, but why not we are all just joking!!!!!!

By 2ID

August 28, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Tony, You can’t hide your anti-Alabama setiment.

By Bamaman

August 28, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Tony, The problem with Vic is that, much like many of us, he just doesn’t know how to tell a joke correctly. As an Alabama Fan and Alum I still cherish Lou Holtz remark when he was at South Carolina and preparing to play Alabama (shortly after we went on probation): “It is going to be a really tough one to have any chance of a win” To which a sports-writer asked him why when Alabama was hobbled by probation. His reply was a classic “They don’t put you on probation for buying bad players!” You gotta love Lou.

By DP

August 28, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Hey Tony, my guess is that Koenning’s comment was pretty funny to you because you’re an old white guy who grew up in the South and the two 18 year olds whose character he impugned were athletically talented black kids and you assumed they probably didn’t have any character anyway.

By rc

August 28, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Frank was right, in the middle of his accusation he paused and said he was serious,but the main point is those kids do not have Ecalades or anything close,hell B.J. Scott had a 80 cutlass that got stole.Why would a grown man, who is supposed to be a role model to the kids he coaches just outright lie for no reason? And Tony, we all know why you dont want the assistant coaches quiet, this is why , give you more attention and stupid shT to write about for the UGA and AUBBO idiots. You UGA and Aubbos are the last teams on earth that should talk about anyone, your still overhyped wannabees. Roll Tide AHOLES!!!

By Ed Tolley

August 28, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Somehow I am going to become involved in this problem in Athens. It’s inevitable.

By jcamp12

August 28, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Tony, You failed to mention the recruits that vic was talking about! what did they do wrong? It was very unprofessional,and if this happened to UGA players, with them being ranked #1, front page news!

By DP

August 28, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Hey Tony, since you don’t seem to be up to doing any real reporting on the upcoming Clemson-Alabama game in town, I’ll point the readers of this blog to a story on one of the guys who will apparently be starting at linebacker for Clemson on Saturday night because Tommy Bowden has recommended that he not be suspended for choking, punching and throwing his girlfriend down a flight of stairs this summer.

http://www.thestate.com/tigers/story/505059.html

No wonder Koenning wants to talk about the other team’s players.

By PCnATL

August 28, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Get over it - If the Tide is such a punchline, why is the Clemson / Alabama ticket the toughest ticket in the history of the GA Dome (Super Bowl included)? It’s not because of Clemson, I assure you. It’s because Alabama is more relevant after a 7-6 season than Georgia or Georgia Tech could ever be. Even in GA.

By LAtider

August 28, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Now you might understand why “meanie” Saban has his assit. coaches off limits to the media!!

By The Truth

August 28, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

All these Bammers are just looking for a reason to get pumped up, because the rest of their pathetic season will be a joke. They are putting their hopes on a team lead by some pretty boy that spends more time tryin to get his hair primped right so he looks good in a helmet, rather than kick’n butt. I mean how does this kid even start? How many big games has Bammer dropped with this kid? I can not wait until Saturday. Clemson is going to drop a dime on those chumps. Focker out.

By Pitbull

August 28, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

I used to have a sense of humor about college football.

I remember when Danny Ford was the Clemson coach and they were really good. I thought the joke was funny about the Clemson IPTAY Club standing for:

Its Probation Time Again Ya’ll.

That was clever.

I remember my favorite Auburn joke:

What are the three most common lies told by Auburn fans?

I own my own trailer.

I didn’t know she was my sister.

Honest officer, I was just helping the pig get over the fence.

That was stupid and harmless too.

However, the AJC did a lot to kill my college football sense of humor the Sunday morning they published the headline: Dogs Put In Their Place.

That was the last AJC I ever bought.

Now I hate the AJC more than any Georgia opponent except Tech.

By Maniac is accurate

August 28, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Q: Are college football fans losing their sense of humor?

A: No, they’re still showing up for games at Vandy and Duke, right?

By Maniac is accurate

August 28, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Q: Are college football fans losing their sense of humor?

A: “Hey Get over it - If the Tide is such a punchline, why is the Clemson / Alabama ticket the toughest ticket in the history of the GA Dome (Super Bowl included)? It’s not because of Clemson, I assure you. It’s because Alabama is more relevant after a 7-6 season than Georgia or Georgia Tech could ever be. Even in GA.”

OOOOH, stop. Ha ha. Can’t … breath … WHOOO HA HA HA! Gasp … HA! … gasp … oh, my goodness, ha ha ha ha.

By Dean Tate

August 28, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

If the following story had been about a Georgia player, Jeff Shultz and Terence Moore would have been calling for his crucifixion:

CLEMSON — Clemson sophomore linebacker DeAndre McDaniel likely has cleared the final hurdle to avoiding suspension for his criminal charge.

School president James Barker and athletics director Terry Don Phillips have signed off on coach Tommy Bowden’s recommendation not to suspend McDaniel, according to a source with knowledge of the situation.

There remains a chance the university still could decide to punish McDaniel, so his status for Saturday’s opener against No. 24 Alabama has yet to be finalized.

An announcement could come Friday.

McDaniel was arrested June 21 after an altercation with his girlfriend at his off-campus apartment. According to the incident report, Abra Weeks, 19, alleged McDaniel choked her, punched her and shoved her down a flight of stairs. He was charged with assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature.

Last Friday, he was accepted into a pretrial intervention program for first-time offenders that will expunge the charge if he completes its stipulations

By DisneyDawg

August 28, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Pitbull,

What game did that AJC headline refer to? I don’t get the paper down here in FL so I missed that one, apparently. That just makes me see the AJC in a more negative light than I already did.

By Pitbull

August 28, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

It was the Georgia - Tennessee game 2 or 3 years ago. Coach Richt had stated prior to the game that we might not deserve the high national rating we had at the time.

Tennessee had a great night against us. We did not look good in that game, but to our credit we bounced back from that loss to have a great season.

The AJC sports editor who wrote that demeaning headline was just an arse and apparently had never learned that you do not poop where you eat. A lot of Georgia people I know quit buying the AJC after that headline.

By DisneyDawg

August 28, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

That explains why it got by me. That game disturbed me so much I didn’t read the paper the next day. The AJC has really taken a tumble since I moved away in the mid 90’s. I used to brag o my friends that the Orlando Sentinel was bird cage liner compared to the AJC. No longer true…

By DisneyDawg

August 28, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

Maniac is accurate,

I highly doubt that a ticket to the Bama-Clemson game is stirring up the interest you claim. Bigger than the Super Bowl? Come on, now. I don’t particularly like pro football, but I was working at the Marriott during the first Super Bowl, and I saw the money being spent on scalpers’ tickets. Even accounting for inflation, there’s no way this game is producing that kind of revenue.

Bama might be far improved over last year- that remains to be seen. But they are as boring as their uniforms. I said it before and I’ll say it now: watching the Tide play football is like watching the tide in the ocean- nothing spectacular.

By TigerDawg

August 28, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

What irks me are the fans who respond as such:

A player violates a rule with a weapon and a) he’s from a rival. “They’ve lost control of their program. The kid should be kicked of the team. Coach should resign.” b) he’s on of ours. “It wasn’t that big a gun. Suspend him for a half. What about what that kid did at our rival?”

A player gets into some alchohol trouble and a) he’s from a rival. “They’ve lost control of their program. The kid should be kicked of the team. Coach should resign.” b) he’s one of ours. “Did he submit to a blood alcohol test? How much do they really have on him? What about what that kid did at our rival?”

Fans can’t decide what punishment fits the offense until they know what team the offender plays for. Just grow some and say what you really know is right!

By RTR

August 28, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

People seen to forget that both Hershel Walker and his sister were both driving new cars @ UGA. I believe that both of them were either Trans-Ams or Cameros. Not bad for 2 kids from a sharecroppers family. Still stupid for anyone, especially another coach who recruits in the same area, to make those comments.

By statesboro dawg

August 28, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Tony, have you taken to the bottle again. I thought you may have learned your lesson after your poor Sugar and NC game coverage in New Orleans last year, but apparently you have recently killed off more brain cells.

I would ask that your comments be consistent. A couple of months ago, an internet report surfaced in Texas saying the Oklahoma QB was busted for cocaine abuse. The writer of that article claimed he was only “joking”, but you went on and on with nothing but negative things to say about the incident. Now if that were so serious, then this should be as well. Otherwise, both incidents are jokes and you need to come down off your high horse.

By War Eagle

August 28, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

Alabama is most nonsense fans in America(with exception of bamafan), they have no sense of values, just TRY to win at all cost..Coach Bryant was a great coach and would turn over in his grave if he could vision the attitude and rubbish Bama fans have demonstrated last 10 years of losing.Last year at Auburn my son was spit on and fingered by a Bama fan who shouts, “hope you die before you get home, you lucky M* F**. This is probably isolation comment, but Bama has scores of isolated comments down through the years..

By goodhumor

August 28, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

sense of humor abound for college football……tech is still classified as division I ..now thats funny…gator fans will all wear diapers to the ga.-fla. game in honor of the filming of look who’s talking 3..starring urban meyer as the…infant……and alabama and clemson in the ga. dome..why the two teams’ cheerleader will be herded in by cowboys….as for ohio state fans …just another slap in the face as two losses to sec powerhouses the last 2 years leaves them behind the newest sec powerhouse in the polls..the university of georgia…plus lou holtz no sniffs glue predicting on espn that notre dame could go undefeated…bowden and paterno will meet at year’s end in the nursing home bowl sponsored by the senior senior aarp members….meeechigan will not have to face a div Iaa team this year……and finally last..but…not least…the university of maine is not on southern california’s schedule for a change…enjoy the season college fans

By ga. fan

August 28, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

easy now war eagle…alabama will probably beat clemson as nick saban announced that elvis presley and bear bryant will be calling plays for him…go dawgs..and go war eagles except for one week

By rtr a techie

August 28, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

rtr …we know your a tech fan…..your football knowledge gives it away…herschel later bought a trans-am from the smokey and the bandit set..sold it for millions and is about to buy the trade school from his investment returns over the past 28 years and turn it into a parking lot…go back to your chess game nerd then wake up a build a choo choo train in your first core class at tech

By buy the ajc?

August 29, 2008 6:57 AM | Link to this

you won’t have to buy the ajc after the elections the democrats will pay for it to be sent to every household in the state!