AJC > Sports > Blog > Archives > 2008 > December > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFlorida edges Alabama in an instant classic
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Well, here at the end we finally managed to pick a few games right. Georgia Tech did upset Georgia and Clemson did upset South Carolina so we were able to finish 9-1 which gives us an overall record of 92-48. Not great, but it has been that kind of season.
It’s hard to believe that December is here and we’re getting ready to watch one of the biggest games in SEC history. For all of my friends who want a playoff, No. 1 Alabama against No. 4 Florida is about as close to a national semifinal as you can get.
It should be fun, so let’s get right to the final edition of the Fearless Friday Forecast for 2008.
1. SEC championship: Alabama (12-0) vs. Florida (11-1): It is really tempting to pick Alabama because the Crimson Tide is an underdog as the No. 1 team in the nation. The Alabama players have been hearing all week about all of that great Florida speed and Tim Tebow and Urban Meyer, etc., etc. If I’m an Alabama player I want to shout: “Hey, we’re giving out scholarships, too!” Alabama is a very good football team and Nick Saban should be the national coach of the year for what he has done with this team. He and his staff have gotten every ounce of production out of Alabama’s talent.
But folks, Florida is really, really good. They woke up after the Ole Miss loss and started playing better than anybody in the country. I think they win not because of all that speed, but because of their defense and special teams. They lead the nation in turnover margin (plus-21). They have blocked eight kicks this season. I love the way Alabama has been able to impose their will on other teams because they are so strong up front on both sides of the ball. In the Dome, however, speed has the slight edge on power. This will come down to a big turnover or a big play on the special teams. Florida 21, Alabama 17.
2. ACC championship: Virginia Tech (8-4) vs. Boston College (9-3): For the second straight year these teams will meet for the conference title. Virginia Tech won a year ago but this year I think Boston College has the edge. Both teams will be very conservative because they have young quarterbacks and Top 10 defenses. Virginia Tech’s Tyrod Taylor is pretty special when he doesn’t turn the ball over. Ditto for Dominique Davis, who will be filling in for the injured Chris Crane at Boston College. Check the turnovers by the quarterbacks at the end of this game. That will be the difference. Boston College 14, Virginia Tech 10.
3. Big 12 Championship: Oklahoma (11-1) vs. Missouri (9-3): Missouri is in the Big 12 championship game with Oklahoma for the second straight year. And the Tigers are going to get beat again because QB Chase Daniel (3,880 yards, 34 TD), as good as he is, can’t keep up with Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford (4,080 yards, 46 TD), who will probably lock down the Heisman Trophy in this game tonight. Oklahoma is also playing for a spot in the BCS championship game. Both teams are awful against the pass. Oklahoma’s pass defense is ranked No. 98 while Missouri is 116. Both teams will score a lot of points. But nobody can keep up with the Sooners, who lead the nation in scoring (53.3 ppg). Oklahoma 52, Missouri 31.
4.Conference USA championship: East Carolina (8-4) at Tulsa (10-2): It’s been over 30 years since East Carolina has won any kind of conference championship but the Pirates of Skip Holtz really have their hands full today. Only Oklahoma has averaged more points per game this season than Tulsa (49.33 ppg). The Golden Hurricane offense is simply impossible to get off the field as they have converted 59 percent of third downs. Quarterback David Johnson has six games where he has thrown for four touchdowns or more. East Carolina QB Patrick Pinkney is good, having completed 70 percent of this passes in three of his last four games. But the Pirates just won’t be able to keep pace. Tulsa 45, East Carolina 31.
5. Southern Cal (10-1) at UCLA (4-7): Two years ago UCLA upset Southern Cal to knock the Trojans out of the BCS championship game. Today the Bruins can knock Southern Cal out of Rose Bowl date with Penn State. It’s not going to happen. In fact, look for Pete Carroll’s team to put a pretty significant number on UCLA because they believe (incorrectly) that they still have an outside shot at the BCS championship game. Southern Cal may have the best defense in the country but a bad schedule and a loss to Oregon State way back on Sept. 25 will keep them out of the big game. Southern Cal 52, UCLA 14.
Comments
By Chance
December 5, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this
You are correct, Mr. College Football. The game WILL hinge on a special teams play…namely a TD return by Javier Arenas to break the Gators back late in the 4th. ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!!
By John H.
December 5, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this
I see the Tide scoring a TD late in the game too - against the Gator’s 3rd string D. Too much speed, too much talent. Gators roll over Tide 38-16. Say, it’s GREAT to be a FLORIDA GATOR!
By So, what happens...
December 5, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
…if Oklahoma loses to Mizzou - since the BCS says a team that does not win its conference cannot go the the title game, doesn’t that leave TX out? So does USC get a jump over everyone and get into the game? Or, do we get a re-match of the AL v UF game?
By JP
December 5, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this
So, what happens, there is no rule that says a team that doens’t play in a conference championship game cannot play in the national championship, they clarified that this year
By SimpleDawg
December 5, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this
The Tide will swamp the gaytors, the Sooners will lower the boom on Mizzou, and you can bet that the Trojans will stick it to the Bruins….the other 2 games are like Diego Garcia - yes we know it’s there, but no one cares. UGA vs MSU - a rematch of Dooley’s last game. Same result - Dawgs roll !
By IM4BAMA
December 5, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
Good monring all,
Why can’t it be Saturday already? Will it ever get here?
By Nachos
December 5, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
Thank you for picking UF Tony Jabroni! RTR
By John H.
December 5, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
OK with so much on the line will not lose this weekend. If they did, USC should go to the title game but more than likely Texas would go.
By The man that made ROSWELL ED famous
December 5, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this
Just curious and went to stunhub to see what the prices for the SEC and ACC championship tickets are.
ACC tickets range from $27-$179
SEC tickets range from 455-$1183
WOW!!
My guess is that again this year there will be a lot of fans dressed as empty seats at the ACC game again.
Will they blame it on location AGAIN?
By Scott Wallace
December 5, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
What is Nachos prediction for the SEC Championship?
By Jason Cyrus Ohanian
December 5, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this
Uh one team slowed down OU, and even beat them, and that is the Texas Longhorns who got screwed most specifically by the Big 12, and to a lesser degree the BCS.
Hopefully at least your AP champs. Merry Christmass and God bless y’all.
By Buzz
December 5, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this
SEC fans must be the only ones stupid enough to pay $1183 to see a football game!
By IM4BAMA
December 5, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
Nacho is being sarcastic; he’s thanking Tony for picking Florida because Tony is usually wrong.
By NEXT#13
December 5, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
WHAT NACHOS SAID!!!RRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL TIDE RRRROOOOOLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By GatorG
December 5, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Yeah, I was pretty confident the Gators were going to win this game until Tony picked us!
By Mikey
December 5, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
This lifelong UGA fan and lifelong gator hater says roll tide roll…
By brian
December 5, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this
No Army Navy prediction? tsk tsk.
By TheMan
December 5, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
When the fleabags falter, then they start the SEC is great crap. Never fails.
By Gen Neyland
December 5, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
Alabama will want to use Florida’s strengths against them. If they can, it’ll be worth 6 points for the Red Elephants. Both have terrific punt return games. Logic says neither should handle a returnable punt. The Dome is a fast field. Overall, that will favor Florida. Speaking of speed, how’s Harvin..? Florida and Alabama have both been playing darn good D ball. I read Florida is plus on the turnover margin, but will Alabama comply..? Only thing I’m sure of is a two loss team from the SEC won’t be playing in the BCSCG this year…Oklahoma’s offense is no enigma. They just flat out have been playing some of the best offensive football in the country. Their receivers find the holes in zones and Bradford reads coverage quite well. Missouri will have to be where they shouldn’t be in order to keep Oklahoma under 45 points. Will take a miracle…The short second season is about to begin…
By AlphaDog
December 5, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
THE BCS doesn’t say a non conference champ cannot play for the BCS championship
By nachos
December 5, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
Alabama 31 Florida 14
By Josh Payne
December 5, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
I predict Knowshon will leap over Mt. Cody & score a TD for the dawwwwgs!
By Gen Neyland
December 5, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
Buzz
…or rich enough. Me, I’m gonna watch it on my twelve year old 13’ black and white RCA. Things are tough on us Appalachian-Americans in good times or bad…
By Atlanta Gator
December 5, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
The time has arrived for this week’s completely fallible predictions——
(1) Alabama, 12-0. Florida, 11-1. Associated Press #1 vs. #2. BCS #1 vs #4. Together, they account for a combined 28 conference championships and 14 national championships. One has been the dominant football team for most of the SEC’s 75-year history; the other has been the dominant team for most of the last 19 seasons. Old school power vs. new school speed. Smash-mouth running game vs. quick-strike spread. Two great college coaches. Both defenses rank in the top 10 in virtually every statistical category. Two loyal fanbases who expect the best from their teams. Probably the best match-up in the 17-year history of the SEC championship game. Anyone who attempts to minimize this game is either green with envy or simply can’t appreciate great college football.
Honestly, predicting the outcome of this game is nothing more than a guess. It could go either way, depending on the breaks and calls, momentum shifts, and outright luck. Either way, one great team will leave the field defeated and one of the largest fanbases in the country will be disappointed. My prediction? Gators 34-21, but that’s more of a prayer than a prediction.
(2) When the ACC added three former Big East teams, everyone expected that one of them would be playing in the conference championship game on a regular basis, but no one expected that team would be either Virginia Tech or Boston College. The bottom and middle tiers of the ACC have improved significantly over the course of this season, even to the point where traditional bottom-feeders like Duke have been competitive. It remains for one or two of the top five or six ACC teams to re-emerge in 2009 as national competitors. And I am convinced that this season’s ACC parity will produce 2 or 3 even better teams next year. This game could be a preview. I predict Boston College by 10, but I must admit that virtually every time I have picked an ACC team this season, they have lost. If the Eagles lose because of my prediction, please accept my apologies in advance.
(3) Sorry, but there is simply no way that Oklahoma loses this game. Not because the Sooners are the best team on the planet, but because their offense is better than Missouri’s, and neither team has any pass defense worth mentioning. Sooners by 20+.
(4) I hate to denigrate any young athletes’ efforts, but … . East Carolina peaked after beating West Virginia and Virginia Tech in the first two games of the season. The air leaked from Tulsa’s BCS balloon after they lost a competitive game to Arkansas and then let Houston score 70 the following week. I expect Tulsa to win, but this could easily be the upset special among the conference championship games.
(5) In 2006, UCLA upset USC to eliminate the Trojans from BCS title contention. It’s not going to happen for the Bruins this year. Trojans over Bruins by 21, and USC advances to yet another Rose Bowl, which for USC has become a disappointing consolation prize. Division I playoffs, anyone?
By Scott Wallace
December 5, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
I am going with Nachos prediction too. Hope it will be another beat down like 99.
Too bad its cold out so the Gaytors won’t be able to wear jean shorts.
By WE ARE USC
December 5, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
Championship weekend good luck to all. The Pac 10 teams all play each other every year so there’s not much need for a playoff. If Alabama wins Saturday they are the only team in America that nobody can dispute, they will deserve to play in the BSC CG. If Florida beats Alabama I personally think that earns them the right to play, but until they do I think they should be ranked #6. They are playing great since losing to Ole Miss, but that loss is worse than Penn State or USC, IMO.
I am not sold on the Big 12, I think the SEC champion will prove my point when the time comes, GOOD LUCK, KICK THEIR A$$.
As far as Penn State I think USC will put them to the test in Pasadena, my guess is we’ll bury them.
As for USC, When you look at the season USC played 2 quarters (1 half) of bad football. They let OSU score 21 points in the 1st half when they visited Corvallis. The Trojans came back in the 2nd half and outscored OSU 21-7. But the damage was done.
The USC defense has held it opponents to 49 points total since then. They are ranked #1 in the NCAA, allowing less than 8 points a game. They’ve played the #5, #20, and #21 ranked teams in the county and are 2-1 with a scoring differential of 73-33, and a season scoring deferential of 422-80.
USC has allowed only 2 teams to score more than 1 touchdown all season, they have 3 shutouts, and have held opponents to 10 points or less 9 times.
Nobody can say what would happen if there were a playoff, but IMHO, USC is the best Defense in the country, and if defense wins championships, they would certainly have a shot.
Again Good luck in your games this weekend, and who ever wins in the SEC, Go Kick some Big 12 butt.
FIGHT ON
By JP
December 5, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
Alpha dog, I said that above, plus it has happened 2 or more times already since the start of the BCS
By SC Rules!!!
December 5, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
USC will take it’s frustrations out on the Bruins and Pete will use the game to remind Steve Sarkisian of what he is going to be up against starting next year when he is in Seattle. OK just might slip up which then certainly begs the question does SC jump Texas as Pac-10 champs to the BCS??? Time will tell, personally I think the Big 12 screwed Texas as they most certainly beat THEN #1 OU by 10 when they were 7 pt underdogs. ‘Bama will win a close brutally rough game to close out the season and claim the SEC championship and a birth in the BCS. If they face OU I predict they will clean up 35-13 but if they face SC then the Tide will be like the Patriots of last season as the score will be SC 27 ‘Bama 20 Well it will be an interesting weekend for sure, the games will decide a lot but if it comes down to a decision on Sunday watch out. Someone will be left crying in their soup sandwhich.
By Atlanta Gator
December 5, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
Gen Neyland——The latest wire article I could find on Percy Harvin’s condition stated that he will attempt an abbreviated full-speed work-out today, and the Gator trainers will make a final decision Saturday morning. It would be a shame if Percy missed the Big Game because he has certainly earned his place in it.
Win, lose or draw, no excuses. Managing injuries is part of the game.
By Atlanta Gator
December 5, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Buzz——I know that ACC fans are enjoying their 6-4 margin over the SEC in head-to-head games this season, but do you really believe that the ACC championship game offers better teams or a better match-up than the SEC championship game? Do you really think that Virginia Tech could be beat Florida, or Boston College could beat Alabama?
Comments like yours reveal neither rational thought nor demonstrate ACC intellectual superiority, but mostly anger, frustration and envy. Can’t you just enjoy your big win over UGA … or do we really need to compare SAT scores and admission standards?
By jablonski
December 5, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
I dont wear IZOD shirts because they have a gator on it. I would not let a priest from FL baptise my child. I have removed the number 15 from every bit of math that I do. Who will I cheer for?
ROLL TIDE!
By Eric1
December 5, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
As much as I hate florida, I hope they beat the living crap out of alabama.
By CW
December 5, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
This game just feels like the 92 sugar bowl against Miami all over again. “How can Alabama possibly stop such a speedy juggernaut?”
Florida is obviously a very good team, but I wonder just how tough they are.
By WTF???
December 5, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
TEABAG TEBOW!!! ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!
GO DAWGS! WE SUCK!!!
By nachos
December 5, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Eric1 - sounds to me like your team got destroyed by the UNDEFEATED Crimson Tide… are you a barner or just another pathetic dawwwgs fan?
By GATORZONE
December 5, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
CW, I have the same feeling. Not too confident about tomorrow, in fact I am quite nervous
By Najeh Davenpoop
December 5, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
Teblow is gonna get circumsized tomorrow by Mt. Cody and Ro Mac!! RTR
By IM4BAMA
December 5, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
I wasn’t so lucky to get a ticket and frankly ain’t willing to pay more than $250 for one. For those of you lucky enough to have one, I envy you. The atmosphere is going to be awesome I’m sure. Anyway, enjoy every second of it. I’ll just have to watch it on my HDTV.
Roll Tide Roll, Go Bama Go
By Buzz
December 5, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this
Atlanta Gator
I’m neither angry, frustrated or jealous. No I do not think any team from the ACC could beat Florida or Alabama but..Do you really think that paying $1183 to see a football game that you can watch for free from your living room is a “rational thought process”? It seems clear where the intellectual superiority lies!
By Knowshon for Heisman
December 5, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this
THANK GOD BARNFART & SCHULTZ PICKED THE GAYTURDS. I FEEL MUCH BETTER NOW. CRANK DAT SOULJA BOY.
By murfdawg
December 5, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
jablonski, you are a man after my heart!! It is hard to be a Dawg in ATL this week. Bama doesn’t know how to lose this year. They will find a way to pull it out. Fla can be stopped. Just ask Ole Miss. I will be glad when this week is over.
How ‘Bout Them Falcons!!
By G8R GRAD
December 5, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
TB: you’re a wise, wise man.
GO GATORS
By G8R GRAD
December 5, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
Good luck to the UA loyal out there!
But, … . .
Gators by 14.
UF 35
UA 21
By Dennis Franchione
December 5, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
Dear Alabama players, Hold the rope, MTXE, Gig em! Love, Coach Fran
By Josh Payne
December 5, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
Saban owns the dome!
By Atlanta Gator
December 5, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Buzz——I was an economist before I started my present profession. Assuming the kids are fed and the mortgage is paid, I see nothing wrong if the marginal utility derived from sitting in an $1183 seat to watch the football game equals or exceeds the marginal cost. Frankly, I’m a little more frugal than that (that is, my derived marginal utility is probably lower), but if the ticket buyers are making 6 or 7 figures, who are we to question their “rational thought processes?” They can afford it.
FYI, Craig’s List also lists a pair of ACC championship suite tickets for $740——does that mean the Boston College and Virginia Tech fans who rent those VIP suites are devoid of “rational thought?”
I believe the original blog poster’s point was that some SEC fans were willing to pay relatively exorbitant ticket prices to attend the sold-out SEC championship game, when the ACC fans may not even fill Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. But you already knew that, and resorted to an ad hominem attack and stereotype of knuckle-dragging SEC fans to cloud the issue.
Like I said before, enjoy Tech’s win over UGA and don’t let all of the SEC-ACC teasing get your goat. Frankly, “football conference superiority” doesn’t matter and you only make yourself look like a fool for getting into a p** match with a skunk (or a Dawg).
By Will
December 5, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Big Tone,
I like your pics this week. But let’s be honest, other than the ACC game they are pretty easy. The only question on the SEC game is how badly will UF beat Bama? And I personally think it will be over at the half. Just like it was against my dawgs.
UF is good, and all UGA fans should be rooting for their victory and a big day stat wise for Tebow. That way maybe he will take his a* to the NFL and take a few of those receivers and Defensive players along with him. Then maybe we will have a chance next year in the “annual waste of time and money cocktail game”. Go Gators!!!!!!!
By Mike Price
December 5, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
where did i leave that credit card????
By Charlotte Dawg 06'
December 5, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
As disappointed I am about this season, let me be the first to say I am really excited about this match up tomorrow. I give props to ‘Bama and Florida for having a couple of stellar teams this year, and am pulling for the winner (regardless of who it is) to represent the SEC and wreak havoc in the championship game.
That said - If I was a bettin’ man I would have to put my money on Florida this year. Alabama is extremely stout in the trechnes, but being a numbers man, it’s hard to ignore the walloping the Gators have been giving everyone since Ole Miss. It’s hard to go against Saban, but then again ‘Bama is young and will most likely be even better next year.
Florida 27-20.
By Gene Jelks
December 5, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
You guys better keep paying me, or I will get you on probation again!!!
Seriously, I am a piece of sh!t
By Mike Shula
December 5, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
I should have paid Tebow to come here! I would still have a job!
By Ole Miss played both and BEAT urban and the cry-babies
December 5, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
The gimpy gators are’nt man enough to beat BAMA!
By Mike Shula
December 5, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
UGA said the same thing!
By Anonymous
December 5, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Atlanta Gator:
“Like I said before, enjoy Tech’s win over UGA and don’t let all of the SEC-ACC teasing get your goat.”
For the regord, the expression is:
. . don’t let [it] get your goad.
By GT....Highest Ranked ACC Team
December 5, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Virginia Tech and Boston College will both end the season at 9-5 and Georgia Tech will be 10-3!
By IM4BAMA
December 5, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Bama is going to win this. I told Clemson fan, I told Georgia fan and now I’m tellin Florida fan. Everyone one them, underestimated the Tide and their dream turned into a nightmare on the field. The same thing will happen to UF.
By BCMIke
December 5, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
Hey Roswell Ed, why don’t you check and see how far it is from Boston to Tampa. A little further than Gainesville or U of A (5 hours and 3 hours, respectively). BC is 21 hours away (obvious a flight is necessary), and VT is 12 hours.
When it’s in Charlotte, a lot more folks can come.
By Okay, where to now ?
December 5, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
As a Vol, darn nearly eveyone on this blog whipped our butts this year (even Auburn, go figure). That being said, I have to say that tomorrow’s matchup lines up to potentiallly be as good as it gets in college football. Even though their offenses are totally different, both have very similar stats…and both are at the top of their games. Everytime I find myself thinking that the Gators will bury the Tide, I get to thinking about Saban and my confidence in my projection goes out the window. Right now, I would not bet either way. If I had to set probabilities, I would give it 55/45 Gators win, but honestly neither outcome would surprise me.
I don’t think I could be more interested if my own team was in it. Could (and I hope will) be one hellz of a ballgame. Wish I could afford to go, but that new HD will get a workout tomorrow.
By TEXAS V USC
December 5, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Florida and Bama are overrated, and haven’t beat anyone worth crap, the SEC is weak, and neither team beat a top 10 OOC opponent.
If OU loses and Alabama loses, the BCS CG should be USC v Texas, Texas only loss was to a top 10 opponent and USC is the only team to have an OOC win against a team ranked in the top 10.
By Anonymous, Too
December 5, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
To “get one’s goat” means to greatly annoy someone. It dates to circa 1900. According to H.L.Mencken, this phrase is from American horse racing. Trainers would put a goat in a racing horse’s stall to calm it; if the goat was removed, the horse would likely become agitated. However, there is no firm evidence for this origin.
Or, this may be a mispronunciation of “get your goad.” A goad is a pointed rod used to urge on livestock. A modern equivalent of a goad is the cattle prod.
Or maybe quite literally, it seems to me that if a shepherd’s goat is stolen, he’d be rightly p** off.
There is an old French phrase “prendre la chèvre” which also means approximately “to get your goat” or “to take away the goat.” Various places suggest this is because in old times a person’s goat would be their only source of milk, so they’d be understandably miffed if someone took it!
Another possible origin of the phrase lies the earliest known reference to it - the book Life in Sing Sing, of 1904, in which goat is glossed as prison slang for “anger.” I think this may be the key. After all, goats do, with much provocation, get angry. To bring out the “goat” in someone may take some doing, but will eventually have dramatic results.
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Whatistheetymologyoftheidiomaticexpressiontogetyour_goat
By nachos
December 5, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Will - get a clue you stupid dawwgs fan. No way Florida blows out the tide. Your beloved dawwwgs are the team that gets blown out in big games, not us.
By BEAT BARNHART RESULTS FROM LAST WEEK
December 5, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
Where are the BEAT BARNHART RESULTS from last week MR. COLLEGE FOOTBALL?
By Tommy Tuberville
December 5, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
I’m pulling for Alabama.
By walter
December 5, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
Hey Mr. cfb I saw that you wrote that Tech would upset Ga. but when I made my picks your initials were next to Ga. what’s up who did you really think would win?
By Keepin it real
December 5, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
I don’t like nobody playin on my phone!
By Scott Wallace
December 5, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this
Is Richt gonna crank dat soulja boy???
By Anonymous, three
December 5, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Goad Meaning: Invoke an angry and emotional response; to aggravate, irritate or annoy. Example: People in cars often provide hand signals to communicate their dissatisfaction with your driving. They are trying to get your goat, so just smile and wave. Origin: This may be a mispronunciation of “get your goad”. A goad is a pointed rod used to urge on livestock. A modern equivalent of a goad is the cattle prod. To goad is to stimulate into action. The phrase “goad you on” comes to mind. To “get your goat (goad)” then is to be successful in stimulating a response.
By Atlanta Gator
December 5, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Anonymous et al——I stand corrected … or not. LOL
I enjoy English language etymology and trivia as much as the next guy, but it does seem that we have a difference of opinion on the particular derivation of the expression. In any event, it does not detract from my point:
Don’t let the blog trolls get your goat … or your goad, as the case may be.
By Mrs. Marylou Jackson
December 5, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
I dont care who winnin or who playin long as yall dont interupt my stories….
By Anonymous, me too!
December 5, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
goad
noun 1. a pointed instrument that is used to prod into a state of motion [syn: prod]
2. a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something; “the ceaseless prodding got on his nerves”
verb 1. give heart or courage to [syn: spur]
2. urge with or as if with a goad
3. stab or urge on as if with a pointed stick
4. goad or provoke,as by constant criticism; “He needled her with his sarcastic remarks” [syn: needle]
WordNet® 3.0, © 2006 by Princeton University. Cite This Source
By Chris in Bama
December 5, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
If Harvin doesn’t play tomorrow then that will reduce the passing threat of Tebow at least a little. Even if he does play he probably wont be 100%. If Bama can stop the run and get their shoulder pads in Tebow’s chest then they will win. If Bama allows Florida to come out early with 3 or more touchdowns it’s probably over but I don’t see that happening. With Cody on the line you can free up another man to protect against the pass or blitz Tebow. 28-22 Bama
By the goat/goad debate
December 5, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
Who gives a sh!t? Someone is hard up to be always right.
By Anonymous
December 5, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
HEY!
Who you callin’ a blog troll?
How rude!
Some people … … .
By G8R GRAD
December 5, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
As in the UGA/UF game (one thought to be a close game by those on this blog), Vegas has seen fit to favor the Gators by double digits.
How can all those people putting their money where their mouths are be wrong?
Gators by two touchdowns
By VEGAS BABY
December 5, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
G8R GRAD: I agree 100%. And Vegas favors USC in a championship matchup against everyone. How could they be wrong?
By gt85
December 5, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
From an army brat, for my late father: GO ARMY, BEAT NAVY!
By Chris in Bama
December 5, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Who gives a crap about vegas? Bama has by far the toughest defense that Florida has faced and Bama is the biggest and most physical team they have played…I really don’t think they can handle the beating. If Florida is favored by ten then shouldn’t they be #1 in the BCS? ANYONE that would bet on this game either way is a moron! Those vegas casino freaks bet on dice, cards and pull handles on machines that are designed to take their money and lose their butts all the time….so I say again who cares?
By BOOMER SOONER
December 5, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
texas fans..quit whining. so what that you beat texas and mizzou. tech beat you and we beat tech by 40 points. we will show you on Saturday why we deserve to be in the championship game. Wow, Texas beat us by 10 points on a neutral field in the state of texas. What a neutral field..haha…Anyways, wish we could have a rematch. You would get your butts handed to you on a silver platter. Go Sooners!!!!
By GatorFan
December 5, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
Every time a DAWG fan predicts the GATORS to lose it eunsures me that we will win. Their history with predictions (Like wer’re #1 or FL is going to lose)Always never ever come true. I say next year all DAWG games should be watched on the shores of Lake Lanier so that when they get finnished crying the lake will be full pool.
By Okay, where to now ?
December 5, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
@ GatorFan
Re: *I say next year all DAWG games should be watched on the shores of Lake Lanier so that when they get finnished crying the lake will be full pool. * As a Vol, I have no great love for the Gators but I have to admit I really like that comment (plus I live near Lake Lanier so I think it is a great plan).
Big Thumbs Up!!! Although UGA will be crowned pre-season NC’s in the AJC and in their own minds in just a few months…they always are.
By AGTfan
December 5, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
It is entirely possible that two best teams in the country are playing for the SEC Chamionship. It’s also entirely possible that the best team in the country, Texas is sitting home doing nothing. Until the NCAA Division 1 schools start deciding the championship on the field, I’ll continue to think of it as a beauty contest. I can continue my personal boycott of BCS bowls this season, but I think it’s going to get harder for me to do in the coming years with CPJ at GT. I predict Gators over the Tide and then for the Okies to win the NCAA beauty pagent.
I apologize to DAWG fans in advance, but I’ve had these two numbers rumbling around in my head all week. I know that 45-42 means something.
By bloodydawg
December 5, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
they both punished our underachieving band of bullpups. is there a way they can both lose? Bama by 7, maybe less but Bama wins
By Shaye
December 5, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
My Tide is #1, my favorite two teams are playing for the SEC championship, with the winner (by anything other than a total screw-over) playing for the nat’l championship… this is a very good year. And it’s a BUILDING year for Bama. :D I will be disappointed should they lose to the Gators (who are scary good), but a Sugar Bowl berth is better than what I’d expected at the outset of the season.
Florida has dominated the last half of the season, and although Bama has a great defense and I’m not sure Florida’s offense has been truly tested this year, I’d say the gators are more likely to win. But it could realistically go either way, and I just hope it’s a good game. Roll Tide roll!
By gaotorswillbeatbama
December 5, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
everybody knows gators will win even without percy
By Tampa Tide
December 5, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Has anyone seen the halftime festivities…Gary Danielson and Verne Lundquist are fighting to see who will take Tebow’s hand in marriage.Bama 20- Fla 17 ROLL TIDE
By mcdawg
December 5, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
w/o harvin gotta go with the tide—UGA moved the ball all over UF (just didn’t score)
i think Bama wins 24-21
By Eric Pettway
December 5, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
You have immediately managed to get it all wrong again. Quit thinking with your heart and use you head man. Florida have never seen what Bama will bring upon them.
Bama with a comfrontable victory. After that you can get it wrong again be selecting OK over Bama.
By Bob
December 5, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
All I have to say is, Its Great TO BE A FLORIDA GATOR!!! GO Gators!!! Alabama is a really Alabam is a reall good team, I don’t think it will be a blowout or anything, but I think Florida will win by a decent margain. Only 24 more hours to go!!! Yea!!! Florida Gators 2009 BCS Champions
By #1 Bamafan
December 5, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Cross your fingers and toes and ROLL TIDE ROLL!! I hope the crimson tide plays lights out against the gators and brings us Bama fans a SEC championship back to T-TOWN. RAMMER JAMMER YELLOW HAMMER GIVE’M HELL ALABAMA!!
By JP
December 5, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Go Eagles!
By Chemcat
December 5, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
I’m a transplanted Pensacola boy who grew up rooting for the Tide (back when they were very good) and Florida (when they were not so good), and also Georgia and Georgia Tech when not playing one of the other teams. I admire both Urban Meyer and Nick Saban for what they have been able to accomplish at their respective schools and sincerely wish both of them success. This game is easily the most important SEC championship game ever and I believe that whichever team wins will go on to win the NC. I believe it will come down to breaks, either by turnovers, injuries, or officiating calls and I really hope there won’t be controversial calls to mar the outcome. This is going to be a fun game to watch!
By G8R GRAD
December 5, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
Just think:
We already have UF and UA in what amount to a semi final playoff game, so what’s the harm in letting #2 OU play who they would’ve met in their playoff game: #3 UT?!!!
That game would be much more interesting than the one with (yawn) Mizzou scheduled for 8:00!
We need a playoff, peole.
UT is getting screwed!
By T Money
December 5, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Here’s a bold prediction, and also a nightmare for the BCS:
Florida over Alabama 45-42 in 3OT
Missouri shocks Oklahoma 38-35
UCLA nips USC 28-27
So what would happen with the BCS? Could you really drop a 1 loss Alabama team that lost by a field goal in triple overtime? Would Florida leapfrog Texas and take over the #1 spot? Would they allow a rematch of Florida and Alabama for the National Championship?
By Dawgie
December 5, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
ROLL TIDE ROLL. Alabama shamed us this year, but I’ll be rooting for the Tide in this game.
By dd
December 5, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
All Dawg fans be like George on Seinfeld and do just the opposite of what you’ve always done.
Pull for FLA.
Then Bama will win.
By bama12titles
December 5, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Atlanta gator,
As usual another good, logical synopsis. It would make sense that you were an economist in your earlier life as was I. Well, I wasn’t really an economist, just double majored in economics and finance.
Apparently the Tech grad didn’t understand the concept of marginal utility and why someone would pay $1183 for a ticket. He probably doesn’t understand price elasticity or supply and demand for that matter but let’s not digress into those concepts. My head may fill up and explode. Its already pulsating with excitement over the game.
G8r grad, gatorfan, and gatorzone, and of course you atlanta gator. Good luck in the game tomorrow and especially enjoy it if you go.
General Neyland, All appalachian sterotypes aside, we know you’re really watching the game on a brand new big flat screen tv. I know this to be true because you say you’ll be watching it on a 12 year old black and white. I think they quit making those more like 20 or more years ago. I almost forgot that they even exist. We’ll see you next year. I expect the vols to be back in short order cause the name is too big to keep down for long.
By TrueCrimson
December 5, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
T Money,
If that happens, it will have to be Utah vs. Boise State.
By G8trdone
December 5, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Watch ALs fat-a$$ linemen with their hands on their hips early in the second quarter. Watch the confusion as lightnng strikes from all over the field. They’ll be out of their element and out of their game plan way before half time.
UF wins it big…41-14
CHOMP!
By gdawginkalamazoo
December 5, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Atlanta Gator,
but I must admit that virtually every time I have picked an ACC team this season, they have lost
Where were you when we needed you to pick Tech against us this year? Or did you pick them and thus the reason for the “virutally” in your statement.
Can’t wait till Saturday. Little Nicky will be tricky. Plus he will be “re-building” in Detroit if the Ford’s get their bailout money. And you wonder why they need 34 Billion.
By G8R GRAD
December 5, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
bama12titles:
Good luck to you and your Crimson Tide as well!
And if UA should prevail, God speed and best wishes in your defense of the SEC in Miami.
By Run Heap Run
December 5, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
I’m not a fan or a hater of either team but I am mystified by all the national Gator love. Sure Tebow is a legendary QB, sure they score a lot of points but who have they played?
Bama easily had the tougher schedule. Have people forgotten that unranked Bama stunned #9 Clemson in the opener as well as a then 3rd ranked and unbeaten Georgia team who was riding high at that time a few weeks later. Florida’s best wins were vs mediocre LSU and UGA teams whose seasons were already in the toilet. Maybe I’m just not easily impressed.
*Prediction: The Tide doesn’t roll but it does squeak out of the dome with another W. *
By Alphar
December 5, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
To make a prediction, you’ve got to throw a few stats around for SECCG: 1) higher ranked team wins 70% of the time, 2) higher ranked defense team wins 70% of the time, 3) one team already won 70% in Georgia this year
By Brad
December 5, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
A couple of things here… I’ve been waiting to post something on here because I wanted to wait until the smack talk really got cranked up. After sifting through several gems in here today, it appears that my patience has paid off. Okay, I’m a Gator fan and I have a message to all other Gators on this message board. Please stop predicting a blow out. It’s very unlikely that we will scare fifty points tomorrow, much less beat Bama by such a margin. I do believe that we will win, but please prepare yourselves for a dogfight (no pun intended). The reason I say this is a) Bama has developed a habit of winning, which means they are coming in questioning not if they will win, but how. A team with that degree of mental toughness will give us the fight of our lives. b) Nick Saban doesn’t get blown out. And before anyone starts rattling off some of last year’s results, bear in mind that even Saban needs a grace period before contending at the level he has his team at now. A warning to all my fellow Gators; beware Saban… the two best coaches in college football will occupy opposing sidelines in tomorrow’s game.
Next, I would like to address all the Bama fans. The Ole Miss argument no longer holds water, so feel free to discontinue use of it. Seriously, it is obvious to anyone who has been paying attention for the last couple of months that this is not the same UF team that lost to the Rebels. Nevermind the fact that the Gators really beat themselves in that game because from a coaching and execution standpoint, we just continued to make mistake after mistake, which, as everyone has seen this year, is uncharacterisitic of this team. I’ve been a Gator football fanatic for years and years and the team that has taken the field for UF for the last 7 1/4 games is every bit as good as the ‘96 team that won it all… maybe better… that, of course, remains to be seen since we still have two games left. Bama fans, if the Tide beats Florida tomorrow, it will be because Glen Coffee and y’all’s stellar offensive line establish a successful ground game. And the defense clamps down on our running game and takes away our ability to gain yardage in big chunks… not because Florida is really a soft team wearing tough team clothes, as implied by your Ole Miss arguments. We really are a very good football team, but so is Bama.
And all the other fans on here… well, let’s just say that the bitterness can be explained away by the fact that your team was likely beaten by one or both of the teams participating in tomorrow’s championship (Georgia are you listening?). By the way, anyone know where I can score a pair of jorts? The Georgia fans have successfully made them such a laughing stock that they’re nowhere to be found. Am I really gonna have to drive all the way to Gainesville to find them? That really sucks… how dare you mock such a proud fashion tradition… what kind of world are we living in when a man can’t wear jorts without having his sexual orientation called into question?… we don’t make fun of your cute black-out jersies, do we? Maybe we can turn our focus toward orange and blue windpants… they’re lightweight and well ventilated and they still look good with our socks and sandals.
Gators, 35-31 (Bama’s offense is better than they get credit for… still not not enough in the end).
Go Gators!!!
By BAMA STAN
December 5, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
**31-0 at the half?!!
WOW - BAMA will have to play their best effort to win this game. Loads of RESPECT to the MIGHTY GATORS and their Coach.
Two best teams in the SEC since Divisional Split took place.
Great to be back at our rightful and historic place of being the ELITE in conference and National Ranking.
GATORS are now up their - and will be for a long while - no doubt about that!!!
Here is a breakdown of team appearences - counting this year:
Gators - 9
Bama - 6
Tennessee - 5
LSU - 4
UGA -3
Auburn - 3
Ark - 3
MS STate - 1
It appears that Gators will be dominating the EAST for sometime.
SPEAKING about RESPECT - OR LACK THEREOF: Richt is 2-6 against Florida - could not even have success against ZOOK!!!! And will not beat the Gators in years to come.
UGA holds down the 5th place in the SEC when compared to historical head to head competition.
UGA holds is tied in 5th place with AUBURN and ARKANSAS in SEC TITLE GAME appearences.
UGA is not the “PLAYER” that they think they are - not as relevent to the conference. But yes, A good program in the BEST Conference in all of College Football.
That’s why I claim that UGA is the Michigan State of the SEC - when taken from a perspective of overall historical success relative to conference play and standing.
Thing about that UGA fans:
5th place in overall SEC head to head competition
Tied for 5th with Auburn and Arkansas in SEC Title Game appearences.
I call that being middle of the PACK!!!!
GO you SPARTAN DOGGIES - BARK BARK BARK!!
BY the way - Who is UGA playing in their bowl game this year? Could it be…….MICHIGAN STATE?
Best of Luck to BAMA this weekend - we will need it - but we can pull the upset!!
ROLLLLLLLLLLLLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Anonymous
December 5, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Other commonly misstated words & phrases:
“The best thing to come down the pike” (not pipe);
“For all intents and purposes” (not intensive purposes); and
“Undoubtedly” (not undoubtably).
By Run Heap Run
December 5, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
I get embarrassed for people who try to insult others with a bunch of misspelled words.
By Not Disappointed
December 5, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
OY! This is a hard one. Let’s go with Alabama and a pray!
By Anonymous
December 5, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Oh, and:
Irregardless is not a word.
It’s regardless or irrespective.
You do not combine the two!
By Nole wondering bout Bama
December 5, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Bama fans must really be as DUMB as the rest of the league says…I will be honest in saying, I really don’t care who wins and hate the Gators more than any team in the country…however, for Bama fans to predict they win and hold UF to only 10 or 14 points as I have seen on this site and others, may be the most stupid post on the entire internet! COME ON…Bama may win but they are going to have to score at least 30 to do it…there is NO CHANCE Bama holds the Gators to under 27points…how could u watch football this year and believe Bama or anyone else in the country can hold UF to under 27 or 30 points??? Give me some reason…and just so you know, I live in Orlando and watch all these teams (I am a FSU grad) and if you think having Harvin NOT in the game will hurt UF, you are right, but just learn the name DEMPS and RAINEY…they will show out on that turf!
By Florida Dawg
December 5, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
I was not aware that the ACC had a championship game tomorrow……will it be televised?
By G8R GRAD
December 5, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
Off to a happy hour with a buch of AU fans (grad school buddies) - go figure!
Good luck to both teams tomorrow afternoon!
Cheers!
By G8R GRAD
December 5, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
Oh, and Annonymous:
Who cares?
Take your alternative lifestyle practicing ( ! ) home already!
By Alphar
December 5, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Nole wondering bout Bama:
I will tell you a scenario BAMA can hold gators to under 27points: On the first play, 50% bigger Cody smashes Tebow so hard that Tebow is out of the game without completing a single pass, on the 2nd play, Rainey twisted his left ankle and has to be carried away in a streacher. Afterwards, the entire FL team panic and cannot make a single 1st down. Alabama wins the game 3-0.
Man, “Gator fans must really be as DUMB as the rest of the league says”.
By Gen Neyland
December 5, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
Atlanta Gator, gtdc, GATORZONE, TrueCrimson, BAMA STAN, bama12titles, et al with a horse to ride in the SECCG
Injuries do happen. If Harvin can’t go, it’s like being one round short in a 9 round clip. Best of luck to yours tomorrow. This is gonna come down as wishy washy, but good luck to the Red Elephants, too…Lane Kiffin ought to bring in the Volunteer team around 1530 hrs on Saturday, pop some corn for the boys and put the game on the wide screen in the skull room. Tell the guys the test begins today…I gotta wonder who will be the first try his patience on discipline in the off season..? Thankfully, Colquitt is off the roster…Again, Good luck Gators and Tide…
By big bubba
December 5, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
Bama Stan-If you tell me what section you are in at the game tomorrow I will show up there before halftime and beat your as# in front your boyfriend. You will know who I am when I wear a shirt that says “on my way to beat Bama Stan’s as#”
-Then I will take your boyfriend and give him to those 2 gay LSU fans kissing on you tube.
By Atlanta Gator
December 5, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Anonymous——You’ve been on quite the tear today. You should look into picking up where E.B. White and Prof. Strunk left off. I understand that the next edition of Elements of Style is in need of an editor. Of course, you might have to relinquish your anonymity.
By Atlanta Gator
December 5, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
gdawg~zoo——Sorry about that, my canine friend. I did suggest in one of Mr. CFB’s blogs that the Tech upset was possible, but I still picked UGA over Tech anyway.
Clearly, I am the ACC albatross / reverse good-luck charm.
By chazz
December 5, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
You are right. Florida is good and fast. But, Alabama is big, strong, and physical and also very fast. The gators have not faced a defense like Bama’s. My money is on the Tide. The Tide’s D and special teams will role Peter Parker Tango Niner Mary Wilson will figure out how to beat them on the other side of the ball probably in the last seconds.