Sports Columnists

By wes

November 15, 2005 10:56 PM | Link to this

This article sucks.

By Season ticket holder

November 15, 2005 11:05 PM | Link to this

Dave Braine is a complete moron for making the above statements. And he is also a complete moron for giving a mediocre Chan Gailey a contract extension. He was a moron for hiring him in the first place. If this kind of mentality is supposedly leading Tech, no wonder mediocrity has set in. Dave Braine should be fired immediately and this ridiculous contract extension should be rescinded. It is time to save Tech football as we knew it under Ross and O’leary. Enough is enough.

By Chris

November 15, 2005 11:08 PM | Link to this

Mark, I completely agree with your email. We have accepted mediocrity. It breaks my heart. And its hard to believe that fans (as it tries to become “Atlanta’s Team” will invest time, emotions, and especially money in a program that does not pursue excellence, and rather settles for mediocrity. I also believe that recruits will feel the same way, further downgrading the potential and prestige of our football program.

By GTfan

November 15, 2005 11:14 PM | Link to this

This is the most depressing thing. We’ve surrendered. I can’t believe it. The going gets tough and we fold up our tents. Unbelievable. To HELL with Braine!

By RamblinMan

November 15, 2005 11:15 PM | Link to this

Man oh man, it takes a real genius to figure out GT can’t “consistently” win 9-10 games a year! Especially since they have not done it “consistently” for almost 50 years. 1990 does not equate to “consistently”. I hope not many recruits are reading this blog. Braine that was a stupid comment pure and simple. Kill the desire before they are even on the field will ya!

I have no problem with Gailey as a coach only his play calling. Hire an OC please. Also if we are to win we need to get good solid players wanting to play at Tech and are coachable. Develop those players into better players. If you can’t get the “bluechip” players you have to make what you have better. That is Chan’s job bottom line. The consistently great teams year end and year out i.e. FSU, Miami, USC, Texas all get the most from their state. UGA trumps Tech 80% of the time in state. Look at the VT roster and you will see almost all are from VA. All the “bluechippers”. If it is the 3rd toughest job in the country then where does that leave a Stanford or Duke? Ya’ll think about it…..Go Tech, and may the players rise above the mediocrity expected by Braine.

By K-Dogg

November 15, 2005 11:18 PM | Link to this

Lest you forget this is the same Dave Braine who just extended Paul Hewitt’s contract for the foreseeable future! This isn’t some bum off the street trying to run an athletic department. Dave Braine realizes that with the academic pressures and lack of cupcake majors (basket weaving, turf management, etc.) to hide lesser academic qualifiers, Georgia Tech will never be able to produce football factory-type results. I think most Georgia Tech alumni can agree with this…I don’t think it’s accepting mediocrity…it’s accepting reality!! GT will never compromise its integrity just to make a few alumni happy…and that is just fine by me! GO JACKETS!!!

By jon

November 15, 2005 11:18 PM | Link to this

Braine is re-iterating the comments of his boss…the true academic weaney that could care less about football…wayne clough.

Clough raised the academic admission standards when oleary left, braine fought them and lost; so now the harsh reality has set in with braine and he communicated it publicly. Probably not the best way to put it…but he is right.

Clough has been a great president for academics, but this is also the guy who wanted to forgo stadium renovations to pump more money into other areas of the school. Again, his commitment for academics is there, but for the football program its not. So how can anyone expect high expectations when the president doesn’t, and doesn’t allow it by allowing slightly easier admissions requirements.

By c mullins

November 15, 2005 11:19 PM | Link to this

As a boy I grew up listening to Tech and Taz Anderson play. I agree with Anderson on how disappointing it is to hear that we are accepting mediocrity. C Mullins ‘75

By ron

November 15, 2005 11:25 PM | Link to this

I have been a GT fan for 40 years now. I have lived and died with the Jackets thru 1-10 seasons and a MNC. Every year I enter the season optomistic, but not delusional. I have never heard a more damaging comment to GT FB in my life. Is this what these young men get up at 5 am to bust their butts in th weight room want to hear from their AD? I think a parting of ways is in short order for Mr. Braine.

By Jimbo

November 15, 2005 11:26 PM | Link to this

Well, I know I can stop planning to spend any money or time on Tech for the next five seasons. I, like so many others in Today’s world, have many better things to do with my time. Try building a winner after 5 more years of the inconsistent Gailey. The program will be run into the ground by 2010. The ACC already is and will remain to be too tough for him. He allows Tech to choke every time we have a chance to take a step forward. He can only win big games when they mean nothing. We had to scratch to beat UNC, were losing to Duke at half, lost to a poor NC State game at home, and looked absolutely dead against UVA. I’m fed up. I do not even look forward to the next few years. Thanks, (no) Braine. I need to spend more time with my little girls anyway.

By Adam Scott

November 15, 2005 11:29 PM | Link to this

I always knew it, but to hear it kills me. I just decided that Tech is not going to be seeing the balance of the pledge that I made toward stadium expansion. You quit on me and now I quit on you.

By Stan

November 15, 2005 11:30 PM | Link to this

I feel betrayed as a Tech fan. This is like sending a message that we should just pack it in and be satisfied with roughly .500 seasons and remote bowls every year.

By Folks

November 15, 2005 11:30 PM | Link to this

Maybe an effective approach would be to send emails to Braine and Clough voicing our disagreement with their choice of words and choice of actions. Their emails can ben found on the georgia tech website through the directory.

By Quitters

November 15, 2005 11:34 PM | Link to this

Dave Braine basically said that Georgia Tech is a bunch of quitters.

By ramblerR

November 15, 2005 11:48 PM | Link to this

I received my Roll Call donation request today. I think I will send it back empty except for a copy of this column. I think all alums should do that. You can send the check later, but make them squirm a little.

By S Hall

November 15, 2005 11:51 PM | Link to this

Braine is the CEO of the AD. As CEO, I expect him to be a leader. Good leaders don’t make comments that suggest an acceptance of mediocrity - regardless of what you believe inside. Would he accept mediocrity from the bball program? I think not. As many alum have also pointed out, we donate significant $ to the athletics programs. The donation of my $, at least, was in the hope that we were trying to be great. If my interests aren’t aligned with Braine’s, then he doesn’t need my $. Hopefully, Braine thinks before he speaks again.

By Quitters

November 15, 2005 11:51 PM | Link to this

Don’t send the check at all. Boosters and donators, don’t send money. Protest the decision to keep Gailey. Why invest in a mediocre stock?

By Rickey

November 15, 2005 11:57 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley,

Chan Gailey has embarrassed Tech football numerous times….’02,’03 and ‘04 Georgia, ‘03 Clemson, ‘03 Duke, ‘03 Vanderbilt, ‘02 Fresno State, ‘05 VPI, ‘05 NC State, ‘04 VPI….

He also embarrasses us with his standoffness, stubborness, and selfishness in how he goes about doing his job.

statelinejacket

By Ty

November 15, 2005 11:58 PM | Link to this

Well, now that Mr. Braine has clarified what ‘expectations’ should be for Tech folks, I’m going to write the registrar and request my GPA in Chem.E. be adjusted to 4.0!! After all, we’ve got to expect we’re in a tough academic institution that can’t compete at the highest level. Based on Mr. Braine’s comments, I’ve got to believe that my tough coursework and professor’s expectations were unrealistic..if 6-5 records for four years reflects ‘improvement’, certainly three ‘B’ grades in Chem.E. courses should equal ‘improvement’ and merit a diploma with highest honors, right?

…and to think I foolishly believed we were better because we DIDN’T accept being mediocre in the classroom or on the field!!

P.S. I find it especially ironic that on the same day of this announcement, Mr. Braine is quoted as saying that Rueben Houston should not be allowed to return to the team since playing on the team is not a ‘right’….apparently being an average coach IS a right…

By JP

November 15, 2005 11:58 PM | Link to this

I’m one of the few that’s glad to see Gailey here for a while, but I can’t wait for Dave Braine to be gone after these comments. We need an AD who believes we at least have the potential to win every game.

By Brainiac

November 16, 2005 12:05 AM | Link to this

To all Tech alumni and former Tech football fans: Your hardwork, commitment, loyalty, and love for Tech football means nothing.

By Confused GT Fan

November 16, 2005 12:06 AM | Link to this

Does all of this mean that basketball players are smarter than football players? Why can our basketball team be considered amongst the best (as well as our coach) and not our football? The same goes with baseball. Why can those sports succeed and not football?

By Even more confused GT Fan

November 16, 2005 12:08 AM | Link to this

What makes even less sense to me is how can they disregard the sport that rakes in most of the money. These guys are not businessmen at all. Their actions lead me to believe that they are very incompetent.

By jawrjadawg

November 16, 2005 12:11 AM | Link to this

Thank you Mr Braine .. after 45 years of supporting GT you quit on me. I hope you and the worthless one are happy After reading this mornings paper I gave my UGA tickets to a UGA grad and I sincerely do hope the stadium will be red Saturday. Hell, no true GT fan will be there now. Mr Braine, if I were you I dont think I would show my face there either I am officially looking for a new team to support. Does anyone know of a college that would like someone that likes to win come yell at thier games Congratulations for wrecking a wonderful team

By TechFan

November 16, 2005 12:15 AM | Link to this

I hope we get killed by Miami and UGA. I really hope we do just to rub it in your face Braine. We don’t have to worry about what recruits think now, so we should boo Gailey during the Tech/UGA game — the whole time. And cheer for UGA. MAN, I hope we get crushed. 51-7 style. You reading this Doggies? Better get Richt to start calling good plays and make sure that Willie is able to stop our vicious offense.

By dave

November 16, 2005 12:16 AM | Link to this

so braine extended chan’s contract for continuity and stability so that all the talk surrounding chan’s status wouldn’t hurt recruiting…..and yet, with his comments today braine has done irreparable damage to recruiting…..UNBELIEVABLE…….i wonder if CJ is contemplating a transfer……..tenuta is already sending out feelers……i mean really, what HS player would consider coming to play college ball for GT after hearing the AD’s comments……..i’ll say it again, UNBELIEVABLE……some of the posters who support chan have made the point of just who GT would hire if chan were canned and therefore we should keep him…….but with Braine’s birdbrain dour comments about the sad state of affairs that is GT football its a done deal…..now no one would want to come here……wait a minute i take that back……here’s the ad……HC needed at major university…….salary one million plus…….requirements; just win half your games most of the time…..nothing further required……..what a joke

By dbraine@gtaa.edu

November 16, 2005 12:17 AM | Link to this

All of you need to bee reasonable and listen to what I actually said. I never said that GT should quit playing football. I never said that GT should stop trying to be successful. I just said that we should set our goals lower so that we’re not disappointed as often.

With a more clear view of success as 6-5 or better, we will be happier and more comfortable with the work our coaches are doing in maintaining our tier two status.

It’s not like we’re Temple.

Dave Braine

By intelligent dawg

November 16, 2005 12:35 AM | Link to this

Rehiring Gailey is Braine-less throwing in the towel. “We give up”, says Dave. “We can’t compete with UGA in recruiting or on the field. Academics come first (UGA turns down prospects due to academics every year who go on to play at other large universities , but please don’t mention that we play guys who are academically ineligible and don’t go to class. Speaking of class, I sure wish we had some.” By the way, Dave,academics is an invalid excuse, tolerating mediocrity is the real reason.

By btl

November 16, 2005 12:52 AM | Link to this

GT is not a football factory. GT will be competive in every game. GT will have a shot to win every game in another year or so. That DOES NOT mean that they will….only that they could…only one game lost by more than 10 points so far this year…I’d say that’s an improvement over last year…Stability is perhaps THE most important fact for winning at GT…7-8 wins aseason against what is always likely to be 7- 8 bowl teams and 4-6 top 25 teams is not a bad season, GT has played a harder schedule than uga this year, and looks to do the same next yeear as well…instead of complaining Taz would better serve GT by helping out the GTAA’s truly pitiful marketing dept with his expertise…

By gooberdawg

November 16, 2005 12:53 AM | Link to this

U got it baybee. them tekkies don no nuthin. them akkydemics aint nuthin over thare. Thay use thet as an eccuse when they nos thay aint nuthin but stoopid loosers. a’ll take my UgA degree ennyday.

By THOMAS MCFARLAND

November 16, 2005 01:19 AM | Link to this

I HAVE BEEN A TECH FAN FOR OVER 55 YRS., HELD SEASON TIC’S AND BLED WHITE AND GOLD THRU THICK AND THIN—-NOW I FEEL THE SHAME ALL TECH FANS SHOULD FEEL FROM BRAINE(LESS) REMARKS. SHAME AND HURT BUT HE DOES NOT SPEAK FOR ME OR ANY “TRUE” TECH FAN—AND ANY TECH FAN THAT WOULD WISH A “DAWG” VICTORY OVER MY TECH TEAM IS A TRAITOR AND A COWARD. GO TECH—TO HELL WITH GA. AND BRAINE. HIS OPINION IS WORTHLESS!!

By Tech Alum

November 16, 2005 01:43 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe these comments came from the same person that scheduled OOC games against Auburn, Notre Dame, Louisville and Alabama.

By Mike

November 16, 2005 05:59 AM | Link to this

The criticism of Braine is unfounded.

The criticism of Clough, the Tech president who is handcuffing Braine, is well founded.

Braine can do nothing more. Would a really good coach ever be willing to come in and accept the second class status that Clough has assigned to Tech football? Perhaps Braine should fight Clough even harder, and get himself fired to satisfy all os tech fans whop are indignant? No, most of us would not fight such a losing battle, why should he?

Don’t like what Braine said? Write to Clough !!!!!

By medjacket

November 16, 2005 06:35 AM | Link to this

There are Tech FANS out there, myself included, who believe that a winning football program can be built without comprimising our academic standards. This will take time because we need stability to recruit bright players from around the country. Firing Gailey now will just set our program back another 5 years. To the so-called Tech fans who believe that we should win at all costs, recruit any player who can play ball, and hire a coach or AD or president that will break the rules — please stop coming to our games. We don’t want you there. Our goal for this program should be something more ambitious than winning 10 per year, emulating UGAg. We should aim higher than that.

By Larry

November 16, 2005 07:21 AM | Link to this

“We are an academic institution that happens to play football.�

Sounds to me like Georgia Tech has it’s priorities in order and that the dog is definitely wagging the tail.

This further motivates me to consider sending my two children there after high school.

I’m impressed Georgia Tech!

By fortebuna

November 16, 2005 07:47 AM | Link to this

Yes Tech is now officially a no nothing school who happens to play football. Mr Braine you are a piece of dog dung! We do not accept mediocrity but you saddle us with mediocrity in the sport that supports the school. CCG is nothing, never has been never will be. You said to the effect that CCG was Dodd or something like that. CCG could not Hold Coach Dodd’s Jock Strap.

By mem

November 16, 2005 07:54 AM | Link to this

Although I’m about as big a football junkie as you’ll find, as a 2-time Tech alum I DO NOT want to sacrifice the academic integrity of the university just to bring in some football players. Anyone bashing Wayne Clough for putting academics above sports is a bit misguided. Clough would love great sports teams, but when you’re the president at one of the top engineering schools in the country, you have bigger fish to fry.

As for the contract extension, although I personally would’ve just preferred either letting the contract ride out next year or a 3-year extension (if one must be made) instead of the 5, the fact is that Gailey has been re-hired and there’s no use griping and moaning about it now. Some of the fans that come on here and pull for Tech to lose just so they can say “I told you so” make me sick. I’d rather Tech win every game and call myself a dumba** than for them to lose and say I’m “right”. Now that he’s going to be here, I will fully support him from now until he leaves.

As for Braine and his comments, although there may be some validity in what he says, I do not want an AD who thinks that way and will publicly say that. As Dave said above, any saving face the extension did for recruits was all but wiped out with his public comments. I’d much rather have someone running the show who actually believes he can make the right moves and find the right people to OVERCOME the limitations, and not simply hang your head and accept them. Where’s the drive to excel?

Having said all this, however, let’s all remember the big picture. Braine may step down after only one more year (hopefully, after these comments), and any incoming AD should then be free to make any changes he wants. Just because the extension says “2010” doesn’t actually mean Gailey will be here until then, as buyouts happen all the time. So as bad as things may seem now, fresh blood may step in in a year or two and make some changes.

Go Jackets!!

By realist

November 16, 2005 08:03 AM | Link to this

Do most Tech fans expect to win 9 or 10 games a year? Of course not. But we expect to fight like Hell trying! Does Chan give us a fighting chance? No. Does Dave Braine? Clearly not!

By John

November 16, 2005 08:28 AM | Link to this

What I don’t understand is that if he feels we will always just be average or mediocre, why would we have expanded our stadium and updated it? Who did we do this for … our opponents’ fans? I thought we did this because we were serious about becoming a player and a top team?! Seems like a huge waste of money! Maybe if all the diehard GT alumni stop showing up for the games - the point will get across. But alas, they still will come because they hold on to this silly hope that one day we will become what we used to be.

By rumcreek

November 16, 2005 08:34 AM | Link to this

After Dave Brain’s comments I would like to suggest that if GT is to admit and accept mediocracy in sports, it is time to eliminate million dollar coaches.by making this statement,he has destroyed recruiting,the fan base, and the TV revenue.i guess GT will have to be satisfied with revenue sharing from the other ACC teams.GT should clean house immediately,starting at the top.

By Buzzweiser

November 16, 2005 08:46 AM | Link to this

As mentioned on the Hive, Dave Braine has a serious credibility problem. He is just adding to that list with his backtracking comments about needing to see improvement. What improvement has he seen? As an alumnus, I pretty much have to agree with Taz Anderson. Dave Braine has all but stated that he doesn’t expect GT football to compete for any type of championship. That is sad. I can’t think of any AD who is more aloof and out of touch with the sentiments of the alumni than Dave Braine has been.

It’s a sad day when the goals at the top are not to be the best.

By GW

November 16, 2005 08:47 AM | Link to this

Why is the Notre Dame job so tough? Own TV contract, no revenue sharing, national recruiting base. That comment by Braine surprised me.

By Confused GT Fan

November 16, 2005 08:48 AM | Link to this

So Braine scr ewed us and humiliated us. Yes, we should complain and send letters and emails to the AA and to Clough. But to stop supporting our team? Come on guys. Fan attendance is as big a reason for our lack of success. There are too many empty seats, many of the ones that are occupied people are sitting down and few cheer on a consistant basis. The only times we sell out or are close to selling out is when the other team’s fans decide to show up. There are a lot of bad Tech fans out there. I say we start the change there, then demand more from the morons making the big decisions. I know it’s painfull to watch our team, but even at the UVA game, I was there until UVA’s last possesion, and i kept standing and yelling supporting our team. Why would the jacka s s Brain do something for an empty stadium? Instead of trying to prove him wrong by wishing out team ill and stop showing up to the games, lets show him we are good fans, expect more, and that we will be there for the team. GO JACKETS!

By Mark

November 16, 2005 08:51 AM | Link to this

What a tragic day for Georgia Tech. It is amazing that only 4 years since O’Leary was taking us to back-to-back Gator Bowls, we are now told by the Tech Administration that we are dreaming to think these young men can win football games consistently. We’re not looking at 9-10 win seasons every year — how about a few 7 or 8 win seasons? We can’t even do that unless we throw in UCONN, Tulsa, Samford, etc. But whatever was possible is now impossible with Braine’s acknowledgement for all our potential recruits that coming to Tech will mean four years of 5-6 win seasons and an occasional bowl game on the west coast. I remember in the 1980’s when Frank Broyles sent an open letter to the AJC terminating all support to Tech until they made a commitment to athletics —- it worked then and maybe it will work again. But I don’t matter to Clough and Braine — maybe Taz, Joe Rogers or other weathy backers will matter to these obnoxious transplants. And make no mistake - it has been proven many times that athletic success is good for academic institutions. It brings in money, prestige and visibility. All that is going to disappear as Braine leaves his tattered legacy at Tech.

By JacketEnvy

November 16, 2005 09:02 AM | Link to this

Is it just me or have Tech blogger tunred completely ignornant. Braine did not say we are going to accept mediocrity. I grew up a Tech fan and I count on one hand the time Tech has won 10 games. Braine merely was stupid enough to state the obvious and now Bradley and blognation have run with it. Tech may win 10 games next year if everyone would settle down and evaluate what is going on.

Gailey is good for Tech, the talent is at an all time high, execution will get better with maturity, Tech will compete for the ACC title as soon as next year. RELAX!

By DrT.

November 16, 2005 09:05 AM | Link to this

All of you O’Leary lovers need to read between the lines. Fat George left a much bigger stink behind him than anyone realizes. What Braine is doing corresponds DIRECTLY to O’Leary. Braine just might have put a little salve on the situation with the NCAA. Tech was, and may still be facing very harsh scholarship reductions. It was only a matter of time until the O’fat one really stuck it to Tech. And then guess what? George would have left you high and dry and moved on to his next smell em up.

By wes

November 16, 2005 09:07 AM | Link to this

Why don’t all of u guys just shut up? Do you think you’re doing Tech any favors by constantly whining about all of this?

What’s done is done. Get behind Gailey for a few more years, if things fall apart, then start beetching again. Give him a chance. The recruiting class of 2001 where he only got to sign 11 players has been devastating to GT’s depth over the entire duration of Gailey’s tenure. The only players fro that class who contribute are a starting safety, Chris Reis, and a backup FB, Ace.

I will definitely concede that Braine has lost his mind by saying Tech can’t win BIG consistently. I’d expect him to rescind those comments. On the other hand, he says that Gailey has been great with academics. What about all the players that keep flunking out?

By Chad Peterson

November 16, 2005 09:11 AM | Link to this

So 5 years ago, Mark says that O’Leary isn’t a good coach and Tech was lucky. Anybody see what UCF is doing these days. Two years ago he says Paul Hewitt just isn’t going to get it done. 6 weeks later he backtracks and says we’re going to win the national championship. So 5 weeks ago, Mark predicts that Chan won’t last at Tech. Oops.

Braine said, “Georgia Tech can win nine or 10 games [in a season], but they will never do it consistently. That’s my belief.�

Taz says, “Contrary to what the athletic director would believe, we alumni who put thousands of dollars into the program would like to think we have a shot to win every game — not that we will win every game, but that we have a shot.�

Taz, so you and Braine don’t think we can win every game. Thanks for the insight, but contrary to what you believe, it seems you and Braine pretty much agree.

I agree with Mark on one thing. We can win big games and we still got a couple of ‘em left on our schedule.

By JacketEnvy

November 16, 2005 09:16 AM | Link to this

One more thing, don’t be suckers to Bradley’s articles. He gets paid to get to people to read his articles. Any one that has been reading the paper long enough knows he writes to sell papers, which is fine, that’s his job and he does it well. But don’t let him pull the cover over your eyes. Tech atheltics are great, we compete on a high level in every sport, and by the way there are two more games this year to IMPROVE, and I think we might just shock a few people. Get your head out Mark’s articles and wake up!

By CP

November 16, 2005 09:25 AM | Link to this

Come 2011 we will now have the largest Div 1-A Lacrosse stadium in the US!

By Mediocore Man

November 16, 2005 09:31 AM | Link to this

Please look above for the e-mail from Dave Braine …. is that REALLY him? … seriously … please scroll above ..

IF that is really him, I have NEVER EVER in my 20 year profesional life seen a more unprofessional leader at ANY level.

Plain and simple … he is a quiter, a disgrace and should be fired IMMEDIATELY … AJC/Marc Bradley, please verify this e-mail and put it in the AJC!

And one other thing irks me … I guess we can’t win and expect to have our hopes dashed, but funny how Frank Beamer at Virginia Tech can do just fine … I guess that “isn’t a hard job” … what a joke …

Braine you are a disgrace as an administrator but more importantly a disgrace as a symbol to any college athlete …

I bought a $1K Paul Hewitt signed basketball to Support GT Athletics several months ago … that will NEVER happen again

By BradATL

November 16, 2005 09:37 AM | Link to this

Congrats to Dave Braine and Dr. Clough for extending Coach Gailey’s contract. It is good to see that sanity and common sense occasionally prevail. Gaily isn’t a superstar but is easily in the top half of ACC coaches. Gailey has been able to perform no worse than O’Leary’s last year (7-5 with a talented, senior-laden roster) under tightened academic restrictions. To the guy below who is cancelling his future donations to the athletic association — don’t worry, I’ll just double mine.

By Skip

November 16, 2005 09:42 AM | Link to this

Just curious as to what Dave Braine’s expectations are for the basketball team.

By Dave Braine

November 16, 2005 09:47 AM | Link to this

Mediocre man if you actually think braine would come on here and post that 5 year old level of competence remark you should change your name to dumbass man.

By Michael Dean

November 16, 2005 09:54 AM | Link to this

Like most fans, I suppose, I’ll pull for Tech as long as they’re competitive, as long as they don’t bore me on Saturdays. Their academic toughness makes me feel better about my choice. However, I don’t see anything wrong with having academic programs designed for athletes, less rigorous and more focused on their real-world needs, getting them skills they could use if their dreams don’t materialize. Gailey has disappointed. Maybe an O.C. would mean a win or two more a season. Perhaps Braine is right in opting for a stable situation. There’s a lack of flexibility, maybe in the system, maybe with some fans.

By Confused GT Fan

November 16, 2005 09:54 AM | Link to this

Good one Dave Braine. Sorry to laugh at you Mediocre Man, but I can not believe that anyone could remotly entertain the tought that that was reall Braine. Skip, how can you wonder that. The answer is .500, just like football. It just hit me, maybe Braine is going to apply a curve, since it’s so much tougher at Tech, and turn the .500 into .800?

By Ala. Jim

November 16, 2005 10:02 AM | Link to this

Mr. Braine. I graduated in 1956 and it was hard as hell back then too. Tech has always been tough to get through and that’s the way it should be. I’m proud to be a Ga. Tech graduate but I’m not proud of 6-5!!!

By Mac Hall

November 16, 2005 10:08 AM | Link to this

I wonder what high school ballplayers will think about Tech now that our AD does not expect our football to be in the top 25 nor compete for the ACC title?

By J. Dawkins

November 16, 2005 10:23 AM | Link to this

The AD at SMU, Temple, Vandy, Army, Navy, and Duke would never make comments like this - what a shame that our AD at Tech does. Good luck recruiting - I am sure there are many student athletes who consider themselves ” mediocre” looking to play for a “mediocre” program.

By John

November 16, 2005 10:26 AM | Link to this

Agree. And if a high school player is being recruited by GT and other schools, I’m sure the head coaches of the other schools will have a copy of Braine’s statements handy. This will help to sway them away from Tech and to their schools.

By Techaholic

November 16, 2005 11:01 AM | Link to this

I hope TAZ ANDERSON and the rest of the MONEY ALUMNI standup and speak out ALL TOGETHER about Gailey’s extension AND Dave Braine’s inexcusable statement yesterday!!

For this Tech fan, Gailey’s mediocrity is unacceptable and Braine’s statements speaks more about an AD out-of-touch and who cares nothing for this storied program!

How many GT fans will support a program whose AD in a public forum says … ‘this is it, this is the best we can do’ and then turns around and EXTENDS to a less than stellar coach a MILLION BUCKS A YEAR FOR 5 ADDITIONAL YEARS ….that is ludicrous!

This is a business and in business no CEO is going to continue to keep a VP or anyone under him making a whole lot of money to give us average results!

Somebody w/power and money at GT needs to reverse this and get rid of both men … Gailey and Braine!!

By mike

November 16, 2005 11:06 AM | Link to this

TO ANSWER THE QUESTION. WILL PEOPLE CONTINUE TO PAY FOR MEDIOCRITY? THE ANSWER IS YES. THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE PAY 50 CENTS FOR MARK BRADLEY’S ARTICLES IN THE AJC EVERY DAY!

By mtraininjax

November 16, 2005 11:06 AM | Link to this

Nobody is asking for Tech to lower the bar for football recruiting, some of you need to lighten up on that issue. All we are trying to say is that O’Leary won 8 games or more for 4 years. Why can’t Gailey get to 8 games? Does Clough control recruiting too? Just seems to me that if Braine thought the job was too hard, he would have left. His mediocrity standards have me befuddled. Why is it that Baseball and Basketball thrive with “gifted” athletes and scholars? The whole thing stinks!

By Wendy

November 16, 2005 11:07 AM | Link to this

If you’re not happy with Braine, don’t withhold Roll Call donations, withhold A-T donations. I’m not one of those that gets mad at Clough every time Braine screws up - Clough has more important things to worry about than football. Supporting Georgia Tech is different than supporting GT Athletics, IMO

I agree with Braine, I think a lot of Tech fans knew it without being told, but I am also terribly disappointed that he actually said it out loud. As if Gailey doesn’t have enough trouble recruiting. I do think the CFB is littered with unrealistic expectations - the mathematics say that only so many schools can win 9-10 games and only 1 can win a NC.

I was under the impression that he would likely not fire Gailey, so that the new AD could make a choice, but never imagined that he would give Gailey a rather unenthusiastic endorsement with a 5-year extension and force the new AD to give him a few years. Because last I checked, there’s not even a freikin buyout. How dumb is that?

I like Gailey as a man, but I’m certainly not sold on him as a coach. If we lose Tenuta, we are toast.

By SM

November 16, 2005 11:09 AM | Link to this

Somebody wants to create jock-friendly degree programs at GT so they can play better ball? And you have the audacity to look down your nose at UGA? There are many thousands of people who hold degrees from GT who will be happy that the school is not committed to the vain pursuit of football glory. Each year, the school graduates thousands of students to whom that degree means doors open that wouldn’t have opened before. To cheapen those degrees for the cause of two or three more victories at football would be insane.

By RSG

November 16, 2005 11:11 AM | Link to this

As a Tech alumn, I always thought that the genius and pride of our INSTITUTE was the fact that, given the givens, NO ONE associated with Tech accepted mediocrity or the status quo. Yes, the academics are tough. Yes, the environment is unlike major Universities. Yes, it is a research institute where students happen to pursue an education. Yes, we have top-tier sports programs (basketball, golf, baseball, and, on some Saturdays, football). Part of the challenge for Tech, even those of us that did not compete athletically and weren’t in the top tier of SAT scores accepted, is facing the challenge and using our unique abilities and skill sets to do more than get through, but to succeed and advance. It is something that most Tech alumns that I know have taken into further education and their careers, and it is a mindset that has served them well.

Coach[sic] Gailey is simply not living up to that standard, nor is Dave Braine. Instead of coming up with creative ways to play to the strengths of individuals and institutions, they are putting those individuals into “tried and true” roles that don’t work for them. A good coach rises above the challenges and performs well. Why should we NOT expect 8 or 9 or 10 - win seasons each year?! We are capable of it if the coaches could just put the pieces together. That takes a strong leader that has a vision to put the natural talents of his players to their optimal use. Chan does not do that. I think everyone agrees that Paul Hewitt was probably the best thing that Dave Braine ever did, and I will begrudgingly give him credit for not having a brain tumor for breakfast the day he hired him.

This contract extension, however, is asinine. Yes, stability is good, but mediocre stability is insane. I’d rather have a few bad years under someone who actually expected to succeed than another 5 of this and having to start over. THAT is what will set us back 5 years. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, and expecting a different result. PLEASE, if you are reading this and have any say over decisions that are made in Tech tower and in the AA, PLEASE consider what these comments mean to any self-respecting Tech alumn - get rid of Braine, get rid of Gailey, and let’s find someone that can pick up the pieces of what we have and move on.

For those that say, “who are we going to get?” That also takes imagination, which Braine has proven he does not have. There are colleges that have as rigorous academic standards as Tech that compete at a level higher, consistently, than we are able to achieve. Look to our own conference for one - Virginia. Look to next season’s schedule for another - ND. Look a little ways north - Michigan. These are not easy schools to get into or suceed in. If they can expect greatness, so can we. After all, that’s what Tech teaches from the first day we set foot on campus…anyone who is willing to work for it can succeed.

By Techaholic

November 16, 2005 11:15 AM | Link to this

Hey GT fans, Mark Bradley is not the problem at GT … fans have been up in arms since Gailey arrived. Many did not like this hire then and after 4 seasons we NOW ALL KNOW WHY!

George O’Leary is gone. The current coach is the one responsible for the expectations lowered, the AD is responsible for the hire and the end results!

Stop blaming someone who is not longer around AND BY THE WAY … when he was our expectations were higher and our results were that much better.

Chan Gailey and Dave Braine are a sham and I’m disappointed that both are not held accountable for this horrible mistake!

By Wendy

November 16, 2005 11:17 AM | Link to this

Dave Braine said once that his goal was to be consistently Top 25 in every sport. I thought that was a TERRIFIC goal. It’s not about winning chanmpionships, it’s just about winning.

Dave Braine is so hard to figure out too. The AA, as a whole, is SO MUCH better than when he got here. The non-revenue sports are flourishing in a big way, as are men’s basketball and baseball.

Unfortunately, it seems that his weakness has always been handling the FB program, the single biggest sport at the school. It’s a shame that his problems with managing the FB program overshadows the good to the rest of the program. But there have ben gaffes in FB, and that’s all people notice…

By Robert K.

November 16, 2005 11:22 AM | Link to this

Perspective on mediocrity:

Boise State < Auburn South Carolina = North Carolina Louisiana-Monroe < Connecticut Mississippi State < Virginia Tech Tennessee < NC State Vanderbilt = Duke Arkansas < Clemson Florida > Wake Forest Auburn > Virginia Kentucky < Miami

Why not hammer Mark Richt for playing an obviously inferior schedule?

By K-Dogg

November 16, 2005 11:25 AM | Link to this

I don’t get it? Why do all you people who hate on Coach Gailey and Dave Braine suggest that not going to the games is the best way to respond?? What kind of fan are you? No doubt, a UGAg fan in disguise…Give me a break!!

By K-Dogg

November 16, 2005 11:27 AM | Link to this

We played the 13th toughest schedule in the nation this year…and with the way the ACC is set up, we’ll probably play another doozie next year. Folks, this is what we signed up for! There’s no backing out now!

By D.J.

November 16, 2005 11:31 AM | Link to this

Forgive me..the man gets paid about a million dollars per year…Hell yes the fans expect a quality product!!! Is it asking to much to put a team on the field that plays consistantly every week? If you are not going to play the game to be number 1..dont’t play the game at all…

By ben

November 16, 2005 11:33 AM | Link to this

Braine hired Frank Beamer and Paul Hewitt, but now he’s an idiot? I read the deal like this: Braine gave out an extension like lame duck U.S. Presidents give out pardons, Gailey will be fired in 2 or 3 years(as soon as he loses Tenuta), but still collect his millions. Braine will be on a golf course at Hilton Head, feeling good in his retirement that he helped a decent man prolong his career.

By DenverDawg

November 16, 2005 11:48 AM | Link to this

I love the excuses! Techies seem to overlook the fact that the average SAT and GPA of UGA’s incoming scholarship freshmen have eclipsed GT’s for most of the past 10 years.

Also conveniently forgotten are the tutorgate and eligibility scandals during recent years.

But keep up the righteous indignation. It makes stomping you in late November that much more fun……..

Oh, and I work for a KU grad & have 6 Techies who work for me. So much for that argument, too.

By George P. Burdell

November 16, 2005 12:01 PM | Link to this

Today, for the first time in my life, I agree 100% with Mark Bradley. It is indeed a cold, cold day in hell. Kudos, Mr. Bradley.

By BuzzMan

November 16, 2005 12:02 PM | Link to this

I’ve been saying it along about Chan. Not good enough to win. Not bad enough to get fired.

By John

November 16, 2005 12:09 PM | Link to this

great article: http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news;ylt=Am8fFRqdf4wSUXViRJSbBF8cvrYF?slug=citadel-2467544_140&prov=citadel&type=story

By Robert

November 16, 2005 12:11 PM | Link to this

I graduated from Tech. I am a big Tech fan. I have donated tons of money to Tech. However, Braine’s comments and his decision to continue with Gailey have exposed where the mediocrity of the football program exist - with Braine.

GA Tech does not have to settle. Does or has Notre Dame settled? Braine used them to compare GA Tech academically, but the Notre Dame football program does not settle at all. Why should we?

I refuse to give any more money at all - to include purchasing my season tickets - until Braine and Gailey and that attitude is gone. Why should I support a program that is happy with the middle of the pack????

By Robert

November 16, 2005 12:14 PM | Link to this

Denver Dog - I don’t know what planet that you are on, but you are completely wrong. UGAGs SAT average is far below that of Tech’s. I know because my nephew was just admitted to UGAG and I also keep up with Tech. The difference is about 200 points - in favor of Tech. Please check your facts before spewing your BS.

By DenverDawg

November 16, 2005 12:24 PM | Link to this

Robert,

Apparently you scored poorly on any standardized test where reading comprehension is a component.

“the average SAT and GPA of UGA’s incoming SCHOLARSHIP freshmen “

And, according to US News and World Reports, the average SAT among ALL incoming freshmen is closer to 60 points, in favor of GT. But, if we want to use anecdotal evidence to prove our point, my former boss’ daughter was denied admission to UGA, but was accepted under GT’s early admissions program. Using your circular logic, I guess that means UGA is a better school?

By Ralph

November 16, 2005 12:30 PM | Link to this

Folks,

What business is Georgia Tech in? We are in the academic business.

Go Jackets.

By Greg

November 16, 2005 12:32 PM | Link to this

As any Tech fan can tell you, while you’re driving down I75/85S and you pass the 10th Street exit, a large Georgia Institute of Technology sign comes into view. Clearly inscribed on the bottom of the sign are the dates of each of our FOUR national championships in FOOTBALL. When I was an incoming freshman at GT, I remember the tone set by the sign and the imposing football stadium right when you turn onto North Avenue. This was a place that didn’t mess around when it comes to football. I already knew that Tech didn’t mess around when it came to their academic reputation, but they expected excellence in all facets of their reputation. If our athletic director doesn’t understand/represent/believe that this is the case, he needs to a) lobby to get that sign taken down and replace it with some cheesy mural of children playing in centennial olympic park (as seen in the airport) or b) stop misrepresenting the school’s athletic expectations, athletes and fans. I will continue to support GT through thick and thin, but I’m nervous about the impending thin.

By DSQ

November 16, 2005 12:45 PM | Link to this

I was anti Chan Gailey from day one, but now I support Chan and want him to succeed. I was supportive of Dave Braine even though I didn’t agree with his hiring of Chan. Now I want Braine out the door immediately.

By Steve

November 16, 2005 12:58 PM | Link to this

My father has worked at GT for more than 35 years, I wonder if he could have held his position by just being mediocre? As an Electrical Engineer I wonder if his superiors have come by his office and said “You know that project your working on, if you get it to work then great, if not, Oh well at least you tried�

We have been loyal GT season ticket holders for more than 20 years. We were there when we won the national title in 1990, I was in Athens when we beat UGA by recovering an n obvious fumble. But I was also at Historic Grant Field when we lost to UGA by getting hit with a questionable Pass Interference call in the end zone, which propelled the hated Dawgs to victory. The score, I could not remember because as always when we loose to those dirty britches the scoreboard was immediately turned off.

I have been there in all of the good years and all of the bad. I bleed old gold and white. My GT Flag hangs proudly on my house every Saturday, right next to the red white and blue. But today, after hearing the comments made by Braine, I am devastated to know that I have been supporting a team that has accepted being just ‘OK’.

For all of you students currently enrolled in classes at GT, when you get your grades at the end of the semester and you see a C in lieu of an A, just explain to your parents that it’s OK because you tried your best and the AD said was ok to be average, for all of us at work, when our bosses come to check our progress on a project, simply explain that you sort of did it, but you haven’t finished and really don’t expect to, then ask for a raise and a promotion.

I will continue to support my Yellow Jackets, through 10 – 1 seasons, and through 1-10 seasons. I really can not understand a decision to keep a coach that has yet to be those d**n dirty Dawgs, and got blown out by Duke. Sure were not Temple, but it seems that Mr. Braine is leading us down that road. Go Owls!!

By HacksawDawg

November 16, 2005 01:08 PM | Link to this

Look folks—I actually played college football at the University of Georgia. Georgia Tech was a f*** joke then and still is.

By gtalum

November 16, 2005 01:12 PM | Link to this

DenverDawg,

You daughter didn’t get into UGA because she was ugly. Tech took her early because she was still cuter than most of the other girls already there.

By gtalum

November 16, 2005 01:17 PM | Link to this

Sorry DenverDawg, I meant your boss’s daughter. And what crack magazines are you reading to make this statement:

“Techies seem to overlook the fact that the average SAT and GPA of UGA’s incoming scholarship freshmen have eclipsed GT’s for most of the past 10 years.”

That is ridiculous.

By Greg

November 16, 2005 01:20 PM | Link to this

Mr. Braine has fallen to the same level as the mutts, since he’s offering a lame excuse for our substandard performance. As to hacksawdawg’s comment… you and your ex-UGA football player buddies must have been huffing crazy glue again.

By Robert

November 16, 2005 01:20 PM | Link to this

Hacksaw Dog - Did you play at UGAG when Tech beat you 3 years in a row?

By PM

November 16, 2005 01:40 PM | Link to this

Right, wrong or indifferent, I am going to support the program I love. Changes do need to be made for improvement. Hopefully Braine got some concessions from Gailey for the contract extension. I don’t think we will know until after the season. I would say Braine wishes he had worded his statement differently about right now. I believe Coach Gailey and his coaches believe in this team and program. These football players believe in this team and program.

Let’s go out and support these players and win the next 2!

By RedDAWg

November 16, 2005 01:46 PM | Link to this

hey smart a*, or that what you think you are. who is the smart a* now morons!!

Godawgs!

By wise1

November 16, 2005 01:48 PM | Link to this

Denver Dawg…

Really hate to bust your high there but who gives a ratsass what the average SAT is for incoming SCHOLARSHIP students. BTW is that football, all sports or all scholarships.

And as for your example I have a daughter at Tech and a son at UGA and my son wanted to go to Tech but couldn’t get a whiff of being accepted. FYI, Tech goes out of their way to admit girls to increase the ratio.

And you thought you were special!!!

By Michael

November 16, 2005 01:48 PM | Link to this

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!

Stupid Techies. Here’s to you losing every game you play 222-0, giving up football, and bulldozing that sorry excuse for a high school stadium to make way for a nuclear waste dump. At least that would be an improvement.

By Richard

November 16, 2005 01:52 PM | Link to this

It’s time to Boycott all of Tech’s football program. No giving and no attending. To lower the goals each year and accept inadequate production is not the way of the real world that Georgia Tech liked to teach for decades. Only someone with their head in the sand can’t see that this program is on the road to ruin..in recruiting, excitement, and yes Bowls and won loss records. Down here in Florida I won’t lift a finger to help sell Georgia Tech.

By TheTruth

November 16, 2005 02:03 PM | Link to this

If any guys being recruited by Tech read these blogs, I bet they sure are impressed.

By Biff

November 16, 2005 02:07 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Richard. If I’m a Blue Chip, don’t think Tech is the place for me, given this statement acknowledging that winning isn’t all that big a deal. They’re already sitting in the heart of SEC recuriting turf (Ga, Fl, Aub. Sc, TN all recruit heavily here).

I’m a UGA fan… but am not taking a shot. It’s just an amazing statement by Braine.

By Biff

November 16, 2005 02:13 PM | Link to this

Not only that, but when and if Gailey IS fired (even if it’s after Braine retires), how is Tech gonna attact a topnotch coach given this statement? Spurrier didn’t go to SC on the promise that they wanted to win 6 or 7 games; he went because they asked him to build a champion.

Again, just amazing.

By TheTruth

November 16, 2005 02:22 PM | Link to this

Spurrier also knew the dedication and devotion of the Carolina fans to the program over the years, win, lose, or draw. They have provided the program support and the resources needed to attract a guy like Spurrier to a place that has had monumental recruiting difficulties. Even geography works against Carolina. Think about it Tech fans. If you acted like Carolina fans maybe Tech’s program could do what Carolina has done.

By Mike

November 16, 2005 02:30 PM | Link to this

Interesting to see comments by former Tech players Dan Howington and Taz Anderson as to how they think expectations should be higher.

Howington’s Tech teams won a total of 6 games in 79-80-81. Three losses to UGA by combined 68 points. Anderson’s Tech teams won a total of 16 games in 58-59-60. Three losses to UGA.

By Greg

November 16, 2005 02:33 PM | Link to this

I will support Tech through the thick and thin, as stated above. UGA fans should go back to their own “blawg” and complain about officiating in the Auburn loss.

By Biff

November 16, 2005 02:36 PM | Link to this

A couple of other thoughts from an outsider, if I may. It seems like Braine is just scared to death of the public’s scrutiny. Last year, he “excused” a mediocre season by promising that it wouldn’t be good enough again. But, here he is, and didn’t really have the desire to replace Gailey, so instead of acknowledging that he had either misspoken or changed his mind, he trashed the FUTURE of the program as hopeless.

This morning on 790 radio, he ‘clarified’ his remarks, or amplified them, by talking about how since 1956 Tech has only won 10 games 3 times, or something like that; defending yesterday’s statements by trashing the PAST of the program.

Seems like the guy will say anything to avoid having people criticize his decisions or statements.

By Biff

November 16, 2005 02:40 PM | Link to this

Hey Greg, first of all I’ve been more courteous than many of the Tech bloggers in here; I acknowledged my “roots” and said nothing disrespectful. And it’s not like no tech fans jump in to trash the Dawgs in “our” blog.

I’ll “blog” anywhere I want, thanks.

By jackets fan

November 16, 2005 02:44 PM | Link to this

First off, most of the people who have paid for this “mediocrity” as some have put it don’t even bother to show up for the games anyway. So the hell with their “opinions”. Maybe if they showed up every game the players and other fans would get pumped up enough to make the Flats a home field advantage instead of just a place where the game happens. Fans can have an impact on the games. But in this society its, “win and I’ll show up” instead of “I’ll show up to help you win”. Secondly, Dave Braine was the man who hired Frank Beamer at VaTech and stood by him thru a weaker start to his tenure than Gailey has had, despite calls to fire him. It’s actually funny, but all the comments that Braine and Gailey have made in the wake of his contract extention, I agree with 100%. Tech won’t be a perennial 9 or 10 win team. The ACC is too tough now with the U, VT, and Boston College joining, coupled with not only the academic requirements, but the type of school it is. Remember, its not a UGA type university where you can study basket weaving. There are plenty of schools that have high entrance standards that offer a wide swath of studies. GT is more specific on top of having high standards. Have you ever talked with some of the football players from schools like UGA? They aint too bright. It’s not just a matter of them wanting to go to Tech, they also have to be smart enough to get in and succeed. Why do people not understand this? Unless Charlie Weis or Pete Carroll decide they want a challenge bigger than the ones they took on in turning around Notre Dame and USC, then there is no reason to make a coaching change. Look at Nebraska. They had a 9-3 season under Frank Solich 2 years ago. They deemed that an insult to the cornhusker way and sent him packing. (And he wasn’t just some transient coach. He’d been on Tom Osbournes staff for a while.) And now Solich is turning around an Ohio program. Ohio? What? And meanwhile Nebraska is suffering thru a whole series of “the first time since Eisenhower was President” losses or scores or whatever. The point to this is CHANGING COACHES NOT ONLY IS A GAMBLE BUT IT SETS PROGRAMS BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Gailey has already improved the talent. Tech has never had any players on par with Calvin Johnson. And don’t you think that at high schools all around the south, young WR’s are saying, man I wanna be like CJ and play at Tech? Good recruiting breeds more good recruiting. I’m tired of talking to people who understand nothing.

By TheTruth

November 16, 2005 02:47 PM | Link to this

The Beamer Ballers are probably laughing at your inability to understand Braine’s plan.

By Greg

November 16, 2005 02:48 PM | Link to this

Hey Biff, I was more speaking in regards to the “Stupid Techies. Here’s to you losing every game you play 222-0, giving up football, and bulldozing that sorry excuse for a high school stadium to make way for a nuclear waste dump. At least that would be an improvement” brand of message. You have just shared insights, so I wasn’t targeting you.

By Joe

November 16, 2005 02:48 PM | Link to this

What would Kim King say ? This is disgraceful.

By Biff

November 16, 2005 02:55 PM | Link to this

Greg…thanks for clarifying. My apologies.

By Ryan

November 16, 2005 03:03 PM | Link to this

It’s nice to see that most of the people who blog here are as moronic as Mark Bradley. Should Braine have made those comments publicly? No. Are they very far off? No. As one of the biggest Tech fans, I look at what Braine said as being fairly accurate. That being said, at the beginning of each year, expecting 9+ wins is not out of the question. The problem is that when it doesn’t happen, Tech fans start to get very irrational about what we are. We are an exceptional academic institution and a very good football program. Unfortunately, a lot of players don’t want to put in the extra work that staying eligible to play football at Tech requires, even the smarter ones. Gailey has gotten as much as possible out of the players we are able to recruit and should be commended for his job. We consistently are the same level as the UVAs of the world, the loss aside, despite that every year we are forced to recruit guys that aren’t drawing a whole lot of attention from other schools.

By TECH SUPPORTER

November 16, 2005 03:08 PM | Link to this

HEY BULLDAWGS…….HOW CAN YOU COME HERE AND TALK ABOUT TECH? YOU ARE THE ONES THAT SHOULD BE WHINNING. AFTER THE LOSS TO AUBURN LAST WEEK, I WAS AMAZED TO HEAR THAT THE NECKS WERE CALLING FOR COACH RICHTS HEARD. YOU FOOLS YOU FOOLS…YOU D ONT KNOW A DIAMOND WHEN YOU HAVE ONE

By Biff

November 16, 2005 03:10 PM | Link to this

I think it IS a huge challenge for Tech to compete at the highest level. Don’t know what’s true about the academics, but the smaller and “spread out” alumni base, the recruiting competition, etc., do make it a tough place to win big.

Just seems like Braine could’ve said: “we re-evaluated and feel that Coach Gailey is making the most of his resources, and gives us the best chance to be successful in the future.” Nuff said and the whole tech football nation isn’t insulted.

Or, just consult Jesse Jackson, and “keep hope alive!”

I’ll shut up and go over to the Dawgs blog, and moan about our problems.

By John Morrow

November 16, 2005 03:12 PM | Link to this

Your headline is erroneous. The expectations are being reset to meet the school’s capabilities, not the coach’s. Who know what Chan could do at FSU or Miami, but one thing is for sure, Tech doesn’t need FSU or Miami’s student athletes.

By dave

November 16, 2005 03:17 PM | Link to this

so jackets fan, i’m one of the ones “who understand nothing” in regards to “good recruiting breeds more good recruiting”….are you refering to GT?…….and if so, what recruits and ranking are you refering to? CJ is the perfect example of what everyone has been trying to say…..he’s one of the best WR’s in college and yet, look how much chan chooses to use him in GT’s offense…..hardly ever!!!!!how chan pulls that off is one of his more amazing talents……you’re right good recruiting leads to more good recruiting because good recruits lead to WINNING, which then brings in more recruits who want to play for a winner…..and blue chippers like CJ want to actually make plays in an exciting offense as they polish their talents and hope for a pro career….since chan’s offense fails to accomplish any of the above and braine has just announced to the world (see recruits and their PARENTS) that winning and playing for championships is not really the goal of GT’s football team, then i don’t really expect to see a line of recuits forming to attend GT….in fact i bet there are a lot of blue chip HS players that indeed are saying I want to be as good as CJ but none of them are saying I want to play at tech cause look what’s happened to CJ and their parents are looking at the idiots running the show…….

By Gordon Pfeiffer

November 16, 2005 03:24 PM | Link to this

I would rather Tech be mediocre in football than to cut corners academically. I’m not saying I necessarily agree with what Braine said, but if it comes down to a choice winning some football games is just worth changing what Tech is: a school which has high standards academically and in following the rules.

I just hope none of this spills over to the basketball program. There is no reason we can’t compete at the highest levels there. Have you seen our freshmen? Have you seen next years class? Good times are ahead. We have everything in place (coach, conference, momentum) to be as good as anyone in the next few years.

By Hal

November 16, 2005 03:30 PM | Link to this

Well why should we continue to schedule UGA since we are not competeing with them? Schedule somone else and get the 7th win. We have thrown in the towel.

By richard

November 16, 2005 03:32 PM | Link to this

What kind of message is Braine, Clough and Gailey and academic elites sending to their student/athletes? It’s o.k. to be average on the football field. You tell that to the next perspective employer that you just want to be an average employee. You tell that to your boss the next time you ask for a promotion or raise. IN the real world which particularly made Georgia Tech what it is today, success or betterment is always sought. That is the nature of technology to improve things. The real world is more than just an academic course. What is being taught to the Tech football players through the public statements of Braine and Gailey will undermine all they learn in the classroom. Heads roll in the real world for mediocrity. I’d rather go 0-11 with the objective we’re trying to win all 11 games, even if we fall short. Effort is where all things begin and some things end.

By dave

November 16, 2005 03:37 PM | Link to this

GP, good point on the spill over……what if hewitt takes note of the comment regarding winning and expectations and senses a lack of commitment to athletics from the administration…..he’s always said i’m staying as long as braine stays and that’s next year……if the mindset of the higherups re athletics is turning negative hewitt may be planning his departure already….who knows?….i mean with all that’s going on the past two days it can’t be all that enjoyable in the athletic offices ( i could be wrong and they’re all partying with chan oblivious to what’s being said in the blog universe)…..and there is NO reason (only excuses) the football program can’t compete at higher levels and occasionally at the highest level….a good coach ( which chan is not) could deliver more wins consistently than chan has the last 4 years

By TheTruth

November 16, 2005 03:43 PM | Link to this

If you didn’t need the ACC basketball revenue to tote the note, you could bail out and go to the WAC,MAC,or Sunbelt Conference. But, seeing how the self proclaimed “big money Tech men” can’t seem to (no pun intended)feed the bulldog when it comes to football, I guess you are stuck getting pounded in the ACC. But all of you basketball fans should be commended. You fill the arena and support the team. You are REAL fans.

By TheTruth

November 16, 2005 03:52 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe the blog censored “feed the bulldog.”

By Al Davis

November 16, 2005 04:06 PM | Link to this

How good would Johnson,Bilbo,P.J.,Tashard, and co. be if D.J. Shockley was your QB? Offenses are only capable of what the QB can execute.

By Tech Boss

November 16, 2005 04:23 PM | Link to this

Dear Denver Dawg,

Your boss, you know, the KU grad, he works for me, and I’ve just instructed him to have you fired and promote one of those Tech grads doing all your work for you while you’re on the internet wasting my money. Thanks for the post anyway.

By A Chicago Tech Alumni

November 16, 2005 04:31 PM | Link to this

I never thought I would see the day that Tech would settle for average in anything. Being average and accepting average are two different things. Living in Chicago, I have watched Notre Dame (who Dave Brane admits is just as hard to coach at as Tech) refuse to settle for being average and return to one of the best programs in the country. We become what we think we are — I for one will never accept average; Tech should likewise never accept average. Like Chan or not - let’s hope his opening speach to his recruits and team does not echo Dave Brane. No leader ever settled for average - Dave needs to move on if this is his expectation - this is not GA Tech !!

By B'ville Jacket

November 16, 2005 04:32 PM | Link to this

Maybe where BRaine comes from folks lay doan and stop when they face a real tuff task. But that is not what I learned as a Tech Student and nothing close to what I believe as a Tech Alumni. What doe we tell potential players - we are born to loose - we will never make it. come on Braine get with the program. If you can’t produce a winner - you and your coach take you show someplace else. Tech has been and still can be NAtional Champion material or was Bobby Ross a fluke - not so. We need leaders in control and you two weak knee quitters need to take a hike. I am one of those 60’s folks who still knows it can be done but I do not believe it will ever happen with the present lack-of-leadership we have. All Braine gave us was an excuse for failure not a reason for success. Let’s find someone who cares.

By Tech

November 16, 2005 04:34 PM | Link to this

DenverDog, Please don’t argue about academics or better students. That argument is beat up. And don’t give the “I am the boss of these Tech alumns.” Thats just childish. 1) I did my undergrad at Tech and am getting my Law degree at UGA. Comparatively, your undergrads are morons. Period. 2) There are more UGA grads, so statistically, there should be more bosses. Period. 3) Your former boss’ daughter got into Tech largely b/c she’s an out of state female. Period. So, when Braine talks about being one of the toughest schools and are excited to retort, save your energy, I’ll do the explaining 1) Higher standards to get into Tech (see AJC article about it). 2) You’re in Tech, not many majors to choose from, non of them very easy, unlike UGAs (see DJ Shockley’s major). 3) UGA professors care about football. Tech professors may not know that football is going on (nature of engineers). There’s probably more leniency from UGA professors. 4) In these not so easy majors at Tech, the football players are competing with smarter people. And by smarter, I mean people who average 1340. And unlike UGA, the higher SAT scores aren’t concentrated in a few majors. They are all spread out. 5) Now you understand why its harder?

Why don’t you focus on effectively managing your 6 Techies instead of trying to come up with good arguments. I bet you were all excited when you were typing that email. Now you just look dumb.

By Al Davis

November 16, 2005 04:35 PM | Link to this

Don’t listen to him Denverdawg. He’s probably just another one of those CADS operators hiding in the far cubicle suffering from delusions of grandeur.

By DenverDawg

November 16, 2005 04:46 PM | Link to this

Your retorts confirm all I have posted. None of you morons can comprehend a simple sentence.

Please continue with the emotional , irrational responses in lieu of mounting a factual argument.

Whoever the idiot is who is attending law school at UGA after having completed a Tech undergrad is going to have beaucoup difficulty doing anything but closing residential real estate with those reasoning skills.

Now at least I know what the square root of dumb@#$ is; a Tech fan.

By Al Davis

November 16, 2005 04:46 PM | Link to this

I could loan you Randy Moss to go with CJ and the Hobbitt and Reggie still couldn’t get the ball to them. Reggie is what limits your footbal team. If Chan turns him loose with his inability to handle pressure, his lack of maturity (lets the opponent get to him mentally) and his lack of intellect, you get blown out consistently. Reggie Ball is an interception waiting to be thrown.

By Greg

November 16, 2005 05:23 PM | Link to this

Hey Denverdawg, let’s address your statement directly. You said that UGA’s incoming scholarship freshmen have exceeded GT’s incoming freshmen in SAT’s and GPA for the better part of the past decade. I think everybody reading this will agree that you’re bragging about the fact that the average student coming into UGA on scholarship is better (with regards to SAT’s) than the average unsupported incoming GT freshman. How exactly does this matter in any way? What is the comparison between GT’s and UGA’s incoming scholarship freshmen? And furthermore, if UGA’s incoming students are so far superior, why did (your source) US news and world report rate GT above UGA? Why does GT boast an endowment of 719 Million $ vs. UGA’s 39.8 Million$? Look it up; it’s public record.

By BLEADING WHITE & GOLD

November 16, 2005 05:24 PM | Link to this

Dave Braine is right about one thing, Coach Gailey is a good coach the problem is Braine hasn’t figured out yet that in order to win big at GT you have to be a great coach! You have to be much more effective at recruiting and getting the most out of the talent you do have than your compatition. If we are getting smarter players then why all the penalties? Coach Gailey is a nice man, but having a conversation with him is about as exciting as watching paint dry. That is why he does not recruit better and why the team comes out so flat at the beginning of games (can you picture the pre game pep talk)! That all being said, the real problem here is with Dave Braine. He did not hire the outstanding coach he needs to win big at TECH and does not have faith that he can find one. He is a frustrated football coach with a huge ego that can not bear to give the spotlight to a great football coach who would have an ego too. (How many AD’s have there own radio and TV shows) He did hire Frank Beamer, but he could not get along with him and they were hardly on speaking terms at the end! An AD’s job is to raise money, hire outstanding coaches and then stay out of there way as long as they are running a clean program. Braine has been a failure on all counts. I was not in favor of getting rid of Chan because Braine(less) would only hire someone else that he can dominate. And now he goes and says publicly something this stupid! He has made a weak recruiters job that much tougher! It is way past time for Dave Braine to leave and let us look for that great coach who can recruite and get the most out of the players we have at Ga Tech!

By Tough Job

November 16, 2005 05:27 PM | Link to this

Fine, we can’t consistently win 9 or 10 games a season. No big surprise there. Even with O’Leary and Joe Hamilton, we averaged about 8 wins a season. But saying that 6 wins is OK and extending a contract for $1M per year is ridiculous.

If Notre Dame is a harder place to coach that Georgia Tech, why do their coaches seem to do better? (I realize that the Notre Dame coaches usually have spectacular first seasons, but we didn’t even have that!)

Gailey needs to shape up or get shipped out. Braine needs to get booted and somebody with a bit more ambition needs to replace both of them.

By marvin

November 16, 2005 05:38 PM | Link to this

The train said “i think I can and it did.TheTech football hierarchy said “We don’t expect you to” and surprise,surprise they didn’t.

By BLEADING WHITE & GOLD

November 16, 2005 05:59 PM | Link to this

Another comment on Dave Braine. He supposedly clashed with Dr Clough over the stupid plan to put an old woman, who never played a sport a day in her life, in charge of football academic counseling. They also would not permit any contact between the Coaches and the Profs so that the people with the most influence over these young men were totaly out of the loop. He was absolutly right and this directly lead to the first NCAA sanctions in the history of Ga Tech. But he was too gutless to go to the mat on this. He should have threatened to go public with this and raise holy hell and quit over something this important. Instead he let it quietly happen thus threatening the academic and athletic futures of the young men entrusted to him, never mind what he did to the reputation of Ga Tech! Dr Clough is not an athletics or NCAA expert, but Braine was paid to be one. In the Navy if the ship runs on the rocks the Captain is releaved of command! No excuses, Dave Braine needs to be releaved!

By Shane Bailey

November 16, 2005 06:57 PM | Link to this

Glad to hear such a defeated attitude from our athletics program’s supposed “leader,” stating what all the naysayers are thinking. The same “high academic standards” doesn’t seem to interfere w/Hewitt attracting blue-chip players. Even if he was only justifying Chan’s contract extension, which I disagree with, his statements were insulting to players, coaches, fans, & most importantly … potential recruits. At least folks investing in t-shirts from CanChan.com will get more wear out of them!

By GT Guy

November 16, 2005 07:57 PM | Link to this

I was 8 years old and sitting in the end zone in 1963 when Tech made a goal line stand against Alabama and won the game. I became a fan for life. With that said what a sad day this is and what a betrayal to all of the great players that have gone before us. I am absolutely stunned by Braine’s actions and words. What a sad day for the Fans and the school.

By GTME1986

November 16, 2005 09:33 PM | Link to this

Here is my take on this situation:

1) Braine should have never made the comments that he did about 9-10 win seasons being rare. He did this IMO to defend his reasoning for keeping Gailey. Braine other comment was “who are we going to get”. Braine basically said that Gailey is the best we can do (not true - it just make take a few coaching changes to find a keeper). This was not a ringing endorsement of Gailey and IMO was almost a left handed compliment.

2) IMO we cannot fire Gailey (I want to though). Why? He has a done an “OK” job at a very tough school to have football sucess. If we fire Gailey we are as bad as N.D., Ole Miss, Nebraska, Ga, Clemson, - we are Ga. Tech and our business is being the best school in the Nation. We don’t want to be identified as a football school who’s only concern is too win without concern for our reputation.

3) Ga Tech will need a great coach to have consistent 9 and 10 win seasons. The problem will be finding and KEEPING a coach like that.

4) Braine move has only prolonged our bid for a program improvement, but has not ended our bid. Braine should go soon or now.

5) With Gailey still around - my hope as others is that he would get an OC and some help with recruiting to keep the program from slipping. A BIG raise for the DC would also be a smart move.

By GTME1986

November 16, 2005 09:41 PM | Link to this

Also also notice below the “Comments” box there is a section “Ads by Google” and the ads are for “Va. Tech” - we get no respect not even on the search engines - lol

By Larry B.

November 16, 2005 10:11 PM | Link to this

I have been a Tech fan for Fifty years. I thought I had seen it all -Boy was I wrong. I have paid the price - long nights, hard work and I did graduate from Tech with two degrees - I have been there I know what it takes. Braine { Mr or Coach does not fit you buddy - you don’t have it !! I never thought I would see someone we alumni pay cash in the chips - wimp out and try and hide behind the Academic Shield. Former Coaches, Fans,and “TRUE TECH” Folks don’t do that. I do contribute - thta is in doubt now, I do buy Season Tickets and I have been disapointed time aftert time by Gailey and his gang of ?? . It is time for real Tech Folks to rise up and insist for a public statement from Braine admitting to this Blunder. Maybe where he comes from folks quit before they start , give up when it gets ruff but real Tech Folks Don’t.

By Richard

November 16, 2005 10:13 PM | Link to this

It could be Braine is playing politics and trying to stick it to the Tech family before they force him out next year sometime. He did the contract to help his buddy Gailey. The alumni board should immediately remove both employees for underminding the mission of the institute. Clough may to have to be removed by driving the alumni into various camps. It’s like Pepper all over again at the end. But at least Pepper had some personality and excitement on the field. Some rich alumnus needs to buyout Gailey’s new contract and discount 5 years, because we are going to loose a lot more money than that over the next 5 years. One final thought. It appears that certain academics elites in the institution have siezed control over the athletic department. This has to be terminated immediately and the order of business should be left to the new AD and few powerful alumni who like the past brought in the better coaches we have had.

By George O'LIEry

November 16, 2005 10:30 PM | Link to this

Ya’ll should’ve offerred me my job back after the resume debacle!

By George O'LIEry

November 16, 2005 10:30 PM | Link to this

Ya’ll should’ve offered me my job back after the resume debacle!

By Ralph Friedgen

November 16, 2005 10:34 PM | Link to this

Ya’ll should’ve demoted O’LIEry and rewarded me for all our successes from 1998-2000!

By IDP OG

November 16, 2005 10:38 PM | Link to this

Independent Playaz reprezentin’! http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/independentplayaz/

By Goose Godsey

November 16, 2005 10:40 PM | Link to this

Even I could do a better job coaching: http://ucfathletics.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/godsey_george00.html

By Jacket1990

November 16, 2005 10:44 PM | Link to this

This is a sad day in Tech athletic history. I have been holding my tongue and my money for the last few years waiting for Chan to leave. Now I awake to find that our joke of a coach will be around for 5 more miserable years. What a joke! This guy just can’t coach. Can Gailey feel like he has done a good job? 6-5? When your boss asks “who else would we hire?” That is a huge endorsement. Keep up the average work and maybe you to can get a raise and an extension. ^ wins a year just doesn’t do it for me or my pocketbook. Go Jackets!

By Jacket1990

November 16, 2005 10:44 PM | Link to this

This is a sad day in Tech athletic history. I have been holding my tongue and my money for the last few years waiting for Chan to leave. Now I awake to find that our joke of a coach will be around for 5 more miserable years. What a joke! This guy just can’t coach. Can Gailey feel like he has done a good job? 6-5? When your boss asks “who else would we hire?” That is a huge endorsement. Keep up the average work and maybe you to can get a raise and an extension. 6 wins a year just doesn’t do it for me or my pocketbook. Go Jackets!

By Kelley Rhino

November 16, 2005 10:48 PM | Link to this

Don’t ya’ll miss the human pinball returning punts w/reckless abandon!?!?

By Reuben Houston

November 16, 2005 10:50 PM | Link to this

Ya’ll need to chill out w/some of my leftover hippy-lettuce …

By Darren

November 17, 2005 02:50 AM | Link to this

Hey (no)Braine, what were you smoking when you made the 5 year contract extention for Chan. Must have been some good stuff. Probably some of Reuben Houston’s stash. I guess that judge who ordered Tech to reinstate Reuben, smoked it too.

By dave

November 17, 2005 08:27 AM | Link to this

one more comment on this tired subject before they change for the day….i just read on another board an idea re the timing of the announcement…….the decision to keep chan was made a long time ago and perhaps the influence of the “academic elites” is responsible…..anyhow, the GTAA, braine, whoever, looked at the schedule and realized that indeed, GT is likely to lose the last two games and it could get ugly……so this was a preemptive strike, make the announcement now to keep him, because the uproar would have been that much stronger if the extension was announced right after a loss to UGA, another 6-5 record, etc……which makes the whole affair a pathetic situation with slimeballs running the show and acknowledging from the top that GT will likely finish 6-5…..

By ATLborn

November 17, 2005 09:00 AM | Link to this

Tech’s athletic director is a fool. Notre Dame, Stanford and Cal are just a few schools with higher academic standards than Tech and yet they produce winning teams in football more consistently than Tech. Tech is the number two football school behind UGA in GA, a state with some of the best HS football players in the nation and yet Tech can’t consistently compete with the nations top programs. If Tech kept players like Darius Walker home in GA it would be able to compete. Instead, they let Notre Dame snatch players like him up and those guys do well there academically.

Braine is just coming up with excuses to hide his incompetence as an athletic director.

By buzz

November 17, 2005 09:32 AM | Link to this

As a Tech alum and life long Tech supporter and season ticket holder I don’t care who the coach is they are still my Jackets. I do have three comments. 1. Hit somebody on special teams 2. Run at least one misdirection play on offense 3. Burn those awful baby pewk green jerseys

To Hell with Georgia

By Bobby Dodd

November 17, 2005 09:48 AM | Link to this

All of you are going to have to calm down a bit. Gailey may not be the best coach in college football. Dave Braine statements were ridiculous. However, this is still our football team. If I hear of Tech fans failing to show support for our boys at the U(sic)GA game, I will personally make sure that you spend the rest of your lives being forced to listen to the Best of Larry Munson. Also, for those of you who have criticized Wayne Clough, he is one of the best university presidents in the country. Georgia Tech is consistently a top 5 engineering school and a top 10 public university. For those of you who think he should be giving more to athletics, you should know that research brings home the big money at Tech…not football. In order for football to even be close to bringing in the same kind of money, we would have to win the NC every year and get a lot of help from our ACC brothers. In closing, GET OVER YOUR MELODRAMATIC SELVES! The only way this program will ever be successful is if we stop whining and actually offer a bit of support. Let’s give Chan another chance. Rally behind him…just for once. YOU ARE JUST AS MUCH TO BLAME AS HE IS—INTENSITY COMES FROM THE FANS AS WELL AS THE COACH!

Sincerely,

Bobby Dodd

By gobuzzgo

November 17, 2005 10:50 AM | Link to this

With leadership like this, Tech football may not yet be Braine-dead, but it’s in a coma. If Braine had any self-respect he would match his cognitive resignation with a written one. Rational Tech fans understand the difficulty of fielding a complete program which will compete year in and year out for a National Championship, however to discount your team’s chances before the games begin is an insult to the players, students, alums and fans. For this reason alone Braine should resign. Braine said earlier that he didn’t fire Gailey so as not to upset Tech’s recruiting chances, what are Tech’s chances now? For this betrayal to the school and all who support it, Braine should be fired. In spite of the numbers, in spite of the cynicism, miracles do happen, as in 1990. O’Leary proved also the power of heart and courage of his players to rise above the obvious. Braine’s inability to recognize heart, courage and the possibility of a miracle, no matter how remote, proves his lack of leadership. For this he should dig down deep within himself, muster-up and exercise a little courage and resign.

By Magpie

November 17, 2005 11:50 AM | Link to this

The worst week in Tech football history First Tech has Choke Gailey rammed down our throats again by Lame Duck Braine. Then some horse’s rear end federal judge has a felony indicted, possible dope dealer FORCED onto the team by court order. Great. Maybe we should recruit OJ Simpson as running backs coach to show our guys how to really cut through the lines!!

By Jerry

November 17, 2005 12:47 PM | Link to this

Every class I took at Tech I began with the attitude that I was going to get an A, even math 201 that I took under Steamboat Fulton.Granted, it never worked out that way but I never took a class with the attitude that I was going to do just enough to get by. If you go in with that attitude, then you have a big problem. Do not go to or play for Tech, go somewhere else. Tech does not stand for mediocrity in anything,academics,sports,etc. To accept mediocrity in sports is accepting mediocrity in academics and all aspects of life. Those who accept less than the absolute best should be working eslewhere

By bill

November 17, 2005 02:00 PM | Link to this

I reject Braine’s comments and philosophy. Citing academic standards simply does not compute.

Notre Dame has very tough admission requirements for its students and maintains a very strong academic reputation nationally. ND was not satisfied with a winning coach; they made sure that they got the best coach in the land. Weis was sitting in NE for years without so much as a call from TECH. Why? Why hasn’t Braine looked deeper into the NFL to find a head coach that can handle the demands at TECH?

And now about those vaunted academic standards. Let’s get this straight, GT is a very good school, but it is no MIT nor is it Harvard, nor Stanford, nor Oxford. So, I say get off your high horse and deal with reality. College football brings money and noteriety to a University. Look what it has done for U of Miami. That sleepy little college is slowly turning into an excellent University. The students at that school are held to high standards and they are producing some very talented young men an wowmen for the work force.

What is so wrong about relaxing football players’ academic standards? Why not concentrate on providing a higher level of entertainment for the alumni of GT while providing a strong educational program for its student athletes? My goodness, it is not rocket science here folks.

By GT

November 17, 2005 02:14 PM | Link to this

Those comments were made for the benefit of the NCAA hoping they would go easy at 3pm today. Also on the same day Houston was put back on the team by a judge. Not good timing for a school trying to show it has it’s thing together. Our real NCAA punishment was having Gailey for another 5 years. Anybody that would do that to themselves deserves a break.

By Knute Rockne

November 17, 2005 02:38 PM | Link to this

Bobby Dodd needs to settle down himself. Ga Tech may have had a great tradition back when he was coaching, but that was a long time ago. As Bill Parcells says, “You are what you are”. And Tech, you are a 6-5 —— 8-3 at best team. Get over it.

By Mark

November 17, 2005 02:55 PM | Link to this

How about if the AJC would republish that letter that Braine sent to the Tech family last year encouraging us to stick with the program and give Chan another year. I don’t think you will find anything in that letter that indicated another 6-5 season with a few weeks in the Top 25 would be acceptable. Since the new expansion was completed my tickets have moved three times and gotten worse each time. Going from the 20 to the endzone is not my idea of progress - particularly not when season ticket sales have declined!! But, at least I’m not giving up much next year — it’ll be nice having my weekends free from MARTA and the North Ave beggers and preachers!

By Bobby Dodd

November 17, 2005 03:24 PM | Link to this

Knute, my friend, are you still better about your beloved ND’s recent record against the boys from the Flats? I must admit, you were a pretty good coach. You racked up 105 wins. I on the otherhand had 165 wins—though I admit I did coach a little longer than you. My winning percentage may have been a little lower, but I did coach in a time where college football was a little more than just a few club teams from around the country. I guess that’s why they chose to use my name on the coach of the year award.

I look forward to seeing you next September when “toe meets leather.”

Sincerely,

Robert L. Dodd

By Island Dawg

November 17, 2005 04:16 PM | Link to this

It just keeps getting worse, Techies. Read at your own risk: http://www2.ncaa.org/mediaandevents/pressroom/2005/november/20051117georgiatechinfractionsrls.html

By Go Jackets Sting'em

November 17, 2005 05:36 PM | Link to this

Wow, maybe we can return to the glory days of Taz Anderson — 17-14-1 with one bowl loss and the highest SEC ranking of 7th place. Or George O’leary’s first 3 seasons of 18-16 ball. Or Bill Curry at 8-24-1. Or George O’leary at 18-16. Forget that Chan’s victories came after a bunch of players got kicked off the team due to a misguided notion that some pencil pusher could motivate ball players more than the coaches, or the loss of 12 scholarships due to other administrative nonsense about keeping records.

The best reason for signing Chan to 5 more years is that all of the moronic complaining I hear in the stands are probably from the types who have pledged not to come to anymore games. Quit giving money to your alma mater — yeah, that’s a good thing. I’m pretty sure that $25 check every other year will be sorely missed. (Especially someone who doesn’t understand the difference between rollcall and GTAA donations.) I haven’t talked to anyone who is a big donor over the years withholding money because the football team didn’t win 8 games.

And that stupid Clough!!! Continously improving our already sterling academic reputation!!! What a clown.

Braine had to say what many knew — that Tech was never going to win 8 games or more consistently — because we have too many nerds who don’t understand the difficulties of that task for any school. I am proud of what Braine has accomplished at Tech for all sports, I’m proud that Chan does not resort to reminding people about the chaos of Tech’s football with respect to academics that occurred during his first few seasons that occurred before he arrived, and I just hope that the idiot who sits next to me who litters those around us with moronic comments during the game is one of those who will boycott future games.

Go Jackets! Sting’em!

By fasteddie

November 17, 2005 05:57 PM | Link to this

I am dumbfounded by Dave Braineless, the Jimmy Carter of Athletic Directors. Remember Jimmy’s comment about the country being in a malaise? Ronald Reagan did not agree, and turned the country around. We need someone to replace Braine NOW!

I ran into Taz Anderson at the last home game; we were both shaking our heads at how hard it seemed to win any game. But Taz said, very optimistically, “We will get it turned around, Eddie.” I wonder how he feels today. For me, a second generation Jacket with two daughters who are grads, this is a very depressing day. Part of our nature is to fight the odds and somehow pass calculus and physics, and also never quit believing we can defeat Georgia and FSU.

Now we throw in two years probation for lack of institutional control, and a drug dealer reinstated. It’s time for Braine to go!

By Todd

November 17, 2005 07:20 PM | Link to this

Like another poster below, I am looking for a new team to support—and this time one that will beat Georgia every year from here on out.

GO GAMECOCKS!

By Bettertimes

November 17, 2005 08:44 PM | Link to this

FastEddie Your Jimmy Carter analogy is right on. It is time for Braine to go. We are in very bad need of a turnaround.

By Palmetto State Dawg

November 17, 2005 08:55 PM | Link to this

Hey Todd, if you’re looking for a team that will beat Georgia, DO NOT look anywhere in the state of South Carolina…..you’d be wasting your time. GO DAWGS!!!!

By Robert Argoe

November 17, 2005 09:08 PM | Link to this

Does anyone recall what the average Georgia Tech season won-loss record was the last 10 years under coach Dodd?

By Mediocre Man

November 17, 2005 10:24 PM | Link to this

To: “Every class I took at Tech I began with the attitude that I was going to get an A…”

Well, every class I took at Tech I began with the attitude that I was going to get a ‘C’ because:

1) The classes are hard as crap. 2) You can’t understand any of the professors. 3) Who cares about Thermodynamics anyway.

Therefore, I skipped class, drank a lot of beer and chased women from all of the other schools in the southeast that let’s them in. I was smart enough to get into Tech, so I always got my ‘C’ quite easily and had a GREAT time doing it! Here’s to the rewards of mediocrity!

By Rudy Ruettiger

November 17, 2005 10:48 PM | Link to this

Dear Tech fans,

You might have seen my movie, “Rudy” where the one and only game I played in was against a national contender, Georgia Tech. You might also have heard that Charlie Weiss brought me to Notre Dame’s campus this year to inspire the players and now they are winning again.

By Tech standards today… that movie and my invite back to Notre Dame would have ever been possible!

Thanks, Rudy

By Sorry

November 17, 2005 11:35 PM | Link to this

Robert, just happen to have this link to Dodd’s record. click here if this works

By Blog This

November 18, 2005 01:38 AM | Link to this

It’s simply amazing how history, given enough time, will correct itself. Turns out that Sanks was down and Hamilton did fumble the ball. Go Dawgs!!!

Check out the official t-shirt of the Tech Scandal at http://www.cafepress.com/aocertified.37899799

By The REAL Al Davis

November 18, 2005 09:00 AM | Link to this

Can we officially stop using the “our players are rocket scientist” BS! Eliminate the program now before Braine and Gailey complete the job for us!

By Redfish

November 18, 2005 04:00 PM | Link to this

Why is it that everyone thinks all Ga Tech athletes major in some sort of engineering, or architecture, etc. There are also management degrees available, as well as, the Stephon Marbury’s established sports major. Do any of you Tech fans know the term ‘Riding the M-Train’. We all agree Tech is a great institution, but that doesn’t mean all the athletes are taking the same courses as most engineering majors. UGA gets slapped around because it’s a liberal arts school, but does that mean a student athelete majoring in micro-biology has a cake walk. Obviously leisure studies is much less demanding, which is why you see it from athletes more so than microbiology, or in Tech’s case, nuclear engineering. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t student athletes that work harder for a tougher degree.

Regarding AD Braine, I’d have to agree with most of the Tech fans out there. That was not the best choice of words. The recruiting aspect just got that much tougher. Dealing with big brother up the street, plus all the schools that raid the state of Georgia for athletes, Tech’s got a big up hill battle coming in the next year or two for recruits.

By chisolm

November 18, 2005 10:14 PM | Link to this

we knew taz back in high school and have done business with him since- he could not read as a senior in high school! his team mate carlos mobley scored higher on sats than taz- but carlos was an orphan at bethesda. hell i’m not sure taz can still read. tech has been cheating for a long time! we are glad they have finally been caught. go emory and vandy.

By jj

November 19, 2005 11:33 PM | Link to this

* College football brings money and noteriety to a University. *

It’s “notoriety” and, unless you were talking about the scandal, it doesn’t mean what you apparently think it means.

By SG

November 19, 2005 11:58 PM | Link to this

Mark, Admit it, your article on Gailey not going to make it at Tech was a cheap shot and now you owe him an apology! Are you man enough to admit you were wrong?

By Tman

November 20, 2005 03:00 AM | Link to this

To the idiot redfish, the M-train is harder than any major at UGA by far. You still have to take a year of Calculus, year of science (either chemistry, physics, or biology) and computer science. Meanwhile, you have Leonard Pope majoring in sports studies and can barely speak english (see his website: Leonard Pope.

By Tman

November 20, 2005 03:07 AM | Link to this

Redfish, related to that management major you were making fun of at Tech, here are some people who graduated with one:

Mike Neal, president and CEO of GE Commercial Finance

David Dorman, chairman and CEO AT&T

Julian Saul, president Shaw Industries

Alan Lacy, chairman, president and CEO Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Bryan T. Moss, vice chairman Gulfstream Aerospace

Just to name a few.

By Bill

November 20, 2005 08:59 AM | Link to this

Mark, you’ve done a great job of Tech bashing in the past. But this time, however, you got it right. Dave “No” Braine just told every exceptional high school recruit, and by exceptional I mean the kid that can play football at the highest level, as well as, make it in the classroom, don’t bother coming to Tech if you want to be a winner on the football field.

So let me spell it out for all of those exceptional recruits…

Dear scholar athlete,

Life is not about winning, it’s about trying real hard and getting a good education. If you would like to get a good education and have a chance to play on exceptional football team, please contact Notre Dame. They will be glad to explain to you how they plan on providing you with opportunities in both excellent academics and athletics. Thank you for your interest in Georgia Tech. We wish you the best in your quest for success.

Sincerely,

Georgia Tech Athletic Association