Sports Columnists

By Wozzo the Wonder Dog

September 3, 2006 01:21 AM | Link to this

Does Tech’s insurance policy cover injuries received from jumping off the bandwagon?

By Terrance Moore

September 3, 2006 01:51 AM | Link to this

I like men.

By James Wilson

September 3, 2006 01:53 AM | Link to this

Terrance, why don’t you “finish the drill” and shut up. You make it seem like Tech was the one that got upset. Say something good about Tech, maybe you’ll be liked. Untill then, shut your mouth.

By James Wilson

September 3, 2006 01:54 AM | Link to this

Terrance, why don’t you “finish the drill” and shut up. You make it seem like Tech was the one that got upset. Say something good about Tech, maybe you’ll be liked. Untill then, shut your mouth.

By James Wilson

September 3, 2006 01:55 AM | Link to this

Terrance, why don’t you “finish the drill” and shut up. You make it seem like Tech was the one that got upset. Say something good about Tech, maybe you’ll be liked. Untill then, shut your mouth.

By lindsey

September 3, 2006 02:29 AM | Link to this

The Jackets need an offense gameplan that y is “offensive” minded. Where are the bootlegs, especially on short yardage situations? Where are the dump offs to the fullback? Where are the passes in the middle? Why do they even recruit tight ends? Let the kids play to win. The Jackets defense is good enough to allow the Offense to take risks. Over the last few years, the Jackets’ offensive gameplan hurt their defense. Tonight, the defense was worn down by gritty Irish plays, bad calls, and most importantly, stalled drives (lack of rest), but they still played well enough to win. Can Nix trust Reggie enough to open the offense up, apparantly not? He should. I’d rather the Jackets try to play on another level. A higher level. It’s up to our offensive minds to give us all a special season. These kids can do it, but I don’t think their coaches will allow it?

By Bill

September 3, 2006 02:56 AM | Link to this

The game was in hand until the play calling got ultra conservative. Reggie Ball draws up the middle put some nice yardage up, but it wasn’t the offense needed to win a game against a top 10 opponent. Throw the ball to Calvin — The adjustments after the half were simple. Cover Tashard and double Calvin. I would still take my chances on Calvin in double teams..

By richard

September 3, 2006 03:03 AM | Link to this

Interesting how you only recall the penalty you don’t like, not all the Bs calls like the first holding call, the called back TD, two missed facemasks calls and 137 yds against ND.

By richard

September 3, 2006 03:04 AM | Link to this

Interesting how you only recall the penalty you don’t like, not all the Bs calls like the first holding call, the called back TD, two missed facemasks calls and 137 yds against ND.

By Hairy Dawg

September 3, 2006 03:41 AM | Link to this

Hell, I don’t like Tech, but that was a BS call on Wheeler. I hate Notre Dame. I actually cheered for Tech in that game. Terence, championship teams don’t have to overcome calls like that. Calls like that aren’t made against championship teams, especially on third down. Tech surely isn’t a championship team, but they got screwed by that call. The replay showed that Wheeler hit Quinn with his shoulder. He didn’t lead with his head when he hit him, so any helmet contact was fine. It was a clean play and the officials overreacted because Quinn is a Heisman Trophy candidate. Did anyone else notice how, not long after the Quinn hit, Reggie Ball got pasted a full second and a half after his knee was on the ground and he didn’t get a call? I guess that’s what happens when you’re not a good QB…or you don’t play for Notre Dame.

By Steve

September 3, 2006 04:01 AM | Link to this

As an old time alum from the 60’s, I’m proud of the way the Tech players represented themselves and the school in front of national TV. Too bad I can’t say the same about our head coach and offensive coordinator. After an excellent first half game plan which gave Tech the lead, coaches Gailey and Nix reverted back to last years conservative style of offense. My nickname for Gailey is “TURTLE”. Once he gets the lead, he goes into an offensive shell. It’s as if he says to the defense - “here’s your three point lead now hold it while the offense takes the rest of the night off”.

I really feel for the offense. The players have great ability and give 100% effort. They are just handicapped by the coaches implementing their conservative second half game plan. The ND game is a perfect example of the difference between good and average head coaching. The Irish had the guts to go for it when it counted. Gailey essentially told his offensive players that he doesn’t trust them to get the job done. Good teams go for the jugular when they have a chance to put opponents away. Average teams play “not to lose” which usually results in a loss. I just hope the players can overcome this lack of trust by the coaching staff as the season evolves.

By Derrick

September 3, 2006 05:08 AM | Link to this

Hate to say it, but the game was lost near the end of the 1st half when on 2nd down they didn’t throw to CJ and on 3rd they tried a misdirection run play on about ND’s 14 yard line. I’m from Michigan and have seen ND crush our hopes to many times. You never play conservative against them, you will lose. When they settled for that field goal, they all but handed ND the momentum.

By Tech (could) beat ND, if

September 3, 2006 05:38 AM | Link to this

Mr Moore listed many truths. I would like him to interview Nix so we can know why Nix quit throwing to Johnson. I’ll bet there is an OC in the pros that will get the ball to Johnson many times next year!

Hope you did not sleep well last night Nix!

By BirdDawg

September 3, 2006 05:41 AM | Link to this

Did you Bugs notice, that in the first half, Chan wasn’t wearing a headset and let Nix call the plays?

And that in the second half, he was wearing a headset and your team suddenly couldn’t move the ball or sustain a drive?

I love it! Chan is the Man! As long as he remains y’all’s coach, I am going to be his biggest fan EVER!

Oh yeah, Chan Gailey has no balls. He didn’t go for it on a 4th and 1 when a QB sneak would have given his team the opportunity to win. Instead he punted it, and then, when Notre Dame had the chance to either go for it or punt, Charlie Weiss, a man with extreme balls, went for it.

You play to win, not play not to lose. That’s why you lost. Chan Gailey and Greg Knapp must hang out a lot, because they both have no balls and can grind their respected offenses to a sudden halt with their lack of playcalling acumin.

You lost because Chan Gailey is your coach…

JUST LIKE I SAID YOU WOULD!

By charlottegt

September 3, 2006 07:04 AM | Link to this

Yes it is true, Tech had this one and let it slip away to a good offense, but there is no jumping off the Tech bandwagon here. We have a very good football team. There are many weapons on this team and they will regroup and learn for the future. Go Jackets

By WFC

September 3, 2006 07:21 AM | Link to this

This was a well-played game between two very good (but not great) teams. Chan’s “playing not to lose” philosophy is frustrating but I thought the key to the game was how well ND’s offensive line played in the second half.

By lawton

September 3, 2006 07:55 AM | Link to this

why yall acting confused? Patrick Nix gameplans with Greg Knapp, so why yall surprised?

By Hairy

September 3, 2006 08:07 AM | Link to this

Reggie,

Please stay healthy till Nov. We will miss you next year.

Hairy

By Jerry

September 3, 2006 08:17 AM | Link to this

Coaching lost this game Nix needs to take a look at why we were so conservative in the second half sometimes you have to take chances If Gailey can not see this he needs to be replaced It really appears the game has gone past Chan and even with the talent we are getting unless talent is utilized we will continue to falter Use your talent don’t hold it back

By Ryan M.

September 3, 2006 08:18 AM | Link to this

Richard:

Funny, I was THERE. .and the NOtre Dame fans weren’t complaining about those calls, other than to ask their TEAM why they were being stupid. If they were BS calls, you woudl think that they woudl have been complaining. .and I was unfortunately sitting right amongst them.

By techaholic

September 3, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this

Tech goes up 10 - zip early in the game and they never score again - sound familiar?

By the way, I was there sitting right where that helmet to helmet penalty was called and it was the right call. That being said, that’s not why Tech got beat.

This offense not scoring more that 10-14 pts a game and playing to not lose the last 4+ years IS! Nix may be calling the plays but nothing has changed.

It’s a sad state that this team under this coach has to endure this mediocrity because the HC is conserative on offense! That BS every single time.

What have we learned over these last 4 seasons - you can count on Chan Gailey to put his way of thinking ahead of the good of the program. Somebody in charge needs to either fire this guy and get someone who can run an offense that averages more than 14 pts a game!

Tech’s D was out of gas in the 2nd half after playing every damn play in the lst half like it was their last. No sustained drives by the O kept them on the field way too long - when somebody going to call this coach on the carpet and stop the excuses for the way the offense plays!

What new offense and what new coordinator????!!!!

By techaholic

September 3, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

Tech goes up 10 - zip early in the game and they never score again - sound familiar?

By the way, I was there sitting right where that helmet to helmet penalty was called and it was the right call. That being said, that’s not why Tech got beat.

This offense not scoring more that 10-14 pts a game and playing to not lose the last 4+ years IS! Nix may be calling the plays but nothing has changed.

It’s a sad state that this team under this coach has to endure this mediocrity because the HC is conserative on offense! That BS every single time.

What have we learned over these last 4 seasons - you can count on Chan Gailey to put his way of thinking ahead of the good of the program. Somebody in charge needs to either fire this guy and get someone who can run an offense that averages more than 14 pts a game!

Tech’s D was out of gas in the 2nd half after playing every damn play in the lst half like it was their last. No sustained drives by the O kept them on the field way too long - when somebody going to call this coach on the carpet and stop the excuses for the way the offense plays!

What new offense and what new coordinator????!!!!

By Jay

September 3, 2006 08:41 AM | Link to this

Another Tech “moral” victory.

By Yech

September 3, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

What was really nice about the game was watching the classless Tech fan throw a water bottle at the ref as he was making the correct call. Helmet to helmet is illegal and should have been called. Either way it didn’t decide the game. There were a ton of penalties called on both sides. CJ had 5 catches in the first half, two in the second. If you aren’t going to give the ball to your best player, then what are you going to do? You know Reggie can’t win the game by himself, he is to buys yelling at the refs and trying to remember the down. Tech’s D played great, but the ND D that Tech fans like Shivas have been saying all week sucked outplayed your D.

By KENNY D

September 3, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this

CAN CHAN!!!

NIX NIX!!!

PROMOTE TENUTA!!!

BENCH BALL!!!

By T-Man

September 3, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

Conservative/poor offensive play calling lost this game for Tech. The play calling leading up to Tech’s field goal in the second half was just plain stupid. How can you not even attempt to get in the end zone and settle for a field goal in that situation? There was a total absense of creativity & agressiveness in the play calling.

But I suppose that’s what comes with a new, young offensive coach. I hope he can take some ques from defensive coach Tenuta through the season and improve his play calling. It’s unfortunate that his 1st game was against a team like Notre Dame.

By KENNY D

September 3, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

when is UGA going to play the likes of ND? with Joe T. 3 at the helm, it would have been fun to wach the irish intercept at least 4 passes.

By EEJ

September 3, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this

The head to head call was absolutely correct. I thought Ball lost his composure afer the that call. It seemed like he was spending way too much energy complaining to the refs if a play did not work than focusing on executing the next play. Brady Quinn did not let the fact that he was having a mediocre game affect him. He said after the game that “calls are calls and you have to accept them.” Some go your way and some do not. This is the difference between people that know how to win vs people that hope to win. It was a great game to watch and hats off to Tech. They can have a very good season if they tweak a few things in play calling. Oh by the wat, did anyone catch the UGA vs Parkview score.

By Yech

September 3, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

Its funny to see Tech fans talk smack about UGA playing W Kentucky when they play Samford and Troy. Whats the difference? Did UGA play a ranked opponent to open the season last year. Get over it. You guys lost because of Nix and Ball. Same ole stroy different game. Reggie loses his compsure and Tech loses the game.

By garry

September 3, 2006 09:24 AM | Link to this

Like it or not the helmet to helmet was the correct call, what is funny is no one is mentioning the payback call that the jackets received on the next play when Carlson didn’t touch the guy on the touchdown that was called back. Tech played very hard and had it chances to win. I couldn’t believe that forgot they had one of the best receivers in the country Calvin Johnson is a beast! Get him the ball!

By Eric

September 3, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

I’m a Irish fanatic, and happy to have survived this one. GT should have won by 2 TD - throw to Johnson! GT had Quinn rattled by the pass rush, and Johnson is a FREAK! GT went too conservative - not trying to lose - and lost all momentum. They’re a talented team, but if the coaches call games like this in the future, they’ll get beat by good teams who can regroup - just like the Irish did.

By Shannon

September 3, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this

Tashard Choice 4 carries 2nd half, Calvin two catches 2nd half. Enough said!!!!! Same old Tech. Gaily and Nix need to attend every coaching and play calling camp and clinic ever created! Those two hurt players and kill fans!

By Amelia

September 3, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

Well, Tech is pretty good. For 1 half. The lack of depth on defense became apparent toward the end of the 1st half and will be a problem throughout the year. Many the more talented and deeper teams that Tech will see the rest of the season are running hurry up type offenses to maximize the number of offensive plays. This will sap the energy of Tech’s defense. Tech cannot compete with the top tier teams for 4 quarters. And then there is the roll over factor. Tech hasn’t learned how to bow up and overcome obstacles. Their star linebacker said of Notre Dames 1st half ending drive, words to the effect, “that took it out of us.” Folks that is not the way winners react to those things. Tech has NO offense tospeak of. What there is of it is a one man show. If Calvin can’t do it it doesn’t get done. Reggie is still Reggie. He still has three pass plays that he can execute. Quick out to the sideline. Throw it up deep to Calvin, or throw it into the 5th row. Tech will not win more than 7 games with Reggie at the helm. He can’t get anything into the middle of the field. Tech is handicapped and the playbook is very limited with Reggie at the helm. Notre Dame beat Tech by adapting. Their 2nd reciever matched Calvin nearly yard for yard and their go to guy made enough plays to keep the focus on him. And Brady Quinn did what winners do. Got it done in crunch time. Tech still can’t finish the drill.

By Gordo

September 3, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

Great effort by the Jacket players. Offensive play calling —- did you coaches forget “Johnson, Johnson, Johnson, Choice, Ball, Johnson, Johnson, Johnson, Ball, Choice.” What more “game plan” do you need!!! :-(

By Joe T

September 3, 2006 09:51 AM | Link to this

Dear kenny,

If Reggie Ball was at UGA, he wouldn’t even dress out.

By Amelia

September 3, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this

Obviously Gordo, that won’t do it against good teams. Calvin is great but can be held in check by talented defenses. Notre Dame’s is not even the best D Tech will face this year. Forget Reggie. He is the reason that your offense is so limited when it comes to alternatives. He can’t think on the run and he can’t execute from the pocket. How many passes did Tech throw into the middle of the field last night? How many big plays did anyone not named Calvin make last night? It is so apparent guys.

By DawgBite

September 3, 2006 10:00 AM | Link to this

Did anyone see Matthew Stafford’s debut. Kid can make all the throws. The anti-Reggie.

By Amelia

September 3, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

Kenny, UGA’s offense is not a one trick pony. And as another poster said, now there is Matthew Stafford. Be it as it is Kenny, Joe T with his limitations is preferable to 3 play Ball.

By DawgBite

September 3, 2006 10:11 AM | Link to this

By KENNY D

September 3, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

when is UGA going to play the likes of ND? with Joe T. 3 at the helm, it would have been fun to wach the irish intercept at least 4 passes.

They do imbecile. They’re called Auburn, Tennessee, and Florida. And then you have the SEC title game. Which by the way, the Dawgs seem to get to even in “down” years. Get a grip moron.

By MC

September 3, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

Good effort Tech! If football games lasted 30 minutes you’d have a top 10 caliber team.

By Noel Malone

September 3, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this

I was sick of Chan from day one and I still am. The guy has no sense of what it takes to run an offense. With an offensive weapon like Calvin Johnson, and he makes only two catches in the second half? Idiocy!!! And then there’s Reggie - no better today than he was his first game as a freshman. I saw my first Tech game on a snowy TV - the Sugar Bowl in 1952(or 53?). This is the most frustrating bunch ever, led by the most puzzling coach ever.

By matt

September 3, 2006 10:27 AM | Link to this

I am a neutral footbal fan, that thinks if the same game was played 2 or 3 weeks from now it would have been a 20 point plus blowout for the irish. The irish played as bad as possible most of the first half and still won. I read about this great tech defense effort and did not see it. The irish stoped themselves with holding penaltys in the fist half. They would have scored on the very first possession if it was not for a terrible holding call by the offical on the outside reciever on the flare pass. It should have been first down on the tech 15 yard line. Two missed field goals, a receiver dropping a sure td pass at the 5 yard line, and Notre dame basically running out the clock most of the 4th quarter. Should not have been as close as it ended up being. My last observtion, there was one coach that had the guts to allow his team to win the game and the other coach who did not want to make the wrong call that loss them the game! One is a on his way to being a great head coach and the other one is going to be the Qb coach for the Raiders 2 years from now. Can you guess which one is which? A head coach needs to be a leader and make tough decisions for young men.

By Bhendry

September 3, 2006 10:37 AM | Link to this

Eventually Earle Bruce became known as “old 9-3 Earle” at Ohio State. Gailey will be called “old 7-5 Chan” before long.

By IrsihFan

September 3, 2006 10:51 AM | Link to this

Give me a break, Tech got whupped. The game was over in the third quarter. After that the Irish were just running out the clock and resting up for next week. You guys never had a chance. We’re playing for a national championship folks, we could of won by 50 if we had to. Save it for your state championship game with the Dogs.

By Fox

September 3, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this

Tech lost the game because THEY took Calvin Johnson out of the game. He owned the Irish defense in the 1st half. I am an Irish Fan and I was extremely disappointed in the Irish effort last night. Tech’s D was awesome. Reggie Ball also needs to realize that there are other playmakers on his team. He wants to win the game all by himself. He also talks too much junk after each play. Get back in the huddle and play your game. He is too much of a headcase.

By mark

September 3, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this

I had season tickets for Chan’s first three years and saw this same “game plan” play out time after time. Even our big win at home over Auburn was “score early, go in the shell and let Tenuta’s guys win it.”

We did it against Auburn last year and Miami. We lost to FSU in Tallahassee because we couldn’t hold on - just like last night. Nix may be calling the plays but you can tell that he is either just as cowardly as Chan or he has been given his marching orders and won’t deviate.

Calvin had 111 yards early in the 3rd quarter and that’s how he ended. Choice was either hurt or Chan got scared again. Either way, this team does not have confidence that Ball can score repeatedly without debilitating turnovers.

As far as the idiot that talks about the defense getting tired and no depth - the only time they got tired was when we started with our 3 plays and out drives. Our offense has left the defense in this position in all the big games and they always wear out - look at time of possession in first half and second. No defense can be effective with this offensive genius in charge.

But, hey, we do have Chan for five more years. Thanks Dave.

By Not Disappointed

September 3, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this

Regroup Tech! The season isn’t over. GO Jackets!

By sean

September 3, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

Ball needs to quit crying, everytime a play went against GT, he was running to the ref begging for a flag.

By Sean

September 3, 2006 11:37 AM | Link to this

Well there is a difference of opinion on that phillip wheeler penalty some say it was helmet to helmet others say he didnt lead with his head, when you tackle somebody your bound to collide heads i mean its the game of football, but on a lighter note whoever threw that water bottle has one heck of arm, give them a scholarship haha

By laughing at tech

September 3, 2006 11:38 AM | Link to this

Does Tech know Johnson plays for them. I would still throw it to him in double teams, 9 out of 10 times he’s gonna catch it. Tech needs an offensive coordinator with balls. How many times can you not convert 3rd and 1 then punt on 4th and 1. Tech should’ve won that game with no problem the way the defense played

By Tony D'Ambra

September 3, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

We use our competitors “unbiased refs” for every game. We get whistled for penalties by a ratio of 3:1 and your still whining.

By IrishAlum

September 3, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

Tech Fans -

The above poster “IrishFan” is a homo and does not represent the majority of ND fans/alums. I, and the 30 ND fans I watched the game with, were very nervous during the first half and were impressed with GT throughout. Definitely a tough win and I think you guys are going to be better than expected this year. Glad to escape with this win. Good luck during the rest of the year.

By js

September 3, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

Terrence—

Stop looking outside Tech for the answers — and look at what Tech didn’t do in the second half —

— The Irish sustained drives the entire second half and the Tech defense simply wore down. Hands on hips …. unable to get pressure on Quinn.

— Tech failed to get the ball into the hands of the their playmakers in the second half … check out the Irish playmakers stats in the second half.

— Tech was outcoached… Weiss made half time adjustments and controlled the game after that….Tech couldn’t hold the ball in the second half was worn out a bigger offensive line.

Winners find a way to win. Losers blame others.

By KENNY D

September 3, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this

90% of the good teams do not reside in the south. If UGA ever wants to be taken seriously, then they are going to need to dare to venture outside the friendly confines of the hedges to play real teams. otherwise, national championships are going to repeatedly be out of their grasp. but the again, that is probably fine with UGA fans since they only pathetically aspire to win SEC championships. the rest of the country does not even know UGA exists. Trust me. If you have ever lived anywhere else, you will realize that no one outside Georgia talks about UGA. It is a shame. It has the potential to be a great program. Great town, devoted fans and alumni, sold out stadiums with some of the most unbelievable talent (look at the Pro Bowl rosters and the rosters of perennial super bowl contenders steelers and patriots and you will see that UGA should be far superior than what they have been over the last five to ten years). UGA never wins anything despite all of the ridiculous amount of Pro Bowl talent recruited to their school and the undying devotion of their blind loyalist fans. And spare me the SEC championship nonsense. SEC championships are nothing to boast about. National championships and playing in the BCS championship game are more worthy of striving for and boasting about. But, then again, this is the town tha boasts about the Braves winning 14 consecutive division titles with only one World Series. Pathetic. It is also disturbing that everyone says 14 straight even though they were not in first at the end of 1994. They gave out mvps, cy youngs, and rookie of the years that year so braves fans can not claim that year does not count. We have seen that Richt can have just a tad bit more success with donnan’s recruits than donnan had. Let’s see what richt can do with his own recruits. Based upon what everyone on here is saying, he clearly can not recruit a wide receiver or tight end who can catch a pass. they would not have looked so horrible last year in the florida disaster if richt had recruited someone to be an adequate backup instead of relying on the talentless, special teams playing legacy boy Joe T. 3. richt also seems incapable of recruiting a bona fide RB who can consistently pound out 100 yards a game despite everyone acting like we have the modern day four horseman in the backfield. And then you have all of his clock mismangement issues and various other problems with his coaching decisions. Maybe CMR needs to be placed on the firing line and Mr. Adams needs to look to bring in someone with bigger and better aspirations for the school and who can actually combine recruiting prowess with good coaching decisions. Six years into his tenure and JT3 is the starter. That should raise substantial questions about CMR for all of you on many levels.

By Robbie Burns

September 3, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this

GO DAWGS!!!!!

By G

September 3, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

The fact that your column continually refers to that “one bad call” shows that you didn’t believe GT should’ve even been in this game. The turning point was that GT thoroughly dominated the first half and cam away with only a 3 point lead and no momentum. It wasn’t that call that cost GT the game. Your assessment of the officiating was most definitely biased because I saw it as completely opposite.

By Sokkerpunk

September 3, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this

If Reggie Ball spent as much time practicing and completing drives as he does getting his arms “tatted up”, Tech would have won last night!

By Surfrider

September 3, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

Just glad did’nt waste $300 for a ticket nor the hours to get one. Will say it to red in face but Tech will never be a top 15 program consistently until it gets an offensive mindset, scheme, coach and QB. We saw the ND coach do what Friedgen basically did, take control of the game from the offensive standpoint. To do that one has to take risks and that might mean loosing or turnovers. We still can’t hit an open Calvin Johnson on a down and out on a regular basis in Gailey’s fifth year as coach. Imagine what Joe Hamilton, Godsey or Shawn Jones could do with some of these offensive weapons?

By Surfrider

September 3, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

Just glad did’nt waste $300 for a ticket nor the hours to get one. Will say it to red in face but Tech will never be a top 15 program consistently until it gets an offensive mindset, scheme, coach and QB. We saw the ND coach do what Friedgen basically did, take control of the game from the offensive standpoint. To do that one has to take risks and that might mean loosing or turnovers. We still can’t hit an open Calvin Johnson on a down and out on a regular basis in Gailey’s fifth year as coach. Imagine what Joe Hamilton, Godsey or Shawn Jones could do with some of these offensive weapons?

By David

September 3, 2006 01:00 PM | Link to this

Fire the Coach!!! We need a coach with a killer mentality. We had the Irish on the ropes and then it looked like the entire game plan change to lets just sit on this 10-0 lead….Tech did not blitz as much or even try to pass to Calvin, did someone pay us off to lay down? It will be even worse if the writers think the Irish are still a top 5 team!!!

By Rock

September 3, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

Bemoan that penalty if you will. Below are some comments from an impartial writer from MSNBC.

“It probably shouldn’t have been that close anyway. Some of the calls against Notre Dame were abominable. The Irish were whistled for 11 penalties to five for Georgia Tech.”

“On the fourth play of the game a Quinn pass to Jeff Samardzija goes for 22 yards to the Tech 21, but was called back for alleged holding. Samardzija was six yards beyond Rhema McKnight, who was whistled for the penalty. A bogus call that ruined early momentum.”

“Kicker Carl Gioia missed field goals of 42 and 36 yards, which easily could have made it 20-10.”

By Mike Beglin

September 3, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

Why does Gailey punt when it’s 4th and 1 at midfield? To lose is one thing, but to not give your team a chance to win the game is unforgiveable. If your own coach doesn’t think his team can make one yard with the game on the line then why should the players believe it? And did you notice Weis going for it on a 4th and 1 to end the game?? Sorry, but blame the coach for this one.

By Alumni

September 3, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this

Gailey and Nix Need to Go. They both suck!It was clear that Nix was doing just what Gailey told him to do or he is no better than Gailey as Offensive Coordinator. Sad! Sick! No Balls! Either one of them!!! Tech could have easily won the game with half decent coaches.

By Chris

September 3, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

What an absolutely horrible, one-sided column (yes, I recognize you right for an Atlanta paper)!!

Let’s see…..

By derek

September 3, 2006 01:59 PM | Link to this

terrance, you are so predictable its scary. tech should have won, just like the braves, right? give me your mailing address so i can send you a box of tissues, you sniveling little girl. let me tell you what you ‘should’ do: stop writing for a living(you must love this country for actually getting paid to be a hack) and take a job as a circus clown.

By Dennis

September 3, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

Tech got homered at home.

By NY Jacket

September 3, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

Hey Dawgbite,

No need to get so defensive about UGA’s schedule and call KennyD an “imbecile” - did you even think about the schedule before doing that? KennyD is just trying to point out that UGA rarely will go out of their comfort zone and play “big games” outside their SEC schedule. This is why people outside the South never show any respect for UGA - I am temporarily in NY and can vouch that no one here knows what UGA stands for…

Granted, Tech plays Samford and Troy, but you have to give them credit for scheduling a teams like ND, Auburn, etc…). Georgia on the other hand has scheduled Western Kentucky, University of ALA @ Birmingam, and Colorado? Yea, big powerhouse Colorado who just lost to a Div. IAA school yesterday.

Granted UGA plays Auburn, FL, and Tennessee, but they have been down lately - Maybe TN is on track this year - but a losing record last year! (At least they have the balls to play the likes of ND and Cal). Auburn is not so tough, I mean, lowly GT played them 2x in the last 3 years and won both outings (They have said they are not interested in playing GT anymore).

Personally, I would love to see UGA play a USC, a Texas, a Notre Dame, etc… but the choice seems to have been made long ago that it is more important to pad the schedule and the record, rather than to introduce national exposure (and uh, risk) into the program. Don’t worry dawgbite, this isn’t your fault, you just have to deal with the problem.

One last note, when I looked at the first poll released for the year …

GT plays 5 teams in the top 25 (actually top 18) UGA only plays 3 teams in the top 25

To your credit, those 3 teams are the 3 you mentioned…. just be thankful you didn’t have to play LSU too last year… like those other “3” did.

I am a GT fan to the core, but wish UGA well in all but the last game. Hopefully, UGA will choose to take on some more formidable opponents when they have a choice in the future. I think then UGA will get some more respect as a national program.

By michael

September 3, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

chan gailey you are a disgrace to the football world. You have wasted 2 years of Calvin’s career. You have no idea how much you are hated in the state of georgia {they love you in athens}. Why don’t you jump off a tall building somewhere and do us all a favor.

By kenny dumbass

September 3, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

Hey Kenny, check the last 25 years of national champs. I’ll bet you over 50% come from east of the mississippi. Get a clue. Obviously you never played a down.

Was at the game last night, definitely should have gone to Calvin more. Tech just can’t imagine how goooood he is because they have never had such an athlete. Greg Knapp could win with this guy. Hey remember last year’s Georgia team(TE Leonard Pope) everyone knew we were gonna throw to him, didn’t matter because he’s a ManChild. What else, oh yeah, BradyQuinn Heisman,HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Final score should have been more like 28-10. Several instances where Irish receivers were uncovered. Looks like a long season for Buzz. Lucky to Finish 500. Trade Gailey, a qualifying freshman, and an unrestricted tailgating pass for Mark Richt and a playbook.

By BlueGold65

September 3, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this

As a Notre Dame fan, I have to think many of you Georgia Tech fans don’t appreciate your team. They played tough. Agreed - there’s no such thing as a moral victory, but they played hard for 60 minutes. Could the coaches have helped with better play calling? Maybe, but don’t overlook the fact that Tech had no turnovers against an ND team that produced 24 last year. That’s the trade-off. Throw to Johnson in double and triple coverage and then blame Reggie Ball for the turnovers, or throw to him when he’s open and blame the coaches for not calling his number. Take your choice.

By Tech & Ramblin Wreck Club Alum

September 3, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

Most of the comments are right on target and should be sent to Chan Gailey. The head butting call (while probably a bad call) should not be our excuse for losing this game. The type of offensive play calling (especially in the second half), unless improved, will be what costs us other games in the future.

By KENNY D

September 3, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

hey kenny dumbass, the SEC has only won four national titles since 1981. So the SEC wins only once every six years. the problem with your analysis is that there are only five major conferences (six if you for some godforsaken reason count the big east as a real conference). So, therefore, each conference essentially has a one in 5 chance of having a team come out national champ at the end. The SEC therefore is not even carrying its burden of meeting the percentage rate of how many their conference should win. Do not take credit for the South for Miami and Flordia State winning about a combined 7 or 8 championships since 1980. UGA would never dare play those teams during the regular season when the games matter. UGA would rather play FSU or Miami, if they have to play them at all, in a bowl game like the Sugar Bowl game because UGA gets all geeked up about playing in bowl games like the Sugar Bowl even though it is not a national championship game whereas FSU is heartbroken that they have to play UGA in a bowl game they deem meaningless because it is not a national title game. Whereas UGA jumps up and down and looks in wonder at the Sugar falling from the sky, FSU is p** off that they even have to contend with the sugar.

By Fan of Chan

September 3, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

The helemt to helmet call was a correct one. I can’t believe Tech fans are so up in arms about one play. ND got called for 11 penalties, Tech only five, but Tech got hosed right? You lost becomes Nix and Gailey lost their balls playcalling and the D got tired. Plain and simple. Tenuta is hands down your best coach, but he doesn’t have much depth.

And for all the UGA bashing going on, it only makes you guys look jealous. If UGA isn’t recognized outside of the Southeast, how did we finish in the top 10 the last four years. I guess only people from GA voted for us, but there happened to be enough right? As for playing harder OOC opponents when each school scheduled ND(for Tech) and Colorado(UGA) who do you think was the better program then? I’ll give you a hint, it wasn’t the Irish. Yeah Colorado just changed coaches and is down, but is that our fault? And we are playing Arizona St and Oregon St in coming seasons. But preninal bowl teams. So get over your sour grapes and go cheer for your team to win 7 again this year.

By Tom Whitman

September 3, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

It certainly looked like an intentional helmet to helmet hit on TV. Furthermore, ND was penalized 10 yards one or two plays later, and GT still didn’t hold them. Looks like the Atlanta media and Chan Gailey are making excuses for a loss.

By Tom Whitman

September 3, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this

It certainly looked like an intentional helmet to helmet hit on TV. Furthermore, ND was penalized 10 yards one or two plays later, and GT still didn’t hold them. Looks like the Atlanta media and Chan Gailey are making excuses for a loss.

By Buzz

September 3, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this

Tech sucks the big butt

By Old Dawg 55

September 3, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

Kenny D and Birddawg, can’t you confine your crappy opinions to the UGA blogs…you show just about as much knowledge vis a vis Tech football as you do Georgia…NONE! I have spent over forty years around this nation and overseas..away from Georgia, and I assure you DAWG Football is known and respected everywhere…your small minds cannot wander outside by themselves! Take a knee and relect on your diatribes..you make all Georgians (if you are Georgians!)look bad with your stupid comments!

By Evidence Penalty was Correct

September 3, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

Here is a link to screen caps off an ND board clearly documenting it was a leigitimate penalty. Wheeler is leading with the helmet. There is helmet to helmet contact. Note Quinn’s head snaps back, but the body doesn’t, demonstrating that Quinn’s head was the first body part to receive the contact. (http://www.ndnation.com/boards/showpost.php?b=football;pid=167650;d=all)

By Link to pictures of penalty

September 3, 2006 04:05 PM | Link to this

Here is a link to screen caps off an ND board clearly documenting it was a leigitimate penalty. Wheeler is leading with the helmet. There is helmet to helmet contact. Note Quinn’s head snaps back, but the body doesn’t, demonstrating that Quinn’s head was the first body part to receive the contact. [http://www.ndnation.com/boards/showpost.php?b=football;pid=167650;d=all]

By Wag38

September 3, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

I would like to comment on the Tech fans, When the Tech players were walking to the stadium I saw Irish fans there showing respect for them, but when the Notre dame players got off the bus the Tech fans were chanting F*#& the Irish over and over again very loud. There were women and children all around that had to listen to this crap, it was a disgrace. Then inside the stadium they were throwing bottles and cups on to the field,at refs and Notre Dame players. They (students)were cussing at the top of their lungs at the refs, Dame fans, Dame players, they were even taking peoples seats on the front row, if you said anything to them they would go get 10 or so of their DRUNK friends to stand in front of you. I have seen my first and last Tech game and I know and expect a responce of “good we don’t want you here anyway” no problem I won’t go, you couldn’t pay me to go again. I been told about the Tech fans before but now I’ve seen it first hand. The worst fans in college football period. Good luck in your disgrace.

By Skydawg

September 3, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda..the story of a Techster’s life.

By dawg man

September 3, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Tech whiners- You lost because you got outplayed in the second half-get over it …. And to you NY Jacket-this is what you wrote: “To your credit, those 3 teams are the 3 you mentioned…. just be thankful you didn’t have to play LSU too last year… like those other “3” did.” Um, we played LSU in the SEC champ, and I seem to remember UGA beating the tar out of them.
Why can’t nerds handle losing better?

By Unbelievable

September 3, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this

“Too bad for Tech that there isn’t the Lucky Jackets.”

You actually get paid to WRITE?

By J. McGeehan

September 3, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

Questionable call? The only thing questionable is how Terrance got his job.

By MC

September 3, 2006 06:26 PM | Link to this

A woman (Amelia) that posted earlier in the day nailed it guys. She hit the Tech nail dead on it’s head. Read her posts. She said it all and said it well.

By Jay

September 3, 2006 06:44 PM | Link to this

The real point is that when the Dawgs play the Jackets, the Dawgs win 9 out of 10 times.

By Football is for loosers

September 3, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Hey morons, why don’t you do something more constructive with your time than yap about something as pointless as football. And wag38, this isn’t the 1960’s anymore. You can’t take a little foul language? Then choke on it pansy.

By Kenneth

September 3, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

Tech was out coached not out played.

By Ga_Tech_92

September 3, 2006 07:15 PM | Link to this

Before the game - Everyone said GT had zero chance….ND would win by 40….BQ and the mighty offense returning 11 starters averaged about 30 points a game last year…going up against the completely unranked Jackets…

So the game is played - GT shocks the world and doesn’t loose by 40 as everyone-whos-anyone was so sure of…no…in fact against all odds David was not only winning for most of the game, but in fact held this UNSTOPPABLE offense to less than half of their AVERAGE last year. AMAZING…AWESOME….WAY TO GO!!!!

If Tech win’s, it’s the upsets of the decade. If Tech looses by 40, it’s what everyone expected. However, GT represented very well and should be VERY proud. I understand being upset to loose and I feel the same way. However, there is another game around the corner…and David cannot hang his head long for loosing a close one to Goliath.

I saw a lot of positive things in the game. This team held an unstoppable offense to 14 points. Yes we almost won and it’s heart-breaking to lose, but you can’t win them all. Did I agree with every call?…no…but I’m sure they went both ways. Getting CJ the ball sounds great, but I’m sorry if you “through into the double team all night” you are asking for turnovers. The bottom line is, ND is ranked #2 in the country and will not have a game this close the rest of the year. GT will proove to have been the toughest opponent all year long………and that’s something to hold your heads high for guys. Get ready for the next game…learn from your mistakes…keep focused and working hard and you will have a lot of success this year.

GO JACKETS!~

Here is the local paper support for the amazing play of the underdog:

“adopt a slogan from the hated Bulldogs: “Finish the drill.”

The Jackets didn’t.”

Get over it…the Jackets kicked major butt. It was David verus Goliath and anyone who tries to give David any flack for loosing 14-10 cannot be taken seriously.

Jackets kick butt and I’m glad the crowd was into the game … let’s keep up the great support!!!!

GO JACKETS!!

By Calvin the Great!

September 3, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

We will never be as good as UGA. We always come up short to UGA. I’m sick and tire of being a loser year in an year out. If this crap doesn’t change I’m going to be a UGA fan! Fire Gailey NOW!

By booyah

September 3, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

Tech is a very good team with a great defense and a mediocre/bad offense. Any ND fan that knows college football expected Johnson to be irrelevant, not because he isn’t awesome, but because he can’t get the ball. He had 6 touchdowns last year. That is pathetic. ND’s secondary is still pretty weak and if you can’t take advantage of them, good luck in some of your other games. However, your defense is very solid. I saw the Miami game last year too and that was just sick.
Chan reminds me of Bob Davie, ND’s old coach in many ways. Very conservative with the lead and will always put the game on the defense. So many college coaches play not to lose or want to put the game on their defense. Coaches like Weis and Pete Carroll at USC put faith in their players and try to go get a win. I’d rather lose giving it your all than never seeing if you can do it. These guys had to take this mentality in the NFL and it is what a lot of college coaches lack. It’s why Cooper’s offenses always sucked at Ohio St. and Michigan will always lose at least 3 games every year. Kirk Ferentz at Iowa is an example of a coach that takes chances and gets more out of his players than he should. Oh and by the way, Reggie Ball sucks. Have fun whining about nothing.
ND will put up some points against Penn St. ND wasn’t stopped in the second half except for a dropped ball and a major holding penalty.

By Brian Dinardo

September 3, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

Go to www.ndnation.com and look at the picture on the front page. That picture should remove all doubt about the helmet to helmet penalty.

Cry all you want, but learn the rules of the game. There is only one person to blame and that is Wheeler. He made an extremely bad decision. That play will be flagged 1000 out of 1000 times for such an incredibly obvious shot to the head of a QB.

By GreenJacket

September 3, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

Great game to be a part of. I tip my hat to the Irish and fans who showed alot of class during the game. This will be the best offense Tech faces all year. Unfortunately the offense is a rerun of Ball/Gailey’s other three years together. The play calling lacks imagination and Ball still only looks to one receiver.* Relying too much on our defense will help Tech pull off an upset yet lose a game we should not lose.*

By ballsandpucks

September 3, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

Check ndnation.com: “Georgia Tech students personify geekness. Those were the losers yelling at women and throwing things.” Winners win and losers complain about calls. Jacket Fans, get some class and get a coach.

By techengineer

September 3, 2006 11:47 PM | Link to this

Tech’s offense was horrific! Nix may be a good person but they are in dire need of an offensive coordinator. Stan would be a good start imo.. If not this will be a long season.

By techengineer

September 3, 2006 11:49 PM | Link to this

Tech’s offense was horrific! Nix may be a good person but they are in dire need of an offensive coordinator. Stan would be a good start imo.. If not this will be a long season.

By Me

September 4, 2006 12:55 AM | Link to this

techengineer likes men

By buzzgt

September 4, 2006 05:15 AM | Link to this

PLEASE WONT SOME RICH ALUMNI START A FUND TO BUY CHAN OUT AND SEND REGGIE TO MEDICIAL SCHOOL WE NEED A NEW COACH 5 YRS AND WE ARE STILL WAITING CHAN YOU ARE A FINE HUMAN BEING STAND UP KIND OF GUY BUT FOOTBALL COACH NO DO THE RIGHT THING GO FISHING GT FANS CANT TAKE THE PAIN ANYMORE PLUS ALL THE SMACK TALK U G A THROWS OUR WAY FUNNY THEY DONT TALK TO GATORS LIKE THAT

By Calvin the Great!

September 4, 2006 09:25 AM | Link to this

Here we go again accepting a a loss as a morale victory. No wonder we get blasted by the UGA fans. When are you people going to wake up to the realization that as long as Gailey is our Coach we will never measure up to UGA! And all you idiots that are blasting me for my opinion can kiss my yellow and black A$$. And all you idiots that dress with yellow hair and paint yourselves up just feed into the geek and nerd mantra that UGA throws our way. Have some dignity and class when you go to the games. This season will be a success when Gailey is fired.

By Play that funky music whiteboy

September 4, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

The Irish won, not nearly as big as I had thought - but that was a testament to the Tech defense and actually Reggie Ball taking care of the football. ND’s defense looked a lot different from last year’s version.

Conditioning was clearly a factor in the game. I don’t know who the strength and conditioning coach for Tech is, but I think they should try something different next year. Those guys were out of gas on defense by 5 minutes left in the first half and never really got their wind back. Notre Dame just seemed to get stronger and stronger as the game went on.

Well, Davey, Gamblinwreck, RFP, godawg, SoCaldawg, GT, I’m here - just like I said I would be. Are you?

Go Irish, Beat Penn State

By DE

September 4, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

Gailey put on the headset and it all went downhill from there… Notice how everything went old fart ultra-conservative? Notice how we didn’g go for it on 4th down?

By shivas

September 4, 2006 05:53 PM | Link to this

ND defense did not improve their speed, but they were very tenacious and quick. SJ and Mcknight made plays, because they were wide open. Darius Walker is incredible and special. I was very surprised at his strength and refusal to go down. I will be a fan of his throughout the year. It was a hard hitting game on both sides, and those 2 guys in the ND secondary know how to make you pay after a catch.Brady Quin, he showed he take hits and keep composure. For GT, any questions about the secondary are answered. Could not have played a better game. Again, SJ and McKnight made catches in coverage. Defensive line was awesome, and pushed the ND line back for most of the night. Philip Wheeler was all over the field, and it will be fun to watch him this season and next. Offensive line played very well. I hope this game also lays to rest all the RB critics; he played with massive heart and proves he is not afraid to be hit. I’m not much for moral victories, but I think this game was a great primer for the ACC season, and I believe we have the opportunity to win it all. Proud of the Wreck!

By BUZZGT

September 4, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

HEY AJC IN TODAYS AJC THE POLL ON THE DAWGS PAGE ABOUT THE MOST HATED COACH DID YOU LEAVE CHAN GAILEY OFF FOR A REASON ?????? HE WOULD WIN HANDS DOWN BY THE WAY THE OLD BALL COACH”S TEAM WILL BE TAKING CARE OF THEM LOUD MOUTH DAWG FANS SAT NIGHT IN COLUMBIA GO GAMECOCKS