AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2007 > August > 30 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USStafford grasping what QB requires
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mark Bradley
What Georgia needs from Matthew Stafford: Less whizbang, more wisdom. What Georgia needs Matthew Stafford to be: Less Jeff George, more David Greene.
It was the big arm, as we know, that made Stafford the people’s choice before the ballyhooed freshman had taken a collegiate snap. It was, and is, the arm that impresses most, and it was, and is, one heck of a limb. Stafford can, as the old baseball line goes, throw a strawberry through a locomotive. But an arm, as we also know, doesn’t necessarily make the man.
Jeff George, once a Falcon but never a fixture anywhere, had the arm but not the head, and for a quarterback that’s the worst package possible. A quarterback with a big arm believes he can make any old throw any old time, defenders and percentages be hanged. A quarterback with a big arm but a faulty gyroscope winds up keeping both teams in the game - his with the occasional rainbow, the opponent with the more-than-occasional jaw-dropping interception - and such quarterbacks don’t last.
Stafford was that sort of quarterback as a freshman. He authored seven touchdown passes against 13 interceptions. In the abject loss at Kentucky, he threw the ball to the Wildcats on consecutive series - first from Georgia’s 1-yard line, next from Kentucky’s 2. “There’s something in young quarterbacks,” coach Mark Richt said that gray day, “that they have a hard time burning the ball.”
Give Stafford this. He grew up in the span of seven days. He played a beautifully measured game in the upset of Auburn the next Saturday - no interceptions! - and once threw the ball out of bounds rather than risk a turnover. (“I wanted to cheer,” Richt said.) He engineered the game-winning drive against Georgia Tech and the epic rally against Virginia Tech in the Chick-fil-A Bowl, although it must be said that another Stafford interception helped create that massive deficit in the first place.
And now he’s the unchallenged incumbent as Georgia embarks on what should be a better season. He looks more comfortable than he did this time a year ago. (You would, too.) He’s conspicuously sleeker - for a few scary months, it seemed Stafford was bound for Jared Lorenzen dimensions - and he says he’s no longer daunted by the size of the playbook.
The job is no longer his to win. From here, it can only be lost. Last season’s shuffle did none of the quarterbacks any favors, and Richt, in hindsight, concedes as much. Having a real No. 1 quarterback, the coach says, “affects everything. It affects how you design a plan. It affects the perception of the program.”
As Stafford goes, so go the Bulldogs. He’s talented enough to do all the things he needs to do; he just needs not to do those things that will undercut the whole operation. He needs to manage games the way Greene famously did - 72 touchdowns against only 32 interceptions over four distinguished seasons - and to manage himself and his big arm. He doesn’t have to complete every pass. “A punt,” Richt keeps telling him, “is not a bad play.”
There’s no reason Stafford can’t become what he was advertised to be: the next great college quarterback. He has the aptitude, and he seems to have the attitude. (Remember, he was so impressive in preseason practices after being designated the co-No. 3 quarterback that Richt scrapped any notions of redshirting him.) He appears to have a grasp on who he is and, more important, what his precious position entails.
Asked at media day if Georgia needed to find an every-down tailback, Stafford said: “I don’t think so. It’s more important that the offense have one focal point, one leader [meaning the quarterback]. Running back is more a physical position.”
And that’s the thing: Playing quarterback requires physical gifts, sure, but the mental makeup matters more. Were having a big arm the sole requirement, Jeff George would have been Joe Montana. But it isn’t, and he wasn’t.
Permalink | Comments (39) | Post your comment | Categories: Mark Bradley, UGA / SEC
Comments
By Wozzo the Wonder Dog
August 30, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this
GO DAWGS!
By ugarulz
August 30, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
Can’t wait to see what a year has done for Stafford..the future sure does look bright in Athens. One thing is absolutely certain, Matthew Stafford will be the better QB in the annual showdown in Jacksonville. Mark it down folks
By Buck in the NW
August 30, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this
Let’s see now. Even though the team, as per quotes from the players, Richt because he’s not a Sr. precludes him from being a team Captain. Now, Mark,your column, as opposed to encouraging him to keep on growing and using positive comments to talk about where he came from, start comparing him to a guy who never cut it and bring up bad history to make your point. He’s been jumped on from all directions already and the Coach finally says that the Coaching left a lot to be desired in ‘06. I posted over a year ago the people were forgetting that Mark Richt has never coached a kid with the talent that Stafford has. Compare him all you want to with other QBs. I’m going to continue to compare Matthew Stafford to Matthew Stafford and boy has he come a long way, IMO
By Johnson is a Johnson
August 30, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this
I can hardly sleep. There’s a lot of talk in Stillwater that our D cannot hope to contain their O. That’s where the game will be decided. Time to go make the “special Bloody Mary’s” we call it “Uga Juice” around here. Goooooooo Georgia Bulldogs!!!!
By EmmettDawg
August 30, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this
I got tickets today!! I’m thrilled to have a chance to see Stafford pick up where he left off the last two times I saw the Dawgs (Peach Bowl & G-Day). Remember we’re going for a RED-OUT in Sanford.
By D-Man
August 30, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this
Alright, here is is..what you all have been screaming for..the D-Man will now make his prediction on the Georgia game. Contrary to what so many are thinking, the Bulldogs will not have a problem with the Cowboys. State simply doesnt have the defense to contain Stafford and company. Our arsonal of RBs will run on them like water threw a busted d**. Mark my words, the WRs will surprise as well. Look for Stacey Bailey to have a breakthrough game. And as far as our defense regarding the vaulted State offense…The defense will turn heads with some big plays. Look for some unexpected hammer hits from our newly formed linebackers and an interception or two from Johnson and company. And that offensive line - how will it hold up for Stafford? That will be the biggest surprise of the game. the babies will grow up in a hurry, and Stafford will have time to make his throws. The Bulldogs win by at least 14. The D-Man has spoken.
By NASCARfan
August 30, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this
I feel so dumb for reading this. Meaning, my IQ has actually dropped because I read this.
Sounds like someone might have hit the sauce a bit early Thursday afternoon.
By brian
August 30, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
Another blog site said it best…
Asking for a RED-OUT at a Georgia game is like asking Cure fans to wear black to their concert. It’s going to happen naturally.
I can’t remember the last time I didn’t wear red and no one had to remind to please do so.
By SickandTired
August 30, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this
Great article and right on the money. Some Georgia people have already annointed greatness on Stafford and in reality his goal should be to throw more touchdowns than interceptions this year. Then the great talk can actually get started with some intelligence.
By DawgBone
August 30, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this
OK State’s mascot, Pistol Pete will be shooting blanks. Moreno will bring back memories of Herschel and Stafford will show the nation why he’s Heisman material. Dawgs Roll!
DAWGBONE
By Techisfergirls
August 30, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this
People, be real. Stafford has proven nothing. Inconsistent at best. I hope and pray he turns out to be as good as the hype. Quarterback is important, but you win with LINE play. Heres hoping Stafford is going to be all bite,and that he and his team take huge strides in 2007. I hope the O-line can stand up to the pressure of the week in and week out grind of SEC football. the best conference in all the land. GOOOOOOOOOOOOO DAWGS. I’ll know more at 10pm Saturday night. Its either going to a great ride home, or long drive back to middle Georgia!
By flip
August 31, 2007 6:44 AM | Link to this
NASCARfan wrote: I feel so dumb for reading this. Meaning, my IQ has actually dropped because I read this.
Impossible. The fact you’re a fan of NASCAR means the IQ would have to go into negative numbers to get any lower.
By meat cleaver
August 31, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this
Great article, Mark. You are exactly right. I’m a big UGA fan, and I can’t get how some are complaining about this article (some always will). Stafford has all the tools, he just needs to play within himself and not try to win it on every throw. Good stuff.
By meat cleaver
August 31, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this
Great article, Mark. You are exactly right. I’m a big UGA fan, and I can’t get how some are complaining about this article (some always will). Stafford has all the tools, he just needs to play within himself and not try to win it on every throw. Good stuff.
By Lilburn Dawg
August 31, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this
I hope Stafford lives up to all the hype. It will take a few games this season before many of us are totally convinced. I would like to see Cox and Barnes get a lot of playing time this season, too. I’m not convinced who the best QB really is!!
By Texas Dawg
August 31, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this
yea I got the point that Stafford played well against the last three…but we did loose to Ken and Vandy…At this point I’m still not sure if Cox couldn’t have done just as well…I’m a die hard Dawg but I don’t care how great a arm the kid has if he starts screwing the pooch…or bulldawg…get cox in there…GOOOOOOOOO DAwgs!
By 0in28years
August 31, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this
What difference does it make ? This is not a BCS team.
By tally-ho
August 31, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this
The new o-line coach is considered by many to be the best in the business…the defensive players replacing the ones that left are supposed to be a lot faster, so I heard, and very talented….and Stafford has a year of experience playing SEC ball. I think UGA will loose a couple of games early this year, but the second half of the season and on inot next, they should be great.
By kerry
August 31, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this
Lilburn Dawg can’t be a bigger moron to make a statement like that.
By MIKE
August 31, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this
upset special dawgs lose ok st 21 dawgs 17
By BUSHWACKER
August 31, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this
I heard this guy on the radio the other day talking about playing QB in the NFL and what it takes to be a Super Bowl winning QB.
He said of ALL the things it takes to be a winning QB, BEING FAST IS NOT one of them.
His name, JOE MONTANA!!!
By Heurn
August 31, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
Bartkowski went from relying on his magnificent arm to a brainy great quarterback. Let’s hope Stafford makes the transition long before he hits the NFL.
By Jesus H. Christ
August 31, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
People. Lose. To lose a game, or your glasses, or your virginity. Loose. Your pants will fall down if they are too loose. Just damn, you pack of dumba$$es.
By Pat
August 31, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this
Comparing Stafford or any true freshman COLLEGE QB to Jeff George is a bit of a stretch don’t you think?
By trottinghometudd
August 31, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this
Who is David Greene(psych), Mark? Stafford needs to be Stafford. Get a life that brings new ideas and insight to the GA program.
By trottinghometudd
August 31, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
Who is David Greene(psych), Mark? Stafford needs to be Stafford. Get a life that brings new ideas and insight to the GA program.
By trottinghometudd
August 31, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
Who is David Greene(psych), Mark? Stafford needs to be Stafford. Get a life that brings new ideas and insight to the GA program.
By sobedawg
August 31, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
PREDICTION—Stafford connects with Mikey Henderson on LONG TD pass on 1st drive vs. Cowboys…Sobedawg
By gdawginkalamazoo
August 31, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this
Mark, JEFF GEORGE? What has ANYBODY seen of Stafford that warrants that comparison? You think of Jeff George you think a*******wipe with a bad attitude. NOT a great arm or being a winner. Whiner yes. Stafford’s attitude has never been in question I don’t think. However, look for a great year from him.
By RedDawg
August 31, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this
there are some idiot experts in Foxsports and here picking OSU to beat Georgia. I just want to say this if you are really an expert college football and you pick OSU to win, you must have a serious mental problems or your mother is really your sister!
By Bill W.
August 31, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this
Good article Mark. Staff will be improved from last year however I believe he will be chased more often this year with the inexperienced O-line. I think he will grow as a solid QB even more after this season. Really looking forward to the Dawgs next season- great recruits coming in as well.
My prediction Saturday- UGA- 34 OSU- 27
By the way the O/U is 56 GO DAWGS!!!!!!
By Jeremy
August 31, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
Hey Texas Dawg…I mean no disrespect and I am a huge UGA fan myself. But I wanted to remind you of the Ole Miss game last year…Cox got his chance at starting and he was a disappointment just like Joe T…thus the reason why Stafford eventually got the final nod. Every one of them screwed up when given the chance last year…and I think Coach Richt ended up realizing that he had already cast his lot with Stafford so he had to “throw him to the wolves” and let him take his lumps while learning on the job. Thankfully, young Stafford was strong enough mentally to handle it…but it was a pretty big gamble. Some guys just like the tough love approach though…see: Brady Quinn.
By Cox
August 31, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this
Shockley = NFL Quaterback Greene = Cut by Seahawks
Cox should be the Starter!
By gdawginkalamazoo
August 31, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
Jeremy, I guess a lot of us forgot that. You are correct. If Cox had gone beserk in that game he would have been the guy all season. He earned his extended opportunity with the Colorado game. I think they were all jumpy last year worrying about screwing up and losing the job. This year everything is settled and everybody knows their roles. Much better situation.
By Hates Jeff George
August 31, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
Mark, I usually enjoy your articles, but this one was way off base. To compare Matthew Stafford to Jeff George is absolutely insane. Have you ever met Matthew? Well, I have met Matthew and I must say that he is a polite and respectful young man. After a few minutes talking with him you can tell that he was raised right and is actually very smart. Jeff George was and still is a complete whackjob hot-headed punk that was a cancer to every team that he played for. Do some homework and research next time before comparing oranges to rotten apples.
By RedDawg
August 31, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this
hey Texas Dawg, what an idiot! you are not a dawg, get your a$$ out of this blog moron
By poohbear
August 31, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this
One comment. If you were to ask any Division I coach in America if they could choose one underclassmen QB to start their program with, Stafford would get more votes than anyone! In time, he’ll prove it!
By techhater
August 31, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this
hey, poopoo bear, what about the kid from Texas. I beliEve he was a true freshman, and had solid numbers, 20-30 td passes, with under 10 int. i belive he may turn out to be better than Stafford? I hope Stafford comes out and throws 25+ TDS,my concern is the offensive line? Talk is cheap, lets see if CMR’S RECRUITING IS AS GOOD AS THEY SAY ITS BEEN! I AM ANXIOUS TO SEE IF SOME OF THESE GUYS, AT RUNNING BACK, SECONDARY, AND LINEBACKER CAN STEP IT UP. THEY NEED TOO
By techhater
August 31, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
ANYBODY WHO THINKS SOMEBODY ELSE SHOULD BE STARTING INSTEAD OF STAFFORD. TWO WORDS, MO RON, YOU CANT POSSIBLY THINK COX PLAYED BETTER, HE IS A GREAT BACK UP. STAFFORD IS THE MAN, I HOPE HE PROVES IT. A SO SO STAFFORD IS BETTER THAN A GOOD J COX.