Tech

By Lanette

September 27, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

How disturbing. I think colleges should be made to adopt the same philosophy that many of our high schools now have for all their sports- NO PASS, NO PLAY. Especially for ones that were given scholarships when I am paying for my child’s education. If they are given scholarships and don’t pass after x number of classes, the scholarship should be revolked and they should become paying students and not allowed to play.

By GREG

September 27, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

GRADUATION RATES DON’T MATTER TO MATTHEW STAFFORD!!!LOL!!!!MATTHEW LIKES TO EAT LOGS FROM RALPHIE!!!LOL!!!!

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

Mike,

Graduation rates matter. Period. I would suggest when you do your research, look at majors at the various Universities as well as the general graduation rates. If the numbers are consistent with the general student population, then you have a benchmark. If they aren’t, then you have a wholly other article to write.

If UGA’s numbers are lower than Tech, as you indicate, the next question is why? Does Tech have easier academics? Hardly. Does UGA have more athletes leaving school early for the pros? Probably. Does UGA recruit student athletes that Tech doesn’t because they know they will not be successful in the classroom? Absolutely.

At the end of the day, the goal for all programs should be to recruit, and retain, scholar athletes who have a chance to be successful. I hate to say it, but many programs recruit for a quick fix and a winning program, regardless to what happens to the kids they sign and don’t make it academically.

By GW

September 27, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this

Due to privacy issues schools can never release the true facts behind each individual case. As for graduation rates they do count for something but players leaving early or transferring should not count against a school. If they are still there for five years just hanging around and not graduating then yes, give the school grief.

By GREG

September 27, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this

18 YEAR OLD PARADE ALL AMERICANS THAT ARE GOING TO BE GREAT!!!!!!PLAYED IN ONLY 2 OR 3 GAMES!!!!LOL!!!!!!YOR RIGHT,YOU BETTER RAG NOW!!!!!YET AGIAN UNPROVEN STUPID COMEBACKS!!!!!7-19 LAST 26 YEARS!!!!LOL!!!!!!

By red92s

September 27, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

GW,

Per the article, students transfering out of the school to not impact graduation rates. While artiffically high graduation rates due to a school being less demanding should be taken with a grain of salt, I don’t see how it’s a valid arguement when less than 1 in 10 UGA basketball players is graduating. Clearly it’s not due to the NBA draft, or the high academic standards (wouldnt these players have been the ones taking the “3-pointer” tests?).

By saywhat

September 27, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

I would suggest that a graduation rate lower than the student body’s overall rate is a problem….so there is a benchmark available….and coaches and ADs should be given the ax if their programs fail to measure up to school standards

By Ernest

September 27, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this

There was an interesting front page article in todays USA TODAY (9/27) about the possibility of creating a national database to track this type of information. The measures currently being used have flaws.

I think this does matter to the student athletes who realize they may not play professionally. They’d like to know their school choice works to help them get a degree.

Correct me if I’m wrong but from an overall standpoint, don’t student athletes graduate at a higher rate than not student athletes?

By sherry

September 27, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this

greg, clearly you have some anger issues…do yourself a favor and learn to spell. just like my coach minter used to say, “it is better to be thought a fool than to open thy mouth and remove all doubt.”

now to the issue at hand. it is really sad that the graduation rate is not 100%, but as gw says, we don’t know the whole story. another interesting statistic might be the overall graduation rate of the school.

By Jbdawg

September 27, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

Who IS this Greg person? “..LOL!!!YOR RIGHT..” Hmmm, must be a Tech gra-u-ate. But….yes, graduation rates matter and they should matter greatly. As mentioned, however, one must take into account the number of players who leave early for the pros, etc as opposed to those who flunk out. Few of these ‘studies’ compare apples to apples and that’s what we must look for. Sadly, I don’t think the basketball Dawgs have lost that many to the pros.

By Ed

September 27, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

The failure rate is even worse considering the Harrick’s were giving bogus tests to the basketball team. Athletes have free school, books, room and board and tudors. It suggests that they are not held accountable from day one. Some say ALL freshmen should be inelligable for sports so they can make the adjustment into college. Georgia should consider holding itself to a higher standard. If you can’t keep track of 15 basketball players, something is wrong.

By K-dawg

September 27, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

I agree with most of the people here. I am a UGA grad and am embarassed that UGA has such a low graduation rate, especially in basketball.

My hope is that this data is really old and may be meaningless at this point. I for one would be very surprised to see these rates continue. This data was under other regimes and I believe the new coaches place a much stronger emphasis on acedemics, as they should.

I would also like to see a comparison on how the athletes compare to the student bodies in general.

By bassetball all amerrykin

September 27, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

eye wants to goes to UJA (umiversity of Jawja) to plays bassetball for coach Felton cause thens eye no eye don’ts got ta wurry bout no graddiation….

By K-dawg

September 27, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

Also, Tech has nothing to be proud of, the O’leary years are only beginning.

By Gamblin'wreck

September 27, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

Sorry jbdawg, but GREG claims UGA. LOL!!

By IMGT81

September 27, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

When the rates in the AD account for going pro and transfers in good standing can be compared to overall student body rates then everyone is going to know who has student athletes and who is in reality pro minor leagues.

And lets not forget that even when compared to the overall student body those in the AD are “supposed” to be screened as well for potential academic success as athletic success. Meaning within the AD should be the best students as well as best athletes.

And please no one wear out the time spent on athletics arguement because it is offset by tutors (not class grade rigging except at some places where classes ask how many points is a 3 point shot worth and what color are our home uniforms.)

I tried not too go this way but face it 1 in 9 without substantial leaving early for the NBA means you should be playing in the NBA Development League ( and not too well if you don’t develop players) not the SEC. And shame on those who don’t know the difference.

By Jim

September 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

I am a UGa alum and a Dawg fan. No lopsided loss in Jacksonville has ever embarassed me the way the Kemp scandal did. Graduation rates matter. Fortunately, the current stats are the fruit the Harrick era. Give D. Felton a few years and see what the number is.

By brabus

September 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

Of course graduation rates matter. It is commendable that Tech reports decent (I guess) graduation rates. It is awful that UGA reports pretty bad grad rates. However, this doesn’t mean that UGA should be laughed at as an academic institution. Rather, I think UGA needs to better balance athletics and academics within their athletic programs. UGA clearly has worthwhile a academic component to the institution, as there are countless exceptional non-athlete students graduating from the school. However, it is extremely disappointing, almost pathetic, that athletes are apparently not encouraged to take advantage of the academic resources to secure a better future for themselves.

By GREG

September 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

I GRADUATED FROM THE 3RD GRADE!!!!!!

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

bassetball all amerrykin;

There is no room on this, or any, blog for comments that even resemble racism. GREG is bad enough…

sherry and Jbdawg, please IGNORE GREG. He doesn’t care what anyone says as long as he gets a reaction. Don’t reward him.

By John

September 27, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

To Lanette, Athletes in college are required to pass a certain number of hours each year to maintain their eligibility. Players do lose a year from time to time due to this. The reason you see these low rates at the end is the players often leave for other sporting opportunities in the pros or simply don’t care to finish their degree after their last season of competition.

By John

September 27, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

Why is this in the Tech blog when the headline on the front page is UGA? The AJC is up to their old bait and switch tricks again.

By War Eagle

September 27, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this

Mike explains the situation very good, except I dont agree leaving schools for the Pros has very little effect on graduation rate. The percentage is too low to show any movement one way or another.

By SportsFan

September 27, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

Leaving early for the pro’s and transferring are one thing. But lets face it, UGA basketball hasn’t been burning up the draft in the last post-Nique years. 9% is an embarrassment for the ignorants that continue to say UGA has higher standards than TECH. And UGA fans can bark all day about how they have sooo many football players drafted, but in the end their small number of players drafted each year doesn’t make much of a difference. I just looked at TECH & UGA top 24 f-ball players and when you look at the majors at TECH (engineering, construction management, physics, and management)and compare those to UGA, it is almost comical that UGA can’t graduate more players with degrees in (Recreation & Leisure Studies, Child & Family Development, Speech, and Housing). I have to hand it to the individuals at UGA that are actually realizing that they need a real degree and are avoiding the above mentioned UGA degrees. Face is UGA, if you had the academic standards that TECH faces year in and year out, you ignorants wouldn’t bark nearly as much as you do. And what is a degree in Housing???

By Bleading White and Gold

September 27, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Yes, graduation rates do matter. They can be used as a recruiting weapon against other schools! Theyare a good indication of how a school will take care of a potential student athlete. Look at how many of UGA’s reqruites can not qualify and end up at JUCO’s. It says a lot about what type of person they are recruiting too. If they can not go to classes and keep up their grades at UGA with their easy majors and grades, then they must be looking for good athletes and don’t care about the person or their carrector! Just win baby, and to hell with what is best for their student athletes! Wake up parents and friends of potential recruits, is this the type of program you want your child to be associated with?

By Dick

September 27, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

If only 9% get degrees, makes one wonder how they got thru high school and passed the required SAT for Ga doesn’t it. My my my what an athlete gets away with

By GREG

September 27, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

GLENN,MY BOY!!!!PLEASE TELL THE GROUP WHAT SPORT YOU EXCELLED IN AT TECH!!!!GLENN,FOR PEOPLE THAT KNOW HIM,IS A REAL SPECIAL SNEAKY GUY!!!!HE TALKS TO RECRUITS DIRECTLY,PERSUADES THEM TO GO TO TECH.YOU’LL PROBALLY FIND SOME OF MY BLOGS ON HIS SPECIAL RECRUITING SITE!!!!!!WAY TO GO GLENNY BOY!!!!!MY HERO ON THIS BLOG!!!TALK SOME FOOTBALL!!!

By brent

September 27, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

(wouldnt these players have been the ones taking the “3-pointer” tests?)

Actually, no. One of the biggest shortcomings of these studies is that that they only give you a picture of the state of the program nearly a decade ago — not its current state. In the case of UGA’s basketball program, these would have been the students who entered under Tubby Smith (‘96) and Ron Jirsa (‘97 & ‘98) and only the first year of the Harricks (‘99). God only knows what the next report (the one including the majority of the Harrick years) will show. I certainly hope things have improved since then, but unfortunatly we’ll have to wait another 3 or 4 years minimum to get any meaningful numbers for the programs under the current coaches. These days at many schools, by the time such numbers come out, the responsible parties (well, at least partly responsible) have long gone.

By gdawginkalamazoo

September 27, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

How many players are you talking about overall? You are talking about less than 40-50 kids at most in a student body of 25,000+ over a four year period. Of course compare that to the general student body grad rate. And each athlete/kid might have different circumstances effecting their lives. The statistics don’t matter because each case could have so many different outcomes as to why the student athlete didn’t graduate.

By GREG

September 27, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

HEY NEW BLOGGERS…WELCOME TO TECH’S BLOG!!!!DONT WORRY,TECH’S LOG TOILETS WILL MAKE THE TRIP TO BLACKSBURG!!!!!!WHEN TECH PLAYS IN BIG GAMES THEY HAVE TENDENCY TO LEAVE THERE LOGS LAYING AROUND EVERYWHERE!!!LOL!!!!

By GREG

September 27, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

WATCH GEORGIA TECH LOSE THIS SATURDAY!!!!!!!! REGGIE WILL HAVE BROWN PANTS!!!! AZZ GOBLINS WILL BE EVERYWHERE ON THE FEILD!!!!!! OLE MISS IS GOING TO BROWN THEIR PANTS TOO!!!!!!!!! LOL!!!!

By I-DOG

September 27, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

Glenn,

You started off reasonably in your post comparing two schools UGA and Tech that are about 15 points apart on incoming SAT Scores? Then you delve back into the “”we are not successful in sports because of our “lofty” academics excuse.

Your Quote: “Does UGA recruit student athletes that Tech doesn’t because they know they will not be successful in the classroom? Absolutely.”

Which athletes did UGA recruit and land that Tech would not have taken? If you accepted Quincy Carter (which you did, right?) then how can you say UGA recruits players Tech can’t? You actually have four star players from Georgia that have verbally committed to Tech THIS YEAR, which is a big change. Are big time football players from Georgia’s high schools suddenly MUCH smarter than previous years. probably not… you were just successful in convincing them to play at Tech.

In Hoops, how do you explain Kenny Anderson? I’m sure he is a nice guy and was a great college basketball player, but are you trying to tell me you honestly think that he had real academic course load at Tech… and did OK? I’m sure you value your degree from Tech a little more than to say he was a “student” at Tech.

The reality is Tech is a good academic institution. UGA is too. UGA’s students scored one or two questions lower on the SAT’s, but with UGA being much larger and much more diverse, that just makes sense.

Where do the Doctor’s,Lawyers,and busines people in Georgia come from that have an in state degree? You know the answer.

By Davey

September 27, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

greg your silly to think that ole miss is going to lose. Wake beat ole miss and wake would kill georgia any day! GT will be beat VT.

By GREG

September 27, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

YOUR RIGHT DAVEY!!!!THAT WAS MY IMPOSTER!!!!UGA WILL NOT WIN ANOTHER GAME!!!!

By BigPoppa

September 27, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

One thing that the report does not show is that the NBA takes players after one year of eligibility, while the NFL makes them wait three years. So the question is what 18-19 year old in his right mind is going to stay in school when he is offered big money?

By I-DOG

September 27, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

Red 92’s. Your right that we haven’t sent many to the pros in hoops recently, so I agree that is not skewing the figures. UGA has to take more academically “at risk” athletes in hoops because recruiting is an uphill battle in that sport. However, the 3 pointer Harrick test (while dispicable) isn’t “real”. If that were what it took to really get a UGA degree, why would only 1 in 10 graduate from 96-99? You can come up with a joke on that one, but really, why wouldn’t they be able to graduate if it were that easy.

My understanding is that the course was a PE course which is pass/fail and does not go into your GPA. Tech, Georgia, and Southern all require some PE’s and you can take golf or racketball or whatever. As long as you show up and give an effort you get a Passing grade in PE. This is true at Tech and UGA. It does not raise or lower your GPA.

The test and everything about the class was wrong. The coaches were all fired and UGA voluntarily skipped the NCAA tourney that year with a pretty good team. Heads rolled and a price was paid. To say that it was a “course” is not being honest. It was a PE requirement filler.

By I-DOG

September 27, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this

JB Dawg and Sherry, good posts.

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this

I-DOG…My point was that UGA recruits some players Tech would never touch…and in many cases because of class offerings. I also know that there are some athletes UGA does not recruit because they know they will not succeed at UGA because of their new academic standards.

I have never called UGA’s academics less than Tech’s just different due to the types of Universities. Let’s face it, not everyone has the same mathematical or scientific desires as others and that is why there is more than one University.

And, just for your information, I went to Tech and then earned my JD…as did many of my classmates. In fact, several others went on to Medical School as well…some even became astronauts…Imagine.

By Carlton Powell

September 27, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

You bet graduation rates matter.As noted above, to most thoughtful UGA alums, the poor graduation rate of its athletes is most embarrassing. I personally know of an athlete who was enrolled in a biology lab, and after the first class meeting telephoned his academic advisor and told him, “get me out of this class! It’s way too hard.” This young man mention question was integral in last Saturday’s game. Why aren’t these guys told to buck up, study and pass the class?? They are paid quite handsomely for playing. Anyone who doubts they are hasn’t written a tuition check recently. My son attended, and graduated from The University of Virginia. His comment on the current UVA team is “we suck, but at least we are legit.” Everyone has to meet certain academic standards at UVA, and David had several classes of substance with football and basketball athletes. They were engaged in the class, and made a positive contribution. As a UGA alum, I should expect nothing less from its athletes.

By I-DOG

September 27, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

bleading black and gold:

Ok, this is a blog so spelling isn’t that important but carrector! in a blog meant to show Tech’s superior academics is pretty funny.

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

And I-DOG, my wife earned her Masters at UGA…

By jones

September 27, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

This data is not only 7 years ago but includes players that were kicked off the team or transferred. Who cares? It’s irrelevant.

By GREG

September 27, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

GLENN,THE MASTERS IS PLAYED IN AUGUSTA!!!!!!LOL!!!!AND WOMEN AREN’T ALLOWED TO BE MEMBERS!!!!!!LOL!!!!

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

I-DOG, a JD is a Juris Doctorate, which means I, a Techie, graduated from Law School…

By JustMe

September 27, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

UGAg and UGAg fans do not care about graduation rates or the education quality, as long as the program wins games. That is the reality and everyone knows it (although some will not admit it).

GA Tech has integrity, something UGAg will never have.

By tigger

September 27, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this

I think that if a student is at a college with a scholarship to play that particular sport, then he/she should have to pass to play - just like high school. Also, look at how pro sports affects the “superstars” that play college. They get to opt out and cut to the Pros if they get an offer. Look at what it does to the college and the team - it affects school morale and team morale, and what about that coach that went out and recruited the kid - trying to build a successful team? It leaves a hole in it. I think you should take it a step further and not allow pro sports to take college players unless they finish. I know it goes against the philosphy of a free market system, but if they want to play pro so bad, they should bypass college and save everyone the trouble.

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

jones, respectfully, the information is relevant. It shows a pervasion of a problem at all of the Universities. The goal should be to get these kids educated and employed so they are productive citizens rather than drains on the system. If they are not graduating, that means other scholar athletes who could have used the chance for a degree missed out because the slots were given to kids who could not, or did not want to, graduate.

By buck

September 27, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

Most schools (even tech) generally recruit from the same pool of athletes.

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

Great point, buck…there is actually a single pool all recruiters draw from. The process works in such a way both the player and University feel comfortable with each other. There is almost always competition for players and things get interesting when slots start to fill up and Universities close in on their maximum number of available scholarships…Even if all five stars wanted to go to the same place, it is impossible due to scholarship limitations.

The key is getting players who fit the program and University, and are willing to step away from individual statistics and play as a member of a team. With all of the turnover of players and coaches, no one can feel comfortable playing in the same environment they started in. That is why the players really need to concentrate on the education portion of the equation. While teammates and coaches come and go, the education is the constant.

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

And that doesn’t even take into account the possibility of injuries…

By GTGreg

September 27, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

I-DOG, I agree that UGA and Tech are both fine institutions of higher learning, but I think you’re over-leveraging the “more diverse academics” thing that UGA supposedly has… I graduated from Tech with a lot of friends who are now in med schools, law schools, business programs, etc., nevermind the fact that I am in one as well. You’re right in that a degree in history, political science, english, or what have you is the more traditional route to take toward a law or business degree, but to downplay the worth of a background emphasizing critical thinking and a scientific approach to problem solving when moving beyond collegiate education shows a pretty large flaw in your thinking. Let’s just say that I’d take my Tech degree over any other Georgia school 10 times out of 10.

Moving on from that tired old debate, I am a little apprehensive to see what the O’leary years will bring in terms of graduation rates. Even though these numbers aren’t that bad, I hope we’ve reached the nadir of our rates for all sports with these figures, and I honestly hope UGA has as well.

By GREG

September 27, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

UGA WILL HAVE DOG POO ALL AROUND THEM ALL NIGHT!!!!! OLD TENN QB WILL KILL THEM!!!!!!!!

By GREG

September 27, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

LOL!!!!!!!! NEVER I’LL LEAVE THIS BLOG IF TENN BEATS US!!!!

By Dwayne

September 27, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter. Those kids are bought and paid for by the school and get used up after a few years and are tossed out without an education. Whether it be football or basketball, those kids earn more for their schools than any sport and then get nothing for it. As far as UGA vs Tech goes, everyone knows that those who play for Tech actually have to use their brain in school, UGA ones don’t (or no where close to what Tech does). Yes, their are some exceptions, but by and large, Tech players are smarter.

By tech5148

September 27, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

Let’s look on the bright side of the 9% graduation statistic, Rednecks: That one basketball player who earned a UGA degree has SO much to be proud of. I mean, everyone in the country knows how valuable a degree is when elective courses include “tests” that ask the students how many halves there are in a basketball game, and such courses are taught by coaches who, in their own words, are “loaded with integrity.” Yeah, that UGA degree is highly esteemed all over the country.

By Glenn

September 27, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

Dwayne, I am a four year Letterman in football at Tech, and would like to know how you know which players are smarter?

I had friends on various teams across the country, and what I would say to you is that each player got out of the University with the education they worked for.

No program is easy, and if you think these kids are getting compensated for 1/10 of what they deserve, you need to look more closely at what they put in day in and day out year round.

By Ol' Tornado

September 27, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

GREG, You truly are an idiot. You aren’t even making any sense. Did you play hoops for ol’ Harrick?Are you sure your mommy wants you to use her PC for chat?

By Dan

September 27, 2006 06:37 PM | Link to this

These statistics are even more telling because Georgia Tech is a much harder school to graduate from than UGA. Nine percent? That is pathetic.

By Screw UGA

September 27, 2006 06:52 PM | Link to this

Just remember the Ga school of the deaf is in Rock Springs the Ga school of the Dumb is in Athens.

By Rick

September 27, 2006 06:52 PM | Link to this

What does it matter? Let me ask…How many non-athletic kids could benefit from the scholarships these athletes waste? University is for learning.

If they are only there to bide their time until they are drafted into the NBA, NFL, etc. why not hire them to play for the school and give the scholarships to those who actually make use of them. It’s not like they don’t receive special treatment as it is.

By the way. How many halves are their in a basketball game? Now that’s learning.

By Red92s

September 27, 2006 06:53 PM | Link to this

I-DOG: The “test” scandal wasn’t fresh enough in my mind for me to remember exactly when it happened, thanks for the correction.

Regarding your comments:

“Tech, UGA, Southern all require some PE’s and you can take golf or racketball or whatever.[…] You show up and give an effort you get a Passing grade. This is true at Tech and UGA. It does not raise or lower your GPA.”

GT DOES in fact require each student to complete 2 credit hours of “Health”, as mandated by the board of regents. However, it is in the form of a lecture class with no athletic component as may be offered at other schools. It actually isn’t a cake-walk, and has an average GPA of about a 3.0. If you care:

http://www.sga.gatech.edu/critique/Course.php?Command=Search&txtCourseID=HPS1040

By Dwayne

September 27, 2006 06:56 PM | Link to this

Glenn, I did state that the kids do so much for their school and don’t get it back in return. I think most schools don’t look at them as students and they should. I never said a program is easy, just simply stated that playing at UGA would be easier than playing at Tech.

By anti GREG

September 27, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this

so who is keeping score…on grad rates…evidently just a few that will rub it in the face of the lower….none of my business if they grad …I’m just glad I did….a long time ago.

And, GREG LOVES COX!

By srschirm

September 27, 2006 07:22 PM | Link to this

Do graduation rates matter? No, not if you’re from the University of Georgia.

By Danny

September 27, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this

Please factor out the players that went to successful NFL and NBA careers. These people are making more than you and I dream of, so a degree is not as important. As far as the basketball program, I believe this survey is until 1999. Tubby years. how are the Kentucky players percentages? Comparing to Tech is unfair. Most of their players have no future at the next level. Bottom line? Graduation percentages in sports has no value. Schools have sports to make money. Period. Good programs reward their players by exposture so they can go to the next level. If a good player goes to Ga. and lands in the NFL (many do) he is providing for his family and UGA has done their job of taking an individual and preparing him for the real world, degree or no degree.

By War Eagle

September 27, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

BuLLdawg, auburnsux in all due respect please don`t ever mention anything negative about Auburn athletic standards…9% is off the charts and I know how embarrassing it was to Dawg Nation as it was for Auburn when a professor tried to take his personal dissatisfaction in Sociology Dept. by the way of the New York Times involving Auburn athletes.

By srschirm

September 27, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this

I-Dog:

How do you know what type of student Kenny Anderson was? Do you have test scores/grades? If not, then you don’t have a case because you’re talking about something you have no idea about.

By Savannah Dawg

September 27, 2006 07:36 PM | Link to this

Thanks God for Bob Hoggins.

By VandyBeta

September 27, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

Actually Grad rates do not matter, and in fact are most of the time a direct correlation btw the academic demands of one school to another. You have to look at who’s at the top of those list. Auburn, Miss St, Oklahoma St, WVU… All very poor academic schools. Grad rates are trully an overratted and pointless study.

By TheTruth

September 27, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

As someone who studies this, I truly find it interesting. The two male sports that have the worst graduation rates throughout the country are Baseball, and Basketball. These are also the two sports that have the most athletes leave early for the pro’s. Also these are two sports that rarely use redshirts. Which means unlike football most of these guys have to try to graduate in 4 years. Which for the average student today with programs having more requirements than ever it takes 5 years to graduate. Scholarships are on a year to year basis unlike what most of you think, so after their 4 years of playing the schools won’t pay anymore. Basketball players generally come from low income families, So most players cant afford to go back to school to finish if they dont go pro. Take that into account then realize most of UGA’s bball players were from out of state and cant afford out of state tuition. It is not as easy as you may think to be a College Student Athlete, I was one myself in a non inocome making sport. Say what you want but you choose the school to play the sport, and at that age grades are merely secondary to athletics. By the time your 4 years are up, some are tired of being at school and putting 60 hour weeks in. The financially stable kids will always graduate, but some merely cant afford it. It is harder being a student athlete than a normal student no matter what any of you think. Those were some tough times for the UGA basketball team. Some players went pro (Jarvis Hayes, Jumaine Jones, DA Layne,) some went pro after eligibility (Wilkins,Wright) some were kicked out of school (Tony Cole). However those numbers don’t matter to the NCAA the numbers that will affect next school year’s scholarship deductions if any will be the numbers from 05,06. So, while all of this is interesting none of it truly matters.

By Fan of Chan

September 27, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

Its funny to see Tech fans all excited about his report. They are probably thinking, wow we actually beat UGA in something. Of course the likes of Kenny Anderson, Chris Bosh, Stephon Marbury, and Dion Glover all played on their basketball team so it goes both ways. If you really think most college players are there to get their education, you are incorrect. Most play sports in college trying to get to the pros and make millions. Its a sad fact about college athletics today that it has become such a big business, but it is the truth. And there are kids at every school that wouldn’t be there if they weren’t athletes. That is a fact.

By VandyBeta

September 27, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this

One more thing, your kidding yourself if you really beleive that either of these schools really make athletes meet the demands of thier academic standards. Someone who grew up in GA I know they are both pretty high. You can’t say the same of athletes at either school. So shut yo mouth, all of ya! Go Vandy!

By robdawg06

September 27, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

Hey, I came here to tell all you busy little bees to stay over here and out of the UGA blogs. I had to squash 4 yeller jackets over the last 4 days. A yeller jacket a day keeps a good football player away. After all thos 4,5,and 6 loss seasons it seems like ya’ll would be ashamed to come over to the Dawgs blogs and talk smack ? I would never talk smack about UGA basketball on the Tech blogs. But we Dawg fans accept our sorry basketball teams. Why can’t you accept your sorry football teams ?

By jay jarrell

September 27, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this

Do you like a little money or do you like a lot of money?I,m afraid it,s the bottom line in Athletics today.You win ,a lot of money,you lose,a little money.Integrity is in some schools,some there is not,we all have different perceptions whats right and whats wrong.The student is only there for a short time,but the staff is perminent,the student is a reflection of the ones in charge.Alumni is the worst for greed to win for personal grudges towards others,put all schools on the same page and I beleive your grad rates would improve dramaticly.

By War Eagle

September 27, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

VandyBeta, who are you to judge whose poor acadeically? Auburn is one of the top Engineer, Vet and Educational schools in the SEC if not the country. Check your stats before mouthing off about something you seem to know nil.Miss State is noted by most peers as outstanding Ag school.I bet you took KNOW IT ALL 101 at Vandy.

By ForensicBuzz

September 27, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

Bottom line is it doesn’t matter how long it takes to graduate. The question is “Does one graduate?” It took me 6 1/2 years to graduate, and I didn’t have to play a varsity sport. I think the pressure to maintain “standard” progress towards graduation is bogus. Each University (or Institution) varies in average graduation rate. Acually the Colleges within the Universities, and Schools within the Colleges have different graduation rates. I just think this is a bunch of bunk. Who cares?

By Greg

September 27, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

WHEN YOU GET A CHANCE CHECK OUT RIVALS.COM AND SEE WHO’S 2ND AND WHO’S 14TH IN RECRUITING!!!!LOL!!!!!YOU LOSE AGIAN LOG LAYERS OF THE ACC!!!!LOL!!!!

By Fan

September 27, 2006 09:10 PM | Link to this

GO DAWGS!!!! WOOF!WOOF!WOOF!

By Vandybeta

September 27, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

If I was going to be an engineer Ild go to Tech, an educator UGA, and a Vet UF again….. AU doesn’t hold a candle to any of those three. Go spit some tobacca Alabama red neck

By John

September 27, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this

Coach Adams has shown by his actions that sports trumps academics at Georgia’s flagship university. The latest in UGA’s deals with the devil to make the athletes and taxpayers of GA pay. Why are these numbers a big suprise to ANYONE? If you believe that athletes “in general” take hard classes at any school…YOU’RE A DREAMER. In general, players have more oppotunities to excel in school than the general student population, regardless of their major. Yes, the graduation rates are relative, so the extreme numbers should send up warnings all the more! I would love to see the correlation between academics and athletics when looking at winning seasons v. athletes academic acheivements at any school. How many times have we seen it. A school gets successful on the field/court then 2 years down the road …oops! some sort of scandal is dug up from that period. Coach Adams is the man responsible for this specific humiliation. This was HIS man, after all. Right Vince? My tax dollars should NOT support this immoral stinch in the university system. Throw him out! Stand up and take responsibility Coach. You were so eager to do someone else’s job before, where’s you’re eagerness to take the responsibilty for your decisions now?!?

By km

September 27, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

NINE PERCENT???? you’ve got to be kidding! (For you UGA grads, that’s less than 1 in 10!)

Wow. I guess in Athens that student-athlete has been changed to just “athlete”. Make all the comparisons, rationalizations, and excuses you want - UGA is no place for a basketball player to get an education, and if I check the draft records - it’s no place to get yourself to the NBA. So tell me, o faithful red & black bleeders, why do you even have a men’s basketball program?

you obviously suck at the education part and suck at the sport itself. Put the gym to better use and open it up for REAL students to stay in shape.

UGA - what parent in their right mind would pay for their child to attend?

By Regularjoe

September 27, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this

I hope this sorry record is getting better.

In fairness though, colleges are rigged to make all students go at least 5 years. A student can take 4 classes a semester, spring and fall, and not have enough credits to graduate in 4 years.

It is tough for some of the athletes with these universities putting them on a pro sports type training programs, graduate in 4, 5 or 6 years. How many classes do they miss while generating big revenue for the school?

By TheTruth

September 27, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

You are an idiot, and it is obvious you didn’t play a sport in College. I played in the big ten (non revenue) but every student is responsible for the same requirements. Athlete or Not, an athlete’s sport is year round, it is a full time job, on top of that you have school. Travel, practice, workouts, games, school. It’s more than any other college student has to go thru. Every athlete has to take the same classes as normal students and if you think they don’t then you are an idiot and didn’t play. You people are like the media, wannabes

By AJ

September 27, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

lets see’s, I knows I knows, adjust skull cap, cocks hat to side, grabs crotch, u knows whats im saysins,,what u means eboncis dont work..man look bro…I gots what it takes, I slams dunk ur punky butt,u knows what im sating..most defintely, u knows, i’s a star, now gimme the money fool…What u means i havest to go class? now mf get out of the way of my esplande..u knows what im sayins u knows, or I goings to bust a cap in ur a*…Maruice Clarett and Odel Thurmans can be cells mates..u knows hot damn bro..Instead of being in school, when they once again remake the longest yard we can plays the convicts for real bro..u knows

By Greg

September 27, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this

LOL!!!!LOL!!!!LOL!!!!LOL!!!!LOL!!!

By km

September 27, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

TRUTH?

You conveniently left off the fact that most athletes have personal tutors at their disposal, are the first to register, and get many, many breaks on missing classes, “independent study” courses, and special dorms, cafeterias, and diets.

Athletes are just that at most big ten and sec schools. disposable toys that are used to generate alumni donations

By km

September 27, 2006 11:32 PM | Link to this

TRUTH?

You conveniently left off the fact that most athletes have personal tutors at their disposal, are the first to register, and get many, many breaks on missing classes, “independent study” courses, and special dorms, cafeterias, and diets.

Athletes are just that at most big ten and sec schools. disposable toys that are used to generate alumni donations

By Ty

September 27, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

It may have already been said (I haven’t read all the posts)…but, remember the “flaws” in how this statistic is determined…. transfers and student-athletes who don’t finish in 5 years count against you.

That said, “does it matter?”….YES, if you claim academics is a cornerstone of your program (as much as I hate the Dookies, I do admire the fact that they won’t retire a jersey of a player who hasn’t graduated).

Forget the ‘razzing’ of the dawgs on this one, guys…… In the end, the focus should be on getting all the athletes to graduate…!! (it’s a sad reality on how many ‘superstars’ end up being bankrupt 10 years after going pro…..)

By Freedawg

September 28, 2006 01:20 AM | Link to this

no

By ACC Basketblog

September 28, 2006 05:58 AM | Link to this

We’re blogging about you at the ACC Basketblog. Get over there!!

By War Eagle

September 28, 2006 06:24 AM | Link to this

VandyBeta, just showed your class, never heard the word “redneck” from a Vandy student or graduates, you just pick a school and shout your unkowns…Check NASA if you can read…

By Gators

September 28, 2006 07:11 AM | Link to this

The gators make the Bulldogs look foolish AGAIN on and off the field.

By Bill

September 28, 2006 07:28 AM | Link to this

I notice BuLLdawg has nothing to say on this matter.Curious indeed!

By GREG

September 28, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this

By Glenn

September 28, 2006 08:08 AM | Link to this

I just looked at the results for all ACC and SEC Universities and all I can say is Tech and UGA both should be ashamed…Those insinuating Tech is so much better need to look at all the numbers from around the area.

I don’t care about classes or other distractions. Coaches have a responsibility to get players who can compete in the classroom as well as the playing arena and then making sure they have all the tools they need to succeed in both areas.

When these kids fail, the program fails, regardless of how they compete on game-day.

By Lane4411

September 28, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

Note the graduation rates are from 1996 to 1999, which are not representative of either Georgia or Tech presently. Both schools have embarassements in their past to be sure.

Georgia: Cedric Henderson, 1985. From Marietta graduated from high school in the Bahamas, left after his freshman year, believe he was all SEC. Should never have been admitted, NBA try outs-never made the cuts played in Europe.

Georgia Tech: Sam Drummer, 1979/1980. All American, left early, short NBA career. Later determined to be working as a janitor in Indianapolis, with and 8th grade reading level.

There, have been shortcuts taken at every school. Also, graduation rates are impacted negatively by transfers or people who simply have no interest in school. Graduation rates should not be impacted under these conditions.

By Iceman

September 28, 2006 08:25 AM | Link to this

Is anyone really surprised that UGA is pulling up the rear on graduation rates? UGA is a great school with tremendous programs, but there is not enough push for academics and finishing the drill in terms of graduating.

This is what the current school president (Adams) is pushing for, and why he should not be taking heat for his new policies.

I know you guys laugh at schools like Duke and Vandy, but student athletes attend these schools, because they want an education, not a professiional athletic career.

Bulldog nation wants the best of both worlds, national titles along with tremendous respect for academics. Got news for you: as long as the majority of support for football and other sports is supported by a majority of fans who cannot even get into UGA, it will be business as usual in terms of graduation rates.

By Terry

September 28, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this

For God’s Sake! This happen SEVEN years ago!

By Diddy Bubba Joe T.

September 28, 2006 09:15 AM | Link to this

Are we here to win NCAA Championships or get student athletes their diplomas? What’s wrong with a 9% graduation rate?

Football and B-ball are big money venues. Quit acting like its a complete surprise. Stegman Coliseum is 1/2 empty in the best of times; there are more people that attend the Gymnastics meets than B-Ball games. Can you imagine if Richt lost the Colorado game last weekend? There would have been a www.firemarkricht.com website started (Hey Coach, Airtran has Fall airfare specials to Miami in case you haven’t heard).

The A.D., coaches, alumni, and boosters should all look in the mirror. But Corporate America is just the same (aka the Enron Club). It’s all about money—throw the integrity out the window.

By Captain K. Angaroo

September 28, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this

UGA’s Football graduation rate would have been higher but Odell was away visiting “Uncle Jack Daniel” and Cousin “Jim Beam” so he was denied his B.S. in Molecular Biomedicine.

Go Gators!

By GREG

September 28, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this

WHO CARES!!!!!!!!!!!

By oldschoolfootball

September 28, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

Mike Knobler, you answered your own question. If UGA was doing a successful job, would you have even posed the question? We know from a past attempt under Mr. Dooley when an faculty member brought an issue in regards to “education” of the UGA athlete to light she was treated worst than bin Laden. A scholarship should be for scholars. I’m with you Lanette, 100%.

By CAROLINA DOG

September 28, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this

WHY, WHY DO WE EXPECT OUR COLLEGES TO GRADUATE STUDENTS THAT ARE THERE SIMPLY BECAUSE THEY CAN RUN FAST OR DUNK A BASKETBALL. IN FACT, THIER GRADUATION RATES SHOULD BE WELL BELOW THE STUDENT AVERAGE. IF NOT THEN IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THE SCHOOL IS GIVING THEM SPECIAL TREATMENT. SPECIAL TREATMENT THAT IS BEING WITHHELD FROM THE STUDENT BODY IN GENERAL.

By Gatorsurfer

September 28, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

The funny thing about the low graduation rates in the SEC (exceptions are UF and Vandy of course) is that they reflect the education systems in the south. GA, AL, MS, LA, SC, TN always have the lowest test scores in the country. It doesn’t surprise me that Florida and Vandy have exponentially higher graduation rates than the rest of the Southern schools. Florida is not a “southern” state (only geographically) therefore has smarter students; and Vandy is an Ivy League quality education. And yes, UF and Vandy have plenty of pro athletes, but they’re a notch higher because they actually have an education. But hey, the Gators need someone to serve them fries on road trips so it might as well be a Dawg. Go Gators!

By veryinvolvedparent

September 28, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

It’s the same as choosing the right high school for your child; if you are searching for a high school for your child, I’m sure you wouldn’t choose a school with a graduation rate of 9% especially if you had the opportunity to attend a school with a better graduation rate; it’s sad that a high school student would choose a school because of football ratings; the priorities are in the wrong place and many parents let their kids make that type of decision.

By Regularjoe

September 28, 2006 10:11 AM | Link to this

Truth,

It is obvious you left college just as you entered it, a dumbass.

By GREG

September 28, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

TALK FOOTBALL!!!!OH YEAh,THIS’S A TECH BLOG!!!!!LOL!!!!!!14TH IN RECRUITING!!!!!ALL TIME BEST!!!!LOL!!!!!!

By brent

September 28, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this

This [better academics] is what the current school president (Adams) is pushing for, and why he should not be taking heat for his new policies.

Are you kidding me? Adams loves to preen & posture when it comes to academic standards within the athletic department, but his actions tell a completely different story. It was Adams, after all, who insisted on hiring Jim Harrick over the objections of… well, pretty much everyone except Jim Harrick. It was also Adams who ignored the recommendation of the admissions department and admitted Tony Cole over the objections of… well, pretty much everyone except Jim Harrick.

Adams is in a class all by his lonesome when it comes to running his mouth about academic standards (in particular how much he personally has improved them), but it’s all just a bunch of hot air.

By SAVtechie

September 28, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

A 55% graduation rate by Tech football players is pretty good when compared to 33% of all enrollees back in the good ole 50’s. Getting past the “shock” stats, a really telling stat would be that of athletes vs. all the enrollees of an institution.

Also, although more minimal than publicized, you’ve got to discount athletes who drop out for possibly once in a life-time lucrative pro contracts that might otherwise be lost with senior-year injuries or performance lapses.

Look at the financial compensations of coaches vs. professors!

All this illustrates the hypocrisy of Deep South college athletics and their competitive quest for big TV revenues. Vandy may end up in a league with Sewanee and W & L, but at least they’re trying to bring athletics back as an extra-curricular event where it all began, and their athletes will be more representative of the student body they play for.

By JS

September 28, 2006 10:43 AM | Link to this

Absolutely matters, should include the student body rates as well. Some of these schools only care about winning; seems the ‘plantation mentality’ still exists in the Deep South.

By Play that funky music whiteboy

September 28, 2006 10:44 AM | Link to this

GREG - representing the true UGA fan. But hey, there is a stat you can be proud of GREG, UGA has more people in the pokey this year than any other team (Odell Thurman). Finally they were able to wrestle that title back from Tech (anyone remember the Dback last year who couldn’t play because he was under indictment for drug trafficking?) It all just gets better for Notre Dame - posting a 95% graduation rate from 1995-1999 and when the next one comes out it’ll be even closer to 100%. The universities in the SEC and ACC are a joke when it comes to graduating players.

By GREG

September 28, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this

NOTRE DAME WINLESS BOWL STREAK WILL NEVER END!!!!!LOL!!!!!!HA FUNKY,PURDUE WILL WIN SATURDAY!!!!!THAT SHOULD KEEP YOU AWAY FOR ANOTHER WEEK!!!!LOL!!!!!

By Glenn

September 28, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this

DT Jacoby Monroe just decommitted from Tech and reopened his recruiting…He may recommit but is now looking again.

By UGASucks06

September 28, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this

The graduation rate is a good indication of a well-rounded university. Obviously, UGA doesn’t recruit to graduate players. This also shows that Mark Richt isn’t the angelic figure that gets put on a pedestal. If Richt was a truly caring coach like everyone says, why does he not care about graduating his kids under his watch?

FYI, Spurrier is fining kids for missing class…permissable by the NCAA. That’s what you call caring. Compare UGA vs Scar graduation rates if you have questions.

By GREG

September 28, 2006 12:07 PM | Link to this

57-13!!!!!!!I’LL TAKE THAT!!!!!

By jc

September 28, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this

This news is very disturbing, considering minority males, are the make of these top universities. It’s all about money and sports at these colleges. May I encourage all black males to enroll in Historically Black Colleges and Univesrities where you can be nurtured and encouraged to complete your studies and become a contributing member to society. To many of these young men, are making money for these schools without reaping any benefits.

It is imperative that guardians and parents of these athelets encourage them to attend colleges where nurturing takes place.

I hate UGA anyway!

Yuck!

By GREG

September 28, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this

HA JC!!!!!!SO YOUR TELLING BLACK MALES TO GO TO SPECIAL SCHOOLS!!!!!GET A LIFE LOOSER!!!!

By GREG

September 28, 2006 12:25 PM | Link to this

THE WHITE MAN IS KEEPING US DOWN!!!!LOL!!!!!

By Macon Mama Proud, III

September 28, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

Coach Richt’s peptalk before the Florida game:

“Okay boys, now I want you to all HUNKER down and pull out those calculators and Math books. When we get close to the goal line (aka Midterms), we’re gonna focus…focus…focus….on fractions that is! ODELL, A FIFTH IS 1/5; NOT A BOTTLE OF JACK OR RED HOOCH for cryin out loud! Leave the Fifth to the tailgaters every Saturday! And when we score, I don’t mean on Saturday nite outside a bar with a drunk coed, I mean score a 90+ on your TEST!

Now let’s go sick em! Dibs on the first row…..!!!

By Billy Al Pharetta

September 28, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

Macon, have you ever thought of becoming a member of the Writing staff for a sitcom? That is awesome stuff! And I’m a UGA alum.

By JTP

September 28, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

I’m so glad that poor academics are the fault of one university (UGA). I’m sure that every major university is at fault.

If you think about it, it seems that when a football team starts winning that the players start getting into trouble and are arrested and suspended. I think that this is a case of letting gifted players into a university that they wouldn’t have a prayer of getting into otherwise (if it were based on their high school grades and testing). Can the average student get into a major university with the minimal standards set for college athletes? No chance.

You don’t hear as many Florida State football players getting into trouble lately do you? What has their record been over the past 4 or 5 years? Not as good as it was the previous 10 years (when they were always getting into trouble). I think what we’re looking at is this…great players (not all, but the majority) equals not so great college students. It’s the price you pay if you want some great teams on the field.

By A

September 28, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this

Does Greg have nothing better to do than be an a—.

By GT

September 28, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

The person you is really cheating is the player himself. Guy goes to Tech or Georgia and misses out on an education really doesn’t effect me. The person it effects is the player. I am seeing more and more players taking personal responsiblity of their education, imagine that. That is why more and more good players are showing up at Tech. In five year or a little more I think athletes are going to start looking at school the way the rest of the population does. If you can get into Harvard why go to a lesser school. At the end of the day all the football stuff is forgotten and the education or lack of it is still with you. Let the world go pimp somebody else.

By GT90

September 28, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this

Glenn - Rivals reports that Tech let Jacoby Monroe go. He was slipping academically and was not making it to class. Good player, but evidently was not very dependable. Not a big deal though as it opens another spot for the others we still have on the board. Morgan Burnette possibly.

By GREG

September 28, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this

LOL!!!!I HAVE LOTS OF IMPOSTERS NOW!!!THERE ALL WANTING TO BE LIKE ME!!!LOL!!!I HOPE THEY HAVE THERE LOG TOILETS READY!!!LOL!!!LOL!!!AND WE KNOW WE SUCK IN ACADEMICS!!!I DIDN’T GO TO UGA SO WHAT DO I CARE ABOUT WHO GRADUATES!!!LOL!!!I AM GOING TO MY FIRST GAME NEXT MONTH!!!LOL!!!WE JUST WANT THEM TO PLAY FOOTBALL AND THEN GO AWAY!!!!LOL!!!LOL!!!

By Dewayne

September 28, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

As bad as the Georgia basketball team is, they need to graduate cause they sure in hell don’t have a chance for the NBA. I guess they can’t pass since Jim Harrick Jr. is gone, but I promise if you actually go to class and actually try you can pass the classes you have, but for basketball just leave that to the girl’s team.

By Glenn

September 28, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the clarification, GT90…I thought that might be the case. There are still some good student athletes on the board considering Tech in their top 5…In any event, it is still an excellent incoming class.

By GREG

September 28, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

LOL!!!!!!

By GREG

September 28, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

I GOT THE LOG TOILET IDEA FROM LOG CABINS!!!!LOL!!!!!GREAT PLACE TO STORE YOUR LOGS!!!!LOL!!!!!!TAKE VIRGINIA TECH AND LAY THE POINTS!!!!!!LOL!!!!!!PLEASE TECH CLEAN UP YOUR LOGS AFTER THE GAME!!!!LOL!!!!

By dawg fan

September 28, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this

I played football at Georgia in the early 80’s. The majority of kids that play at Georgia consider themselves good enough for a pro career. It is hard to make someone that young appreciate a college degree. Georgia always offered the chance to complete your degree after your career is over an many took that option. I am sure that many others did not and now wish they had. I had friends who told me they were within 1 credit hour of graduation and never returned. The University does way more now than it did then but it will always fall back on the individual involved and what his future plans are in life.

By John D.

September 28, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

Graduation rates indicate which schools have student-athletes and which just have hired guns. I do see now how UGA can advertise smaller class sizes - the athletes are not required to attend.

Those players leaving for professional contracts are not included if they leave in good standing. This is true for all who leave school early regardless of the reason.

By GT

September 28, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

One of the things I have always thought is that a person is better off just being on a college campus and seeing what it is all about. A lot of kids don’t even know there is a world out there. You might not leave a graduate but from where you were before you came and what you were going to be if you didn’t go, you are better off.

By John D.

September 28, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this

There is more to the college experience than just an education. The social development is key, but if an individual refuses to leave his younger life and associates in the past then the experience may be wasted. I am not suggesting anyone forget their high school friends, just that they must grow with the college experience.

History tells us there are many successful people who did not finish college, or even attend for that matter, but the chances of success are improved greatly with a diploma. The interesting study would be of those who left without a degree and I would wager the athletes did not fare as well as the non-athletes.

By joe

September 28, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

I played football for Tech for 5 seasons, graduated in 4 years, and played my RS Senior season as a graduate student. I have to admit, during my football career, school was extremely easy and often times grades were given to me. 5 years after my playing days, I went back to GT to complete my Masters degree and everything was much harder and required an effort from me. I’m ashamed to say, I eventually dropped out. Football players have it made in the ACC!!

By Glenn

September 28, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

joe, you are a liar. I also attended Tech, was a four year Letterman in football, and I know what you are saying is not true. Go back under your rock.

By Glenn

September 28, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

one more thing, joe, I went to Law School and graduated…you are a loser

By I-DOG

September 28, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Glenn,

Sure, Tech grads can become Doctors, Lawyers, and even Astronauts. I did not disparage Tech’s academics overall. Just that the athletes such as Kenny Anderson aren’t really students. You didn’t address that by the way!

You said that UGA recruits some athletes that Tech can’t. I just want to know who they are? My example of Q Carter is meant to show that he was sort of a borderline UGA case and accepted a scholarship at Tech when it was offered, then switched to UGA. If Tech will take QQ, who won’t they take?

UGA did not admit two great high school players recently that accepted scholarships. They went to other SEC Schools (MS State and Arkansas) that we play, that must they have lower standards. We still beat them every year… Tech going 7-4 every year and going to a minor bowl is not because of academics. That is just an excuse.

By ND '77

September 28, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

I care about graduation rates. Many of these players will be injured or just not make the NFL. They need a degree.

PS Tech should have been rated in the top 25 along time ago. Good luck this weekend. You have a great team.

By I-DOG

September 28, 2006 07:03 PM | Link to this

GTGreg,

I didn’t mean to suggest that one can’t go to law school, MBA, med or other from Tech. Since two of you posted this to me, I must have inadvertantly done so. Many do just that… Some Tech fans disparage UGA Sure some Techs students go into careers other than engineering and there is nothing wrong with engineering either.

UGA is more diverse academically. There are just many more majors that a student might choose Tech students would typically have a very high math SAT score because the vast majority are studying engineering. I believe that has an impact on the average SAT score. That, and more students overall, make it more difficult to keep a very high average SAT. My point is that those 15 points are about a wash.

By I-DOG

September 28, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

srschirm:

C’mon.. really? I don’t want to kick him any more than I have, because like I said, I’m sure he is a nice guy.

No, I don’t have his test scores, but do you really think he was a student and passed calculus? (spelling? many years thankfully since I had to take it)

I think we both know what what went on there.

By I-DOG

September 28, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

Dewayne:

By and large Tech players are smarter? Has Tech EVER had a starting QB that was accepted at Harvard? Georgia’s CURRENT starting QB, Joe T 3 was. I know, he got hurt so you will probably say he isn’t a real starting QB, but he has already started 3 games at UGA including a Florida game.

Think back on all the QB’s for the past 25 years that have started. Any of them even close to being that smart?

There are Tech players that are smart. There are UGA players that are smart. Both Kesslers were starters in hoops, one All SEC. Medical school for both! The Stinchcombs, both All SEC and NFL. Med School acceptance for both. These are not just isolated anectodes.

Odell Thurman, well that is the opposite end of the spectrum and both schools have good and bad students.

By Mike Knobler

September 28, 2006 07:38 PM | Link to this

Wow, I’m impressed with a lot of the comments on here. Thanks for reading and for sharing.

As for the blogger who asked how the athletes’ graduation rates compare with the student body as a whole, that’s a difficult question to answer. In general, nationwide, athletes graduate at a slightly higher rate than non-athletes. Of course, they have scholarship support, too.

Unfortunately, the only graduation rate measurement by which one can compare athletes and non-athletes is the so-called federal rate, which considers a student who transfers out a non-graduate. Considering the large numbers of students who transfer (and the differences between the athlete and non-athlete populations), that’s a major flaw in the formula.

The numbers in my article were the NCAA’s graduation success rate, which removes from the calculation any athlete who transfers out if he does so before exhausting his eligibility and while in good academic standing.

By GTNUKE

September 28, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this

I-DOG,

I usually don’t get into these debates regarding academics, GPAs, and SAT scores, but something struck me as odd about one of your posts. Why do you think that GT and UGA incoming students only differ by 15 points on the SAT? Were you talking about athletes only? I looked up the latest data I could find (2005) and UGA’s average incoming SAT score was 1242. Tech’s was 1340. That’s 98 points, not 15. Although I agree that 1242 is respectable, Tech does consistently have the highest or 2nd highest SAT average among public Universities. For comparison, I believe schools like Tennessee and Alabama are in the low 1100’s.

By Lee

September 28, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

Garbage in — Garbage out.

When colleges have to send their recruits to a Junior College or to a Military Academy for a year just so they can get them in the door as a transfer, what do you expect? This is a long standing joke at many Football Universities.

Here’s an idea - require the prospective athlete to apply and get accepted into school just like every other applicant. But no, too many people making millions off college sports to allow that to happen.

This is why I respect teams such as Vanderbilt. At least they know the meaning of STUDENT-athlete.

By jc

September 28, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this

Naw Greg, your assbackward Dude! your probably one of the idiots to come from UGA anyway who knows, who cares.

The fact remains if those same black athelets didn’t attend your dumb a* schools you wouldn’t have any sports anyway so screw you and UGA. Ain’t nobody keeping me down but idoits like you……..stop blogging your making me sick. It’s obvious that you probably don’t know how to bounce a ball anyway IDIOT!

By jc

September 28, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

Oh and Greg, in case you don’t know many of these guys in pro sports do attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Check the record, oh I forgot you can’t read anyway A*****!

By TCS

September 28, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this

F’ing yes it matters. The University of Georgia is first and foremost an institution of learning and research. Secondarily, at best, it is an institution of sports, predominately football and men’s basketball, but even the numbers for women’s basketball are embarassing, I thing. The football numbers are dismall and the men’s basketball numbers a frightening. If these players are slaves to the program then get rid of the program. The system should be an opportunity for young men, in the case of basketball, which has for years been an urban sport most often played by those who live in poverty (when Jews filled the ghettos they were the best basketball players) it should be a route to a better life through education…so few can make a living playing the game. But 9% graduating while making mucho money for the school is just slavery, it is an abuse of humans whose talents serve the master while the master gives little back.
Evans says the right things and I have a lot of respect for him and Richt and the men’s and women’s basketball coaches but, if you don’t graduate players you are receiving benefit without giving benefit and that is slavery. Yes, SLAVERY. And I do say that because most of them are black. The University of Georgia served me well, but I paid them to serve me. If it can’t do better than that I am heart broken. Surely Mr. Evans will correct this wrong. But I, and I know it has to be a minority opinion would rather graduate 100% of our football team than win a national championship (as long as we beat Florida… I jest).
Please Mr. Evans, correct this wrong.

By Greg

September 28, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

I’M DUNK..LOL!!!!!

By BuLLdawg

September 29, 2006 02:59 AM | Link to this

.

Sure there is a scoreboard for how your school’s football team is doing.

Georgia Institute of Technology Academic Progress Rate APR is actually worse under Chandler Gailey than The University of Georgia APR under Coach Richt, in case anyone is interested in that which The NCAA does penalize teams for having a low academic standard for the college sports teams.

The latest report is the 2006 report at the end of the last Semester and Georgia Tech’s APR is actually officially 948, worse than UGA APR at 950.

UGA 950 APR : http://web1.ncaa.org/appdata/apr2005/2572005_apr.pdf

Tech 948 APR : http://web1.ncaa.org/appdata/apr2005/2552005_apr.pdf

60th to 70th percentile for Tech and 70th to 80th percentile for Georgia.

The latest NCAA report is as of February 2006, URL Link provided; and this NCAA Official Academic Progress Rate (APR) is the only NCAA sanctioning tool in which a school is punished for a team’s Academics.

Other than The Georgia Institute of Technology is On NCAA Probation for the next full entire complete two (2) years.

These cover the academics of the football teams for 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 Academic Years, not 1996 eleven (11) years ago.

Clearly, in fact, Georgia Tech is not doing better than UGA in Academics of its football players.

Is it ?

The University of Tennessee at ObKnoxiousville vols’ football team, however, is below the minimum acceptable academic progress of its team at 926. 929 is the lowest academic progress rate acceptable without sanctions by The NCAA, while the Graduation Rate Report was replaced by this APR more than two (2) years ago as the only method to penalize a team, other than putting the college ON PROBATION which is also not based upon the Graduation Rate of in-coming freshmen football players eleven (11) years ago.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is 935 APR.

Clemson University is 940.

Of course, none of these teams have beaten Georgia in football either, on the field or in the classroom.

This despite the fact that Tech admitted to the NCAA that it had played 17 student-athletes who were not eligible to play in fact by academic standards, who were Georgia Tech’s top 17 student-athletes for 6 solid years.

Including your top running backs, your top tacklers, your top secondary players, and your top receivers – all of whom won all conference awards.

Your athletic director stepped down after The NCAA Probation was doled out to Tech for these violations that Tech 100 percent admitted.

You argued that Tech should not lose 6 scholarships a year but 5 and that The NCAA should not prevent Tech from having no more than 79 Scholarships instead of the 85 Georgia and every other school in Good NCAA Standing. You lost that appeal.

Your memory cannot be this poor.

In addition to all of this embarrassment currently for Georgia Tech academically for your football team On Probation for 2 Full Years currently, Tech also played Reuben Houston against us in our last football game when 2 weeks prior in an interview with the AJ-C, he admitted to driving around Tech’s campus in a van with 93 lbs. of drugs to specifically take them himself to his friend to sell the 93 lbs. of drugs, with his infant on his lap, before he leaped from the van infant in hand, and took off running when he noticed the FBI, GBI, State Patrol, Fulton County Police and Georgia Institute of Technology Campus Police following them.

You are, on the whole, the most two-faced lying, cheating, losers this world has ever been subjected to with your holier than thou attitude and purposeful misrepresentation of that which you Georgia Tech are far worse on your own point than UGA.

Did you get that ?

.

By GREG

September 29, 2006 06:27 AM | Link to this

LOG TOILETS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND!!!!!

By GREG

September 29, 2006 06:29 AM | Link to this

BULLDAWG SAID IT ALL TECHIES!!!!

By GREG

September 29, 2006 09:03 AM | Link to this

DON’T FORGET YOUR LOG TOILETS TOMORROW!!!I STILL DON’T CARE ABOUT GRADUATION TECHIES!!!LOL!!!THEY ARE JUST FOOTBALL PLAYERS AND I DON’T HAVE A DEGREE FROM UGA SO WHAT DO I CARE!!!LOL!!!WE DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT ACADEMICS!!!LOL!!!!DON’T FORGET YOUR LOG TOILETS!!!LOL!!!LOG TOILETS!!!LOL!!!TECH IS A JOKE!!!LOL!!LOL!!!I HAVE NEVER BEEN TO A UGA GAME!!!LOL!!!I AM YOUR TYPICAL SIDEWALK FAN!!!I MAKE THE UGA ALUMNI PROUD!!!LOL!!!LOL!!

By South Ga Dawg

September 29, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

BuLLdog, what kind of life you must live to sit around spinning propaganda on an ajc blog. The article is damning enough. We’ve got to start improving our graduation rates.

And greg, You’re the very reason we don’t let sidewalk fans into our tailgate group. Please stop embarassing my school acting like an idiot. You hurt the image of all of us.

signed, 1983 UGA grad

By pitbull

September 29, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

Graduateion rates matter only if you are the AJC and you are trying to stir up a controversy to sell newspapers.

By I-DOG

September 29, 2006 12:11 PM | Link to this

Captain Kangaroo:

I just wanted to congraulate Channing Crowder on being accpted to Mensa Internation. That is quite an accomplishment! Hypocrite!

By Clay

September 29, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

How many of you bozos who holler that no account is taken for those student athletes who leave early for the pros or transfer in good standing to other schools and then graduate even read the report or the USA Today article that explained that those issues are a part of the formula for arriving at these results? Get your facts straight and quit saying the study is flawed because it does not compare apples to apples. The study does not penalize those schools when their players leave early for the pros or complete their degree at another college or university.

By I-DOG

September 29, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

Suck O6:

Which football program is on two years of probation currently? Which one allowed a Felon drug trafficker with 100 lbs of Pot to play? Which one hasn’t been to a decent bowl in many many years?

If you need another hint, the team lost 51-7 to two different teams recently.

By I-DOG

September 29, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this

Play that funky music white boy:

Notre Dame just gives the degrees to the football players. 95% is great, if it really means something. Notre Dame football is the height of hypocricy

By Smart Gator

September 29, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

…All I have to say is….Why are all of UGA’s graduation rates less than Florida State? Its pretty bad to have a lower graduation rate than FSU…..What does this say about UGA athletics?

By I-DOG

September 29, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

GTNUKE:

I was talking about all students and my stats were from 2-3 years ago then. Both schools have gone up a lot since I last looked. 1340 is impressive and 1242 is higher than I thought UGA’s was. Both are good schools and have excellent students.

But that emphasizes my point. Are you really trying to tell me that John Salley, Kenny Anderson, Dennis Scott, and Travis Best competed in the class room with someone with a 1300 SAT score? That just doesn’t pass the old common sense test.

Tech fans are claiming mediocrity in football because they can’t recruit the same players as UGA and that is why UGA succeeds. I don’t buy it.