Tech

By Ramblin Wrecker

December 7, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Run it. Pass it. Roll it down the field for all I care. I’m just excited to have a real “COACH”

By Yellowblood

December 7, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Absolutely! The tickle piles will be great!

By eaglejacket

December 7, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

He wins. Bottom line. He will play to the strengths of his QB, even in an option-based offense. He showed this at Hawaii, and yes, even at Southern. I know. I was there. This will be the best coaching move of any school this offseason.

By Todd Rampley

December 7, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

I don’t think most Tech fans want to see us flinging the ball around 40+ times a game. What they DO want to see is a SUCCESSFUL passing game. You know, where the QB drops back and throws the ball within the general vicinity of a receiver who can then catch the ball with something approaching regularity.

By fred

December 7, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Journalists—-oh, boy!!!

What was his name at the USNA?—-Roger Staubach….didn’t he also throw a few passes in Big D?

Great hire—-I know it, but I can really tell by the snide sarcasm (disguised as “macho talk”) from the sports desk and Jawja bloggers.

THANKS DRAD!

Give ‘em hell Jackets!

By what

December 7, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

74 points against North Texas? Man, the ACC better watch out! How did he do this year against such football powerhouses like Rutgers, Ball State, Wake Forest and Division I-AA Delaware?

Also, does he qualify as the young, energetic, media friendly coach that Rad wanted to get? Looks like we didn’t get our first (or second) choice.

I am sure the recruits are dying to play in his system - total excitement to run the ball 40 times a game in a cloud of dust. Also, Tenuta is gone, so he better have a plan for the defense.

By whoops

December 7, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

He left North Texas score 62 on him too. Enough said.

By MannyT

December 7, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Good for GT.

Hopefully, the fans will get behind Johnson and support the team.

However, if I am the Duke AD, I am texting Tenuta right now.

By whoops

December 7, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

He let North Texas score 62 on him too. Enough said.

By Donna and Bruce Cunningham

December 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Yellowblood

Please Sam, please come to your senses and stop this non-sense about Ga Tech. Your baseball career at Emory was just fine; just because you didn’t get accepted by Ga Tech is no reason to carry on like this on these blogs.

Also, please clean up your room! And, please, get a job. We have pleaded with you since your birthday on November 11th to at least try to find something.

We don’t know of any other way to reach you. We love you and miss you Sammy. Now leave these people alone about your tickle piles. We have removed all of the pictures and postings on your wall board in your room too. Those are disgusting son.

Love, Mom and Dad

By UGASucks

December 7, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Hey Yellowblood,

Looks like Mommy is calling you for a tickle pile; better get off the PC!

ROTFLMAO!!!!!

By Rowdy

December 7, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

I’m tired of the tickle pile jokes.

To AJC, these blogs are trash as long as you allow people like Yellowblood.

By David

December 7, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Fred, what does Roger Staubach have to do with Paul Johnson?

How is Roger’s passing with the Cowboys even close to being relevant to Johnson’s offense?

By CW

December 7, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Before Tech plays their first game next season this hire will have paid dividends. Season ticket sales will increase and dollars going into the GTAA will increase. Tech fans are more than ready to provide more support now that a new coach has been hired.

As far as wins and losses, none of us really know what to expect next year, but I’m damn sure that Tech will win more games next year with Paul Johnson at the helm than they would have if Chan Gailey had remained.

By Wozzo the Wonder Dog

December 7, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

How much is Johnson getting paid? What is the average Tech ticket price? How many incremental tickets must Tech sell to cover the difference between his salary and $1 million? (Don’t factor in Gailey’s buyout, even though it is debatable whether or not that amount is a sunk cost.)

By Heck yes

December 7, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Heck yes he will sell. Johnson offenses score points. Lots and lots of points. Plus, he averaged 12.3 wins at Georgia Southern. Throw out his first year at Navy and he’s averaged 8.6 wins there. At Navy forchrissakes. Yes, that will sell. And Paul is good with fans, alums and the media. He’s got a quick wit.

By USAFAJacket

December 7, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson has been a PITA for Army and Air Force; I’m sure the service acadamies are glad to see him move on! He will be a great addition to GT as well.

Welcome to Tech Mr. Johnson!

Go Jackets! Go Air Force!

By Munsons Call

December 7, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Johnson’s triple option offense would have been perfect for Reggie. He wouldn’t have to read any 4th option! Darn! Just a few years too late.

By Chris

December 7, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

For the umpteen gazillionth time, his offense at Navy is NOT “3 yards and a cloud of dust”. It is NOT an archaic wishbone triple option.

It is much closer to a spread option like Florida or Missouri or Illinois run. Navy just has more pitches and handoffs because they have to work with the talent they can get, and that dictates a run-first offense. Paul Johnson has repeatedly stated that if he had the athletes to pass more, he would do it.

You would think that if you were going to criticize his style or his offense, you would at least have watched one Navy game in the last 5 years. The hallmark of a good offensive mind is to be able to adapt your scheme to different situations. When he was the OC at Hawaii in the mid-90s, he ran a much more pass-oriented, run-and-shoot offense (not as much so as Hawaii is now, but more pass than run).

He’s a great coach and a great motivator and we will do great things under his leadership. He simply wins where ever he goes.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Like PJ has said in a few press conferences this year…it doesn’t matter how many points the other team scores, as long as our team scores one more.

A team doesn’t average 35 points a game running 3 yards and a cloud of dust. Against Rutgers, Navy lost but scored 24 points, same against Wake. Those were the two lowest scoring games of the year. The Navy defense had two returning starters, and lost both of them in the opening quarter of the opening game. A true freshman leads the team in tackles going into the bowl game.

The Navy offense is fun to watch, and fun for the players. They have seven players with over 400 yards rushing this year, and the lowest average per carry is 4.8 yards (by the quarterback).

By UGASucks

December 7, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Wozzo the Blunder Dog,

Tech has plenty of money. Most Tech fans are actually alumni; donations to the AT fund have dropped because of disenchantment with the football program. Those funds will return with a new coach (any new coach really) and so will the ticket sales.

We’re celebrating, now go away with your tail between your legs like a good little dawgie.

By DecaturDog

December 7, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Coming from Navy, I am sure he will fit right in on a campus with nor REAL women.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

To USAFAJacket…maybe USAFA can win one now against the Mids…

By usna77

December 7, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Johnson wins; will he sell?

Seems to me there’s an old adage in sports promotions..something along the lines that the best promotion is a winning team.

By The reason

December 7, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

From The Capitol newspaper:

Ultimately, what led to your decision? What was your reasoning?

JOHNSON: I think if you’re going to be in this profession and doing anything… a goal of mine is to try and win a national championship. I’ve had a zillion opportunities to leave here, but I didn’t want to go somewhere where I didn’t think you had a chance to play for championships. I think at this program (Georgia Tech) you do.

By CW

December 7, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Wozzo, while your small mind is wrapping around your ridiculous question about ticket sales, try to figure out how much money was lost last year in the ACCCG when our last coach couldn’t figure out how to score more than six points when he had THE FRIGGING BEST PLAYER IN COLLEGE AS A WR.

By USAFAJacket

December 7, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

to usna77, You’re right! We might have a chance of winning against you guys now! Of course, Air Force has had our successes against Navy in the past also, and not so long ago.

At least it will be more interesting. I started at USAFA and finished at Tech. Good luck to you and the middies at Canoe U.

By JB

December 7, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

We ALL know that 8 in a row is ONLY a matter of time.

HBTD!!!

By Joshua Barlowe

December 7, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Tickle Pile = UGAg at Jacksonville.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Over on a Navy message board, we were discussing how PJ’s offense might work in “big time college football.”

Someone made the comment…imagine PJ’s offense, with Kaipo at QB, Kyle Eckel at FB, Reggie Campbell and Zerbin Singleton in the slots, and Phil McConkey lined up as a wide receiver.

And you’re the safety.

By HokieFan

December 7, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

As a VT Fan, I hate to see Chan go, but you Tech Fans got a good one in PJ. I used to live in GA and remember how dominant his team was at GA Southern - Vince Dooley and Ray Goof were scared to schedule them. Also, for those who are saying this is a run based offense are going to be surprised. Look at what he did at Hawaii - It all depends on the talent you have and he will do well with all the talent that GT has now and has coming in.

By Taylor Bennett

December 7, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Oh well! I guess I can tranfer to West Georgia.

By billy g

December 7, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

From what I have heard, Johnson schemes according to his talent. As it stands now, GT does not have talented WR’s, so I expect to see a lot of the run game.

As long as he wins, he will sell.

Welcome to the Flats Mr Johnson

By fred

December 7, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson is impressive.Maybe “solid” is the right word.I welcome him to an opportunity position in which I believe he will bring a lot—-and “a lot” is what we need.

GT grad, former Marine————————Go Jackets/Semper Fi

By usna77

December 7, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Just looking at the GT roster online, it looks like there is some opportunity there to run a Paul Johnson offense very well, especially with Josh Nesbitt at QB. He looks like the Tebow type to be able to run and pass, and has enough size to take the pounding that Kaipo takes at Navy.

The missing piece in the offense is the 230# fullback to run inside. The current running backs look like excellent slotbacks, if they have the speed. And GT seems to have wide receivers that are missing from Navy’s current offense.

After that, it’s a matter of scheme. With Nesbitt able to throw to some decent receivers, I see a Johnson offense at GT throwing 20 times a game, instead of 8 or 10 times a game at Navy.

The beauty of Johnson’s offense, with the added ability to throw the ball, is that DBs and linebackers have to be committed first and foremost to the option, and that opens up the pass. If the corner has to follow the receiver, that opens up the pitch (either as part of a triple-option play or as a quick sweep, a staple of Johnson’s playbook).

The other requirement in Johnson’s offense is that receivers and slotbacks have to block.

By DawgZone

December 7, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Congrats to you bugs. PJ is a good pick and a good fit for you. Maybe you can offer some better competiton in our rivelry. Go Dawgs! Sic em!!

By Roswell Ed

December 7, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

You want to get people to the Tech game?

Here is one of Roswell Ed’s oldies but goodies.

Top 10 Marketing ideas to get people to the Tech game:

1. Retro dial-up modem nite

2. Pocket protector nite

3. Dim Sum nite

4. Dragon Con nite

5. MAC accessory nite giveaway bananza!

6. Come dressed as your favorite nerd nite- Jon Heder, Flounder, George McFly etc

7. Memory Stick nite- 4 gig!!!

8. Take your physics professor to the game nite

9. Clip on tie nite

10. Broadcast the game in Klingon

Bonus

1. Half time 50 yard line tickle pile mania!!

I apologize for #11. I just had to do that. That YB woman is an idiot, but y’all commenting on her keeps her going.

She reminds me of that woman that went by the name THEMAN who always called everyone gay.

Remember her? That’s who YB reminds me of.

At least I’m funny!!!

Johnson was is and has been the man for GT the whole time.

I’m no Tech fan but I think that the North Avenue Trade School has done real well.

Now beat the Dawgs!!

And War Eagle!!

By Brent

December 7, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Winning sells. Johnson knows how to do it. This is a great day for Georgia Tech football.

By Wes King

December 7, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

Here we go again….should kept Tenuta…..

By I-DOG

December 7, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Congrats to tech on landing a fine football coach. As a Dawg fan, I hate to say this, but our annual game just got tougher.

2008 will be a tough year for tech to beat UGA, with the game being in Athen and UGA having one of it’s best squads (on paper) in the last 20 years. That might be too much to ask from a first year coach.

However, I believe he will upgrade Tech’s program and there will be more overall wins and that will lead to better crowds.

Congrats to the tech punter on winning that award for best punter in the country.

By jacketfan

December 7, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

PJ will be a great hire for GT. We needed a coach that is good at player development. Gailey got some good players to come to Tech, but did not develop them at all. PJ has a track record of doing a lot with very little at smaller schools and at Navy. Now, with a better pool of recruits and returning players, I think he will be very successfull. We need to give him a year or two to revamp the offense and get some players of his own. Don’t judge him just by how we do next year. Lastly, it is nice to see a UGA fan that says educated commments. Thank you I-DOG for not embarrassing the dawgs like most of your fellow brethren.

By buddy

December 7, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

You people that think this is a 3 yard and a pile of dust offense are in for an extreme awakening. I’ve watched the Hambone offense since its inception at GSU. It is a big play offense. Just ask Furman. It puts extreme pressure on the defense to play assignments on every play and undoubtedly there will be a breakdown. If you have a dual threat QB the offense can be devastating. It looks like I’m a Tech fan now.

By jacketfan

December 7, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

In fact, I’d say the only people who aren’t in favor of PJ as our coach would be Taylor Bennett (who may see significantly less playing time next year due to the athleticism and duel threat ability presented by Josh Nesbitt) and Georgia fans. They were hoping we would keep Chan forever. Go Jackets. I can’t wait for next season!

By bigtiminit

December 7, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

I think coach Johnson will have to throw the ball a lot more in the ACC to really be competitive, and I am talking national championship competitive. How well he recruits will also have a big impact on his success. I think he will be as good of a coach as any of Tech’s recent coaches. That being said, I really wish that they would have looked into Charlie Strong as a head coach a little bit more. Florida’s defense has been just as good as their offense since he has been there; has produced more NFL talent than the offense; he has coached in what many believe to be the toughest conference in NCAA football and has coached under a couple of pretty good coaches; he is also a great recruiter; and lets not forget about another Fla. def. coordinator now coaching in Oklahoma, he is doing pretty good right now. But wish Coach Johnson all the success in the world.

By sech tux

December 7, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Georgia Tech fans really now nothing about football.If you think Paul Johnson is going to scare anyone - get real. You might as well hired a high school coach who runs the same offense and saved money.It is good to see you admit that your talent leval is not on par with the good teams though.The first step to recovery is …. Go V.T.

By Dan

December 7, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

This offense with the right personnel is going to be an opposing teams defensive coordinator’s worst nightmare. It’s very unique and hard to prepare for and simulate if you’ve never seen it. Mark my words, watch Techs offense run up and down the field next year. Good hire Jackets.

By Gailey Can't Coach

December 7, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Will he sell? Why didn’t you contact the Tech ticket office and see how much the phones started ringing once the hiring was official? He won’t only sell…He will SELLOUT all home games. Slick, slick move by DRad. Good man, GREAT JOB!!

By BULL ST

December 7, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Kids in the south see this offense played every Friday night. Not going to fool anyone. Josh Nesbitts team even ran it down in Greene County.

By A-ville Ranger

December 7, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this

I’m a UGA guy but this looks to be a great move for Tech.Johnson can and will tweak the triple to favor the pass more.The last game of our seasons should be real interesting….as if we needed more compitition.Congratulations and good luck except when we go for after the same recruits and play each other.

By vr

December 7, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

I have never been so excited, yes get me to the games, lets go!!!I will support this coach and team home and away! Tears of joy ran down my face Fri. morning. I got up at 5am and checked all websites every 30 minutes waiting and waiting for this outcome. Hats off to the athletic director for having the guts. The monetary support will follow. If somehow we can keep Tenuta as well, it will football heaven on earth. GAME ON BABY p.s. my clemson friend cried (not of joy)

By Brad in KY

December 7, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

If Paul Johnson’s offense is just the traditional triple-option offense that kids play against every Friday night in high school…then why can’t anyone stop it? How could it possibly be so successful if that’s the case?

By Not sure yet

December 7, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

Gailey didn’t want to get C. Johnson hurt, especially against GA. He saw his value s a decoy. I personally think UGA should use Moreno as a Decoy next yr. He is unlikely to get hurt if he carries the ball 2-3 times a game & the threat will always be there, as it was with Calvin. Gailey had all of you fooled with that one.You don’t understand coaching. Hell, it won him about 7 games a year.

By ToccoaDawg

December 7, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

YOU WILL STILL LOSE TO UGA THE NEXT 3 OR 4 YEARS THATS A GIVIN WHEN HE GO’S 0 FOR 6 GOING TO FIRE HIM TO HUH. GOOD LOOK TO YA

By dadgum

December 7, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

It has been mentioned that part of the deal to bring Paul Johnson to the Flats was that he could also bring his assistants. Folks John Tenuta is history and he knows it. In addition Tenuta has been contacted by Les Miles last week about the open DC position at LSU. It is his for the taking and after today you can consider it a done deal. This is a great day for GT football.

By GA Tech insider

December 7, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Actually, Navy’s defense was not very stellar and there is some history between Coach Johnson and Tech’s recruiting coordinator, Giff Smith, from Georgia Southern. There is an effort to keep Tenuta, Johnson, and Linebacker Coach, Jean-Mary, on Board.

By listen

December 7, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

What offense do you guys think Urban Myer has always ran? If you think we are going to line up with three running backs you are a idiot. This is a great hire for Tech.

By Alabama Jack

December 7, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

FEAR THE BEE

By GA Tech insider

December 7, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

I should have said there is an effort to retain coaches Jon Tenuta, Giff Smith, and Brian Jean-Mary. Sorry for the typo. It has been one of those days!

By Navitgator

December 7, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Tech panic’d and proved once again that they’re a bunch of dumb a*******es. Triple option, are you kidding me. Good bye Taylor Bennett, you’re understudy is the starter now. I give this dinosaur two years before the active AD (whoever that might be) here’s the screams of hate from the Tech supporters to get a real coach. Seven years…, did anyone learn anything from the Chan Gailey contract? There were some good coordinators available, and they go with another 50 year old coach. Pitiful, and I mean pitiful.

By TDone

December 7, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

To Decatur Pooch, the difference between the woment at the Naval Academy and those at Muttland, is the ones at the Naval Academy have brains.

By TDone

December 7, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

To JB, you are right. 8 in a row is only matter of time. However, now it will be Tech with 8 in a row, not Muttland.

And to all you other Muttlander who post here, learn how to spell. You make the rest of us think you never actually set foot on a college campus as a student (sic).

By Reggie Ball

December 7, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

You know, this is almost worth quitting my job with the GA DOT road crew. A triple option offense means there are at least two more ways I can screw up.

By GreenJacket

December 7, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

I am excited about the hire. Coach Johnson seems to be a humble and flexible guy that is all about winning and maximizing players talents. There is no room to be stubborn in today’s game. Hopefully his ties with the state will help recruiting. The defense needs to remain strong. Next year may be difficult with the loss of seniors and implementing new coaches and philosophies. Go Jackets!

By gregocraker

December 7, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Congrats bugs. Nice hire.Your team will be more fun to watch now.

Still lookin at at least one, really two, years of almost certain defeat vs Ga, but I bet you will slowly start winning your share again-3-4 games of ten.

You will make noise in ACC very soon.

By bamabuzz73

December 7, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Great hire DRad! A nice fit for Johnson and the Flats. Sideways is smiling from above!

By gregocraker

December 7, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

Hey TDone. We all get tired of seeing lose, spelled loose- or someone calling out another poster on grammer-rather than grammAr.

But this is a sports blog. Football.Not a typing class.Not an english class. Just a bunch of guys having fun.

With all due respect, grow up kid.

MOST college football fans did not attend college.

In fact many posters may have failed to complete high school. Perhaps because they were compelled to drop out , in order too help feed their family, or fight for their country.

Dec. seven , ring a bell?

Last point. This is about Tech football.Football in general really, hence dawg fans…

THE BLOG IS NOT LIMITED TO STUDENTS AND GRADS.

I would bet those groups make up less than ten per cent of posters.

By sc gamecock

December 7, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Hear that the projected starter to run your triple option offense has been in contact with Coach Spurrier. Nesbitt might not be available……might transfer…. Coach Johnson is a good one and will get the most from the players at Tech…Must produce each day at practice and in each game to play for Paul. My son played for him at Georgia Southern…PJ knows his stuff…..

By michaelgee

December 8, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

With the hiring of Paul Johnson, nerd is THE WORD!

Go Jackets!

By surfrider

December 8, 2007 3:18 AM | Link to this

The wishbone would be more exciting than what we’ve seen being ranked low in offense. Tech had an excellent option package with Bobby Ross (Shawn Jones) and O’leary (Hamilton/Godsey). They also threw the ball well. This is a good hire for a lot of reasons. One being attrition management. Coming from Navy he should be able to understand that on day 1. Two he can recruit in Ga. (from GSU day). Three he will have national recruiting contacts. Fourth, coaching at Hawaii he had to learn the passing game. Fifth, the experience at Ga. Southern is good. It’s a down in the trenched football place of basics. Erk Russell was a legend in the south and this guy worked for him for awhile. Sixth, He sees this job a great opportunity. Have the battle in success is seizing an opportunity that others can’t see. There were several good options but this is a good decision. I love the passing game and realize that will probably come with this option component with time. Winning and scoring points will fill the seats up. This guy has won everywhere.

By MarkRichtFan

December 8, 2007 3:30 AM | Link to this

If you Techies want to beat Georgia, you should have raised some real money and bought out Mark Richt’s contract. As long as MR is at Georgia you have slim to no change of beating the Dogs. Paul Johnson is a fine coach, and a good man (so was Chan), but he won’t touch UGA in at least his first 3 seasons at Tech. (It could be a lot longer than that.) The drought in Georgia will be a distant memory and Lake Lanier will be full before Tech’s drought against Georgia ends!

By brad

December 8, 2007 4:31 AM | Link to this

To gregocraker you are an idiot. Name 5 people who have had to quit high school to feed their family. Maybe back in the 1900 this happened but yeah come on man. I can understand that most UGA fans never graduated high school, but this is understandable when you think about who they are, a bunch of inbreeds trying to make it big on the Jerry Springer show. Im not gonna get cruel b/c i know i really could, but in one aspect you are right. this is a football blog,. Paul’s gonna bring the heat, I have no idea what these a** clown writers at the ajc are thinking when they say he doesnt bring the buzz and excitement that tech sought after. Last time i checked winning is very exciting. Every tech fan i know is excited about the new coach. He seems goal oriented, hes organized, he wins, and he beats his rivals. Watch out you inbreed ugags

By brad

December 8, 2007 4:33 AM | Link to this

To gregocraker you are an idiot. Name 5 people who have had to quit high school to feed their family. Maybe back in the 1900 this happened but yeah come on man. I can understand that most UGA fans never graduated high school, but this is understandable when you think about who they are, a bunch of inbreeds trying to make it big on the Jerry Springer show. Im not gonna get cruel b/c i know i really could, but in one aspect you are right. this is a football blog,. Paul’s gonna bring the heat, I have no idea what these a** clown writers at the ajc are thinking when they say he doesnt bring the buzz and excitement that tech sought after. Last time i checked winning is very exciting. Every tech fan i know is excited about the new coach. He seems goal oriented, hes organized, he wins, and he beats his rivals. Watch out you inbreed ugags

By gregocraker

December 8, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

Brad, never start a comment by calling someone an idiot.Makes you look silly.

Both of my grandfathers left high school after Pearl Harbour, lied about their ages, and one was killed.

It is also impossible for most Ga fans to be as uneducated as you would like to think.Do the math, back up your point. You can’t.

On the coaching thing-I am amazed. Tech did well.I was gonna apply for the position myself, because I am a nice man. Worked for Chan.

By USNA73

December 8, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

GT fans. You are lucky. What you are getting in PJ is a pure coach. He is not a PR guy. He is not a smoozer. He is not a politician. He is a pure coach.

You can bet ACC coaches are quite a bit more uncomfortable than they were day before yesterday. Richt will be plenty concerned, too, once he sees PJ’s effects.

Listen to what PJ said. It was simple: “…exciting and tough brand of football..” Don’t count out the tough. Everybody thinks they’re “tough”. First thing that’s going to happen in the off season, spring ball and fall camp is that you are going to lose some football players who thought they knew what “tough” was. PJ just doesn’t teach football. He teaches toughness. Second, your players are going to be taught about accountability in how they play football. They might have thought they knew. They are going to find out that they were mistaken. PJ holds his football players accountable as football players. But he also teaches them how to be accountable.

PJ’s priorities.

1. Win
2. Win
3. Win

His formula. Score more points than the other team. If running can do it, he will run. If it takes passing, he will pass. He will entertain you with a simple formula. Winning.

First and foremost, don’t discount the toughness part. There is a reason he said that in his opening remarks. He was talking to his football team.

When he gets done, you are going to be proud of the football team he builds for you.

By gt45

December 8, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

Do what it takes to keep Tenuta. Johnson obviosly has a capable offensive mind. Wouldn’t it be great to see what the team will look like with an offense that can score points and keep the defense off the field a little more?

By NYJACKET

December 8, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

All the fans want to see is more points on the board at the end of the game than the other team has.

By usna77

December 8, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Everyone should reread what usna73 said.

First and foremost, Paul Johnson is a winner. His goal as coach is to win this Saturday’s football game, against whatever opponent.

Sure, we USNA grads have really been excited that PJ went 6-0 versus Army and 5-1 versus Air Force the last 6 years. But his agenda in September was not to worry about the Army game on the first Saturday of December. You can’t go undefeated unless you win this Saturday.

And don’t discount the toughness part. The old joke at Navy about football players is “We may be small, but we’re slow.” Johnson’s offense at Navy was exciting to watch every week. I saw it first hand one week ago in Baltimore, where Navy’s first touchdown came not on “three yards and a cloud of dust,” but a 38-yard sweep to a 5’-8” slotback from Decatur, GA named Zerbin Singleton. Singleton spent his freshman year at GT, and was told he wasn’t good enough to be a walk-on. At Navy, Singleton has started for three years, racked up over 400 yards rushing this season alone, has a 3.2 GPA in Aerospace Engineering, and in the spring will be the Brigade Commander. He’s a tough kid who will become a Marine pilot after graduation.

Imagine what Johnson’s offense could do with NFL prospects at fullback, wide receiver, and offensive guard.

By usna77

December 8, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Here’s the kind of kid Johnson has won with at Navy

[http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/highschool/stories/2007/11/29/armynavy_1130.html]

By bill

December 8, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

“Imagine what Johnson’s offense could do with NFL prospects at fullback, wide receiver, and offensive guard.” What a STUPID statement, there is NO nfl talent at tech. You losers fired one old, lame, boring coach for another. If he’s so great he would have gotten a job at a bigger school by now. Enjoy your trip to Boise and the truck stop bowl. Go Tigers!!

By xxxx

December 8, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

Strong, Cutliffe, and Fisher are recognized as excellent asst coaches but why haven’t they been hired elsewhere ? Why hasn’t Miss or Ark or Michigan grabbed one of them ? Their names come up every year. How do you balance the impulse to hire an assistant such as Richt was when he came to UGA or a proven head coach ?

By XXXX

December 8, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Now that DRAD has fixed the big problem lets get on with the others. As a working stiff, while driving home from Hartsfield last night, I was at the Mall of GA at 5:30 when the press conf began. Do you think any radio station covered it ? Hell no !! Why do we expect people to get charged up when the only way we have to communicate is this blog ? Tech needs to invigorate its communication. Get a good AM station on board with a 100 mile minimum broadcast range or set up our own network.

By xxxx

December 8, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

If you have a Tashard Choice on your team what would you do ? Run it of course. All Tech had to do this year is complete 10-15 passes a game at the right time without intercepts. Good teams run. Texas Tech is the exception and not the rule.

By Chris

December 8, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

To be fair, the press conference was on our flagship station, 790 AM. The problem is that it’s not one of the stations that gets to keep its power up after sundown due to the fact that AM signals travel much further and therefore interfere with one another once the sun goes down and the waves bounce off of the ionosphere (don’t expect many dawg fans to know what I’m talking about here). I think only 750 and 680 can keep their wattage up after sundown.

By I-DOG

December 9, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

Is the contract really 7 years? As stated above, I think the hire is a good one, but that is too long a contract.

What if he doesn’t work out the first 2-3 seasons for any reason?

By XXXX

December 9, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

USNA77: Thank you sir. I would expect that many in this group saw that Singleton was awarded the Spirit Award for the college player with the greatest determination. I suppose that coach Johnson had some influence on that. Also, If I were coaching, it would very hard to pry me out of Annapolis which is one of the premier cities in the US. To me, as an Atlanta native, I would not make that physical move. This shows me that Johnson wants the next level.

By EasyCharlie

December 9, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

“P-Jo” In reading these posts it occurred to me that we need to come up with a nickname for Paul Johnson. Some writers are suggesting “PJ.” That won’t do, because “PJ” stands for pajamas. As in, “You kiddies get into your PJs and get ready for bed.”

How about we call him “P-Jo?” Has a nice ring to it and it works well with “D-Rad.” You heard it here first.

What’s your suggestion?

By gt lover

December 9, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

We all also know that uga has no baseball team or basketball team also you rednecks from athens……but let me guess dawggy fans you don’t like basketball or baseball huh,,,,,typical uga fan hahahhahahaha pathetic

By gt lover

December 9, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

uga fans georgia tech ownes you in 10 of 12 sports between the 2 schools so i guess you can have 2 sports up on us …sounds like a good trade off. So it looks like this uga fans gt,gt,gt,gt,gt,gt,gt,gt,gt,gt,uga,uga 10-2

By gt lover

December 9, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

so bill how does it feel to be on the tiger banwaggon? And for you there is alot of nfl talent on gt’s team you moron and what player does lsu have in the pros that’s a bigger name then calvin johnson ohhhh yeah he’s a georgia tech man

By gt lover

December 9, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

LSWHO,,,AND UGA-Y

By Vendorman

December 9, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Yeah, he’ll sell…hot dogs and cokes. Or are we still giving them away? Just let me know.

By Ken Observer

December 9, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

I read where DRAD focused on Johnson’s record against rival Army. Hey, Einstein, we ain’t Army (no disrespect intended). But, I understand the natives need something…anything to hang on to. GO DAWGS! Already planning for numero EIGHT.

By '08 Recruits

December 9, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Open letter to Coaches: With the change at Tech, you know, moving away from major college football, we’re re-opening the recruiting process. Don’t call us,….

By Reporter

December 9, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Calvin Johnson??? Why didn’t Tech let him play against the DAWGS?

By GTsupporter

December 9, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

you don’t think paul johnson will make tech great? watch this. http://www.dailymotion.com/draglimited/video/2665222

get ready for a beatdown UGA

By GeT a clue

December 9, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Hello,GTS. No. Excuse me, He** NO! I don’t think Jesus Christ could make Tek great but have fun believing! Go Bugs!

By GTsupporter

December 9, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

why you so scared get a clue? oh yeah, because Paul Johnson’s offense almost beat yall in 04 with GA SOUTHERN. (i know he wasn’t coaching for them then, but it was still his offense that they were using. with more talent, hahaha i can’t wait for the uga gt game this year

By GeT a Clue

December 9, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

Scared?! I ain’t acting like Reggie Ball on 4th Down, or within the UGA ten yardline and Calvin Johnson to throw to!!! Just b/c I bring facts to the table, you assume I’m for UGA. Wow, sounds like somebody has an 0 for 7 complex! Can’t wait for next UGA v GT contest? Neither can UGA. 10, 12, 15,maybe 20 in a row would look really nice to those red and black guys. Keep believing, keep on dreamin’ BUGMAN!!! 1 word for ya Insecticide

By GTsupporter

December 10, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

20 in a row will never happen. ever. not in your life, not in my life. and you know it. Because once PJ gets his program up and running we WILL have a better football program, one that will beat yall AT LEAST once in the next 2 years. i have great respect for PJ ever since he coached at ga southern, he’s a great coach and a great motivator. and what is this BUGZ BUGMAN crap yall keep talking about? good one getaclue, insecticide, are you saying you’re going to come down to tech and spray insecticide on me? i don’t get it. oh and what ‘FACTS’ did you bring to the table before your last post? oh yeah, none. so you are a uga fan, that’s what i thought….

By NavyDawg98

December 10, 2007 2:42 AM | Link to this

Couple of notes about Paul Johnson - coming from someone who played for him and happens to be a UGA fan by upbringing - TECH FANS - don’t discount me because of my loyalties, if anything I would listen for some perspective

First and foremost, Paul Johnson does a tremendous job of turning rough hewn boys into men on the football field and in life. He’s a good man with high character and the highest sense of personal integrity - so for that he is a great hire

Second, and this is the part you are going to want to hear - he is not the guy that is going to take Tech to the promised land and multiple ACC championships. And the other stunner - its not his fault. Read on…

Coach J does more with less than near anyone in the nation, but I would hardly call our schedule a monster year in and year out. We never play top 25 teams, and when we do, typically, we get beaten fairly soundly. There is a reason that Navy, despite finishing 9-3, 10-2, etc, doesn’t finish in the top 25 at all. You guys, and again I say this as a former Navy player on the team that beat y’all in Atlanta, play the toughest teams in the ACC - and while its not the Big 12 or SEC, it’s a tough schedule - and you still play UGA every year which looks like its about to go from “can probably compete for the conference” every year to “they could compete for a NC every year” if a few things turn out right. That’s no creampuff schedule. Now yes, he’ll have better caliber players, but this leads into my other reason why Tech might need to heed Braine from a few years back (I know, blasphemous)

Tech doesn’t have the fan base or commit the $$$ to be a top tier football school. And there is not a damn thing wrong with that. But it’s a fact. Other than a great year in 1990, and some smattered success, Tech hasn’t been relevant consistently for years. A lot of that has to do with a flat fan base state-wide and the lack of funds to upgrade facilities. I KNOW you guys are fervent about your sports. When I say lack of fan base, I mean that statewide, Tech doesn’t enjoy the support that a Georgia, Alabama, Auburn type school does. You make fun of those of us who didn’t go to UGA and yet cheer like mad for them. Well, I happen to think for one I attended one of the top 10 schools in the nation so don’t call me a hick or yokel, and I still bleed red and black becuse its how I was raised. I never missed a UGA home game, and many away games. However I wanted to be a fighter pilot since I was 5, and idolized Alan Shephard. Doesn’t mean UGA isn’t a great school because it is, but not for what I wanted.

When I was at Annapolis, we LOVED it when folks from out in town, who did not go to Navy, came to cheer for us. When we played in Hawaii - the stands were full of guys who happened to be stationed in Hawaii who had never even been to college. Doesn’t make them less of a fan - so that argument about “they didn’t even go there” - that’s why Tech’s fan base is suffering - you NEED the folks who didn’t’ even go there.

Listen, he’s a good coach, great guy - but unless Tech went out and got a young, HUNGRY assistant like a Will Muschamp or a BIG name vetran - a spurrierish type hire (not him, but you get the gist) - you’re not going to get past that hump. Note - PJ for all his accomplishments didn’t interview at Michigan, didn’t interview at Arkansas, or even Ole Miss and Texas A&M. He interviewed at SMU and Georgia Tech. Please try to keep in in perspective.

Now go ahead and bash me and say things about my family and such, and say I am dumb, and even question if I really went to Navy at all…as I know that’s how it usually goes on this message board

GO NAVY - BEAT UTAH!

GO GEORGIA - BEAT HAWAII!!

By Rhymer

December 10, 2007 5:24 AM | Link to this

What rhymes with seven?

EIGHT

By Ryan M.

December 10, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

I’ll discount you because you wrote an essay and seem rather too full of yourself for your opinion to mean jack.

By Spike

December 10, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

I see your QB recruit doesn’t think much of your new coach. Hmmm.

By GT

December 10, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Tech is not that bad right now, Navy was Army before Johnson took over. We are not getting killed by Georgia every year; it’s the fumble that squirts out of the pile or this year touchbacks that could have been touchdowns. When we played against that Walker kid now that was hopeless, so we know hopeless….this ain’t hopeless. “Smatter success” strangely came when we were being coached by a Bobby Ross or a George O’Leary, not by a Lewis or a Curry. Tech beats Auburn, Miami, Va.Tech and wins a divisional championship. In fact we beat someone ranked every year recently. Since when did the Big 12 become the measuring stick of college football? I think lowly TCU, who was snubbed by their Texas brethren, has beaten half the conference the last couple of years. I think as bad as the ACC is it would be more competitive that the Big 12 and certainly has more hope in the future. I love people that attend our academies. It is the backbone of this country. But as Bobby Ross once said there is Army condition and there is major college football condition and his teams were not in that kind of condition. I think Navy kind of falls under that kind of thing where there are Navy football players and then there are major college football players, with Tech being the later. Without Johnson a good high school team could have beaten Navy, with Johnson Tech will be very good

By Yellowblood

December 10, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

FEAR THE TICKLE PILE!

By Claudeballs

December 10, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Yellow”Lickit”blood, the jackets always fear the tickle pile with the dogs around. Thanks for the warning. I bet those boys at Bammer were impressed to see the dogs in a pile for the win. All class. Oh yeah, Whitegoat reminds you to FEAR THE GAMECOCK CROW, and he cannot wait for the dogs to come baaaaaaaack to Columbia!! EM.

By JB

December 10, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Will Tech be Better ? Yes. You will still need the players to compete with the big time programs every week in the ACC. FSU and VT will still be tough to beat. You think because you hired PJ , you think we’ll roll over. Get your mind out of the AJC and see what the National press has to say about Richt and the DAWGS. The next 2-3 years, bring a lunch pail !

By Eagle/Buzz

December 11, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

When coach Johnson returned to GSU as head coach he revived the program, winning 2 national championships. His record at Navy stands for itself. He’ll do the same at GT. He can handle the alumni, the team will play for him, he’s a disciplinarian without being the scraming type. And he knows how to throw the ball. Techsters can forward to a long successfull run with coach Johnson. There will be no Blue Carpet Bowls in the Jackets’ future.

By GeT a Clue

December 11, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

GTS, what’s with the Hate? 0-7 must really be hard to get over. I wouldn’t know.GO BUGS!!!!