Tech

By dj_blume

December 3, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this

I think ACC teams would be lining up to play Navy in a bowl game just to get 3 more weeks of practice against this offense. This thing is going to be fun to watch in the next 2 years!

By T-Bone

December 3, 2008 8:00 AM | Link to this

When this team can pass the ball, look out! Right now, defenses can load up against the run (of course, that didn’t help UGA). But when we are able to pass—and not just these bombs downfield, but screens, quick-outs, sideline posts, stuff across the middle—it could be a very difficult offense to stop.

Our biggest task for next year is to replace our defensive line and improve the play of the secondary. We saw what a good QB-receiver combo can do to us. Stafford-MoMass lit us up. Against UGA, our best defense was our offense keeping them off the field.

But all of that to say this. That blinding light you see when you look toward the flats is a very, very bright future for Tech.

Go Jackets!!

By Thrash223

December 3, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

I think Dwyer might get some quality time at A-back w/ Allen and Watson in the mix at B-back. L-Cox also played well at B-back at times so I don’t know how that will all play out either.

All in all, these are great “problems” to have next year. Lots of speed, Lots of power, lots of “options”.

Can you imagine a “big-boy” package of backs on the field, with Dwyer and Allen at A-Back and Watson at B-Back? Coach Johnson could really get creative with some of the personnel packages on offense the next few years.

I know I am excited about the future.

Go Jackets, THWG!!!

By GT45

December 3, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

I expect the ACC to be the strongest conference in the country next year!

By michaelgee

December 3, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

I have a suggestion for next year’s GT vs UGA game.

Maybe it should be advertised as:

Guru vs Mary Lou

CPJ made the dawgs look like school girls last week, lol!

The Mighty Bulldawgs, preseason #1 getting stomped by our “high school offense”.

Oh, life is great!

By Tech82

December 3, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

The biggest challenge for the next two years is going to be keeping everyone academically eligible. The talent is there and will only be getting better based on the current state of recruiting.

We need more depth on both sides of the line of scrimmage but the future looks VERY bright for us indeed.

Now let’s just hope we can tie CPJ up to a good long-term contract before Notre Dame comes in and offers him a fortune.

By to GT45

December 3, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

GT45, the ACC is the strongest conference this year… Only difference is the media will recognize it next year (they are always about half a season behind)

By Jim

December 3, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

Terrific year. One that will beremembered for a long time. Way to go team.

To get better, we should look at Alabama. Great teams start up front. Continue recruiting great offensive and defensive lines, which help everything else work better.

Go Jackets!

By Brad in KY

December 3, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

The run-n-shoot stuff? You mean there’s more? Holy…

I think they’ll average around 40 (at least) if they add passing and blocking to what they already do.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

How long did it take CPJ to win a National Championship at GSU?

By Buzz Belle

December 3, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

I can’t think of next year - I’m still gloating over 45-42. I’ll start thinking about next year - next year! CPJ and DRad have turned this around in record time and we better offer whatever it takes to keep them both here. So who do you guys think Ga fans will support when we go bowling? THWG

By msim 84

December 3, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

My biggest concern is that some other school will be attracted by our success and seek to hire CPJ away from us. If you look at Tech football history over the last 25 years, all our best coaches used GT as a stepping stone to a “better” job. Bill Curry bolted for ‘Bama. Bobby Ross for the San Diego Chargers. George O’Leary left for Notre Dame (although he never actually coached there). D Rad, along with Tech fans and alum, need to do whatever is necessary to help CPJ WANT TO STAY at Tech! That means we need to fill the stands and support this team not only with our voices and opinions (on meaningless blogs like this), but also with our money and attendance!

Go Jackets!

By GTMike

December 3, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Exciting. We are on the “up” escalator !!

By Big Nasty Yellow

December 3, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

Next year will be very interesting. We are well ahead of schedule this year, we are young, we have a year of the new system under our belt… That said, we may be in a situation where we are taking one step back to take two steps forward. The loss of the three big D-linemen will be enormous. There is some talent waiting in the wings, but replacing these guys will be exceedingly difficult. They kept us in many games we didn’t have any business being in while the offense was struggling early. The new additions will help ease this transition. Once we can implement more pass plays, we will be close to unstoppable. I would predict a BCS bowl game by 2010 at the latest, much beyond that, we’ll have to see… National Championships are possible, but lots of things have to fall into place.

Congrats to Coach Johnson for a great season! Thank you AD Radakovich for plotting the course to right the ship. And (this may surprise you) thanks to Coach Gailey for not leaving the cupboard bare. We would be remiss in not recognizing him for that contribution.

Go Jackets!!!

By ga_tech_92

December 3, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this

Keep working on both lines of scrimmage. We are loosing a ton on D-line. Keep up the great work Jackets…SHOCK THE WORLD!!!

By Big Nasty Yellow

December 3, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

msim 84 …D Rad, along with Tech fans and alum, need to do whatever is necessary to help CPJ WANT TO STAY at Tech!

Navy had a series of tee shirts they wore (with regularity) “Hands off our Johnson!” If this gets any more serious, we may need to renew the tradition.

By AthensGTfan

December 3, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Let’s get through the Chick-fil-a bowl first, after all, its against another SEC opponent that wants revenge over an ACC team. I do see GT getting better over the next couple years, and probably a pre-season top 15 ranking next year.

By CPJ is th MAN

December 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Didn’t CPJ say at one point that the only school he would have left Navy to coach at is tech?

By Calvin

December 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

No reason not to believe Johnson.

By Alabama Jack

December 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Not only was CPJ named ACC Coach of the Year yesterday by the ACC media, he was named National Coach of the Year by CBSSports.Com, and continues to lead the balloting (only three more days to vote for him) for the Mutual Insurance Coach of the Year Award. Saban was second in CBS running and is second in Mutual.

Way to go, CPJ

By Big Nasty Yellow

December 3, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

But of course! We cannot afford to forget that we have a great game ahead of us! Let’s all show up and help cheer our boys on to an undefeated season against SEC opponents.

Which do you want to see? LSU, or USC?

Personally, I’d like to take on the defending national champions again…

By GTSteve

December 3, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

We have got to support this team, it appears Tech is going to the Chick Fil-A bowl. Whoever they play will travel well, we need to make this feel like a home game. Come on Jackets lets fill up the Dome.

By razerGT

December 3, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Ramble On, I believe it took Paul Johnson only two years to win a national championship at Georgia Southern.

By Dadgum

December 3, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

The thought of GT playing South Carolina is absolutely ridiculous. If the Chicken Bowl picks USC with the #4 selection over LSU they are, well, not smart. Hopefully it will be LSU or even better Ole Miss(if they can work a deal with the Cotton). We need to play the highest ranked team available and I am positive Radakovich has mentioned that to the Chicken people.

By Dawg Fud

December 3, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Dwyer has got my vote for ACC Offensive Player of the Year. He is a beast…and a good kid to boot.

Glad that Paul Johnson got ACC coach of the year - he earned it. I tip my cap to you, Coach. I hate to think what he is going to do with his own talent against a Willie Martinez defense that does not have two friggin’ weeks to prepare.

Don’t know how Clemson propelled themselves ahead of Tech for the Gator Bowl but the Peach Bowl is a great bowl. Jacket alumni, students and fans should be excited.

GO DAWGS!

By Dawg Fud

December 3, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

GT vs. LSU would be not be a good matchup for the average sports fan. GT would take LSU to the woodshed…the one in their backyard.

I went with a Tech buddy to the LSU-Miami Peach Bowl a few games back and it was just plain awful. Miami gave up in the second quarter. The Peach Bowl is a great bowl atmosphere and usually one of the better matchups. the games alaways seem to come down to the wire. the way Tech is playing they are going tough for either LSU or South Carolina to handle.

the only thing that could hurt Tech is the long layoff and its effect on their timing which is essential to their offense.

By GT Juggernaut

December 3, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Dont forget that with a improved o-line, we will be able to throw more. Nesbitt will have Bebe on one side, and Stephen Hill on the other. Those are two 6’4 guys with speed stretching the field. Hopefully Nesbitt will get better with his accuracy. Also, on defense, everyone returns except 3/4 d-line! 09 and 2010 will be nasty!!!!

By GT2002

December 3, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

I attended the spring game and Anthony Allen was by far the best back on the field at the time in my opinion. He has breakaway speed and is similar in size to Dwyer. Depth won’t be an issue next year on offense so you will without a doubt see more special packages with certain groups of players in positions they didn’t line up in this year.

Let’s pack out the dome and show our support for the Coach of the Year and the great effort these players have put forward. This group is the true definition of what a TEAM really is. Thanks Jackets for a great season and let’s get 1 more win against the mighty SEC! When we beat LSU we will equal the number of wins in the SEC that they had this year!

By AlabamaRamblinwreck

December 3, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

I wholeheartedly agree with all of the sentiment shared on this blog that we must do what it takes to keep Coach Johnson!

Yes, that means our alumni and fans must get off their lazyboy and attend games, especially those within 3-4 hrs. of Atlanta. Our coach is making considerably less than many other top coaches. For that reason, DRad must make sure that he is taken care of in all other areas outside of compensation. And yes, he must also look at increasing CPJ’s compensation. But I do believe he will stay at Tech if we support the team and the administration supports him, even if he is making slightly less than the other top coaches.

We are very fortunate to have Coach Johnson, but we must not take him for granted. Tech folks must let him know how much he is appreciated!

Go Jackets!!

By GT RIch

December 3, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Larry, Not to pick nits, but I counted only 3 seniors starting vs UGA which leaves 19 of 22 returning (all on the D line). I wouldn’t count Gardner and Word-Daniels since they havent started a game in over a month. Agreed that we are stacked at the A- and B-backs; Anthony Allen looked real good in the spring scrimmages. I am most worried about the lack of depth and experience on the O- and D-lines.

I also think the Dwyer for Heisman 2009 campaign needs to start at the Peach Bowl (aka Chick-fil-A).

By GT RIch

December 3, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Apologies Larry, I overlooked that you said FR and SO for the 16 of 22 returners. My 19 of 22 included JRs.

By okeefe59

December 3, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

msim84—i agree completely.I have been around GT forever including the Dodd years and i can tell you this is the most excited i have been since i was at TECH IE66.I watched the glory years as a kid through the 50’s. Get ready for the ride. This coach is the real deal and we need to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to keep him at the flats. Go TECH and UGA is not even worth another comment other than THWG. I am all Yellow Jacket can’ you tell?

By Chris

December 3, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Nobody jumped “ahead of us” for any bowl. When the ACC realigned a couple of years ago, the Gator Bowl decided they didn’t want the second pick of bowls, because they’d likely have to take the loser of the Championship game, which was held in the exact same stadium less than a month before.

The Peach Bowl upped their payout to the ACC team (but not the SEC) and took the second ACC pick from the Gator, but left themselves with the fourth pick from the SEC. Similarly, the Champs Sports Bowl upped their payouts to climb up the selection ladder to fourth pick in the ACC after the Gator Bowl.

I’m pumped about the CFA bowl. I’ll be there screaming my fool head off, rooting for my Jackets.

By okeefe59

December 3, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Alabama you are correct. I am from North Carolina and you are going to see me in Atlanta a lot next year. I got to only 1 game this year but i’llbe their next year to support the White and Gold

By kw

December 3, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

I know it sounds crazy but the OL/DL will be just fine. And if you went to the last open practice before the Jack St. game you saw the Allen kid from Lville, and he is a beast!!! Tech will have the best backfield in the nation and lets not forget that Nesbitt has been injured ALL season long. Its not his fault though, Tech may be one of a handful of teams that practices full speed three times a week. Nesbitt will have Shaw, Luallen, and Sims backing him up. I hate it but Jabo may not even take a snap next year. We will have an incredible D with all of these young kids that stepped up this year, not to mention that we have Tongo and Sylvester, whom i feel will have big seasons next year. Its not a good time to be a Bulldawg or anyone in that exposed SEC right now. Hell, they cant handle the ACC getting their now, wait till next year!!! THWG!!!

By Tech75

December 3, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

I’ll echo many of the comments already made…

The future is bright… as long as we can keep CPJ onboard.

Recruiting results will improve … and will continue to improve as Tech improves … as long as we can keep CPJ onboard.

I hope DRad moves quickly to modify CPJ’s contract to lay in additional performance-based financial incentives and a huge buyout clause in order to pre-empt raids by programs like Notre Dame…

CPJ needs a contract like a Fortune 50 CEO - huge upside income if the “stock” continues to “rise”.

The year he wins the NC (and he will) he should be the most highly-compensated coach in college football.

By okeefe59

December 3, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

I am worried about the D lin but not necessarily the Oline.We are losing 3 top performers off the D line.What the coaching staff did with the O line this year is a miracle sso i have the confidence that next year will be even better. Consider how many disruptions(injuries,etc)the O line had this year and with the complexities of this offense for the offensive line—all new blocking assignments as well as techniques.Give thie coaching staff another year and WOW we’re going to have some fun.

By 1Jacket7

December 3, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

With all of the Talk about the SEC this year. It sure seems that the SEC is the problem when it comes to securing a great matchup with TECH in the ChickFila Bowl. Remember when people would say there was FSU and then the rest of the ACC. Well there is FLA and ALA and the rest of the SEC. The ACC has really stepped up this year and I plan to see the evidence this bowl season. Go TECH and the REST of the ACC. I would like to see TECH play Ole Miss. The best team in SEC behind the before mentioned teams. LSU would be the next choice and USC would be a huge disappointment. We gain 10 wins and another notch in the belt against SEC teams, but nationally we don’t gain anything. LSU is at least billed as the defending Nat’l Champs. Get well Jackets, Do well on your finals. Don’t get caught up in Academic problems that can hurt the teams chances of building on recent success to become better next year. Stay focused, have fun and recruit your butts off to get the best players possible to help with this National Championship run. God Bless you Jackets. Keep up the great work. Your fellow ballers that have proceeded you are VERY PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS! Don’t get complacent, always work together to get better. GO JACKETS!!!

By Carolina Jacket

December 3, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Could be scary. Keep the grades up and bring in a couple of top dlinemen and dbacks (and maybe a kicker) and if the Jackets play with the heart they did this year it should be a fun year. Will have a hard time waiting for it.

By reebok

December 3, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

IMHO, as always: The biggest keys to next year, in order: O-line, D-Line and defensive backs. Our outstanding D-line compensated for us being small and thing in the defensive backfield, but those big studs will be playing on Sunday next year. And Dwyer & Nesbitt compensated somewhat for a thin and inexperienced O-line. I hope we get LSU in the Chik bowl…I would love to see Nesbitt, Dwyer & Jones shredding that defense.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

thanks razerGT.

I’m not going to be like the fleabags and start talking about National Championships and Heismen trophy’s before the season starts. I’ll wait till mid-season 2009. I’ll just refer to what Paul Johnson has accomplished thus far in his coaching career. hehe.

I did however get stuck on the mutt’s favorite pharase/rebuttal…”if”

“What if UGAG played Gardner Webb this year, who would win and what would the score be?

So, I’ve been running the numbers since Sunday through various algorithms and computers models (like us nerds like to do), and was finally able to come to this conclusion.

The results:

Gardner Webb wins in OT 13-10 due to GW’s stout defense and UGAg’s lack of height on defense. Blocking the FG that Michael Johnson was able to block with his 6’-7” frame. Rennie Curran comes inches shy of blocking a 38 yard FG .

Thank goodness for Central Michigan.

By Born2Buzz

December 3, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Don’t worry fellow Jackets, DRad has no intention of letting CPJ go anywhere. He already has a hefty buy out clause and is compensated very nicely. CPJ and DRad know that GT in the ACC has a chance to do really special things. Which is something the previous guys couldn’t see - what a couple of morons - thank god they are gone. (oh no, I might have gotten m started up again - sorry).

We are in great shape with skilled position players on O and even with the D backfield. We need to recruit some linemen, both O & D, and some big fast LB’s.

I suspect we will also have a top QB coming in next year. Nesbitt has 2 more years and will be fantastic, but we will need a replacement ready to continue the roll. Jaybo is a great back-up security blanket.

Yes, the future is bright. Now let’s get out and support this program. We need to all go to the Chicky Bowl and match the LSU crowd. Those crazy Cajuns love their program and will be there loud and proud - DRad knows all about this. If you know Alums who live out of town tell them to come to the ATL for New Years and support this team.
And be sure to get season tix for next year. It’s going to be a great.

By GT

December 3, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

You know CPJ is one of the first coaches of the year winners I agree with. That thing is usually so political. Here is a new guy with a new offense hitting the scene and winning. The problem with coaches in college and probably pros is guys go by the resumes more than their own eyes. That way they can cover their rear ends. There is no way O’Leary would have been as bad as what followed him at ND. You put this coach of the year thing on your resume and people assume you got some juice. You have a guy like Curry that looks like a cross between a politician and a weatherman and on paper looks like a winner but in reality doesn’t match up to 50% of the active coaches in the NCAA. Then you have Dad’s getting son’s jobs while some fat guy like Ralph Friedgen is ignored for years. I am sure there are plenty of Friedgens out there too. We have a winner at Tech not unlike Steve Spurrier that dances by his own tune. Eventually the press with decide to campaign against such independence I am hearing little chipy remarks already, but lets hope we keep him here and support him so he won’t leave for greener pastures. You know if a coach has to listen to the stuff from fans and the press that some great coaches have to listen to they should go to the highest bidder and get paid well for the insults.

By GT Stinger

December 3, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

I predict that the school to the North of us will not be beating us again with Sir Johnson at the helm. He walked on water to get to us and is parting the seas as we speak. ROLL JACKETS!!!

By HONESTY

December 3, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

We’ve been screwed out of the Gator Bowl, and now have to play one of the (many) dumpster teams from the SEC, probably LSU.

Instead of matching up with one of the powerhouses from the 2nd best conference in college football (behind the ACC) in the Gator Bowl (probably Nebraska), now we’ll have to showcase our team against the much weaker LSU from the dumpster of a conference, the SEC.

We’ve already beaten two SEC teams this year, we should have a shot at a Big 12 team.

Oh well.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

I agree with all those who say we have to do whatever it takes to keep CPJ. A couple of suggestions:

get you butts in the seats!!!

Second, go down to Fox Sports Grill in Atlantic Station tomorrow night for the radio show 7-8pm and thank him in person!!!

…and if you’re really lucky, get to meet RAMBLE ON!!! too.

By CW

December 3, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Who else in the two-deep do we lose other than Walker, Johnson and Richard on the D line? Is Morgan the only guy coming back with any playing time this year?

I know we lose Word-Daniels and Gardner also, but with injuries those two guys are already gone. Although our linebackers weren’t terrible this year, our D line really prevented them from being exposed this year. They’re likely to be under a good bit more pressure from opposing offenses next year without Richard, Walker and Johnson occupying four or five O lineman.

It would be nice to see Corey Earls and some of our other receivers step it up a notch too.

By gtnhsval

December 3, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Maybe we should hire Chan back as recruiting coordinator!!!

By Born2Buzz

December 3, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

HONESTY, the Chicky Bowl is a better bowl than the Gator. In terms of payout it is the best bowl just below the BCS bowls. LSU is as good or better than Nebraska.

Stop complaining and go get your tickets.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

gtnhsval, Chan hired Giff Smith who brought in the quality recruits.

CPJ kept him, they worked together at GSU previously

By Vince

December 3, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

So we beat a UGA team riddled with injuries by a field goal, allow Mark Stafford his best ever career game, allow UGA to score more points than they did against South Carolina, Arizona State, Alabama, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Florida or Auburn….and people are suddenly talking National Championship??!!

C’mon down out of the clouds. We are an okay team…probably on par with UGA. Can we forget Gardner-Webb, Virginia or UNC? If we want to get a good picture of where we stand nationally we only need to look at what USC did to Virginia when they played them this season. (USC 52 - VA 7)

Neither LSU or Nebraska are good teams so a victory should be assured. We need to stop whining. Remember last season when most everyone knew UGA was the best team in the country at the end of the season and they “got” to play Hawaii?

By gtnhsval

December 3, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Maybe we should hire Chan back as recruiting coordinator!!!

By jabster

December 3, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Next year’s sked:

Home: Jax State Wake Forest (replacing BC) VPI Clemson UNC UGA

Away: Missy State Vandy Duke UVA FSU Miami

What does everyone think about these games (besides a great chance to go 3-0 in the SEC)? Can we beat UVA in Charlottesville? What about FSU in Tally? Will we be able to rise up against a rising UNC and an always-strong VPI?

Priorities: 0) Butts In Seats

1) Grades

2) D-Line

3) Secondary

4) O-Line

5) Special Teams (especially KO returns, KO return coverage, and FGs/PATs)

By JD

December 3, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

Chik F Bowl has the choice before the Gator Bowl and wanted the best ACC team. I just want the returning players to understand that they can’t just throw their helmet on the field to win because of their clippings. I know CPJ won’t allow it, but they are kids. I look forward to the depth and experience they will have next year and the ability to put in backups without any decrease in production.

By GT FAN PA

December 3, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

I grew up in North Ga and was only one of a few who was a Tech fan-This is the most excited I’ve been since our 1990 team. Before you may have a feeling that they will not win when they are behind-CPJ brings enough attitude that somehow makes you think “it ain’t over until the fat lady is singing” Kids are buying into this as well. I know I’ve posted before and will say again I’ve watched Navy 4 times this year and they are doing things Tech is not as of yet-See for yourself on Saturday as they play Army-I hope they destroy Army too-Just because of them backing out of the contract with Tech! When and you know he will gets the passing down on this team oh my-It is going to be Scary-and all announcers from all sports shows have said the same thing. Tech has operated at about 60% this year on offense. And yes I think it is important to have the Back up QB’s on hand and the QB does take a beating in this offense- The Future is bright at the flats. GO JACKETS AND THWG!!!

By 45-42

December 3, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

One thing that I noticed all year long was the rotating of defensive lineman. Here are a couple of interesting thoughts. Robert Hall rs/so DE played in 12 games, Jason Peters RSFR DE played in 9 games, Ben Anderson RSSO DT played in 11 games, Anthony Eqbuniwe RSSO DE played in 10 games. There is some experience coming back on the DLINE. Add JC Lanier 6’3” 344lb who is committed and TJ Barnes 6’7” 325 who is a freshman then I think we will be ok.

By JR

December 3, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Johnson will ever win a NC at Tech. They could win every game 60 - 0 and a two loss team would be voted ahead of them!

By StingerSplash

December 3, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Gee, I was kinda hoping to see m’s take on all this (facetious font applied, but only a little).

We really didn’t see a lot of the play-action passing game this year for a lot of reasons, but once that is put in, look out. In 1999, when the Eagles had a senior quarterback in his second full season running the offense and accomplished as a passer; a sophomore fullback as a two-year starter; and a veteran group of A-backs, wide blockers (Erk’s term) and linemen, Georgia Southern averaged 50 points and 551 yards per game and that schedule included Oregon State and a team coached by Jim Tressel.

I don’t know if anyone really recognizes how truly bright the future is.

By techkid

December 3, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

ND decides to keep Weis, we don’t have to worry about them stealing Johnson now.

By KneeJerk

December 3, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Vince- go back to the dawg board

By Tech75

December 3, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

even the SI.com guys are dissing UGA…. this from Stewart Maisel’s mailbag responses: —-clip—— Stewart, what will it take from Knowshown Moreno to be mentioned in the Heisman race? The guy is only a sophomore and is leading the SEC in rushing yet it looks like he won’t even crack the top five. Shouldn’t we just go ahead to change the Heisman rules to make only QBs eligible for the award? — Jake, Sandy Springs, Ga.

Indeed, I watched the Georgia-Georgia Tech game last weekend and could not have been more impressed with the running back … but who is this Moreno you speak of? The guy I saw run for 214 yards — I believe his name was Roddy Jones. He was wearing a yellow helmet, if I recall. —-clip——

By Gordon

December 3, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

As much as the fan bases at different schools love to think they are unique, in fact they are very much the same.

Aren’t we getting ahead of ourselves a bit here? Didn’t we just get through making fun of UGA for getting overexcited about their team? There is cause for optimism and I think we have good times ahead, but let’s win the ACC before we start talking about national championships. Let’s beat UGA more than once (and more convincingly) before talking about having the upper hand in the series. We don’t. We have bragging rights for one year, but that is all we have earned for now.

Again, I’m not trying to cold water on this exciting turn of events, but let’s take things one step at a time. Show up to the games and support the team, and as always be proud to be a Jacket.

By old Tech fan in NC

December 3, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

re Johnson’s perfect option…the half has not been told!

By BLAZER

December 3, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

another a-back redshirted was jon lockhart 4.3 speed

run and shoot and more offensive stuff

installed next year!! GREAT!!!!!!

GO JACKETS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By GT45

December 3, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Just bought my four seats in the end zone (what’s up with that?), anyone else?

By josh

December 3, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

I need tickets but dont want them in the endzone. How could sideline be soldout already. We dont even know who we are going to play.

By DawginLex

December 3, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

RAMBLEON,

Greatest win in 18 years for Tech and what is the reward ?

The freaking chicken bowl.

UGA goes there in rebuilding years.

Tech goes there and has a parade.

See the difference in the programs ?

IDIOT

By DWYER=ACC POY

December 3, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

CPJ = ACC COTY

Dwyer = ACC POTY

oh my!

By Wrecker1

December 3, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Hooray Vince and Gordon, ya’ll get it. I’m just as excited as the next guy about our future but our neighbors at the cesspool should teach us a lesson about expectations. We will only be as strong as our weakest link. Right now that looks like the d-line and as far as I’m concerned football is still won and lost at the LOS. We have some really good skill people coming back, we may have a couple of Fr. o-line that are better than what we have playing now and our LB’s and Db’s should be better next year IF we’re still good up front. (You may see Greg Smith return to WR but he’ll have to block if he wants PT.) That’s one thing I like about this staff - player accountability during the week. I’ll see a kid play a lot one week and not the next but then a couple of weeks later he’s getting a lot of PT. I think there’s no taking off time in practice - you show up and practice hard every day. That always irked me about Tenuta. He stuck with the same 13-14 kids no matter what. Now it’s if you want playing time, earn it and you’ll appreciate it more.

By Elephant Engineer

December 3, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

How long do you think before other teams figure out this “high school offense”?

By Elephant Engineer

December 3, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Hey, DawginLex.

CFA bowl has the first pick after BCS bowls on ACC. And, it has 4th choice in SEC.

See the difference?

IDIOT

By GT45

December 3, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

DIL, We are happy to beat ya’ll, but don’t think it’s our greatest win in 18 years. You don’t need to give yourself that kind of credit. You better get used to it, though! Notice most of the difference makers in that game were from GA? Next year we win by 21!

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

My buddy dawginlex, I must have missed the parade, damn!

According to the math I learned in the 2nd grade. The difference between the two programs is 3 points. Heck, I didn’t even have to break out my pocket protector to figure that one out!!! 45-42=3.

Hey what’s up with Chip Towers over there on the dark side? He said “Darryl Gamble, who suffered a broken fibula from one of those hundreds of cut blocks by Georgia Tech this past Saturday.**

uh, GT only ran 62 plays (at 6.9 yards a clip I might add)…4th grade math there. Can you please explain that outrageous inaccurate statement?

He must have gone to that Journalism School in Clarke County.

By KneeJerk

December 3, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

Dawginlex- difference is expectations entering the year. Ours weren’t that high, yours were and you let everybody know about it. Our program is heading up and yours is going in the opposite direction and your coach won’t do anything about it. Do you really think UGA will be better next year? Florida and Bama, as well as Tech are very young. Most people love getting in the verbal digs on UGA fans because they are usually the biggest talkers. For that reason, people love to see you fail.

By GT76

December 3, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

It’s going to be sweet going to a GREAT New Years Eve bowl and then sitting around on New Years day watching “GT 49 LSU 21” crawl across the screen all day!

Then it will get better when “MICHST 35 UGA 21 starts crawling around 5pm.

By StingerSplash

December 3, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

razerGT,

It took PJ three years to win a NC at Georgia Southern. 10-3 the first year with a loss to Delaware and the coldest I have ever been (went to the game); 14-1 the next year with a loss in the championship game with seven fumbles (the most miserable I have been - went to that game, too). 13-2 the following year with a beatdown of Youngstown in the championship game (and the greatest run in college football history. Check out Adrian Peterson, The Run on youtube.)

By gtguy142000

December 3, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Everyone laugh at DawginLex because he is in fact an idiot. Learn about football and how the bowl selections are made before you diss somebody about them. 45-42 THWG!!!!

By Al

December 3, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know the story on Omoregie Uzzi? He was a highly touted freshmen O lineman that I presumed was redshirted. I am not a tech alumnus but Georgia native that did not go to a football school and have been a Tech fan for almost 20 years and a recent season ticket holder. I am so glad to see the fans energized. The enthusiasm should translate into a Dome full of loud Tech fans and sold out Bobby Dodd next year. Believe me the recruits will be watching December 31. Buy your Chick-fil-a tickets.

By Terry

December 3, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

In 2009 Tech will clearly be the pick to win the ACC and finish in the top 10. With a bowl win they will have achieved what UGA did in 2007. Tech will be a top 10 preseaon team and will face the same presure to meet expectations that UGA had to deal with this year. We’ll have to wait and see how Tech handles the presure. But, congrats Tech on a great year. Your offense is pretty fun to watch.

By son_sir

December 3, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

DRad..Lock in CPJ for a loooong time ! From what I saw in the spring until Nov. 29 has been nothing short of phenomenal. Certainly deserves to be Coach of the Year nationally, but the SEC bias probably means it’ll go to Saban. I’ve done my share of talk with the Dawg fans since Saturday and now to all the Tech fans who weren’t convinced, all I have to say is a big loud, I TOLD YOU SO.
See you all in the Ga Dome New Year’s Eve !

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

I’ll give you credit DawginLex. You come back with your same name instead of a different one like those cowards: ACC Stinks, Yellowblood, Herschel Talker, etc…

For that, you are still on my Xmas card list, even after those mean things you say.

By BobinBuford

December 3, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Terry:

The difference is CPJ vs. CMR. CPJ will NEVER let all the pre-season hype get to this team.

Congrats to #21 - ACC POTY!!!

By JR

December 3, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

RAMBLE ON, I don’t think you missed the parade. It was up and down the field at Sanford stadium last Saturday.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

JR, oh that one. Yea I saw it, but I missed who was the Grand Marshall, Roddy Jones or Paul Johnson?

By Huh?

December 3, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

I fail to see how UGA hyping up their team in the preseason is any different than what Tech fans are doing on this very blog. Tech fans are the biggest hypocrites in all of sports. No lie.

By Observer

December 3, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Where has “ACC Stinks” been hiding? I miss his moronic banter about how inferior the ACC is and how our “high school” offense would get shut down by the might mutts of the vicious SEC.

For those like “ACC Stinks” who persist in slamming our conference as being inferior - here are a few stats to chew on:

BOWL ELIGIBLE TEAMS: ACC – 10 SEC – 8

NUMBER OF TEAMS RANKED IN THE BCS TOP 25: ACC – 4 SEC – 3

SAGARIN CONFERENCE COMPUTER RANKINGS: ACC - #1 BIG 12 - #2 SEC - #3

While we’re at it, don’t forget that the ACC owned the SEC in the head-to-head match ups this year. And as for that “high school” offense, it posted 500 yards and 38 points against the first SEC team on the schedule (Mississippi State) and another 428 yards and 45 points against the mighty mutts. We should consider scheduling SEC teams for ALL of our non-conference games.

Yes, it’s true that our conference championship features two teams with three and four losses respectively – that’s called parity.

I’ll concede that the top two teams in the SEC are better than anything the ACC has to offer this year but from top to bottom the ACC is BY FAR the best conference in the NCAA.

I’m dying to hear the arguments about SEC superiority. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?

By Lane

December 3, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

As a Tech fan growing up, and a Georgia graduate. I must say Paul Johnson is certainly no Charlie Weiss. Tech has hit the jackpot-bigtime!

Weiss is a complete joke.

I am a ND, hater. Remember when Tech won over ND in 1980 - 3/0.

By Carolina Jacket

December 3, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

I think that Uzzi is still with us and if he is and as good as projected, the Oline should be pretty good next year. Much more experience who know the offense.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

December 3, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Lane, that was a 3-3 tie for the 1-9-1 Jackets that year.

The holier than thou fighting Irish arrogantly interviewed CPJ during the Weis process, as a matter of what they consider, courtesy. Hahahehe

I’d never try to speak for the best coach in the country, CPJ., but I think/hope when they come knocking again, because they will. He’ll say, thanks but no thanks, you had your chance.

OK, I’m out, but I forgot to mention our ole fleabag WTF???. He seems to be MIA as well.

By KC Kid

December 3, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

I just bought my bowl tickets on ramblinwreck.com.

All that’s left is upper level end zone. Better get them while you can.

By stings to lose

December 3, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Huh? Welcome back. How did you like that 3rd quarter?

There may be a few hyping fans but most will take a wait and see…except for the dog game. Johnson has much more to fool the dogs next year (and Staff, Mass and reno probably will not be there). So it really looks good at this point.

What you think?

By SEC is so last year

December 3, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

I’m happy we’re in the Georgia Dome for a bowl game but at a ranking of #15, I would rather play a team that is ranked.

By surfrider

December 3, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Great year and awards for the Jackets. Now for the future we need to make sure our defense stays strong too. We’ve lost another LB to injury so we need to keep bringing up the depth and also keep depth coming in the secondary and line. As for offense, once we develop a passing game nothing will stop this offense. It will be Fridge super charged. From this observer if we can develop a short passing game or hit a few a game that may open the longer passes up and the option even more so. Even when Tech ran the wishbone it did’nt appear we had the numbers in the backfield and wr’s that we seem to be having now coupled with the talent. We need substantial depth as this offense proves many play and we need the numbers. Just imagine an offense rushing for 300 to 450 yards per game and passing for 200 to 300 yards per game for a grand total range of what 500 to 750 yards per game. Combine that will great defense and that’s top 10 material.

By ProudTechFan

December 3, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

What an exciting time to be a Jackets fan, and how it must really suck to be a dawg fan. Who would have thought we’d be hear a year removed from the Chan Gailey era, finishing the season 9-3 beating the dawgs between the hedges. And having a great opportunity to finish the season with 10 wins and no lower than a top 10-12 rankings IF we win the bowl game. This is the benefit of staying with the team you love and supporting them no matter what.. After reading about the players we have coming back, especially in the back field, i am very excited. I think the offense might have to pick up the slack of the defense next year.. if the d-line cant quickly find replacements for Walker,Johnson and Richards..

I still think we’ll be ok, the secondary should be better and the linebackers should be better as well.

i still think our number one goal should be to beat UGA and do everything possible to play for a conference championship and see what happens from there.

cant wait til the new years eve, dont really have a preference who we play, the game should be good either way.

GO JACKETS!!!!!!!!!!

By Carolina Jacket

December 3, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

We shouldn’t worry about who we play. We ought to take whoever it is as if they are the number one ranked team in the country. We have a great overall bowl record but it has been slipping a bit lately and we were favored in most of those games.

By NEBRASKA JACKET

December 3, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

i really was very interested in how the offense would progress throughout the year because the high school team i play for runs the same offense and we are MUCH MUCH better at the end of the year after the players have had so many reps.

i mean just imagine 1 play (triple option) that is not only the most difficult play in football but also the greatest single play ever invented in the history of football. i mean it doesnt matter if your facing the baltimore ravens or gardener-webb its 11 on 11 every play so its all with the players.

i mean just think of any offense. lets say just a simple run play. after the QB hands off the ball, he is out of the play and it is 10 on 11. when he drops back to pass its 3 receivers against 4 DBs.

now with the option the you have 9 vs 8 in the box becuz of the QB. the free safety has to be in the position to make the tackle or the QB breaks the 1 on 1 tackle and picks up big yards. the weakside linebacker better get to dwyer and not allow himself to get chopped or dwyer is gone. and the strongside backer better not get even touched or else roddy jones is gone on the pitch.

GO CPJ GO OPTION

By okeefe59

December 3, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

EEEEEAAAAAHHHH I Love IT. I have been reading your comments and I have a distinct feeling that we have found a lot of PRIDE in our Yellow Jackets again.The best is yet to come and yes we can win another National Championship, why not. Go Jackets

By NEBRASKA JACKET

December 3, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

i dont see anyone in our way in the ACC next year does anyone else?

By Charlotte Jacket

December 3, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

We might have flushed out another alias-user. Huh? and m? Separated at birth?

Tech fans are the biggest hypocrites in all of sports. No lie. You left out God and Greyhound, though. And it’s the biggest hypocrites in the history of sports. Be consistent.

Congratulations, Jackets! COY and POY in the #1 conference in the land.

By Tokyo jacket

December 3, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

For those of you worried about the D-line next year, we’ll have Elris starting at DT, Uzzi (best name ever for a D-lineman) at 335 lbs, and Peters and Morgan on the ends. Our D-line next year might actually be better than this year’s when it’s all said and done. MIGHT be.

Also, we’re looking pretty good on O-line with a bunch of redshirt 3-stars as back-ups. I see both lines being a point of strength for Tech for the next three years.

By Great to be a Jacket!

December 3, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

It sure is a great feeling to be a Jacket fan these days, after suffering in prior years. What a load off, to have beaten, no stomped, UM, FSU, and UGA all in the same year. Things looked a little dicey after GW and UVA, but we came out swinging and closed the season with a bang! Great job Jackets!! Way to Go!

By BE#3

December 3, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

Nerds……congrats on the win. Once every 8 years ain’t bad.

Now that the CFA bowl has selected ya’ll, do you think you can actually sell all of your tickets?

By Matt Winkeljohn

December 3, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

I’ll post this once, until I post it again in tomorrow’s blog:

Chik-Fil-A Bowl = Georgia vs. Georgia Tech rematch.

Before you emote, think about it for 60 secs.

It all depends on some other bowls, and possibly some other variables that I’m not considering, but …

UGA would love a chance to redeem (and will travel, attend enthusiastically) …

And Tech, assuming the absence of fear (which perhaps I have detected on other message boards with regards to the prospect of playing LSU), would get a chance to beat the Dogs TWICE in one year. Oh, and Jackets would obviously attend enthusiastically as well).

By SEC is so last year

December 3, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

Great to be, you bring up a good point. I would add UNC. To be at the top, we have to come out every week and win no matter who we play. We are prone to letdown games at Tech - Chan had so many. Paul did have a few too. Can we get past that and have the desire to win every game? I’m not sure. I hope we can.

By Oldbush

December 3, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

First I would like to congratulate Coach J and all the players who have done one outstanding job this year. There were some ups and downs and that was just due to youth and inexperience. Greater things lie ahead as the team matures. I’ve noticed that some say we need to hang onto Coach J and that is true. I do not believe he is the type to go racing off to another school. He is no Bobby Petrino. I think he has found a home at Tech and will build one heck of a program. With the youth and the experience the team has gained this year and with good recruiting Tech is going to be one more powerhouse. I wonder how those players who let because they didn’t like the triple option feel now. They are probably sitting on the bench at some place where they might have never gotten a better chance to play than at Tech. Lets forget the talk of Heisman Trophy winners and concentrate on the team winning the ACC and other championships.

By techie

December 3, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

ga tech….you finally win…..after how many years in a row? What is the series record? The facts tell the story. Who cares about sec/acc. UGA is better and I love how proud you are when you FINALLY win a game. It just goes to show how bad you despise being where you are. HAHAHAHA.

DAWGS!

By GT student

December 3, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

I mean why would we not be happy after beating you. UGA is not better, winning defines who better and we won against you. If you want to look at the past…refer to the amount of Natl titles tech has and how many UGA does not have. Just accept the fact that UGA had its chance to win nat