UGA

By BCD

August 14, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

The only reason I wanted to let King see some PT this season was so we would have two backs next year with PT. As it is, I think KL and TB will flip 1 2 depending on who’s hot that day. My only hope is that Coach will let them stay in long enough to develop a rhythm. The wild card in all of this is will KM overtake them by mid-season to take the #1 spot.

BCD

By Marcus

August 14, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

First!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By A--ville Ranger

August 14, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

The only reason I’m surprised is I seem to remember coach Richt telling Caleb he’d get a fair look as a true freshman.I personally think it’s better for King to redshirt and use the time to acclimate,study,etc.I think CMR should be a man of his word and make a fair evaluation since that was apparently part of the deal in Caleb signing.Of course if Caleb is on board with it that’s a different thing.

By ga dog

August 14, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

this day and age freshman really produce at 18 yrs old even, when you see the dogs losing lumpkin and brown after this year maybe it is better for him to get some playing time. next year its just him and moreno but if his grades need a year with no playing redshirt him. this is a huge question.

By Spanky

August 14, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Chip,…as usual, another great topic!! I think most of us have had this conversation recently, and I would have to completely agree with you on this. Caleb King will be an outstanding break-away running back (especially when our O-Line gets more experience), next year! There was a recent column on DawgPost about an interview with Rashad Jones, and his redshirt year. He admitted that when he got hear, he was selfish, and didn’t know the system. Now he has the right TEAM/me mentality, and he knows the system very well. The same will be said for Caleb,..trust me on that!

Chip,we really appreciate the updates, sir! Good Job!!

By TallyDAWG

August 14, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

TB will continue into the top spot come the first game. You can bet on it.

King should redshirt. Take a look at Moreno. He redshirted and is now causing a lot of talk and has yet to take the field. The same can be said about King come next year after he learns the offense.

By Scott

August 14, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

HEY CHIP, IT’S JUST AMAZING THAT T-BRO IS BEATING OUT LUMPY AND MORENO. I HAD BASICALLY COUNTED HIM OFF SINCE LAST YEAR WHEN THE INJURY OCCURED. HE HAS THE GRIT OF A JUNKYARD DAWG..WAY TO GO T-BRO!!!!!

KEEP THE UPDATES COMING CHIP!

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Do I take that as up to this point, practice has been more of a discover process, and going forward start to become more of a getting ready to play?

By Whop dat trick!

August 14, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

There has been a proposal to allow the players five years of eligibility. That way players can still see the field the first year and be eligible to stay in school for five years and work toward their degree.

By 66mustang

August 14, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Walker run right, Walker run left, Walker run in the middle, white boy punt. H. Walker was a great deal smarter than Caleb King will ever be. Caleb needs to redshirt just to learn the page numbers in the playbook muchless the actual plays.

By Matt

August 14, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

How do you know Richt did not give him a fair look? Sounds like he did to me. This guy had redshirt written all over him from day one. Big injury in his senior year. Academic troubles. 3 guys ahead of him on the depth chart. You’re in la la land if you thought King would be able to meaningfully contribute this year. With a redshirt we’ve got this guy for an extra year. I see no problem with that.

Some of you guys need to stop looking for the next great thing and be happy with what we’ve got. Lumpkin and Brown are solid veterans who will be a huge asset for us this year.

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

A-ville, isnt getting reps in practice to see if he can overtake the more advanced guys ahead of him “getting a fair look”?

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Spanky, did you have to leave Amber in the old office?

By TybeeDawg

August 14, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Chip, Is Moreno getting any reps with the the number 1’s? And how is his blocking, blitz pickup, etc?

By Mark

August 14, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Red Shirting Caleb is the smart thing to do. There is too much talent and too fews carries already with Brown, Lumpkin and Moreno. If we can’t get an extremely effective running game with those three guys back there we have bigger problems.

By Dorsey Hill

August 14, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

No surprise on King. I’m sure that Coach told Caleb that he would play the best players, period. I would be shocked if anyone thought he was better at this point in time than 2 seniors and Knowshon. So I don’t think a redshirt means that the kid was fooled, it just means he isn’t all that, yet. He will plenty of carries next year as TB and Lump move on.

As far as the starting spot, everybody knows that Lump is the best pure runner we have, but the coaches have always preferred Brown because of his toughness, his tremendous work ethic and ability to pick up blitzes. That third quality is going to be huge this year and especially early. People are going to try everything against our line until we can show how we handle it. TB gives us the best shot at handling a free blitzer and thus making sure that Stafford doesn’t go down.

If Brown is productive (4 yards + per carry) he won’t get moved off #1, if for nothing else to give Lump and Moreno some incentive to be better blockers. If TB is getting less than 3 a clip like last year, he’ll get the hook and we’ll just have to hope the other guys don’t let someone take Stafford’s head off.

By 2007

August 14, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

I’m glad we are not wasting a year of King’s on Special Teams (see C.J. Byrd and AJ Bryant). I really don’t like what you said about Thomas Brown being listed as the number one. It seems our coaches are a little high on his work ethic instead of on field performance. He has gotten worse every year (see YPC), and personally I don’t believe he can be 100% healthy. But I think the main reason I don’t like it is a little bit of selfishness, and this is because to me Lumpkin/Moreno look a lot like Brown/Williams at Auburn in 04 with the power/speed combo. Give Lump the ball at least 18 times a game and throw Moreno in as the change of pace, and open field guy

By BlueMoon

August 14, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

So Chip- Why is it stupid that fans would want to have 2 RB’s with experience to start next year instead of just one?

By BullDawg Rick

August 14, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

007.. The YPC can be attributed to the O-Line..

Am hoping that the line can get creases for any of the backs, regardless of the rotation.. They are that good. Remember, Southerland will be chipping at the line too..

King will be a better RB & student with a ‘shirt season under his belt..

Chip… What I really want to hear about is the health of the oline & the many high ankle sprains.. And the “heat realted” problems.. Are we in good shape? or is it really the weather?? OK State is practicing in the same heat wave.. No Boise St to intimidate with the weather..

By Bryan G.

August 14, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

I definintely agree with King redshirting. I was at the scrimmage Saturday and the one time he got room he ran well. He also popped Kade Weston picking up the blitz once. However, with 3 blue chippers in front of him, red-shirting him is the best option.

Also, don’t forget…King is coming off an injury from last fall.

By BullDawg Rick

August 14, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

007.. The YPC can be attributed to the O-Line..

Am hoping that the line can get creases for any of the backs, regardless of the rotation.. They are that good. Remember, Southerland will be chipping at the line too..

King will be a better RB & student with a ‘shirt season under his belt..

Chip… What I really want to hear about is the health of the oline & the many high ankle sprains.. And the “heat realted” problems.. Are we in good shape? or is it really the weather?? OK State is practicing in the same heat wave.. No Boise St to intimidate with the weather..

By SeattleDawg

August 14, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

I also agree with redshirting King. And I appreciate CMR and Bobo’s commitment to playing TB’s based on how they block as well as how they run—skills that take longer to learn, coach, and execute. I’m reading similar issues about the competition for TE—how are they blocking rather than how are they catching and running pass routes.

By scooter11

August 14, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

There will be no second-coming of Herschel - ever.

By Tim

August 14, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

So the Kiante move to OL is due to the injuries. Any chance of it becoming permanent? After the big OL recruiting class, who would have thought we would be down to 8 OL.

By Spanky

August 14, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg…Haa!I almost forgot about her! She actually left HP about one month before I did, for a management position at Equifax. I still have her cell number, so if you want a “hello” passed on, I can annoy her like I did when I shared a cube with her!…Dare me? Also, you’ve had some really good posts! Keep’em coming!

By anotherdawg

August 14, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Wow! Everybody just goes crazy just because Coach Ball said he would probably redshirt. Maybe he will, maybe he won’t. Could be Coach Ball is challenging him. I remember Coach Richt doubting that Thomas Brown would be able to play this year. Personally, I think we’ll see a rotation similar to last year with Brown, Lumpkin, and now Moreno instead of Ware. Biggest difference is Bobo is going to stay with the hot one longer. But, I’m sure the UGA staff will do what they feel is in the best interest of the team and the player. They have plenty of time, and things can change, injuries, etc.

By Actuarydawg

August 14, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Just to play devil’s advocate here, I’m not sure redshirting King will give him an extra year with the dawgs. I don’t know him and don’t want to disparage him, but I get the impression that academics have not been the priority in his life. He seems like a player that may take his shot at the NFL before using up his entire eligibility. You redshirt him this year and you may see him bolt for the Sunday league after his redshirt sophomore year. You play him this year and he doesn’t leave until after his junior year. Granted he would not contribute very much this year being buried on the depth chart, but you’d get him some experience and some special team work. Either way he’s probably gone after the 2009 season.

By godawg

August 14, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Caleb needs to redshirt for the same reason Knowshon did, he needs to learn to block in the backfield. CMR said he didn’t play Moreno last year because the QB would have gotten killed. A year to concentrate on school would help him too.

By Chip Towers

August 14, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

PRACTICE UPDATES

As you may have already seen from the “news burst” we posted as soon as we saw it, Kiante Tripp has been moved to the offensive line from defensive end. The move was necessitated by several minor injuries to O-line in the last week. Two starters — RT Chester Adams (ankle) and,RG Scott Havercamp (ankle) — are among five linemen are currently sidelined with injuries. Tripp, a two-way player at Westlake High, was running third string on the defense. Not sure what position he’ll play on the o-line but we’ll update with more information as soon as it becomes available.

CB Bryan Evans (hamstring) remains in green but was running sprints full out across the practice fields.

In fact, there were a lot of folks in the green-non-contact jerseys. Among them: Ricardo Crawford, Thomas Flowers and, of course, O-linemen Chris Little, Josh Davis, Tanner Strickland. However, all but Strickland and Adams were participating in drills.

Clearly the focus in practice has turned to the Oklahoma State gameplan… .

Andy Bailey and Bo Stansell were splitting kickoffs with the No. 1 unit. Of course, they’ve been moved back to the 30 this year. I saw neither reach the end zone though Bailey seemed to reach the 5 consistently.

Also, recently elected Congressman Paul Broun visited practice. How he was able to handle the heat in a blue blazer and tie is beyond me.

That’s all for now. More later.

By SeattleDawg

August 14, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I have faith in CMR and his staff to add emphasis to the prioritization of academics for King and the many other players they recruit that didn’t necessarily devote much time or attention to schoolwork before college. It’s premature and unfair to speculate that King isn’t able or willing to stick it out in school for more than 3 years.

By 2N4YEARS

August 14, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

What I’ve gotton out of all of the ‘bits & pieces’ of articles I’ve read is this: 1)T Brown may start, and if he does it’s because of his blocking —being able to read D-Fences better than the others. 2) K Lumpkin may go into that 1st game #2, but mainly I think Tony Ball hinted at this because he wants Lumpkin to practice harder & block better. 3) K Moreno may go in as the #3 RB, but once they start running the ball enough I think he’ll do well enough that they’ll have a hard time not playing him more. My prediction is if he plays mistake-free ball he’ll be starting by the 3rd game. 4) Unless someone gets hurt C King will most likely red-shirt, or unless the coaches feel that he can contribute on special teams.

By A--ville Ranger

August 14, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg Yes if it’s done in good faith.I’m going back to conversations in recent weeks where the tone was of it being a foregone conclusion.It’s not you or me who needs to know he got a fair look.It’s Caleb and other recruits who will judge CMR’s word.

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Bryan G, been a while.

Blue moon, I guess the idea is, for him to get substantial PT would be one thing, but to do that we have to take out better qualified player this year, which isnt a good idea if you are trying to win this year. To simply play him sparingly, prabably does not accomplish a whole lot more than just what he would pick up during the year anyway. Its not like they RS a guy and never teach him anything, he is still on the team, still practicing. No doubt, actualy playing in a live game has its own learning curve, but pretty short. Wasting a year of eligibility so that he might be marginally more confortable for a couple of games next year doesnt seem like a fair trade.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

NO!!! Why does no one learn from history? Thomas Brown is NOT and everydown back. Does anyone remember last year? He could never get past the LBs. He didn’t break any tackles on first contact. People are so impressed that he’s the “strongest” guy “pound-for-pound.” That’s a WORTHLESS statistic. So what? He’s strong for his weight. That means nothing when he can’t break the arm tackles of stronger, heavier LBs and d-linemen.

At least, Lumpkin should start.

But honestly, the most talented back in the whole backfield is MORENO!!!

He’s got the breakaway speed and hands of Brown, which Lumpkin lacks. He can break a 60 yard touchdown up the tackles, or by getting a pass in the flats.

But unlike Brown, he can break through intitial contact like Lumpkin. He’s strong. He’s not being brought down by freaking ARM TACKLES!!!

Brown looked bad last year as the starting back. He’s a change of pace guy, that’s it!

And I’m sick and tired of people talking about protection and Moreno not being better than Brown in protection. Well, I have a really EASY solution to all of that: PLAY MORE FREAKING I-FORMATION!!!

This also ensures that one of the best players on the whole team is getting far more snaps than last year. Yes, I’m talking about everyone’s favorite bulldozer, Southerland.

Why does this team consistantly NOT start it’s best players? People wonder why we can’t get over the hump in some games. Idiots keep on wondering the same things about the Braves, too. Could it be that Andruw Jones was hitting clean-up all year when he should have been hitting 7th or 8th, or maybe should have been benched for better hitters? The is the SAME DAMN THING!!!

So what if Thomas Brown is a senior? Guess who else was a senior: JoeTIII. How stupid was that decision, going with seniority over better talent?

For once, I’d like to see my team embrace great talent and put them out there. Moreno has the ability to do something that no Georgia back since Robert Edwards did: be a great back that defenses fear because at ANY moment, he can take it 80 yards to the house.

Thomas Brown may have that speed, but he’s not making it through the LBs or the safeties unless there’s a breakdown in the defense. Moreno can break through the layers of the defense. This should be a really simple decision.

By Ray Goff

August 14, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Honestly, I don’t think King redshirting will make a difference. He’ll just be one more Bulldog that helped bolster UGA’s recruiting ranking, but was part of a mediocre program once he put the pads on. Go Dawgs.

By 2N4YEARS

August 14, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

I thought Andy Bailey was a senior last year, his last year being ‘06. Are you sure it was Andy Bailey??

By Chip Towers

August 14, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

2N4, like it or not, Bailey is back.

By Odawg

August 14, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Caleb should redshirt. Remember that T. Brown, K. Lumpkin, and J. Johnson will all be graduating after this season, which will leave the dawgs with 1 experienced tailback at the end of the season (if Caleb redshirts). UGA has only one player committed at tailback (R. Samuel) at this time. REMEMBER, KM keeps getting all this hype, but we have yet to see him play against anybody. Let’s wait and have this conversation about 4-6 weeks into the season and see how KM is doing…

By Odawg

August 14, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Let’s let T. Ball and Coach Richt decide if he redshirts or not. Besides, we have 3 great backs in TB, KL, and KM. Don’t forget about B. Southerland either. Until the season starts, tt’s all just heresay anyway.

18 days ladies and gents

GO DAWGS!!!

By Odawg

August 14, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Let’s let T. Ball and Coach Richt decide if he redshirts or not. Besides, we have 3 great backs in TB, KL, and KM. Don’t forget about B. Southerland either. Until the season starts, it’s all just heresay anyway.

18 days ladies and gents

GO DAWGS!!!

By Coyote

August 14, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Much ado about nothing, as usual. Caleb knew when he signed that there would be 2 senior RBs ahead of him and a talented RS freshman waiting in the wings. He can play sparingly this year in a reserve and special teams role or redshirt. It really doesn’t matter. Starting next year, he’ll be one of the two featured backs along with Moreno and he’ll have 3-4 years of eligibility left to show what he can do. It’s just not a big deal and to even put an option like “I knew he was overhyped” in an online poll question is classless, sensationalistic journalism by the AJC….AGAIN!!! You people really have no shame.

By DawgByte

August 14, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan I’m with you. Nobody seems to be able to read the Tea Leaves. Ain’t no effing way Thomas Brown is an everyday 20+ carries per game running back. Muscles are great and the chicks dig’em, but they don’t make you a Reggie Bush.

I’ve been saying it since the G-Day game and I said it on another Tower blog this morning. MORENO will be starter by the 4th game, because he’ll clearly separate himself from the rest of the pack. Put it in the bank and cash the check.

Reshirt King… starting next season it will be Moreno, King and Samuel pushing each other to new heights.

By Grown man

August 14, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Mark Richt, oh, excuse me girls, CMR, seems to be in love with Thomas Brown and I don’t really know why. Lump and Moreno are the studs. Redshirting King seems like the best thing to do, because he’s not Herschel II.

By Buck in the NW

August 14, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

So I’m in the minority I still think CK could be a very useful and productive back in ‘07. Chip, I know where you stand but Coach Ball made some very interesting statements yesterday. Was it just a slip of the tongue when he said that “if we had to throw, T. Brown would be the stater. He also said that CK is doing pretty good with what he’s suppose to do. Ball also said that the decision wouldn’t be made for sometime later as to RS King. T. Brown may have impressed everybody else but I agree with nascarfan. How anyone can say that a RS year helps a kid learn how to play is beyond me. Grade wise maybe but CMR has said repeatedly that Moreno and other RSs have to learn how to play the game. Caleb Kings attitude is in the right place. He’s said that he wanted to play but if the coaches decide to “Shirt” him he’ll be OK with their decision. So if they do what Coach Ball said yesterday, that is it’ll be several games into the season before the final decision is made, then I don’t think that’s fair to King at all but if you want to have your cake and eat to then that’s the way to go. CHIP, CAN YOU TELL US WHO’S GETTING THE REPS WITH THE 1 UNIT. IS IT A SPLIT OR IS T.BROWN OR JUST HOW ARE THEY WORKING IT OUT? THANKS.

By Tennille Dawg

August 14, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

I agree with Actuarydawg - CK will not be in Athens for the long haul anyway. To Redshirt or not to Redshirt might not be quite as big a deal as we think. And guys, please don’t overlook Lump in this thing. I really believe he shows us all this year what we’ve been hoping for out of him for a long, long time. Ain’t it great to be a Georgia Bulldawg!!

By Big Dawg

August 14, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Chip,

Great job as usual but I have to respectfully disagree with my fellow Dawgs on Thomas Brown. As Nascar stated in his post, Brown has been a liability because he doesn’t either make the first guy miss, run through or over them and hasn’t shown an ability to break arm tackles. IMO, which BTW several of the other assistant coaches agree with me on, Coach Ball is in awe of Thomas Brown and his great attitude and work effort and because of this it has clouded his judgement. Moreno is far and away the best RB we have and he has proved it on the practice field and in scrimmages. BTW his blocking ability is a lot better than any of you know.

As for Caleb King redshirting I will bow to Coach Bobo and Coach Richt on this.

By sobedawg

August 14, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

Redshirt King if the others perform well (and stay uninjured) the 1st 3 games…then King can start with A.J. Green next year…SobeDawg

By Buck in the NW

August 14, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

S

SI.COM RATES THE DAWGS #19TH IN THE COUNTRY PRESEASON.

I

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

I’m with you guys, I just don’t get Coach Richt’s love affair with Thomas Brown.

HE’S NOT WARRICK DUNN, COACH!!!

Warrick Dunn, whom you turned into the most feared weapon in college football, was a back who was not only fast, but he could break more than one arm tackle (he could break many, in fact, including some full tackles) and break through the second level of defense.

Thomas Brown PROVED last year that he’s not this kind of back. His numbers before the injury stunk. He was getting taken down behind the line. He was getting tripped up and couldn’t break the arm tackles of LBs and safeties.

WHY are we going to have to endure yet ANOTHER couple of game with him carrying the load? The first two game are PARAMOUNT!!! We have to win them both against opponents who are going to throw the kitchen sink at us. Coach, you should want the best players on the field. Moreno is the BEST running back we have.

Once again, if protection is a problem, run the I-formation or other two back sets with Southerland back there to pick up the blitz.

I just don’t get this. This is freaking JoeTII ALL OVER AGAIN!!!!

This is why Coach Richt can be so frustrating!!! It’s like he’s taking a page out of the Bobby Cox school of choking on how to ride your loyalty to players with seniority over players with far better talent!

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 14, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

As I have said it made no sense to play CK this season if he was oly going to get 50-70 carries this season. We have to much exp. in the backfield to waste his talent. Great move in sitting him. I am all for 2009 when you have Stafford, Moreno/CK and AJ Green as the 3 headed monster that the rest of the SEC has to contend with.

By 2007

August 14, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

Whats wrong with having a feature Back? Remember are best year since some guy that wore #34? Yeah we used a feature Back in 02 with Musa. Redshirting King is crucial I hate players having a year wasted because of special teams. Southern Cal plays their best players no matter what grade, Boston plays its best hitters no matter what, Ricky Williams still got the ball even when Ronnie Brown was the number 2 pick. You play your best talent! I think I need to change my name to DawgFansagainstChrisWoodward

By 2007

August 14, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

Whats wrong with having a feature Back? Remember our best year since some guy that wore #34? Yeah we used a feature Back in 02 with Musa. Redshirting King is crucial I hate players having a year wasted because of special teams. Southern Cal plays their best players no matter what grade, Boston plays its best hitters no matter what, Ricky Williams still got the ball even when Ronnie Brown was the number 2 pick. You play your best talent! I think I need to change my name to DawgFansagainstChrisWoodward

By P-Dawg in Tulsa

August 14, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

Not sure how everybody seems to know that Moreno is the best back? Where is that info coming from? IMO Brown and Lump are both great backs. Our running game along with our season relies on the O-line. If King or Moreno are the next coming of Walker, by all means put them on the feild.

Chip, any chance we could get an injury chart? Something like a grid with player/position, injury, normal recovery times, and any stated comment from trainers. Kind of a snapshot of the team injuries that could be updated until the end of the season.

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

Do we really think that CK would be the first player in history to actually leave after his RS soph. year? OK I may be missing somebody in that list But its pretty unlikely anyway. I would hate to see the stafff make a decition based on speculation about some extremely remote possibility. Its like speeding to get home bofore you run out of gas. If he would leave early (after three) all the more reason to RS and have those years be the most productive they can be.

By Dorsey Hill

August 14, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan:

Once again you are an idiot. Think it about it (if you are capable). Do you think that the Coaches simply look at Lump and Moreno who are busting their humps and say that they are playing Brown without at least some reasonable explanation other than favoritism? Don’t you think they sit down with them and tell them why they are going with a particular order and what they have to do to improve their spot? Don’t you think that the coaches would want to have some credibility with their players so that the players don’t feel slighted and get bad attitudes? If they simply looked at Lump last year and said “TB is starting” and Lump said “why?” and they said “shut up” do you think he would have come back?

I think this coaching staff goes with who they think gives the team the best chance to win, period. That does not necessarily mean the most talented. If it was based on talent alone Stafford who have arrived in the Spring of 06 with the #1 job.

I am sure that the coaches remember what TB didn’t do last year. If you and I do, don’t you think they do to? Or are you just so much smarter than everyone else that you think you are the only one with a memory?

Maybe they think there was some other factor that limited his production or maybe he is such a “practice king” that they get comfortable that he can be productive. Who knows?

For all we know, Coach Ball put that out there to light a fire under Lump and Moreno because he didn’t like their effort. Again, you act like your Bear F-ing Bryant but instead of standing on a sideline coaching National Champions you are sitting somewhere typing stuff you know nothing about.

Get over yourself, please.

By shane

August 14, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

nascar fan,how many games have you seen moreno play in? i wonder how you know he is the best runing back? i say let them win the starting slot in these scrimages. make them compete and let the best man win. as for red-shirting king,that is up to the coaches.they know who is prepared and who is not. if he isn’t ready,then why throw him to the wolves. why put a blue chip recruit out there against these sec defences that doesn’t know what he is doing? do you want to get the kid hurt in his first season? if he is ready and better than the three in front of him play him,if he is not,red shirt! put him on the scout team. let him learn the plays,adjust to the speed of these guys,and let him hit the weight room and get bigger and stronger. coach for the long run,not the short run. remember,he has only been in college for a few weeks. the problem with brown,according to dicht,is a lack of patience,not waiting for his blockers,sticking his nose in there before the hole opens. maybe some of you should learn a little yourselves.

By Buck in the NW

August 14, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

I’m beginning to think that maybe CK is/was a little overated. Just a guess but listening to the Coach(Ball) and having no idea what he means when talking about the subject I guess time will tell.

Still sticking to my projection that 10 true freshmen will play in ‘07.

By Chip Towers

August 14, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

Here’s some more on the move of Tripp, who will play OT:

Athens — Georgia coach Mark Richt walked Kiante Tripp from his second-floor office down to the offensive line’s meeting room on Tuesday and introduced him to the players therein as one of their own.

“They started cheering,” Richt said of the offensive linemen. “They know they need some help.”

Down to eight scholarship offensive linemen because of injuries in preseason camp, the Bulldogs reached over to the defense and plucked away Tripp, a 6-foot-6, 272-pound redshirt freshman from Atlanta who has been playing defensive end since coming to Georgia as a two-sport star from Westlake High. Tripp turned in his number 94 jersey and is now wearing 64.

And Richt made it clear: He expects the move to be permanent and he thinks it’s a big deal.

“It changes the whole complexion of our offensive line,” Richt said. “It’s like getting a commitment from a top two or three offensive lineman in the country.”

Richt said Tripp, who will be playing right tackle, scrimmaged some with the No. 1 and No. 2 offensive units Tuesday afternoon. He added that Tripp should be ready to play by the season opener Sept. 1 against Oklahoma State.

“He didn’t do anything just right [Tuesday] but it was amazing to watch him,” Richt said. “He’s very athletic and has the kind of body-type you’re looking for. He might not win the starting job but he should be able to hold up.”

Tripp was not made available for comment because Tuesday was earmarked as a day for interviewing defensive players and coaches.

Richt said the decision to move Tripp to offense was first initiated by line coach Stacy Searels, who was “playfully tossing carrots in front of Kiante.” In the end, it was made because “we have a lot of depth at defensive end and very little at [offensive] tackle” and because Tripp agreed to it.

“We’ve always had the policy that nobody has to [change position] unless he wants to,” Richt said. “I’m glad he has the right attitude about it and was willing to move.”

The big question when Georgia signed Tripp was on which side of the ball would he play. He was rated the No. 1 two-way lineman in the South by Scout.com in 2005.

It is the second time in as many seasons the Bulldogs had to turn to the defense to bolster depth on the offensive line. Last year, Dale Dixson[cq] begrudgingly moved to guard from defensive tackle. However, he moved back to defense only a few days later.

“That was different,” Richt said. “Dale moved because it was what he thought we wanted him to do but his heart wasn’t really in it.. I met with Kiante and made sure his heart was in the right place and it was.”

Another note:

Two-more Georgia players saw their status elevated on Tuesday. Richt rewarded senior safety Drew Williams of Blairsville and senior linebacker Chris Gaunder of Ackworth with scholarships. Both have been career walk-ons that have contributed significantly on specials teams and as scout-team players.

“It’s exciting for them I’m sure and very well-deserved,” Richt said. “I’m just happy we’ve been able to help three young men who have been busting their butts for us.”

Earlier this month Richt awarded snapper Jeff Henson with a scholarship.

By Palmetto State Dawg

August 14, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

Chip, I’m still bothered by our situation at O’line. I cannot believe that a top SEC program like GA might have to start 2 true freshman on the O’line. To me, that is absurd. Those young guys will get eatin alive. I live over here in Columbia, and the Gamecocks have got some hosses on the defensive line. Spurrier is pretty high on his D-line this year. If Adams & Haverkamp aren’t ready to go then it’s not gonna be pretty. GA should never have this O’line depth issue. I’ve been watching college football for a long time now, and I have never seen depth problems this bad at a major school. I’m one worried Dawg fan right now.

By johnny

August 14, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

Knowshon is the best back. If he is not starting by the 3rd or 4th game, I will be shocked.

The kid is a stud. Pure and simple. I think he will be one of the top TBs in the country when he gets a chance to play.

By dawg17

August 14, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan: I agree with you to an extent. I believe KM will be the best back we have. I also think that Lump is the best currently. And am not a big fan of Brown. Oh just for the sake of the thread red-shirt King. But I will like to see KM in a game before I make such bold predictions.

Dorsey: nascar is in no way and idiot. He knows what he is talking about. You are right about the coaches, however sometimes the get blind. There is a difference between a game player and a practice player. This is on all levels Pro, college, high school, etc… And the main difference here is TB is doing what he needs to in practice for them to believe in him. Where Lump has more of an effect in the game. This is where they get blinded, they see TB productive in practices but it just never seems to carry over to the game. Where the opposite is for Lump, productive in the game(maybe not the yard and the blocking all the time) but his leadership.

This is also why I am not yet ready to declare Moreno the best yet. He has produced very well in all practice situations, but have yet to see him on the field. Now if he comes in in the first two games and has a combined total of 200+ yards and 2 touchdowns then he should be the only one playing. Then we let Southerland do all the blocking!

By cdawg

August 14, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

I agree with Shane and Dorsey Hill…Nascarfan…KM has never played a down and yet you have him winning the job by game 4…I beg to differ it wont happen(NEVER AND I MEAN NEVER)..but i do love your passion you are just far off base on this one..But he will be your starte in 08

By I-DOG

August 14, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

BCD:

I completely agree with you.

The coaches can best determine redshirt and playing time and I trust them.

I just believe that NEXT year the Dawgs could be truly great. Don’t get me wrong, the dawgs will be in every game we play THIS year (as usual), but next year’s team should be Richt’s BEST since he got here.

Stafford as a Junior, Mo Mass as a Senior with plenty of depth at WR. An OL that returns all but two players will be talented, experienced, and deep. TE’s will be Chandler, Figgins, and Ward (the more experienced version of this trio, wow)

As you pointed out, we will only have Moreno as an experienced player and I think that is something the coaches should (and probabably are considering)

Is it worth burning a year to get your backup RB ready in what could be a truly special year? That is the question.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 14, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

How does anyone know that he(Moreno) is the best back? I was at the spring game when he certainly was impressive, but have we already forgotten what Lumpkin has meant to this program? How about 2005 against Purdue? Kregg Lumpkin is battle tested and with enough carries(20) will get the job done. Anyone saying that Moreno is the one is the type of fan who pulls for the backup quarterback. Stop the craziness and please allow Lumpkin to enjoy his SENIOR year as our starting tailback. We at least owe Lumpkin that much!

By Dorsey Hill

August 14, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Dawg17,

To the extent Nascarfan excludes all possibilities except his own perceived genuis, he is an idoit. Anyone who acts like they KNOW better than the coaches and don’t even for a moment suggest that maybe they aren’t exactly in the loop, is an idiot.

Like I’ve said before, we all have “opinions.” But they are just that. They are rational guesses based on limited information. I don’t doubt that Nascarfan or any of us with a rudimentiary understanding of football could come up with reasonable, rational opinions based on the little we know of what is going on. My problem isn’t that Nascarfan has opinions. The problem I have is that he doesn’t even for a second consider that he might well be full of it.

For example, I am biased toward the running game. I think that we should run more often than we do. Why do I think that? Probably because I grew up with Herschel and saw how a running game can control a game and win championships. However, if I’m to be honest with myself, can I sit here and say that Richt would have won more than 61 out of 78, 3 SEC East Titles and 2 SEC Titles if he followed my suggestion and ran more? No I can’t because I may well be talking out my butt.

If you ask Nascarfan the same question, you get the impression that he thinks we’d never lose a game if Richt would just take the time to listen to his great wisdom. This is why he is an idiot.

Perhaps it is fun to sit around and think that you are simply a superior football intellect in comparison with our coaches. My suggestion for such a person is to get some coaching shorts and go to it and lets see how you fair. Otherwise, have a little humility about yourself.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Hey Dorsey, anytime you want to reprise your roll as “The Gimp” from Pulp Fiction, I have a nice cramped steamer trunk I can put you in.

Dude, once again, you’re wrong, and I can’t believe just HOW wrong you are.

It’s like you don’t even watch the games, do you? I mean, you obviously have no clue about Thomas Brown’s history as a running back at this school. dawg17 is absolutely correct. Brown is a practice hero, and NONE of that has transfered to the field. Three years ago he did very well as the change of pace back, the guy who came in to catch the defense off guard. As a starter, the guy to handle the load, he was a 2 yard back at best.

But this is Coach Richt’s biggest flaw. Dude, you seriously need to get an handle here. Maybe, I think, that you’re projecting some of your own insecurities on this situation.

You obviously don’t approve of criticism in any form. Did someone get criticized a lot when he was a wittle boy? Does mommy still tell you you’re worthless? Does you S&M boyfriend whip you too much when you’re wearing the gag ball, Gimp?

Dude, get over it. I obviously know a hell of a lot more football then you do and if you can’t take someone like me criticizing the coaching staff, then you have some major problems that go beyond your bed wetting issue.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Dorsey, you’re full of it.

Once again, I think you have some heavy issues with projection, because if I believed I could coach college football, I would.

But, you inbelievable idiot, I’m unafraid to criticize where criticism is warrented.

Coach’s love affair with Thomas Brown is warranting of criticism from a LOGICAL standpoint based upon Brown’s HISTORY when given the chance to be “The Guy.”

Dude, seriously, get a grip. You don’t know me from Adam.

By Mike

August 14, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

All of these armchair coaches on here.. Is there NO pleasing you? I have FULL faith in CMR and the staff to continue the GREAT job of doing exactly what they have been doing since they arrived… Bringing in the talent and producing Championships… I think CMR got this… a redshirt for CK is both whats BEST for him and MORE importantly the team…I believe CK is one of those kind of backs that get better the more carries he gets in a game and that AINT gonna happen this year with 3 other backs in front of him…to play him this year with VERY limited carries/game would be to waste a year of his eligibility…it would be TOTALLY different if it were like our QB situation last season where they ALL were within a year of each other but you have 3 senior RB and one r-shirt freshman he would be competing with…and to prep him for next year now is not the answer either… we should not even be thinking about next year until with the team we have now…in regards to TB..if he is indeed the starter in 18 days from now the he needs 92,000 strong behind him and not people upset that they think he is not the best back for the job .. if CMR and T Ball believes he is the best to start then who are we to 2nd guess them ? Count the rings and the wins since CMR has been here..need we have to relive the previous teams under previous coaches? Bottom line is simple..THIS year is just not a good year for CK to have any significant amout of carries to TRULY be evaluated fairly due to the amout of talent in front of him..and people THAT is a good thing for ALL involved!

By McDonoughDawg

August 14, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Remember, Richt isn’t looking for running specialists. He prefers guys that can block first, and get to the sidelines quick so they can get a breather between subbing in and out of the game. This last little feature also keeps a back out of the “groove”. It’s all about Chicanery to Richt.

I’m sincerely hoping Bobo puts a change to this practice, but time will tell.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 14, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan,

Its over. Just go ahead and do us all a favor and end it. You know you want to. Come on! Please….

Sound familiar? Because of comments like those people do not like your crap. You comments while sometimes insightful lose there meaning when you bring S&M into and someones sexuality. Who cares. If they are a Dawg fan I could care less what they do behind closed doors. You my friend are an idiot. Get over your perceived moral superiority and “supreme” football knowledge and do us all a favor and leave.

I may have poor grammar and may mispell a word here and “there”, but I cannot stand to see people use the vail of a computer to act like they have “a pair”. Where I grew up we didn’t sing it, we brought it. And you my friend need to learn the difference.

By animaldr

August 14, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

I am very concerned about the OL. I have been very optimistic about the season until that 1st scrimmage and mounting injuries. K. Tripp maybe just what the doctor ordered. I sure hope so…

I hate to see Dawg fans give T. Brown a hard time. The kid is solid and plays a tough game. I know he had a rough 1/2 season last year but his career numbers are very respectable. I can see why CMR likes him on the field. That said- it would be hard to start him after the numbers K. Moreno had in the scrimmage and the way Lumpkin finished the year.

I don’t care which back it is- I am ready to see one of the 3 breakout! Give King a shot next year.

By I-DOG

August 14, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Dorsey,

Well thought out post. Think your right.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Mike, the LAST time that Coach Richt and Coach Ball thought Thomas Brown was the guy…

… WEREN’T THEY WRONG THEN????

Why do some people REFUSE to approach critical thinking situations without a shred of LOGIC???!!!

Simply amazing.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Lowcountry, stay to your own affairs. I’m not hiding behind anything, but I do take umbridge with people, like Dorsey, who claim to know me and who I am.

I have no problem with criticism. But Dorsey here isn’t a very logical thinker. He just comes from the line that no one should criticize the coaches.

There’s no logic in that line of thinking and points to poor critical thinking skills.

Dude, I could care less if you live in a trailer with five cars on blocks amidst the crab grass in your ront yard. Who cares if you misspell, or if your grammar is crap (unless you choose to point out those flaws in others).

Once again, there is seemingly a group of fans on these boards who believe that coaches should never be criticized, performance or past history be damned.

Okay, fine, I have no problem with that. What I do have a problem with is some idiot like Dorsey attacking ME when I’ve never attacked him. Ask Altamaha, Buck, and others on this board, Lowcountry, I have no beef with anyone, and even if I disagree with someone, there’s never any bad blood.

Of course, none of the guys like Altamaha, Buck, or the rest have seen fit to attack me for my opinions because I don’t attack them

So, Lowcountry, Dorsey was the one who started this BS, and I tried to end it yesterday by explaining to him I don’t have a beef with him no matter how wrong I think he is.

But that incredible idiot couldn’t let bygones by bygones, and he attacks me AGAIN!!!

Obviously, he’s obsessed. So I attack back. I gave him the chance to let bygones be bygones, Lowcountry, and I’ll give you the same chance. I have no beef with you or those with differing opinions. I only attack Bugs, Gators, and the other flamers who troll on the blog of a team they hate to spread their BS.

But don’t be a low-class jack@$$ and attack me because my opinions aren’t your opinions.

So give it a rest, Lowcountry.

By JB

August 14, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Redshirting Caleb King is a horrible idea. You can not go into next season with just 1 scholly rb with some playing experience. Chip Towers is dead wrong.

By Mike

August 14, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Nascar..until you can understand what it is we are saying then there really is NO point discussing this with you.. we LOVE your passion…that shows you give a damn about the team..but what you are not seeming to get is that you AINT the coach…you are not with these young men through every practice, position meetings, knowledge of the game, etc.,..you JUST see them on gameday…its SOOOO much more than that when it comes to deciding who starts…I will admit that I believe Lump is a better pure runner who should get more carries but there is DEFINITELY a better reason that loyalty to a player thats keeping him from starting…it truly may be ‘head games’ played by T Ball to get him to perform better but by the time someone is a senior do they REALLY needed to have ‘head games’ played with them to get them to perform better? I hope you take this the right way and realise that its GREAT to be passionate about something and even feel free to criticize the coaching but do it for the RIGHT reasons … do we win the 2005 SEC Championship without TB?

By honest_abe

August 14, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

a couple of quick thoughts. coaches usually tend to start players who do well in practice. t.b. has been known to be a practice stud… if he’s being considered for the #1 spot, then he must be blowing people away in practice.

t.b. has some great ability but i think his biggest problem has always been his lack of patience. he’s usually trying to force something without giving his line a chance to open a hole…

but IF he can parlay what he does in practice to game day, t.b. has 1st team all sec potential.

By Vince

August 14, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

I’m very excited about the move of Kiante Tripp to offense. I think he’ll be a major contributor there for 4 solid years, starting about 4 games into this season.

Go Kiante!

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

So, Mike, you only talk to people who think like you do, do you? And no, I’m sorry, I don’t agree with you. All people are subject to criticism. It’s the way of the world. But I don’t have a beef with you. What I don’t like is being attacked because of my opinions. Like I explained to Lowcountry, I didn’t attack Dorsey yesterday, in fact I tried to explain to him that I respect his opinion, but I have no problem telling him he’s wrong, or vice versa. But Dorsey seems to think that only his way of thinking, and only his hunkey-dorey, Pollyanna approach to being a fan is correct.

Dude, if you can’t talk to people you don’t agree with, it’d be a pretty boring world. Besides the fact, there are plenty of people who agree with me in the logical sense, based upon Brown’s HISTORY of performance, that naming him the starter, AGAIN, would be just as foolish as naming JoeTIII the starter last year. Once again, last year Coach Richt was wrong in believing that Thomas Brown was more than a change of pace guy. So why does he go back to that same well again? Last year all we heard about was how good Brown looked in practice. Unfortunately, none of that translated to the field. This year, we hear, once again, that Thomas Brown looks great in practice.

Einstein would have a few choice words to say about Coach Richt is he names Brown the starting back again. Something along the lines of “insanity.”

By Dorsey Hill

August 14, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan,

Thanks for proving my point over and over again.

And I will repeat it…again. I have no problem with “opinions” even if they reflect criticism, but you should realize that you come off as an arrogant, no-it-all, idiot. Just temper your opinions and critiques with a little humility. Its not your conclusions that are the problem, its the certainty with which you phrase them.

Maybe now you’ll get it, but probably not.

By animaldr

August 14, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

By the numbers:

T. Brown 381 carries 1867 yards 4.9per car. avg. 13TD 9.9 yards per catch

K. Lumpkin 340 carries 1656 yards 4.9per car 16TD 6.1 yards per catch

Alot closer than some fans seem to think!

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Why are you fellows freaking out at the hint that somebody might be listed as #1 or #2 in a clearly crowded room of 3/4 perfectly capable backs….uh 3 weeks before the season mind you. Especially at RB, where stability and experience will always be considered at the beginning and then raw ability will always win over later in the year. Relax.

TB was the last RB to do crap against UF in 04. That has to be worth su’um.

One comment on the coaches. I do believe that coach Richt does delegate very well. He brought in Coach ball last year and everyone thought he was a brilliant hire. I never considered Coach Smart as a RB expert, but if Coach B says it, I beleive it.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 14, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Nascar,

You obviously don’t get “it”. We are tired of you. I have stayed to my own affairs long enough. I am tired of seeing you bash people and even Carter. You antagonize people to commit sucide! Have you ever lost someone to it? I think not or you would not wish that. I could care less what your motives are. You have no class and I am sick that you represent UGA in here. Like I said you make any point you state worthless when you tell people to KILL THEMSELVES! Again as a UGA fan you are classless.

By I-DOG

August 14, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Ray Goff:

Mediocre program. Fourth in wins of ALL teams over the last 10 years? So, there are only 3 good teams in college football and the rest are mediocre.

I can’t imagine how tech would rate if UGA is considered mediocre. They haven’t finished in the top 25 in so long, I can’t remember which year they did it last.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Lowcountry, dude… seriously, you need to get a grip.

Then again, arguing the finer points of sarcasm and dry wit with someone named Lowcountry is obviously a futile gesture.

I maintain that all of the Bugs and Gators who spend so much time trolling the boards of a team they profess to hate yet seem to be obsessed with obviously lead lives not worth living.

Yet, I think all of them saw the dryness of my speech and saw it for what it was: a sarcastic commentary on their pathetic lives.

If you have a beef with me, fine. Attack me all you want. I’m done speaking with your ignorant @$$.

By Mike

August 14, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Nascar…I DID not say I wont talk to anyone who’s opinion differ from mine.. I DID say I welcome your passion and I did say criticism is TOTALLY acceptable..but for the right reasons…you CANT compare the QB situation last year to the RB situation this year.. last year we had a slew of unknowns and 1 that we KNEW what we would get from him.. this year we have a slew of knowns and even an Knowshon ( could not resist that ) … if CMR is starting TB over the others then it certainly isn’t for loyalty as you alluded to…and with CMR track record I fully believe he has us going in the right direction…just get behind whoever is suiting up in Red and Black and criticise when needed but for the right reasons ( too many penalties, missed assignments, etc. ).. lets realise just HOW good we have it here..remember where we were BCMR (Before CMR) ..criticism and spirited debates are fine with me but lets not get personal with it and resort to the name-calling and the negative criticism about players and coaches UNLESS warranted…in the end we are ALL DAWGS and lets not forget that!

By Dawg4life

August 14, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

I, for one, am glad that King may be redshirted. I agree with Chip that I don’t understand why so many people thought that he might play this year. Was it because he was, at one point, the top-rated RB in the nation coming out of high school? I agree that he’s a very talented guy, but with as much hoopla around Moreno as he’s coming off his redshirt, imagine how good King could be next year with some time to let his body mature and some time running the scout team as a redshirt. I think it’s the right move.

Now, on to the real deal. What the heck is up with our OLine? Chip, correct me if I’m wrong, but I think the Bulldog Nation has cause to be worried!! Don’t you? If we’ve started preparing for OK State, and our freakin’ starters aren’t even practicing, that definitely hurts our chemistry on the O-Line. I think because they’re so young and inexperienced, the one thing they couldn’t afford this fall was injuries. And if the linemen are cheering and so ecstatic about a reserve DLineman joining them, what does that say about the dire straits that our OLine is in? I mean, am I overreacting? Because at this point, we have the makings of another 4-loss team!!! Chip, what do you think?

Also, is the defense looking a little settled on who the MLB will be? Or are we still playing musical chairs with the Miller experiment?

How are the WRs looking? Seems like, if nothing, they’ll be a bit more physical.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 14, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Nascar,

Don’t like how it feels being under the microscope? Well stop pretending how CMR should handle the running back duty’s. If you couldn’t intelligently handle yourself with me then you obviously do not know that Moreno has only shown himself in a SPRING PRACTICE and has not faced the competition that Lumpkin and Brown has faced over the past 3 SEC seasons. Let the coaches coach and you stay where you are…in Tunersville.

P.S. I take pride in being from the lowcountry, Charleston SC. Awesome town to live in!

By I-DOG

August 14, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

I am officially nervous about the O-line this year.

If Richt believes that Kiante can crack the two deep at RT and maybe push for a starting job in three weeks… I don’t feel good about that.

Not because I don’t think K. Trippe isn’t talented, he clearly is.

I hope this has more to do with the bumps and bruises for practice at the OL position.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Mike, I see what you’re saying. But don’t you think, even just a little bit, that Coach might be wrong if he names Brown the guy?

Maybe the QB situation isn’t the right analogy to make, I’ll give you that. But Brown simply didn’t look good last year when asked to be the guy.

I’ll cheer for him. I never boo Bulldogs. I almost got in a fight with a drunk fratboy last year and his idiot Alumni father as they were lustfully booing MoMass.

I hardly ever get on the players case. I’m usually the guy who blames it on bad coaching, a la Coach John Eason and his inability to take top flight talent and coach them at this level.

But this Brown thing just smacks of seniority over talent to me.

But if he’s the guy, I’ll be cheering for him. Even if he doesn’t perform, I won’t be yelling at him, I’ll be yelling at Coach for making the mistake.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Mike, also, please remember, until yesterday, I saved all of my vitriole for Bugs and Gators. And I reserve the right to criticize anyone I want. Including the President. That Michael Adams sure sucks. And although I voted for him, George Bush ain’t doing a much better job than Adams.

By question

August 14, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Is NASCARfan and Birdawg of last year the same guy? Both think they are coach.

By 2N4YEARS

August 14, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the confirmation Chip.

By mike

August 14, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

I am sick of Thomas Brown. Lumpkin is the better game player. Brown is a practice all american, which coaches love. Thomas Brown is to Mark Richt what Keith Lockhart was to Bobby Cox….a coaches favorite

By Mike

August 14, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Nascar..I will be COMPLETELY honest with you.. it is VERY easy to 2nd guess coaches..I did/do it from time to time…but what was/is hard to understand is that they are paid the BIG bucks for a reason and that is they are simply MORE qualified than I am at determining who gets to play, when, and more inportantly WHY…as much as I would like to see player(X) play more, start, or not over player(Y,Z,etc.) I SIMPLY dont know as much and CERTAINLY not more than the coaches who are with those players day in and day out…we see Lump in Auburn game last year and say WHY wasn’t he playing more all along and yet we forget that TB performed as well when Lump was hurt..remember TB was hurt for the Auburn game..I’m wanting to see what KM and CK can do as much as the next fan …we are ALL looking for the next big thing…but coaches live in the TODAY world (or at least they should)..and in 3 weeks this could ALL change…Lump could be the starter or it could be KM..but today the coaches feel like TB is our best starter..and CMR has earned that benefit of whatever doubts may be out there in regards to his performance…thats ALL I’m saying about TB and coaches decisions right now…the original question was in regards to CK redshirting this year…again..while his potential makes me salivate like you and others out there in Bulldawg Nation..I think 4.9yards/carry as well as solid blocking is too good to ignore right now..we need to live for TODAY…ALL efforts and concentration should be on OSU and NOT NEXT YEAR.. AJ is not even out of high school yet, KM and CK have yet to produce a stat in the game column… if we get 4.9 / carry and good line play then this year could be OUR NEXT YEAR.. QB is solid bordering on spectacular,WR can ONLY get better than last year right?, the D will be fine !… I would welcome hanging out with ya Nascar and ANYONE else who LOVES DA DAWGS..its ALL GOOD right?

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan if I may, and its pretty late so I can get away with a lil’ story. My first real job out of college eventually had me running most of the financial matter for a small company after a few years. We had to do this fairly complicated allocated cost deal that would drive me crazy. I knew why we did it, but I thought it was so old, so useless. And on several occations I would get in my car, armed with all my arguments and go see the CPA that we used. He would sit and listen and always say , “I think you are absolutely right” and after about 30 minutes would have totally turned it right around to the way we had it all along and had me loving it. It would take me a day or two to realize just how far out of my league I was. Know what the problem was? I knew what I saw, I was dead on. That’s why he could tell me , “yes, good observation, I certainly see why you believe that”. What I didnt know, was the evolution of why things were accounted for that way. In fact, there were issues that I didnt even know enough about to even know I didnt know, much less ask a serious question, certainly not qualified to second guess. Nobody begrudged me my opinion, but I had a limited scope, a partial reference to the big picture.

Its possible that we as fans might be that way at times about players and why cocahes do some things. You may be dead on about TB not being a 20 carry guy, or a game breaking RB. You assume that because you hear them bragging about his practice, that means they once again are just fooling themselves to think he is all that stuff. They might indeed be blind loyalist IF they really think he is going to be what YOU want, but I think the problem is, you dont know what THEY want or expect. My problem with critisizing coaches (or at least why I dont do it)is that I see it done sometimes because folks dont think they are doing what they want or how they want it to go. Right, maybe so, but thats not the point, thats not how it works, its what THEY want, so whatevr they do, satisfying their agenda is by definition, I think, correct way to do it. Does it always work, of cource not. Now, complaining because it didnt turn out right is a whole nuther issue, but that’s not the same as fair and logical critisism. To me a person would have to have all the fact the same way the other guy had em, includint responsible for the outcome be a fair critic. Truth is its all just judgement and you cant seriously beleive there is any way our guesses (and thats what they are) are as qualified and thought out as men who do it at a high level all ay every day. I say this all the time, I wish we….., I dont understand why we cant….., I just stay short of insisting I see something they dont. They do.

It sounds to me that you are way more just opposed to how RB are used at UGa under this coach. fair enough. But knowing how they are, TB is a pretty good choice.

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

WHOE NOW! AT his worst, young NCF is not even in the same room as that guy was last year. I’ve never heard NCF question coaches’ Christianity because he didn’t run the exact player and the exact play as he wanted every week. That guy was in a world of his own.

By SamoanDawg

August 14, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

I think Caleb should redshirt.

Wow, a surprised move, but a necessary one. Kiante to RT. A big move for Tripp and he could benefit from it too… to the next level that is.

Guys, in my humble opinion, our backs didn’t put up big numbers b/c our o-line were very underachieved last few seasons. We are a good pass blocking line but not physical enough “to my liking” on the run. We need to get after people and lay’em out. I think coach Searels will change all that.

By NASCARfan

August 14, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Altamaha, I see your point of view. And I understand it. There’s no reason for this to have become the issue it did. I tried yesterday to take the high road with Dorsey, but he was having none of it, and he’s acting much the same today.

But you know what? Let ‘em attack me. It’s okay. See, you and I can have a disagreement without attacking one another, and we have in the past. I respect you and you respect me. Dorsey could learn much from your example. As it as, we do disagree on this, but that’s cool. The best part about disagreements like this is that we’ll actually find out who was right or wrong. Here’s betting Dorsey won’t be willing to eat his crow, but if I’m wrong, no big deal. I’ve been wrong plenty of times and will be wrong again.

I just don’t think I’m wrong now. Hah!

By TybeeDawg

August 14, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan,

Where did you go to law school?

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 14, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Silent treatment from Nascar. Apparently if everyone gets on his case he will ignore us all and go away. Someone please tell me what happened to the days where I payed to blog on the AJC and get great blogging!

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

You are right, there was no way it should have elevated to the point of me having to whip out an old accounting analogy. Thats just drastic.

By SamoanDawg

August 14, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

Guys, enjoy the preseason will y’all

Chip, so if Clint wins the RT, then Cheese goes back to guard and that leaves Haverkamp out, right? We need keep Haverkamp in the ones. Man, that gives us two true freshmen at Tackles… yikes! Chip, do you really think Cheese is our best linemen? Will he be better off at Tackle or Guard?

I know we still have few weeks away, actually two weeks, but I’m a little antsy about all these moves. It’s a necessity, but gosh… we’re fumbling around with the o-line still.

By AltamahaDawg

August 14, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

And chip, thanks for the subtle answer to my early question.

By Mike

August 14, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

King should redshirt with the stable of running backs ahead of him. I always liked Thomas Brown ahead of Lumpkin, who I had expected big things from, and was a little disappointed in. Thomas rose to the top. If he is 100%, and I really have my doubts, UGA’s backfield will be one of the best around. Look for Knowshon to rise to the the top by mid-year. He will finish as the number one running back. I like his style.

By Gen Neyland

August 14, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

If The RS ain’t a done deal for CK, then it ain’t a done deal…given that bit of hillbillyism, here’s the logic…CMR has mentioned that CK isn’t getting it. That in itself is all there is to it. To waste a year of eligibility on a guy that may only do KO returns is a waste of production in one so highly touted as CK…IF I were a Dawg fan, I’d trust CMR on this one…Until the shirt is given to King, it’s just talk…Like the good Dawgs on this board said when CK signed on to UGA, “He will have to EARN his playing time.”

By A--ville Ranger

August 15, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

P-DAWG ———Moreno is nothing like Walker.He is the best back though,at least he’s better than Lumpkin or Brown.If I’m wrong I’m wrong….but I ain’t,not on this one.The O-line is the key though regardless of who’s hauling the rock.

By NASCARfan

August 15, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Altamaha, if more people were like us, they’re be peace in the Middle East. Hah! I’m surprised we’ve heard no late news from Buck, as he’s three hours behind us, he’s usually up almost as late as I am.

I’m watching the Georgia Football Preview right now on FSN Atlantic. It’s been okay so far. I just want to hear what Barnyard is going to say at the end. I’ll keep y’all posted. Man, I can’t wait for football season, but I really don’t want to start classes again on Thursday. Hah!

By Dawg4life

August 15, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Did anyone see that Ramarcus Brown has been suspended for the first two games of the season for “breaking team rules”?

How ‘bout that!!?? Into camp and we’ve now got players being suspended. I’m not really worried though, because he was second or third string at best.

By NASCARfan

August 15, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

First interview is with Stafford.

I don’t know if it’s me, but he looks bigger and stronger this year. Of course the idiot Bugs will say it’s fat, but fat don’t look like that. He looks to be in good shape. Kellen Johnson says he’s a good athlete and the team trusts him in any situation. Matt talks about needing the confidence in your ability to win no matter what happens. Well, Matthew Stafford seems to have a lot of faith in Moreno, as he’s just told anyone who watched this preview today that Moreno is the man and will be getting the ball a lot this year.

Up next is Coach Richt.

Coach calls last year his most gratifying year ever. Says that on offense the phrase of the year is “protect the football.” Talks about how much better Matt is from last year. Is predictably wishy-washy on the running backs. Says Southerland is the best FB in the country. Talks about the redshirts as veterans. Talks about the talented upperclassmen getting their first chance to start (Brandon Miller). Expects to have a good year.

Barnyard talk up Stafford big time, but the other guy talks down the recievers (which is warranted). Barnyard talks up Bailey as well as Troupe. The other guy questions the o-line. Barnyard agrees the o-line is young and inexperienced, but will be better as the season goes along. About the defense they say the multitude of questions on defense will determine their year this year. Barnyard talks about the tough early slate of game.

They didn’t offer where they think the Dawgs would end up though. Way to go out on a limb, guys!

By A--ville Ranger

August 15, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Palmetto state Dawg———-Hopefully this will be the last year of feast and famine with the O-line.Richt has for whatever reason recruited the line in cycles.It’s like they looked every three years and said dang we’re low on lineman better load up this year.They had a great year with O-line recruits this year and it looks promising for 08.To me we should lose no more than two starters in a season and always have solid replacements who’ve been in the program at least a full year,hopefully two.

By shane

August 15, 2007 2:07 AM | Link to this

some random thoughts……………….

1-richt is planning a passing offense,he has a stable of wide recievers,a good tight end,a fullback that is a tough runner and has good hands. so the tb that is the best pass catcher and blocks best will start. besides,he has a qb with a cannon for an arm. the fact that the tb runs tough and has good speed is a plus. look for a lot of one back sets in a spread o.you don’t really need the three hundred pounders for a run offense,you need quick linemen for that. 2 we have a young o line,so we will need all the blocking we can get. 3 mlb will be very important,as will the dts. we can’t have a soft middle and win.period. 4 we have a young dl and young dbs. we are going to give up some big plays. 5 we have too much youth,i still 2008 and 2009 will be our years. 6 we need to recruit more offensive linemen and we had better get busy on it. i still think we have a chance at aj,and bj is still leaning toward us,but we can’t count on these guys,we need to get after linemen hard.

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 7:25 AM | Link to this

NCF, you can imagine how complimentary everyone was to me about halfway through last year, when I said quite to the contrary of what some folks were saying, that I thought 2006 would end up being one of Richts best coaching jobs, holding that team together in the end.

By 59bulldawg

August 15, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this

NASCARfan … I couldn’t agree more about Brown not being an every down back. Lumpkin should start with Moreno close behind … and maybe even starting some games this season. King needs to learn the system and get his studies together after barely getting in school. Otherwise I don’t think we’ll have him for long … no matter how good his potential. But beyond that there’s only one football … and if we start playing musical chairs with running backs again this year … no one will get enough carries to get into any kind of rhythm. If that happens Stafford will have to throw 30+ times a game because we’ll have no consistent running game. Brown is best used on returns and special situations where we can get him the ball with lots of open field in front. I think Bobo understands this and will utilize the running game much more to our advantage than Richt has done in the past … at least I hope so!

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 15, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Dorsey, I liked your first post way back up there. Well said. I will leave your debate and other post with Nascar alone at this time though.

I have to say that I agree with Actuary Dawg. I think we need to play CK this year. Have him hitting people and getting what PT he can get. That prepares us better for next year (although I hate that “next year” theme). Who are we going to have next year, Moreno and ???? with experience in case of injury to KM. Actuary’s take is completely reasonable. If CK isn’t a scholar then he is most likely to get exposure then bolt asap. Both Lump and Brown have worked hard for the program and deserve the best opportunity available. No arguing one over the other with the O lines we have had recently.

Congrats to Tripp. True team player. I hope he is as successful as his attitude indicates that he can be.

By dawgfacedboy

August 15, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

I believed from the day they signed him that he would redshirt. There’s too much talent in front of him not to. Let him get his reps in practice, get his feet under him with his grades and he’ll have his day in the sun. Knowshon and Caleb next year sounds pretty exciting to me. Redshirting David Greene seemed to pay off just fine. This is not a bad thing folks. I’m personally more concerned with our OL than I am with whether or not King is going to redshirt!

Hell, if King can play somewhere on the OL we might want to take a look at him!!!

By mark

August 15, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

Personally I’m still under the belief that running a 3 back system is too much. Two is plenty IMO. I would tend to believe that just about everyone in the top 25 have 3 capable backs to run a 3 back system but they pick their top 1 or 2 and roll with it. They might give a guy a break late in the game or something but rotating 3 guys just seems useless. Pick your two and go with it, the 3rd can return kicks. Do you guys really think that Lumpkin or Brown couldn’t carry the load by themselves, let alone between the 2 of them??? I’m not aware of a 3 back system that has competed for NC, i’m sure someone in here will find otherwise though. This is just one arm chair coach’s opinion.

By I-DOG

August 15, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Lets not get too worked up over the RB’ just yet.

We don’t know who will start against OSU. It could be ANY of the three.

Maybe Ball and Richt are using this as motiviation for Lump and Moreno. Maybe T Brown looks that good?

Maybe Richt is nervous about the OL and wants to start with the best blocker for the first series or two in the first game? That might be a very smart decision.

If after a series or two the OL looks comfortable and is doing OK, insert the other RB’s that don’t have quite the blitz pickup skills. If OSU is bringing the kitchen sink and we need to throw deep early and just get that extra second for Stafford, maybe Brown is the right guy?

I agree that Brown looked mediocre last year (before the injury). He looked slow other than the special teams play against TN. That was last year and things can change.

For that matter, Mo Mass looked mediocre last year… do we bury him on the depth chart no matter how he looks in practice this year? no… players sometimes step up and reach their potential.

Brown is a senior. He knows this is his last chance at a football career. Ball,Richt, Bobo may love the guy’s preparation, but they aren’t going to do ANYTHING other than play the best players (considering ALL the factors).

Joe T III was smart, bled Red and Black and worked very hard. The coaches gave him the same chance they gave Stafford and Cox. They didn’t start him all year because they liked him.

The best running backs will play the most, of that I am sure.

By Chip Towers

August 15, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

dawgfacedboy, you stole my thunder. I was going to say perhaps they should consider playing Caleb on the o-line, but you beat me to the punch… .

Georgia’s problems with depth on the o-line are a combination of bad luck and bad recruiting. The Dogs have been burned by career-ending injuries more than anybody deserves. Then again, they need to do a better job of screening for shoulder problems, etc… . I they may need to reconsider the number they sign each year. I’d say a half-dozen every season. In their defense, good ones are hard to find and everybody wants them… .

The truth is, those of you that have expressed it really SHOULD be concerned about the Dogs O-line situation. Remember, the SEC is where NFL scouts come to find D-linemen. If Georgia can somehow gel this one into a solid group and manage to avoid significant injuries all season, it will be one of the great coaching jobs — and strokes of luck — in college football history.

By Dorsey Hill

August 15, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

SHOCKING NEWS OUT OF ATHENS!!!

“I just think we all have to work hard,” Georgia’s redshirt freshman tailback Knowshon Moreno said. “We have to push each other and compete, and the best man is going to be in there.”

Hey Nascarfan, maybe you should have a talk with Knowshon. He doesn’t know that Richt just plays favorites. He’s apparently a lot dumber than you. He obviously is unaware of what is happening around him and doesn’t have the “insider’s” view that you have. He needs you to tell him that what he really needs to do is be Richt’s best buddy and then he’ll play.

Nascarfan, you are such an idiot.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 15, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Chip, yeah the old “shoulder injuries” is what I was thinking when everybody kept saying ankle problems. It seems that we have had a lot of the bum shoulders the past few years.

By Spanky

August 15, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Man,…this is like coming into work to find everyone cussing each other out!! Guys, we can speculate all we want, but it won’t mean jack-squat! I agree that KM will be a great asset to the team, but to start calling each other “idiots” is a bit extreme,..don’t ya think? Save your bullets for the enemy, bro!!

I’m really pumped that Tripp went to the O-Line! Hopefully we can get one (or two) more to do so!

By Buck in the NW

August 15, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

Chip, you’re head line writer must know something no one else does. Sounds like it’s a done deal………NO SUPRISE IN CALEB’S RED SHIRT…… So it’s been decided?

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Am I missing the trend of RB going pro after thier RS sophomore year somehow? Redshirt delays, not cuts a year. I just dont get the logic. 3 good years(which is a lot more realistic if somebody leaves)-vs-, 2 and 1 whats the point year. RS would be a much better deal for him IF he thinks on going to the NFL early. He would be a lot more ready after his jr. yr.

If you think we need to play him sooner before he flunks out, if I am understanding that correctly, I say we need to just move on to somebody else right now, and not plan around him at all. Plus RS might the very thing that keep him from flunking out. If he is going to struggle its going to be this year not his RS Junior year.

I understand the concept about PT and experience comming back, but id be willing to bet the very marginal diffence between a RS frosh and a sophomore with extremely limited real game experience is not near as big as folks make it out. Plus on special teams, and kickoffs, how does that equate to being a better RB next year. He can practice running back a kickoff without wasting a year of eligibility.

For ther record, I dont beleive the staff should factor in any speculation about 2/3 yrs down the road. Heck he might also join the peace corp tomorrow. Can he Help us win today, if not, no brainer.

By Dectective Fix

August 15, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

If some of these guys were arrested for impersonating a coach, we’d have to letem go for lack of evidence!

By austindog

August 15, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

I just want to see Thomas Brown produce on gameday. We hear a lot of reports that he’s strong, fast, tough, but lets see it work to Georgia’s advantage during a game. Wayne Gretzky was slow and average during practice drills. A kicker who’s dead on in practice but a dud in games wouldn’t get playing time, I think the same should apply to tailbacks.

By austindog

August 15, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Altamaha, it’s my dream that Georgia has a tailback good enough to leave early. That would go along with my other dream of a featured back. USC (the good one) has TEN tailbacks and you know they’ll pick the go-to one.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 15, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Can he Help us win today, if not, no brainer.

Altadawg, that is it. Why didn’t you get on with the first post and type that. It would have saved 125+ postings. Can’t argue with that one.

By Buck in the NW

August 15, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

austindog, I agree. All the talk about Moreno must be just that , talk. CMR said that he (Moreno) had to learn how to play. OK. So what’s happening? is he slow learning things? Is he not blocking or doesn’t have the technique down? Has Lumpkin regressed? CHIP IF YOU READ THIS FAR DOWN, DO YOU THINK YOU MAY BE ABLE TO EXPLAIN HOW THINGS ARE GOING WITH THE RBs?

By Tim

August 15, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Chip, Any concern that all of the shoulder injuries might be a result of too much bench press work? I agree that the OL scares the crap out of me this year.

By Chip Towers

August 15, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

No, Tim, but I think at least some of the shoulder injuries may be from trying to block SEC d-linemen before you’ve built up enough strength to be able to do so. Just a theory, though. Who really knows?

As far as the Thomas Brown being ahead of Kregg Lumpkin and Knowshon Moreno at the moment, I think that is very telling with regard to what might be Georgia’s offensive philosophy this season. I think it says they’re going to be chucking the ball all over the place, thus the No. 1 priority for a back being able to recognize and picking up a blitzing linebacker, corner or safety. Brown does that much better than the other two.

By ga dog

August 15, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

chip, we are not bringing offensive line guys with shoulder probs from high school, i am sure you have observed the lines beating the crap out of each other as they do every year in practice, they dont have enough shoulder strengh from lifting weights for college colisions in the interior, but as the first game nears we will see all the little injurys disapear somehow

By ga dog

August 15, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

hey chip your theory is correct,been there, done that,as i am sure others on this blog have been, sec defenders are worse than monsters, one noseguard i played with grew up in a jail, his dad was a jailer, mean wasnt the word for this character

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 15, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Chip,

What makes TB’s recovery from his ACL injury that much different than KL? If I am not mistaken KL mentioned that it basically took that second season after his ACL injury to feel “back”. Can we feel safe that TB has truely recovered this well?

By Buck in the NW

August 15, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Chip, if you’re right, which I thing you are, about throwing the ball then Coach Ball’s statement makes a lot of sense. Remember he specifically said “Throw the ball Brown would be the stater.

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

what zoo, and miss all that bloodshed?

but you are right , sometimes it is that just simple.

I remember last year after days and weeks of pondering the upcoming SC game what it would hinge on somebody said (might have been you or perhaps godog) quite consisely.

our defense will be better than thier defense

Pretty much summed it up.

By montgomeryaldawg

August 15, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

austindog, TB hasn’t been a “dud”. He has been the most reliable to pick up a blitz, and that was especially needed last year with a true f-man @ qb. His lack of production, I believe, is due to more than just KL’s superiority or o-line futility. A much higher % of KL’s runs were from the I-formation and he had the benefit of running vertically when he touched the ball. Far more often it seemed that TB got the ball from that shotgun, read option play, where he gets the ball running laterally. THAT PLAY SUCKS…with our personnel. Maybe with more of a dual threat qb it is a good play (see Tebow or DJ Shock), but with Staff, lets scrap the read option, please!!! I believe our t-ville OC will do just this.
As for some of the language on this post, thanks, NCFan for cleaning it up in the 2nd half. For the most part I agree with Mike, Lowcountry and Dorsey…although Dorsey, your last post with KM’s comments, although a good point, again perpetuates the wrong thing by HOW you make your point. I love the diverse opinions, they will be better received by all if stated logically and respectfully.
My last beef…I go crazy every year because of all the orange i’m surrounded by, but the hype (hysteria) coming out of Tuscaloosa is ridiculous. I usually reserve my strongest distaste for UT and UF, and I enjoy whipping AU, but this year I hope we can bust the illusions of grandeur coming from the Saban stench. fighing the good fight for the dawgnation in al.

By Tim

August 15, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Chip, Do you know when the coaches are going to release an updated depth chart? The O-line situation is so fluid, it seems the only certainties are Fernando at C and Trinton at LT. What do you think about Wynn getting reps at DT?

By dawgfacedboy

August 15, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Did I read correctly that CJ Byrd, not Reshad Jones is the projected starter at FS??? Is CJ that good, Reshad that far behind? RJ was the #1 FS coming out. I thought he was supposed to be “all-everything” for us. Did I miss something? Someone please help explain!

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 15, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

montydawg, good point about the lateral versus vertical running game. Didn’t seem like there was enough to get around the corners quick enough. Whether lack of blocking, missing assignments, etc. Everytime I saw that developing it was like oh crap! just don’t fumble. SEC is just too quick at the LB, DE and DB positions to get that corner game working anymore. It takes a special (read really fast RB) to get out there and get gone. Along with all those teammastes making all the key blocks.

I guess the Saban stench is a good reason to key up that rivalry with Bama. I use to have a lot more respect for the program until that hire. A lot of people up here (MSU fans) certainly hope that his welcome back to the NCAA is an unpleasant one, a very unpleasant one. And how many years has that been?

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

m-aldawg, I beleive that “read option” was drab early BECAUSE we had a frosh Qb. Actually coach Bobo describes it as more of a base formation , more than an actual play. Give the ball to the RB wasnt a call from the sideline. More like “oh crap what is that that guy doing over there, uhh…here ya go TB” If you noticed, we got a lot more of the “option” part, the more Stafford caught on the the “read” part. We ran that almost to perfection in those last three games and scores several times and set up countless other good plays.

By montgomeryaldawg

August 15, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Wynn getting reps at DT? Really? Hadn’t heard that. I’ve heard very little about Wynn, and I guess, with all they hype at signing him, that I thought he’d come in and win one of the availabel starting DE spots. that obviously doesn’t seem to be happening. What’s the info on him?

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 15, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Dawgface,

Don’t slight CJ or Reshad. CJ was the #1 player in the state of South Carolina his Senior year. Also he has been in the system longer. Don’t get to done on RJ.

By shane

August 15, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

chip,i think you are dead on with your comments. most linemen right out of high school are not ready to face sec starters. coming in early helps,but o linemen really should be redshirted,if possible. i hope we will beat the bushes and sign a few more linemen so we will be able to build up a pool of red shirts. every assistant coach wants to sign stars. that get a man noticed,and rember99% of asst coaches want to be head coaches. however,football wars are won in the trenches. signing a group of three star and four star linemen will not get an asst coach the press clippings of one five star running back,but in the long run the linemen will win more games. i think you are right about the offense we will be seeing also. when you think about it we have three good running backs and one unknown quality,king,but a four star reciever like truope winds up buried on the depth chart. when you can line up four highly recruited wr’s at the same time and still have depth,you are loaded. the problem is a young o line,therefore you need a safety back there to handle the blitz, and one with good speed and good hands. so it’s brown,no brainer,really.

By Chip Towers

August 15, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Lowcountry, there are different kinds of and different degrees of ACL injuries. Brown’s was the best for recovery, which he stated at the time and reiterated several times this summer. Lumpkin and Bailey had the bad ones… . Also, you won’t find a more dedicated person in the world when it comes to training and rehabbing. As I’ve said here before, TB is a BA and I’ve got to belileve the best is ahead of him… .

As for the rather contentious arguments about which tailback ought to be starting, etc., I’ll say only that UGA pays all its coaches six-figure salaries, so you assume they know what they’re doing.

New blog coming shortly.

By montgomeryaldawg

August 15, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

altamahadawg, I agree, the last three games was much more successful out of that set, howevever I think it was because Bobo allowed Staff to do more out of the set than merely read and handoff or not. We employed more of the variable the set offers. When we don’t, and we haven’t longer than just while Staff was learning, the play was a dead end. I am looking forward to a better offense with Bobos creativity and Stafford’s comfort/grasp. But it wasn’t like we shined in the las two games. For three quarters against Tech and for some of Vt we were still fairly inept.
One important thing to consider. Any of seven teams could win the SEC this year. There is no head and shoulders top 2 or 3. This is the type of year that coaching excellence show itself. the SEC is there for the taking, who can put their players/team in the position to take it? The best coach will win the SEC this year, this is not best team, every year the best team is determined by the coach but this year, with everyone having so many strong questions and holes, coaching will be a premium. I have confidence in CMR, let the big dawg eat!

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 15, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Chip, didn’t ENRON pay their “coaches” seven to eight figure salaries?

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 15, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Thank you Chip. I certainly hope TB and KL can carry the load and inject KM. This to allow CK to Redshirt.

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Whats with the “however”? Aren’t we saying the same thing? Stafford was allowed to do more things as he was capable of doing more things? And it worked better as a result?

By Tim

August 15, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Just a thought but we are only going to have 2 TBs available for spring practice - could make things difficult if they tire out or get injured.

By austindog

August 15, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

montgomery - I never said TB was a dud, my point was about the difference between great practicers vs gameday producers. I would love to see TB light the SEC on fire.

But as for being a great blocker, would you choose a tailback who was an average runner/great blocker or an average blocker/great runner?

By I-DOG

August 15, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

I-DOG loves the I formation.

I agree with the posters that hate the sprint draw/read option play and LOVE when we line up in the I and run.

Is it just me or do we seem to get 3 to 15 yards every time out of the I when we run? There are fewer 2nd and 11’s or 2nd and 9’s. We also seem to pass well out of that formation as well

I actually like the Sprint Draw play (hear me out now) in CERTAIN SITUATIONS AND MUCH MUCH LESS OFTEN.

I have always said. No more than 3 times per game, no more than twice per half on the sprint draw.

3rd and 4 or 5 yards to go? Perfect call, IF the other team isn’t waiting for it and preparing for it all week because we run it 10-12 times each game. Half the effectiveness is in the Surprise of it.

If we use it just a couple of times a game, then the DE’s and LB’s will need to think of that when we do throw on 3rd and 4 or 5 yards to go.

Chip. Are we running this think constantly in practice? That would tell us a lot about UGA’s offensive gameplan for season.

By OldDawg55

August 15, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

You “fans” never cease to amaze me..have you ever played college ball or better still coached? Ball, Richt, Bobo, et al, are trained professionals and not casual observers of the Georgia team. They’re with these players for hours/days observing their strengths, weaknesses, learning ability, and ability to execute the plays…don’t you really think they might have a little more insight then you blog sprouting, magazine reading, opinionated blowhards? Get real..coaches put the best team on the field they can barring injuries and other unforeseen occurrences. Sit back and enjoy the game unless you’re getting paid to coach it..and you aren’t!

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Tim, Jason Johnson is still on the team and another walk-on if im not mistaken.

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Tim, you said spring, my bad. I think we do have some more bodies then too though.

By Lane4411

August 15, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

If there is NO execution in the OL, we will have big time problems. David Ching of Ledger-enquirer.com - UGA blog, has had some great interviews with Richt and the coaching staff regarding the OL and the DL. The OL has limited experience and a number of injuries. There has to be execution up front, for the offense to flow.

By ga dog

August 15, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

well said old dawg55, you cover it well

By shane

August 15, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

austindog,most coaches will tell you,the way you practice is the way you will play. i heard that enough at practice so that it stuck. usually,the guys that bust it at practice play in the game. as for your question about tb’s,in the best of all worlds you would have a man that does both,sometimes you get lucky like auburn has in the past and have two rb’s that run well and block for each other. then you can really dominate with the run. if you have to choose between a runner and a blocker, i would pick the one that fits the offense i am going to run. remember,all three of these guys are going to get pt,and i am sure if lump or moreno get hot,bobo is going to go with them,but isn’t it good to have the options?

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 15, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Holy Crap! Did anybody see that picture of Coutu holding that watermelon? Please don’t slip on anything. That would be a devestating injury. Can’t we get somebody else to carry that thing?

By AltamahaDawg

August 15, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Zoo, no worries. He was experimenting with a “new way” to carry a watermelon. What could possible go wrong?

By Brandon

August 15, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

I think it is the right decision. It will make King better in 08.

By BCD

August 15, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg ‘new way’ ROFL… ouch……

By CapeCodDawg

August 15, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

I admit that I would’ve loved to see King play this year,but with the grades thing and the fact that the Dawgs have 3 RB’s in front of him,it does make some sense to me. I think that having only one RB with experience going into next year is somewhat nerve racking, On the other hand,RB is the position where a lack of experience isn’t as drastic as say l Tackle or the “Mike” positions. Runners run. Beside that we don’t really know what type of offense we’ll be running this year. The Dawgs offensive personality will be dictated to a degree by the talent they have and how well they perform their duties. If the line is in shambles why would you play a RB that is a little shaky in pass pro.? At this point experience will have to carry the day until the line find their footing. If the coaches want to “Shirt” Caleb,then so be it. We have to understand that they have the Big picture in mind. We couldn’t possibly; it’s their picture. My concerns lie in the OL . If they don’t perform everything will suck and it wouldn’t matter if I was running the ball back there. * GO OFFENSIVE LINE….PLEASE*

By shane

August 15, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

chip.i don’t think posts like no fried chicken belong here,can’t you guys do a better job on this? i will say this,he showed no bias,he managed to insult every athlete on the uga campus,black and white,male and female. it’s a shame that kids can’t have a little fun after busting their butts in two-a-days without some idiot writing something like this.

By FinanceBuzz

August 15, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Caleb King adjusting to college coursework? Hmmm…I would think that things would be easier at UGA! :)

By austindog

August 15, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

I-Dog, you had me going there for a second about liking the sprint draw/shotgun draw. That was a good one.

AJC, how about a pic of Stafford hoisting a watermellon over his head?

By FinanceBuzz

August 15, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Austin…why post a picture of Boy Wonder hoisting a watermelon when there are already photos of him hoisting a keg! :)

By Dorsey Hill

August 15, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

God help us if we are going to the chuck-n-duck. I remember doing that with Zeier in ‘93 and ‘94. It was nearly impossible to hold a lead, at least the few we had in those days.

That being said it may give us the best chance to win. Short passes instead of running plays. Spread the D out and throw some runs in and then go deep w/ play action. That is kind of the strategy I projected but I was hoping that we wouldn’t go overboard with the passing.

It sure is a damn shame that with the backs we’ve got that we won’t have an o-line to open holes. Why can’t we ever get an good o-line and some backs at the same time? The last o-line that I rememebr that really pushed people around was in 1995 and we ended up playing a 170 lb. freshman at tailback. Anyone remember Torin Kirtsey?

Anyway, we’d better be playing some big time D if we are going to going to pass 65% or more of the time. Your D can count on playing 35 minutes or more with a pass happy O.

I appreciate the insight Chip, but you’ve got me worried to death.

By debon

August 15, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

His brother,agent has said 3 years then nfl,better go ahead and let him run back kicks.

By austindog

August 16, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

Finance - did you put the watermellon/keg reference together all by yourself? How many conversations did you bring to a screeching halt this weekend?