UGA

By Buford

August 29, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

As a coach, he surely finds good players.

By P-Dawg in Tulsa

August 29, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Yeah it makes me nervous, but I get nervous before we play Western Kentuky. I know he made a comment about not knowing everything about the game plan for OSU, but I think that is smoke and mirrors. As head coach he has to answer no matter who put the game together or called the play. I beleive we will be better for this move. I just hope the learning curve doesn’t cost us a W.

Go DAWGS!!!

By Spanky

August 29, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Chip,…another great column, and don’t worry about the short-hand errors. If anybody complains, then they can march themselves into CMR’s office for a transcript.

I think that Coach Bobo will call better plays from upsatairs as well! From that view, he can see how effective the routes are, and how the opposition is reacting.

By shane

August 29, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

good blog chip,your work gets better and better. this is the kind of background i like.we not only get to see the man[cmr]we get to see him the way the people that know him best see him. now for your questions,i think richt will be an even more effective hc.i liked richt’s analogy about chopping wood in the forest along with everyone else.i am a hunter so i know exactly what he means,you can see very little from the forest floor,if you climb a tree,your whole perspective will change. simply getting above the clutter will allow you to see clearly.coach bobo will be a great oc,and i believe he will be a head coach one day.it’s in his blood.we have to be patient with him and support him.remember that this is his rookie season.

By RAWDawg

August 29, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Seems to be pretty unanimous that Richt made the right decision to give up his play-calling duties. I agree with that. It allows him to be much more involved in what goes on with the entire team, and should help him manage the game (and the clock) much more effectively (especially with the changes to keep the clock running). Everyone seems to be adjusting well, which bodes well for this season… GO DAWGS!!!

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 29, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Chip, we need this. How many times have we watched the clock run down on us at the end of a game? Or before half? For the few loses we have had and the “close” games against inferior opponents last year. I think it will free him up to be an actual head coach and manage the game like it should be managed. Plus I think Bobo will take good care of the offense. Can’t wait!

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 29, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Chip, or anybody else. Did they recind that clock rule this year? Or was there just talk of recinding the running clock? I can’t remember or I missed it. BTW, I hate that rule.

By AC

August 29, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

This system will produce record numbers over the next two years with our personnel

By Noyellowinthisblood

August 29, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Chip, looking forward to Saturday. Who will control substitutions of the rbs? I was wondering if we will try to get into a better rythm with one back or sub for fresh legs.

By A-ville Ranger

August 29, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

I’m not nervous about Bobo, he showed what he could do against VT.My concerns are with the green O-line and truthfully coach Martinez.We just can’t afford the kinds of muddled efforts the defense gave in the middle of last season.I’m encouraged by their play to finish last year, but still concerned.

By Hoopergdawg

August 29, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

2007 Ga prediction. I like this guy’s enthusiasm. http://southernpigskin.com/page.cfm?story=11438&cat=exclusives

By Chip Towers

August 29, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

PRACTICE UPDATES

Dogs working really intensely on special teams for first 30 minutes of practice. Most interesting to me is kickoff team. From what I can tell, Georgia will utilize at least eight scholarship players on that unit, including Coutu, who appears fo have won the kickoff job. Others are: Coutu, Thomas Brown, Brandon Miller, Prince Miller, CJ Byrd, Drew Williams and Shaun Chapas. Rest are walk-on dudes such as Benjamin Boyd… .

Punt return team is all schollies with Mikey Henderson back deep… . Perhaps it was being named the starter but Brian Mimbs was booming his punts today… .

DT Brandon Wood was not in green but was off to the side doing stretches and crouches… .

New color radio guy Eric Zeier had to go undergo knee surgery recently and wmay or may not be in Athens this weekend as a result. But either way he will “have a presence” in the Bulldogs’ home radio broadcasts, according to Neil “Hondo” Williamson, this first one and every one all season.

By Lowcountry Bulldawgs

August 29, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

gdawg,

Yes they went back to the clock rule from seasons past.

Yes I am glad CMR handed the play calling duty’s over. I cannot tell you how many times I screamed my head off about some of the playcalling. Yes I am glad he is our coach,but man it was time for him to hand that duty off.

You know in reading this it concerns me that CMR might get burnt out on coaching at a young age. CMR has such a strong beleif in his family and in his faith that I wonder if he just wakes up and says you know what to heck with it and retire. Vince Dolley did it at what 58? CMR after reading this gave me the same concern.

By ag

August 29, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

i wonder is coach bowden (fsu) had any words of advice for coach richt on this issue. i would think that bowden is richts mentor seeing how long they worked together. and judging by the way bowden lets his coaches handle to day-to-day and he acts more like the CEO, sounds like what richt is trying to do!

By **CowPoke Fan**

August 29, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Hey UGA fans,

I enjoy reading your blogs and have written in a few times. What a great time of year!!!!

We are really looking forward to playing in Athens and very appreciative that UGA will return a game at OSU.

Now the fun!!! OSU wins in what is considered a mild upset - here’s why:

1. We are catching you at a great time. Our offense is upper classmen laden and is proven. UGA is talented - but depending on freshman and jc transfer. This inexperience is not good for UGA.

2. Defense - OSU is replacing several players (similar to your offense) but this is an upgrade for us as our defense was not too good last year. We should be much improved. UGA defense is loaded with athletes - but is also very young an inexperienced with young corners - new DE’s - going against a seasoned offense that can flat out play.

What gives? - Both OSU and UGA will move the ball and score some points on defenses that will be better as the year progresses. However - our offense will outscore your offense due to your inexperience. Again, we are catching you during a rebuild year and this is our best team in years. What I am saying is this is a great OSU football team (by OSU standards) against a mediocre UGA team in a rebuild year (by UGA standards) - what this means is that it will be fairly even - with OSU winning due to our offense that has had “Georgia on our mind” the entire offseason.

What will happen at OSU when UGA returns…..well I’m a realist and don’t want to go there. But I hope that we can build on the foundation we are establishing and can compete when you are back to normal strength.

OSU 31- UGA 28.

GO POKES!!

By MStafford

August 29, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

I just wish that the “new” Richt would get us an indoor practice facility so I can have private tickle piles with my fellow teammates…they are so much fun and the reason why I came to UGA.

By MStafford

August 29, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

I just wish that the “new” Richt would get us an indoor practice facility so I can have private tickle piles with my fellow teammates…they are so much fun and the reason why I came to UGA.

By MStafford

August 29, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

I just wish that the “new” Richt would get us an indoor practice facility so I can have private tickle piles with my fellow teammates…they are so much fun and the reason why I came to UGA.

By ga dog

August 29, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

i think bobo calling plays is a great idea, i never worried whether we run or pass on first down like alot of people do, just execute dawgs, mark richt will be making importatnt calls like going on 4th down, fake punt etc, possible game changing decisions, so i feel dawgs are in great shape, getting ready to hit some okey pokey dudes in orange

By Wes

August 29, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

One thing not too many people have talked about is how/if Stafford played a role in CMR’s decision to hand play-calling over to Bobo.

It’s obvious from media days, interviews, articles, etc. that Richt knows he has a really special talent in Stafford, something about “most talented player I’ve ever coached” comes to mind. It’s also been reported that Stafford and Bobo have developed a pretty good working relationship over the past year.

Additionally, Bobo has a proven track-record of winning in Sanford Stadium, i.e., knows what it’s like to play in front of 90,000 of the most rabid fans in the country.

Like I said, Richt knows he has a legit national championship caliber leader at QB, plus a new Offensive Coordinator that he personally groomed to run this offense…sounds like just about perfect timing to me.

By 7mmDawg

August 29, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

CowPoke Fan

First, welcome to the heart of the ‘Dawg Nation, I think you’ll find most of our fans will be cordial, energetic , engage in some good ribbing, and make you feel very welcome. They’ll even offer you a beer or food without asking! Make sure you get to Athens and walk around campus for at least a few hours to soak up the atmosphere! Unfortunately for you…..I think we’ll win this game, and here’s why:

1.) CMR/Bobo (love that guy, remember his hard times @ UGA? never complained, pointed fingers or boo-hoo’d about at thing) Two offensive gurus will come up with a game plan that will not require O linemen to maintain a block for more than a three count. Multiple sets with misdirections, screens, and draws will put the D-line on their heels. When we get the run established, play action will get your ‘backers into no-man’s land. Better hope the Pokes D can keep us from the edge, it will be a long night if not.

2.) WM and the D - not a huge fan of WM when we go to that soft zone, but when we get into our aggressive attacking mode (like the last three games of 2006!) we’re hard to stop. Hate to admit it, but Saban showed the way on this @ LSU. While many consider the D “young and inexperienced”, I disagree with half of that statement. Young? Definitely, Inexperienced? not very accurate! WM (I think this is one thing he learned from BVG) has not been afraid to give younger guys playing time, serious playing time, not the mop up style. Most of the “new” starters have PT in crucial games and moment within those games. Our DB’s are probably as fast as they’ve been in 4/5 years, our LB’s are definitely the fastest and strongest since CMR arrived and while our D line is a little light, they should great quickness and strength, and with Garner mentoring them, they will have technique that is top shelf.

And…if it’s close, Coutu is da man, best PK in the country….period!

Dawgs 34 Pokes 13

for Shane…. you are correct about the reference to 7mm….I’m sure the jacket fan thought I was referring to some of his anatomical “features”

Goooooooooo Dawgs, Sic ‘em, woof woof woof!

By Funny Stuff

August 29, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

Hey CowPokeFan: it’s fun to dream…isn’t it?

(Just another Boise State. Check that ‘outcome.’)

By I-DOG

August 29, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

Chip,

That was a really interesting article, thanks for giving us that additional insight from your earlier column.

By 59bulldawg

August 29, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

Hey Cowpoke Fan … it’s always good to dream … but me thinks you may be much surprised … Dawgs 34 Pokes 14. But being the gentleman I am, I’d be remiss if I didn’t recommend that you try a chilidawg, onion rings, and frosty orange from the Varsity either before or after the game. It’ll be the best damn chilidawg you’ve ever had … bar none. Just ask anyone in town and they’ll be happy to point you in the right direction. After all it’s probably going to be the highlight of your weekend! Oh well have a safe trip down and try to enjoy the game.

By sobedawg

August 29, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

I have 100% confidence in MIKE BOBO…just like I did when he led the Dawgs down the field and SMASHED TECH’S DREAMS INTO A MILLION PIECES!…Corey Allen…TOUCHDOWN!!! Sobedawg

By Buck in the NW

August 29, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

As CMR said, the one thing that BB gave to him was “Freedom”. If not already, it won’t be long before Bobo will make those FG or go for it calls. CMR, last season or the 1st of this year has already said that he didn’t know if coaching FB would be his calling forever. Just an out loud thought but what if CMR coached the Dawgs for 6-7 more years, how old would Bobo be? 39-40? perfect time to take over as HC at Ga. Our team IMO will be much better off with CMR being a true H.C. I’m ready…..Go Dawgs !!!!!!!!

By Huskdawg

August 29, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

Sup Guys, 7mm, good posts. Unfortunatly, I’m gonna have to drop the surnam “Husk”, had to get rid of her. I’ll let u know what name I come up with(like anyone cares). Anyway, my chiropractor played high school ball with Mike Bobo and told me he is such a fierce competitor that if you weren’t his friend, you would think he was a huge a*******hole. I don’t know about you, but I like that in someone who’s running this offense. He was raised as a QB from the pee-wee league and really knows his stuff. Bobo is from Thomasville, and that town breeds football players. Kinda like every freakin town in Florida(that one was for u GTDC). It was either Chip or Shultz that pointed out that the hype around this game reminded them of Boise State. I was worried then, but I’m really worried now. There’s just too many questions to be answered. I believe in this DAWG team and I believe in our coaches. I’m still going to remain a cautiously optimistic fan of this first game. I believe in Karma too, that’s why I’m not barkin’ too loudly. Get it done with this first one and then we’ll see. True DAWGS know what I’m sayin’.

By **CowPoke Fan**

August 29, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Greeting 7mm, Funny stuff, and 59bDawg!!

Looking forward to Athens and with the late kickoff - will have time to take in the campus and city. I am assuming that the varsity is the same as the one in Atlanta? If so, will definately get a chili dog. Hopefully - it will not be burned like the UGA DB’s will be from our WR Sat. night!!!!

Seriously - this is a statement game for OSU and we have had this game circled since we beat Alabama in our bowl game.

I get a feeling that UGA is underestimating our offense….but I am concerned with our D. However, I’ve got a feeling that we will slow you down enough to get a victory. Turnovers will have to go our way!!!

With that said - good luck this season and I hope you beat Tennessee and Florida - hate both those teams as I work with grads from both schools and they take being obnoxious to a whole new level.

By NASCARfan

August 29, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

Chip,

Please, you need to address the issue with students and tickets at UGA.

There is no reason for a stadium that seats 93,000 people to not have a student section that is about 25,000 strong, every game.

I say 25,000 because out of our 30,000 students, not everyone is going to actually want tickets.

Chip, this is one of the most greedy and ridiculous things that Michael Adams and Damon Evans have ever done. It’s reprehensable that Seniors who only need one or two classes to GRADUATE are not even ELIGABLE to get tickets.

It’s ridiculous that I am a Junior and I only recieved 4 tickets, to the three WORST games of the year (Kentucky, Troy, W. Carolina, with my consolation being SoCarolina).

Chip, there is a reason why Sanford Stadium is one of the worst homefield advantage stadiums in the SEC. Because they shut out about half the students who want tickets! It also doesn’t help that we have a somewhat disapassionate alumni base. LSU, Florida, SoCarolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Auburn, and Arkansas all have louder and better alumni. They also have louder stadiums with more of a homefield advantage.

I would bet money, Chip, that compared to the SIZE of those stadiums, they have a larger PERCENTAGE of STUDENTS sitting in the stands. Also, once again, their alumni don’t sit on their hands like OUR alumni do.

Chip, you really NEED to bring attention to the absolute GREED of Michael Adams and Damon Evans and how they’re screwing the students, especially the SENIORS who only need one or two classes to graduate getting NO TICKETS!!!

Please, Chip… expose this GREED!!!

By CapeCodDawg

August 29, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

NascarFan,

I assumed that UGA had a huge student section like Penn St (50,000)-Thats not cool.

Chip, Great interview with CMR I personally think that the team is going to have alot of new looks and packages this year. I surmise that Bobo has been chomping at the bit for a chance to implement some of his ideas. He like CMR has had a different perspective on the team and it’s talents,so It’ll be interesting to see what he comes up with….He did a great job against VT it think. As the season moves along he’ll get even better.

By NASCARfan

August 29, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

Penn State fills HALF of their effing stadium with STUDENTS!?!

No wonder Beaver Stadium has a HOMEFIELD ADVANTAGE.

Georgia’s student section is LESS than 20,000!!!

This is the bull$hit of all BULL$HIT, Chip!!!

I am sick and tired of the combined GREED of Michael Adams and his puppet, Damon Evans!!!

Isn’t college football supposed to be about COLLEGE and STUDENTS!!!

The University of Georgia and it’s Puppet Master President should be ASHAMED of themselves!!!

GREED!!!

By noyellowinthisblood

August 29, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

I have a problem with such a small student section, too. I sit on the 35, twelve rows up with the old folks. They actually tell fans to sit down. If you can’t stand up and make noise then stay home. If you can afford tickets, then you can afford hd and a big tv to sit in front of. Alyhough I do enjoy the 75 year old throwing peanuts at oppossing fans that won’t sit.

By Dawg4life

August 29, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

7mm Dawg,

You are right. I totally agree with your point about the Defense. Martinez concerns me when he gets into the conservative zone mode too because I don’t know if you can be conservative with a QB as dangerous and explosive as Reid, and a WR as explosive as Bowman. But I’ve said on previous blogs that the defense has always been measured in terms of starters returning, not players with experience returning. It’s not like we’re sticking a bunch of true freshmen in starting positions on defense. Kade Weston and Jeff Owens have played meaningful games. Ellerbe and Dewberry have played meaningful games. Asher Allen, Thomas Flowers, Prince Miller, Bryan Evans have all at one point started and played in meaningful games. Cowpoke Fan talks about how we might be underestimating their offense, but I think they’re underestimating our defense. I mean, c’mon, you don’t finish in the Top 10 in the nation in defense for nothing. And to add to the motivation, you’ve got Bowman running off at the mouth about how they’ll average 50 points a year. I mean, has he ever heard of bulletin board material? And who says UGA is underestimating their offense? From everything I’ve read, our players and coaches have been saying that they’re a very powerful and dangerous offense with a lot of speed. What else can be said? Meanwhile, our defense has only said the only thing that’s true: We’ll get on the field and let the pads do the talking.

I like our chances…GO DAWGS!!!

By rdbdawg

August 29, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Chip, Student here too. Luckily I got all my tickets (being a Sr and having enough hours left to register for a full load). I’d love to see an article on student sections in the SEC and, hell, the rest of the nation. Ie percentage of the student body that gets tix, and the percentage of student seats of total seats in stadiums. I would love to do the research on my own but that’s a lot of long distance phone calls and got a full load. Please help us out here!

By Marietta Dawg

August 29, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

NASCARfan When I was at UGA about 5 years ago the student section was usually louder than the rest of the stadium. I now have alumni season tickets in the end zone and we’re still pretty lively. It is unfortunate that students can’t get tickets to every game, but on the other hand, the reason for the split packages is to have more students actually get into to see the games. I’m sure there are still students just trying to scalp their tickets, that are keeping others from going to the games. If you’ve ever been to a UGA game, there is always tickets available right before kickoff on the bridge. You might not see kickoff, but you can still get into the game.

By Scooter

August 29, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Check the weather for Saturday. Freaking 83 degrees, cloudy and showers. I was hoping for hot and sunny. Two weeks ago its 105… Did T. Boone Pickens give the weatherman a billion or 2?

By Ron Simmons

August 29, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

HuskDawg, DAMN!

By Brian

August 29, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

I’m worried, yes we won the last three games of the year but the offense didn’t do much. The Auburn game just got out of hand. I hope it works out, and if we are to be a national power then lets face it; we have to beat the OSU’s on a regular basis. Go Dawgs!

By happy gator

August 29, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

funny weather…You want it hot for one team but you cry about it being too hot in Jax! LOL!!!

Next excuse.

By DanDawg

August 29, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Nothing against the students, because I was one, but I often sit in the 300 level of the student section because there is so much room. Even at UT last year it was well into the 2nd quarter before the student section filled up.

By AltamahaDawg

August 29, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Chip gave all those percentages last year when this came up didnt he?

By reality check

August 29, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Oklahoma State’s offense may be a little better than ours, but we will be more back to normal this year. If they are better they won’t be much better than we are on offense.

Where we have a decided edge is on defense and the kicking game. Coutu may simply be the best.

On defense, we have never had better athletes in the secondary. We have a true freshman running at 3rd string corner who is said to be good. Our other secondary players have been in the program at least 2 or 3 years and they are all top notch prospects.

On the defensive line we have talent, experience, and depth at the tackles. We will be better overall there. Our defensive ends are down a notch from 3rd round draft choices. But we are still sound.

Our linebackers are more talented than the ones we lost. None of those guys will be palying on Sunday. All of this year’s starters should.

Sorry to keep quoting General Neyland, but winning football is based on defense, the kicking game, and offense IN THAT ORDER. It has always been that way and still is, college or pro.

It should be a good game and the line favoring Georgia by 6 1/2 strikes me as about right.

By Upstate SC

August 29, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Oh, enough of the predictions already. I just read the article on Stafford. This kid exudes confidence,even when being quoted and paraphrased in an article. I am fired up. Glory Glory to old Georgia. Bring on the Pokes, bring on the chickens, gayturds, anyone else…. aaww who gives a damn, I think everyone is ready to get started already. GOOO DAWGS!!! And also a hearty shout out to the loyal FOC!!! Greetings Cuz.

By Buck in the NW

August 29, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

I think it’s funny that CMR didn’t name Stafford as a game Capt. and say it’s a tradition at Ga. that Srs. are game Capts. That’s true but it’s OK to make some changes because when Velasco was asked about it he said that Stafford is our leader. Other team members agreed. Coach, put your team leader out as a Game Capt. The world won’t stop spinning.

By NASCARfan

August 29, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

DanDawg,

The reason for that is the retarded rules about where and when you can enter the stadium. My crappy ticket package says I can only enter in the main gate with everyone else in creation. There are about 3 gates every game which are never busy, but for some reason, the school wants to squeeze the majority of the 93,000 fans into two gates.

Marietta, my point is, with a stadium as big as ours, ALL students who want full season tickets should be able to get them, at student rates, not scalped rates. I just picked up the Auburn and Ole Miss games for $90.00 total dollars. I know I’m going to get raped when I show up at the stadium for the Okie State tickets. It’s wrong. It’s pure, ridiculous greed by Michael Adams and his Puppet. If Penn State can fill HALF of their 100,000 + seat stadium with students, and Ohio State can do much of the same, WHY CAN’T GEORGIA!?!

Why can’t Georgia set aside 25,000 seats for students in a 93,000 seat stadium? Why? What’s their excuse? We are the richest program in all of football. If Penn State, which operates at a loss, can see fit to take a hit on student tickets to the sum of about 50,000 seats, why can’t the richest program in football take the hit for 25,000?

Please, someone give me the effing reason why Georgia insists on screwing the students, and especially its Seniors who only need between one and three classes to graduate, constituting a less than full load schedule? Why does Georgia, more than any other school in the nation, screw its students so bad to chase more money, when it’s already the richest program in the nation?

Michael Adams would sell his mother if he thought he could get a profit. The man is pure, evil GREED.

By MarkRichtFan

August 29, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

NASCARfan,

Within the last 5 or 6 years, student tickets have been put on sale to the general public on Saturday morning because the students did not claim their full allotment of student tickets. That allotment was never reduced, but now there are more students and a bigger percentage of them want tickets.

When I was a student in the 70s, only about 55% of the student body wanted tickets except when it was a really big game with lots of hype. (Remember, the total enrollment includes graduate and professional school students, part time students, and some students at satelite locations.)

With each expansion of the stadium, seats were added to the student section to meet the then current demand of the students for tickets. Now the demand outstrips the supply, but there is no place to get the additional seats except to build them. You see, UGA has promised me that if I will make my required charitiable contribution of $400 per ticket by February 15 and order and pay for my tickets by March 31, I can keep my same seats for life. The amount of the required contribution will be increased from time to time, and ticket prices go up regularly, but my seats are mine by contract. The athletic department cannot break its contract with me to give you my seats.

There is no need to place the blame for the renewable season ticket system on Damon Evans or even Vince Dooley. It has been in place since at least 1965, and Joel Eaves was the athletic director then.

Things were so tough this year that many new contributors gave from $1,000 to $1,600 dollars expecting to have the opportunity to buy 4 season tickets at face value. Unfortunately for these generous contributors, the cutoff for new season tickets was at about $2,000. So, things are going to get much worse for you after you graduate and try to obtain season tickets for the first time. Such is the price of success.

If we go through some lean years and/or if the economy tanks (as it may), more season tickets will be available to to both new alumni contributors and to students. Until then, get use to it. The world does not revolve around you.

BTW, Ohio State has the largest student enrollment of any university in the nation and a stadium that seats 105,000. Underclassmen get tickets to half of the home games. Seniors do get tickets to every game, but they are only seniors for one season. Part of the problem at UGA is that many students want to come back for one more fall semester, and I can’t blame them if their families can afford such luxury. But normally, there are freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors—that’s 4 years, and some students actually stay on schedule. (My family was poor. I took overloads and graduated in 3 years. I was in the working world at age 21, and making the required contribution and buying alumi tickets by age 23.)

I have been a dedicated UGA fan since I was 7 years old and watched Fran Tarkenton quarterback UGA to a 14-13 win over Auburn for the SEC championship in 1959—my first game in Sanford Stadium. I will be in my seat in the south stands at least 30 minutes before kickoff on Saturday!

Will you be one of the relatively few dedicated students who is in his seat 30 minutes before kickoff, or will you show up during the first quarter as over half of the UGA students do? Will I see your student ticket advertised for sale on e-bay? Many students are marketing their right to receive a cheap student ticket, instead of helping out a fellow student as they should. I am afraid that the UGA students are their own worst enemies! There has always been a dedicated hardcore group of student fans. But for many students it is a social event only to be enjoyed when it is convenient for them to attend the games.

I am a long time observer of these things, and I speak with a voice of experience.

By NASCARfan

August 29, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

MRF, I can understand where you come from…

BUT ONCE AGAIN…

In a stadium that sits 93,000, the student section should be AT LEAST 25,000 strong, in that way, just about every student who WANTS a full season package can get them.

You’ll never be able to convince me otherwise.

ONCE AGAIN…

How can the richest football program in ALL OF FOOTBALL have one of the smaller student sections per amount of total seats in ALL OF FOOTBALL!?!

I never, ever want to hear a single person on this board ever complain about the lack of noise at Sanford Stadium compared to other stadiums unless you also acknowledge the fact that having a bigger student section would take care of the homefield advantage issue.

By rdbdawg

August 29, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Most students with tix in the 300 section do passbacks to sit with the rest of the students in the lower sections…that’s why it doesn’t get as crowded until later.

By rdbdawg

August 29, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

and btw MRfan…me and most of my friends and about 1,000 other students are there about an hour and a half before kickoff…we pretty much follow the band in from the dawg walk

By SickandTired

August 29, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Saint Richt should have given up on play calling 4 or 5 years ago. Maybe Bobo won’t nut up in the red zone. Oh and be sure to buy the new book, “Inside the Red Zone” by Mark Richt

By MarkRichtFan

August 29, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

NascarFan,

You don’t get it or don’t want to get it. Who do you take the tickets from to give to the students? Do you take them from the fans who have paid for renewable season tickets? Do you take them from the faculty who is already feeling a similar squeeze as the students? Do you deny the player’s families their 4 tickets (no matter how big the family—NCAA regs.)? Do you break your contract with the visiting team? Even if the visiting team does not sue you, UGA fans will certainly feel the full brunt of retaliation the next year.

A bigger percentage of UGA students want tickets than in the past. I think that e-bay and commercial opportunity have a lot to do with it, but I would like to think that more true fans are enrolling at the university because of our success. It is probably a mixture of both.

Until we can expand the stadium or until season tickets cease to be fully subscribed on a renewable basis, there are no additional tickets available for students. The ticket office has litle choice but to implement measures to make student tickets go as far as they will.

By AltamahaDawg

August 29, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

NascarFan, I really dont think you are going to like the truth about the ticket allocations when Chip comes back with them.

For what its worth, and I do not know the facts, BUT I am totally in favor of not giving the same ticket priority to students taking only a class or two, as those paying for full loads. Think about it, thats a no brainer, and only fair. I don’t think a 5th yr senior taking one class should get your full load Junior ticket. Do you?

As far as who college football is played for? At UGA its for the people of the State of Georgia. Its the Universtity of Georgia not the University of those currently attending. So, no Its not “about college students”. Its part of the experience of being a college student, but its also part of the experience for alum, freinds, and supporters. Why is a loyal fan who graduated in May less valuable to you than some senior who didnt and came back one more semester? (and do they actualy still have to pay the “junk fees” if only taking a class or two)

By HamDawg

August 29, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

I know OSU has a great offense, and they’re a respectable opponent, but I can’t help but be underwhelmed at their schedule from last year:

Missouri State 52-10(W) Arkansas State 35-7(W) Florida Atlantic 48-8(W) Houston 25-34(L) Kansas State 27-31(L) Kansas 42-32(W) Texas A&M 33-34(L) (OT) Nebraska 41-29(W) Texas 10-36(L) Baylor 66-24(W) Texas Tech 24-30(L) Oklahoma 21-27(L) Independence Bowl Alabama 34-31(W)

I mean, their record was 7-6, including the bowl game. They were 5-2 @ home, and 2-4 away (that includes the bowl game). The teams they beat weren’t exactly powerhouses:

Missouri State, Ark. State, Fla. Atlantic, Kansas, Nebraska (their only somewhat impressive win), Baylor (Big 12 doormat), and Bama (a bad Bama team without a head coach, and they BARELY won that game).

They beat the teams they were supposed to beat, except for Houston, and didn’t upset anybody. Yeah, they racked up a ton of yards and points. Yeah, their offense is probably as good or better than ours, but they only played teams with defenses the caliber of UGA twice in the form of OU and Texas, scoring a total of 31 points in those two games.

Now granted, our schedule is not very intimidating either until you get to the Auburn game, but our offense was downright anemic last year, with an inexperienced freshman QB at the helm. We’ve got to be better on O this year.

With that said, I’m still somewhat nervous about what Saturday holds for us, but I am confident that if we play our B- game and they play their A game, we’ll still win by 10+ points.

Thoughts………..

HamDawg

By Markricht

August 29, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

So does he still advocate tickle-piles for QBs? Is this a policy of the new Richt?

http://bp1.blogger.com/aBun-fJmULo/Rjn63vBwcsI/AAAAAAAAAII/3dZKDBhm2Nc/s1600/Pic3StaffordandCoxofcourseCoxisontheground.jpg

By Dawg4life

August 29, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

HamDawg:

I agree with you. For more confirmation, check my post above earlier. I didn’t look at it that way, but I think the main reason that they were able to score so many points is because, like you said, they played crap teams. Any time they played teams of a similar caliber to UGA, they floundered.

I’m just thinking we’re gonna win based on the motivation alone. I mean, this kid Bowman is unbelievable. Did anyone see his quote saying, “After we knock them off, hopefully we’ll be ranked”? I mean this kid really has some nerve. I hope our DBs and LBs give him a really hard-hitting reminder about why he should keep his mouth shut during game week.

GO DAWGS!!!

By AltamahaDawg

August 29, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

Nascar here is what I dont get, swrong with the student section (whater the percentage), just being loud anyway. Are the so p** at Adams they refuse to hollar? My 5th year buddy had to scalp a ticket, so Im not going to be loud? They can only be loud IF ever single student gets a $10 ticket. (we will forget than plenty will sell them or not go for, the moment). You’re saying 25,000 students would transform the stadium from a noise factor. How many are there now? How many thousand more students are we really talking here. And those seats aren’t exactly empty. Folks are in em, cheering (albiet not to your liking). So its the differnce between the noise level of 5-7 thousand students (not all of whom are louder) and the noise level of that many non students, (some of which are loud), thats all the difference? Thats not a home field “issue”.

By Cuz

August 29, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Just bring it on……

By Gen Neyland

August 30, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

gdawginkalamazoo

Ainge will be tossing the shovel pass all night long…My guess is Ainge will play…

Lowcountry

You mean to tell me people actually paid money to do this..?

Foc

Bobo will be a WIP. This issue is of greater importance than one may imagine. CMR will have to live with the flops as well as the successes and stay out of the way. Many HC’s want to have the final say, as do OC’s, on matters offensive. This will also be a WIP for CMR…

gtdc

Thxs for your support. Hope you’ll be pulling for us when we visit The Bog…Good luck…

By A-ville Ranger

August 30, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

We’re all trying to figure the odds on this one.Neither team has played a down.They have a new defensive coordinator.We have a new offensive coordinator.Don’t get me wrong I like our chances but I’m not overly confident. The OSU offense looks to be a real challenge.My fear is the Martinez soft containment will be forced to react all night.I hope the coaching staff is planning interesting and hard to counter ways to throw that Pokey offense off it’s game plan.I’d like to see the D-line wreak the most unholy havoc, mixing in stunts and blitzs from the saftys and L-backers.One thing Martinez does extremely well is put his secondary in position to make plays on the ball.So take the qb out of his game and force some mistakes….sounds easy from my den…GO DAWGS BITE THEM POKES !!!

By 6NAROW

August 30, 2007 12:37 AM | Link to this

I’m going to tackle my techie co-worker tomorrow Terry Tate office linebacker style. “What? No cover page on your TPS report?” Here comes 7NAROW.

By MadMerf

August 30, 2007 2:41 AM | Link to this

Cowpoke Fan,

You are most welcome to this blog and I admire your confidence. I wouldn’t put too much emphasis into UGA being overconfident on Saturday, as Bowman’s mouth has taken care of that. If he keeps on the way he has then he’ll have to move his halftime reality show to St. Mary’s or Athens Regional, you know what I mean?

Everyone is nervous about the first game, it is a natural football fan emotion. Everyone has questions about the newcomers and how much we lost. In the widely popular comparisons to the Boise State opener two years ago, this team doesn’t need to replace the likes of David Greene, Pollack, Thurman, T. Davis, R. Brown and Gibson, not to mention coach VanGorder, like that SEC Championship team did year before last.

And ‘Poke fan, like 7mm said, you might want to chew up as much scenery around campus as you can BEFORE kickoff, because your mood may not be as chipper once you’ve experienced the speed and power of the SEC! GO DAWGS!!!!

In conclusion I’d like to see Athens’ local steakhouses feature a Labor Day Weekend Special: T-Bone Pickin’s with a creampuff for dessert.

Now that’s rich!

By Columbus Dawg

August 30, 2007 6:35 AM | Link to this

First I want to commend the OSU fans for their enthusiasum, for without that they would not be much of a fan base. To be realistic though,I don’t think they really have a clue on what they are about to face in UGA. Someone mentioned their schedule, and if you take Texas (notice I did not mention Oklahoma because I am just not impressed, they basically suck) they simply play a very weak schedule, and they have no idea how missmatched they are going to be against the Dawgs. Let them have their fun while they can.

By puppydawg

August 30, 2007 7:27 AM | Link to this

NASCARfan, I feel your pain but the students are not without blame here, either. It seems to me that most students don’t show up until midway thru the 2nd quarter. It’s kinda hard to hear them cheering from their dorm rooms or frat/sorority houses.

By Lowcountry Bulldawgs

August 30, 2007 7:55 AM | Link to this

AltamahaDawg,

You are dead on.

General,

Sure did at one point it would coast ya 30 bucks to do this. Then the AJC smartened up and refunded us our money. I of course being the redneck that I am framed my 30 dollar check. Am saving it for retirement, or a rainy day whichever comes first.

By BCD

August 30, 2007 8:16 AM | Link to this

NASCARfan, I have to agree with the posters above. As a student, I was never as big of a fan, nor did I appreciate what I had as I do now. If anything, I’d reduce the number of tickets so that the students understood what we go through jut to get to a game. I do not get regular season tickets because I can’t afford them… well that is to say the cost to me of $200.00 donation to ‘get on the list’ for a few years to then pay for crap tickets for years while I work my way up to bad end zone tickets, isn’t worth it to me. I still bleed red and black and I pay through the nose to go to a couple of games a year. If there were fewer tickets for the students, then you would spend less time in the dorm and more time in the seats.

I’ll be at the opener this year. I’ll be in my seat early and I’ll be yelling LOUD. I’ll also be watching as the student section fills up slowly and half of them will be people like me who bought their tickets on eBay.

BCD

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the clock update Lowcountry. I couldn’t remember.

Dawg4life, I like your take on the experience. I prefer to call it eager experience. Kids that have played in the games and are now eager to show what they can do. That is a nice problem to have IMO.

For you Cowpoke fans, I don’t know where I have been to have missed Bowman’s comments noted above. However, you guys might tell him to make some serious retractions before he ends up in traction. He may make a few catches and maybe even break one or two off but he better be doing all that on sideline routes because the second he cuts across the middle, break out the jam and butter because he is toast. We have a reputation for hardhitting DB’s and guess what we have a couple.

If the game is close momentum from last season will pull us through this one. The majority of those guys are back, redshirt or not. They know what UGA football is about and what it takes to win.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this

NASCARFan, I feel your pain. When I was there it seemed like we got a coupon book for all the home games as part of or maybe an addition to the student activities card we had to buy. I hate it that students who want to go to the games migh be denied that opportunity at an affordable price. Those were some of the best times, so much so that I did opt for that 5th fall in Athens.

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

Nascar, just because its your third year at UGA does not mean you are a junior. If you actually have 60 hours then you would have gotten the entire package. You should quit posting and study, this way you will pass your classes and earn the amount of hours needed to get tickets. I know students with 30 hours that received the entire package. I graduated in May and am very familar with UGA’s ticket fiasco. Every year the Athletic Departments changes the student ticket system. Many students become confused with the system and forget to buy tickets in time or mess up the complicated online aplication process. My younger brother did not receive tickets one year becasue he exited the browser without logging off first. We need to stick with one system instead of abandoning it and starting over every fall. That is the main problem with Student Tickets. With the exception of a noon kickoff against a terrible team, I have never been in the student section when it was not loud. 109,110,111 and the frat section get especially crazy.

By Busterdawg

August 30, 2007 8:52 AM | Link to this

This doesn’t have a lot to do with what kind of job Bobo will do as the OC, but, let’s not forget. He is the ONLY UGA QB to ever beat the Old Ball Coach. 37-17 in 1997, how sweet it was.

By DecaturDawg

August 30, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this

I feel good about Bobo making the calls. My only question, Chip, is will the playbook still bear CMR’s stamp? He’s drawn up some great plays over the years that were designed for the personnel he had (think P44 Haynes, or the 4th down play that beat Auburn and put us in the SEC championship). I hate to see that creativity not put to use.

On Saturday, I’m expecting OSU’s offense to outperform ours (since when has our O started the year strong?), but our defense to show that it is on its way to again being one of the nation’s best. We will win because of D.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this

Hey Dawg4life. An OSU fan checking in here. First off, we are really pumped to be playing UGA and have great respect for your team and conference. I also agree that our guy Bowman shouldn’t have been saying some of the things he has. Chalk that up to over-exuberant youth. However, you need to check your stats before saying we didn’t do anything against “teams of UGA’s caliber”. Three teams on our schedule last year, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and ‘Bama (I know, but they did have one of the top-ranked D’s in the country so bear with me)are all comparable to UGA. Against those 3 teams, OSU’s offense averaged 425 total yards and 32 points.

You guys keep talking about what your DBs are going to do to Bowman. Here’s another wake-up call. Last year, he faced a DB named Aqib Talib at Kansas. Talib is on almost everybody’s All-American list this year. All Bowman did was make 13 catches for 300 yards and 4 TDs that day. Granted, Kansas top to bottom can’t compare to UGA, but 13/300/4 is impressive against any D-1 team. He’s the real deal.

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

I’m sure Bowman is the real deal, but we are used to playing against great players. I know we don’t have Oliver, but Calvin Johnson was the real deal as well so our players are not intimidated by hype and All American status.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

I didn’t expect you to be intimidated and I agree the SEC is full of great players as was Calvin Johnson. All I’m saying is don’t underestimate our guys and the competition we play either.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

Patrick, that is impressive against ANY program much less the ones you listed. Glad you don’t like the bulletin board material either. IMO that kind of stuff doesn’t bode well for the player making it. Has Bowman always had a problem with flapping his gums or is this out of the ordinary? True we don’t have any All Americans listed at DB to start the season but as a unit (and nowdays it takes a unit) I think (read-hope) our guys will do the job well enough.

By shane

August 30, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

7mm,i knew you were a rifleman by your handle.my dad died young and my grandfather raised me in the south ga swamps.so i know my way around a rifle and shotgun pretty well myself.i am not into long range shooting myself,but if you are good enough to dispatch the animal cleanly and humanely then more power to you.ag,the head coach is a ceo,and bowden used to call the plays himself untill the duties of being hc grew to be too much.then he turned play calling over to richt.sound familar?i am glad our coach had a mentor like bowden,can you think of anyone better?someone mentioned coach dooley retiring at 58 and said they were afraid cmr would burn out and do the same thing.well,if cmr wins over 200 games,a nc,and a butt load of sec titles and wants to retire,i would wish him god-speed.

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

I am not underestimating or disrespecting any OSU players. I am well aware the talent and exiting play of Reid, Savage,Bowman and the TE(Pettigew I think) I am confident our D is also aware of this, we will not be underestimating the Cowboys.I am excited to see how our inexperienced O Line matches up against OSU’s inexperienced D Line. Is it true that two of the Pokes LBs are converted DBs. If they are how big are they?

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Hello again gdawginkalamazoo. Bowman has always been good for some great quotes and comments and interviews well, but I don’t recall him ever making some of the type of comments he’s been making this week. Hopefully, that pre-season All American stuff hasn’t gone to his head.

As to Bowman’s character, here’s a nice story. After the phenomenal season he had last year and already being mentioned as All American and possible 1st-round pick NFL after this year, he asked to walk on to the basketball team last year after injuries, suspensions, etc. had decimated the team. He had not played since HS. He practiced hard every day and played very little. The point is, he put his very-promising FB future on the line to help out the school’s BBall team when he didn’t have to. That tells me he’s a pretty good guy.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Hi GloryGlory. I see you’ve done your homework. Expect a big day out of Pettigrew. You are correct that the INTERIOR of our D-line is inexperienced, but we have some really fast and experienced DEs.

You are also correct about our converted DBs. Donovan Woods (who was actually our starting QB 3 years ago)converted from safety. He now plays a sort of hybrid safety/LB position,which is just a safety that plays closer to the line of scrimmage. He’s bulked up a lot. He goes about 6-2, 230. The other one is Jeremy Nethon. He’s about 6-0, 225. He was a LB last year and was Defensive MVP of the Independence Bowl. So, our LBs aren’t huge, but they have some speed.

By joe

August 30, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

the real question is if the offense fails to move, will coach richt push bobo aside too quickly or will he trust him thru the season? bobo comes from a very good pedigree from valdosta and uga helms.

By godawgs51

August 30, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

patrick, in response to your post regarding the three teams osu played last year with similar defensive caliber as ours, there were actually four. guess it helped your stats to leave out texas. and while alabama had a good defense. their amenic offense could not compare to ours and wasn’t able to keep your offense off the field as stafford and the boys will most certainly do.

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Patrick, our Ds match up pretty evenly. We have two speedy LBs that are the same size as yours. Miller the Sam LB is fast and massive and will be hooked up with Pettigrew all day. They have been saying that he has been killing our TEs in practice, it should be a good game I am looking forward to it.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

Patrick, after last year I am certain that our players don’t under estimate ANYBODY. Our fans can get quite rowdy and overconfident though. After loses to Vandy and KY last year and playing Colorado and Ole Miss to the end our team learned a lot as it was noted in the last three games when giving up would have been easy at any point. This goes for both OSU and UGA, if either gets an early spark the game could get out of hand.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Hey godawgs51. I only included the 3 teams that had Ds “of the same caliber” as UGAs, not ones that are BETTER than UGAs. I guarantee you, Texas’ D last year was better than UGAs this year. That’s why I left them out of the stats.

Also, I think it works both ways as far as good offenses keeping the other offenses off the field. We can move the ball a little too. And no, we aren’t just a passing team. We averaged 200+ on the ground and 200+ in the air last year.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Yes, the thing that worries me the most is OSU has not been a great road team. Playing in front of 93,000 stoked for 1st game of the year scares the heck out of me.

By tim

August 30, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

I can’t wait…can’t wait..can’t wait…No work getting done. I can only focus on college football right now. GOOOOO DAWGS!! Sic em UGA 27 OSU 20

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Although I am a completely dyed in the wool dawg fan with loads of admiration for CMR I have long been critical of CMR for his play calling. I was overjoyed when he made the decision to pass it on to Bobo. Make no mistake I believe CMR to be an excellent coach but to attempt to be a head coach and offensice cordinator during the game is selling the team short at the most crucial times. Most of the dawgs opponents have those duties split and thus an advantage.

CMR decision to hand this aspect over to Bobo shows me that Richt has grown as a head coach to be comfortable enough to lay that responsibility to his understudies. I believe Mike Bobo will prove to be an excellent OC and play caller. This move no doubt will enable CMR to command the entire game rather than just the tunnel vision of offense. Excellent move coach!

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Patrick….Not so fast my friend! It would appear you have a crystal ball as to the measure of this years UGA defense? I don’t think so. However it’s no doubt that Tejas had a better defense than the dawgs last year as did 89 other teams. This is a new year and we play the game to determine who’s is better do we not?

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

I’m sticking to my guns and prediction of last week

DAWGS 31-3

By tim

August 30, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

I think the difference could be special teams(especially since they are moving kickoffs back)and of course turnovers. I don’t think any of the players or coaches are overlooking OSU but I do like our chances

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

ARdawg. Let’s see, you have what, 3 returning starters? While I’m sure all the new guys have plenty of talent, I don’t think they can compare to a Texas team that was loaded with upperclassmen, many of which were drafted to the NFL. You’re going to lecture me about crystal ball and deciding the outcome on the field when all I’ve seen is how UGA’s gonna do this and do that and beat OSU with all their superiority, ad nauseum? PLEASE, spare me.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

Oh, and there’s ARdawg spouting predictions after lecturing me about playing the game on the field.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

You are completely delusional “my friend” if you really think UGA can hold OSU to 3 points.

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Tim…..agreed. Special teams more times than not determine any given games outcome. After last year I don’t think the dawgs will be guilty of overlooking anyone and OSU included. The players are fully aware that no one on the schedule is to be taken lightly. I fully expect to see a much improved UGA team over last year and expect somewhat of a fury by the dawgs to be displayed. They do have something to prove.

By godawgs51

August 30, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

georgia’s defense last year finished as a top ten defense in the country, how much better was texas. and like ardawg said, neither defense has stepped on the field this year, so as you have previouslt accused the dawgs of underestimating your offense it seems you might be doing a little of the same against our defense. it seems your players are doing the same thing. calvin johnson put up some amazing numbers in the acc, but when he stepped on the field verses the red and black those numbers never seemed to come to fruition.

By tim

August 30, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

It could be a blowout ARdawg but I doubt we will hold them to only 3 points. Patrick are you going to be at the game? Athens is a great football town and the woman are beautiful. That stadium is going to be rocking. The late start allows everybody to get crazy

By Tech Smells

August 30, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Wasn’t this the same problem we had after 2004? How are we goign to replace Pollack and Davis? How will we ever play defense again? Spare me, UGA recruits the nations best at all positions. Our defense is more than capable of slowing down this offense that went for 200/200 a game last year. Spare me the replacing starters we have battle tested SEC calibur athletes ready to go all day long.

By SkiDawg

August 30, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

A Head Football Coach is a lot like a corporate CEO. You have to trust the day to day managers (Assistant Coaches)to motivate, train and prepare the players. The CEO makes sure the entire game plan is being followed by each division. The changes that Mark Richt has installed as he has matured as a Head Coach should help to lead Georgia to more SEC Championships and probably a National Championship in the near future.

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Patrick……WOW…such an attitude you have. You’re obviously worried and you should be. OSU will be the guest of honor at the dawgs coming out party. All you are realistically capable of at this point is comparing two defenses from last year who did not play each other nor did they play much if any common opponents. So your comparison is pure opinion and in my opinion, pure fiction. Texas’s schedule is/was as weak as OSU’s. Get over yourself. You actually sound like a Texas fan. Arrogant and full of poop

By Chip Towers

August 30, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

NASCAR,

I’m gonna have to get back to you on that. I had a conversation with Tim Cearley, UGA ticket manager, earlier this year, and I think I recall him telling me that Georgia’s student ticket allotment was in line with if not better than those in the SEC. I know he said it was about the same as Florida, which they compete with on such things at every level. In fact, again, going on fuzzy memory here, I think he said Georgia does always use all its student allotment. The leftovers are some of those you see them sell at the stadium the morning of games. But I will check in with them again and try to get you some answers. OK?

By NASCARfan

August 30, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Hey, I study plenty. There’s a reason why I wasn’t posting into the early hours. Well, that, and an early date with the bench at Ramsey. Man… working out at night during the summer was bad enough, but next to near impossible now that Fall’s in session. But no one’s in there at 8am. But I think, especially with MRF and my friend Altamaha, we’ll have to agree to disgree. I honestly believe that in a stadium of 93,000 that every student who WANTS a seat should be able to get one. MRF, the REASON why students sell their tickets is because there are so many students who DON’T get tickets. If you actually care about your students and let all students who want tickets to get them, then that whole EBay black market goes away. Simple logic. Once again, if you have 93,000 seats, then there is NO reason why students shouldn’t be able to get a full season package if they WANT them. Any other reason is just b.s.

Man… waiting for the game to get hear is INSANE. I just want to skip the rest of my classes (don’t worry, I won’t) and go on a two day bender before the game.

A question to ponder, to keep the blog going:

What kind of specific wrinkles do y’all think Coach Bobo might introduce in the game? I really think Coach Bobo is going to be the kind of playcaller that Coach Richt was at FSU or like Petrino was at Louisville.

I really believe we’ll see some 4 and 5 wideout sets, or have Southerland and whatever running back shift into the slots. I think we’ll line up in a lot of I-Formations and pound the ball. I put the over on end arounds at 2. I think we’ll see Matt do the patented Georgia fake hand-off. Y’all know the one I’m talking about. I think Coach Bobo is going to be a everything INCLUDING the kitchen sink, go-for-broke kind of playcaller.

What do y’all think? What kind of wrinkles are y’all either hoping for or think he’s going to introduce?

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

No, unfortunately can’t make the game. Other Labor Day plans, but will be tuned in to ESPN2. I’ve heard about the great collegiate atmosphere in Athens. Never had the pleasure to visit. Any of you Dawgs heading our way in ‘09? We’ve got a nice little college town and a few pretty co-eds ourselves.

By georgiagirl

August 30, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Game Day gets closer by the hour, and we will all be yelling GO DAWGS and WEARING RED AND BLACK. And then we will see who wins the game, so Patrick I think you should do as the rest of world and see who wins, because I’m sure that the rest of the world will be looking at the WORLD’S GREATEST OL. So that they can get ready for the world greatest team. OPEN MOUTH, INSERT FOOT, NOW THEY WILL ALL BE COMING AFTER YOUR TEAM HARD AND HEAVY THIS SEASON. No matter what, never let your head get to big, because it will come back to bite you. Only the game will tell who wins and who loses.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

I never brought up Texas in the first place, godawgs51 did. And I don’t have an attitude unless somebody hits me with one first.

Let’s face it, it’s early in the season and everybody’s a little full of themselves at this point and nobody knows what anybody else is going to do until we do get on the field. So, let’s quit the sniping and get ready for a great game!

By UGA Texas Defenses

August 30, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

In response to Texas having a better defense than UGA in 2006. UGA finished 21st in points per game, Texas 24th. UGA finished 9th in yards allowed per game, Texas 22nd….but who’s counting?

GO Dawgs!

By tim

August 30, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

I think that he will have some new wrinkles and trick plays but I don’t expect too much since it is this early in the season. I think it will mirror coach richts playcalling for the first few games

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Man you attack Dawgs can get nasty. Look back at my blogs. NOT ONCE have I made any predictions as to who’s going to win. NOT ONCE have I said UGA is no good. All I’ve done is try to defend OSU and say they MIGHT be a litle better than you guys think and that I don’t think we’re going to get blown out or held to only 3 points. That’s it.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

I seriously doubt we hold OSU to 3 points. 13 or 23 maybe and I would probably lean toward the 23. Which means our offense and special teams better be lighting it up. I have full faith that they will.

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

NASCARfan….excellent question…..I think we’ll see the more aggressive style of offense. I expect Bobo will open it up for gamble and chances at every opportunity as opposed to CMR more conservative style. Richt’s style has served him well in the past but aside from being boring at times it was also stiflling.

By godawgs51

August 30, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

nascar, i am a dawgs fan and hate to argue with other dawgs fans but i sit and read your posts daily and sometimes your arguments are ridiculous and you are always so closed minded. your argument that the reason students sell their tickets is because other students can’t get tickets is absurd. so you are saying the tickets that students sell on the bridge and on ebay go to other students as a form of helping each other out and not to put money in their pocket? as a former student i know that numerous students get season tickets with no intent on going to the games, they buy them at their discount just to turn around and sell them to put money in their pocket for food, drink, or whatever. you say that every student who wants a ticket should be able to get one. you are right, i think every dawg fan who wants a ticket should get one. let’s just have every one sit in each others lap and everyone will be happy.

By shane

August 30, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

nascarfan,i think the play book will be somewhat limited early.bobo wants to open it up,but we have too many young guys.it’s true that some are red-shirts and some came in early,but remember,they have had only spring and summer to practice as a team. it takes a while to get the timing down and for the team to opperate as one. a play must be run enough in practice to be automatic,you don’t have time to think out there,it has to be instinctive. this instinct comes from endless reps in drills,and game experence.when you think about what has to be done in the spring and summer,and the limited time allowed,the new guys need a simplified offense.a smart coach with a young team will run the basic plays first,and have the guys work on them until they have them down pat.you don’t want a fumbled snap,an offsides penality that kills a drive,or a lineman missing an assignment and getting your all star qb hurt.bobo may suprise me,but i don’t see how the guys could have learned a flashy offense this early.

By NASCARfan

August 30, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Chip, thanks…

The biggest issue for me (I have OVER 90 hours combined, over 40 at UGA) is that SENIORS who only need ONE DAMN CLASS to graduate that maybe they couldn’t fit in over the summer or in the Spring are locked out of getting tickets.

This kind of thing doesn’t happen at other schools. Next Fall, I’ll have one class I need to graduate, and I can’t take it during the summer and I can’t take it in the Spring because I need a few more prereqs.

So that means by the Fall of next year, after Fall, Spring, and Summer classes, I’ll have over 130 hours at school, over 80 hours at UGA, and I won’t be able to get tickets.

That’s screwed up. That’s wrong. And there are so many Seniors this year in this situation.

Chip, Florida has smaller stadium, by about 10,000 seats. So if their student section is about the same size, it’s actually BIGGER.

A school with a 30,000 student enrollment and a 93,000 seat stadium should never have issues with tickets. Any student who wants tickets should be able to get them. It wouldn’t be 30,000. Conservative estimates puts the actual number closer to 25,000 for students who would actually want tickets, maybe even less.

Also, Chip, when this guy tells you that there are packages left, understand that it’s not the FULL ticket package. How about you ask that guy if all they offered were FULL season tickets if he thinks he’d have problems selling those.

Once again, this is my four game package:

SoCarolina

W Carolina

Troy

Kentucky

3 of the absolute worst home games, the bottom 3 home games, and these are the games I got. It’s like they were going to give me Ole’ Miss, but decided to through SoCarolina in there to try and make up for it. Actually, they should have put the Okie State game in there instead to make up for it, but to have Troy AND W Carolina? What kind of bull$hit is that? The three game package which FRESHMAN got is better than my four game package. They got Okie State, Ole Miss, and Auburn.

I’m actually going to have to pay MORE money to scalpers for those three tickets then I would have had to pay scalpers for the four games I got.

The whole system is broken, and even worse, the whole system is WRONG. It’s just plain wrong.

No one can logically argue that a stadium with 93,000 seats can’t fit in a 25,000 student section, so that the students who want the tickets can get them. And if they can’t sell that, then you put them up on the market on a game by game basis, and the couple of hundred that MIGHT be left over would be snatched up in a matter of minutes by non-student fans or alumni.

It’s bull$hit, Chip, and it’s driven by the GREED of Michael Adams and Damon Evans.

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

I just read that Pokes MLB Chris Collins was accused of raping a 12 year old girl in 2004. The charges and trial are still pending and he is free to play. I found it in this article, text to linked

By gator the dog catcher

August 30, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

There goes Caleb King’s hope of staying eligible. HARRICK IS BACK!

By NASCARfan

August 30, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

godawg, you must not realize this, so let me let you in on something:

NON STUDENTS CAN’T GET INTO THE STADIUM WITH STUDENT TICKETS ANYMORE.

They check IDs.

YOU HAVE TO HAVE A STUDENT ID TO USE IN CONJUNCTION WITH YOUR TICKET TO GET IN THE STADIUM.

Therefore, non-students CANNOT buy student tickets. They’d be absolutely WORTHLESS.

Come on man, don’t bring a nail clipper to a gunfight.

By StopComplaining

August 30, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

NASCARfan, I don’t undersatnd how this happened to you. If you have over forty hours then why did the freshman get better tickets than you. Something smells fishy about your story. When I was a freshman in 02 I got only a few tickets but that was when the stadium was 86,000. Stop complaining about greed. The reason why we have a good program and awesome stadium is because of donors that fork up more than 8 bucks per ticket. Stop complaining about students selling their tickets. If they don’t want to be at the game let someone else who actually wants to be there go. Someone that pays $70 on Ebay will obviously cheer more than some math major that plans on studing all day on Saturday.

By Willis

August 30, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Really interesting insights from all the people you spoke with. I’m very glad they didn’t end up on the cutting room floor.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 30, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Nascar,

I could give a damn about the student ticket situation. Apparently no one else does as well. You and you alone are pushing some stupid agenda here to no success. Please let it go.

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

GloryGlory. Thanks for that link to the post by Jody. Great stuff. Really objective and on the mark. Can’t really disagree with any of it as far as this year’s teams. Maybe a little quibble on the Sanders vs. Walker debate, but that’s OK. They were both incredible backs and had totally different styles. I even liked the comparison of Pickens to Locke’s Dad. Hilarious! I never thought about it, but it’s true.

By Buck in the NW

August 30, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

I don’t think we see Bobo not using all the play book because of youth. The newbies are on the “OL” that IMO, means that Bobo will have to use all kinds of different plays. With the exception of TE., We have our QB plus running backs and receivers who all played last season and have been through the fire. In addition, we’ve already seen Bobo become his own man as “OC” in the 2nd half of the “CFB”. I don’t think Dawg fans are going to recognize our Offence.

By Chris

August 30, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

All you have to do is watch the last two games of the season and how Bobo called the plays to know it was a good move. You can’t hardly complain about the results Richt had calling the plays himself. Two SEC Titles isn’t too shabby. I trust anything Richt does, he’s proven he can win and keep Georgia in contention for Championships. A National Title I believe is on the way.
Bobo will get the job done and Richt can stay at UGA as long as he wants in my book.

By NASCARfan

August 30, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Lowcountry, I’d expect a statement like that from someone with your questionable intelligence.

Notice that not one of the people who disagree with me are current students.

But it’s nice that you couldn’t give a damn about the student section, as they’re twice as loud as YOU or anyone setting in any of your sections. Is it my fault that UGA alumni are the worst sports-going alumni in the SEC outside of Vanderbilt? Shoot… Missy State sucks, and their alumni can put all of YOU alumni to shame.

Accept for you, Lowcountry. I’m guessing you’re not a graduate, or even went to school at UGA, from your statement about not giving a damn. But keep sending that money!

And to the other guy, it is greed, pure and simple. As far as the packages go, maybe they figured two crappy games would be like one good game. I don’t know, but they’ve totally screwed the pooch this year, even more than last year.

This year, especially with the rule that screws seniors who only need one or two classes to graduate, has Michael Adams’ fat little greasy, greedy fingers all over it. Sometimes I think he enjoys screwing the students so much because he knows he’s so unpopular. It’s his little petty revenge. He sees Presidents at other Universities who do the right things and are adored, and he wonders why such a slimy politician such as himself who raises so much money and backstabs his faculty and screws his students over when it comes to grades and athletic events isn’t loved like that.

It must really be a comical thing, to be so hated and reviled by all those who surround you outside of your sycophantic yes men, who probably hate you behind your back, and having absolutely no clue as to the reasons why.

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Ah c’mon NASCAR….I was with you until your last post. I am not alumni, graduate or student of UGA but that doesn’t make myself or Lowcountry for that matter any less of a fan. I grew up in Georgia a Bulldog fan and moved away 25 years ago. I’m a VSU grad and still a Dawg fan. I’ve remained one even after 15 years in Arkansas. If it is any consolation to you, I regularly pay upwards of 50 bucks a pop to see the dawgs anywhere I can.

By P-Dawg in Tulsa

August 30, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Nascarfan,

Welcome to life is not fair 101.

By ShutUp

August 30, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Nascar, write an editorial in the Red and Black about your current problems, this board does not care.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 30, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

….yawn….

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

This is a bit off subject but former UGA tennis star John Isner is playing Federer in the US Open on Saturday. Another reason to cheer for the Dogs.

By godawgs51

August 30, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

nascar, you may not be aware of this, so let me let YOU in on a little something. yes they check student id’s, but they don’t check to see if they are current, my id is from 1995 and i attended a game in 2004 with my student id

By godawgs51

August 30, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

but i agree enough talk about tickets, lets talk football

By Steeledawg

August 30, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

I am a season ticket holder alum, that agrees w/NASCARfan. I believe that any student that wants to, should be able to get in the game, and I think that they should get rid of student tickets altogether.

Now here me out, if they are indeed checking ID’s w/student tix, why do they even need a ticket? They could implement a system where the student could prepay for the season before school starts, and a credit is deposited on thier ID. Instead of having a paper ticket that someone has to physically tear,the student simply swipes their ID. Their acct. is debited for the price of the game, and proceeds inside. The University could set aside 25,000 tix, and they are “sold” on a first come, first serve basis.

I think this would take care of a few issues. First, students would have an incentive to get to the stadium early, thus negating the “empty student section” belief. It would also eliminate the student ticket black market since only the ID holder would be able to access thier acct. Also this paperless plan would reduce waste.

Just me two cents.

Go Dawgs!!

By ActuaryDawg

August 30, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Patrick,

You are right in that OSU averaged 425 ypg against Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Alabama. But you are wrong in saying that these schools are in the same category as UGA.

Oklahoma ranked 16th in rushing D, but only 41st in passing D. Nebraska ranked 37th and 79th respectively, and Alabama was ranked 46th and 19th. On the other hand UGA ranked 27th in rushing defense and 5th in passing defense.

So, the comparable (or better) rushing defenses that you guys faced were Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma (ranked 28,3, and 16 respectively), against whom, OSU averaged 130 ypg.

Against the pass, OSU didn’t face anybody with a top ten passing defense. The closest where Arkansas State, FAU, and Alabama (ranked 12, 16, and 19). Against these teams, OSU averaged 188 ypg passing.

So when performance against equivalent rushing and passing defenses are broken down, OSU’s average total ypg against a defense similar to UGAs is a fairly pedestrian 318 ypg, not 425.

By shane

August 30, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

buck,i know you are smart and usually right,but i have to disagree with you on this one.everyting depends on the line,if the line screws up the play will not succede,period.i think to run plays that haven’t been drilled into the mens minds would be folly.i look for a ball control offense,at least 60-40 running plays.with a simplified blocking scheme.we will go long when we can,if for no other reason than to stretch the d,but i see lots of short outs and screens.i think we will have to run screens and draws to slow down ok states pass rush.i look for them to stunt and blitz to confuse our o line.our guys are inexperenced,but they are big,and most linemen can run block fairly well coming out of high school.we have rhree good tbs and a great fb and we have to keep ok states o off the field. if our running and short passing games work we can blow them out,if our line can’t open holes for the backs it will be a long day.

By Erk

August 30, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

GloryGlory,

I heard there were some UGA flags flying at Isner’s match yesterday at Flushing Meadows along with a few barking fans. Gotta love that at the U.S. Open!

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Great thing about last years numbers and the statistical history come Saturday night…. won’t mean jack for either side. Especially if it rains. 30% chance, another useless statistic until the drops fall.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

shane, from what I have gathered I think simplifying the o-line schemes has been a priority of Searles. With him coaching I think our o-line is going to be a big suprise this year.

By AltamahaDawg

August 30, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

ARDawg, you’d better hang on to that $50 ticket source.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 30, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Desmond Howard, Robert Smith and Jesse Palmer all predicted a UGA victory on ESPN College Gameday. The key they mentioned was our running game and/or ball control keeping OSU offense off the field. I couldn’t agree more!

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Jesse Palmer thats a curse on our team. I bet Mark MAy picked the Pokes. Hopefully Corso will pick the Pokes as well. ESPN is quickly becoming a joke with their 25 hours of College Football that covers about 22 hours of Notre Dame and USC talk.

By shane

August 30, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

zoo,i have heard that about searles and it’s about time. we can’t take two years to train these linemen. in the best of all possible worlds we would have a mixture of jrs and srs on the two deep,with red-shirts ready to move up. players could earn their way up the depth charts,we would have a couple of starters graduating every and the line would remain stable,unfortunately we had a shortage.at times last year i was thinking,another injury and we are going to have tight ends on the interior line.i think we got down to six scholarship o linemen at one time last year. we have good depth at o line now.if we continue to recruit them hard we should have stability there in a year or so.

By shane

August 30, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

on a more positive note,i think mickey henderson will bust a long return,and either he or brown will take a screen pass to the house.if they want to be agressive on d,make them pay!

By Buck in the NW

August 30, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

shane, I’m not sure what you’re disagreeing with. I don’t think I’m going to recognize our “O” and I don’t know what part of the play book Bobo is going to use. I think he’ll have to use the pass to open up the field because I do believe that because of the young players they’ll have 8 in the box and Stafford will have to make some quick 2 or 3 step drops type of passes. I don’t think we’ll be able to establish a running game until they are forced out of an 8 man front from which they’ll be blitzing. After re-reading my 1st blog, then yours and now my answer I don’t see any disagreement. This will be all new for Dawg fans because we’ll be doing the things we’re talking about from a lot of different sets.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

August 30, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Glory,

Mark May is completely Anti UGA! Ready to hit the road right now. I’ll leave one great city for another..Charleston to Athens baby!

By a real student?

August 30, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

if ol NAS had visited study hall (ILO beer hall), he would not be a 6th year senior!

Are you dogs proud of him?

By UGADawg16

August 30, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

NASCARFan,

Man, you just don’t get it. You have been at UGA a whole year…two? And you are ready to change everything. There are alumni and other fans that pay A LOT OF MONEY to get tickets. They are the one’s paying the bills…for the trainers, facilities, etc. In a perfect world, everyone would have a ticket….for free. Instead of appreciating the fact that there are 25,000 seats allotted to students you snivel and cry and want more. What an glorious f’ing sense of entitlement you have. And I don’t want to hear about your damn tuition and fees…the athletic department operates on their own budget, pays their own way and actually gives money to the University. Truth be told, it is part of MY donation that enables YOU to have what tickets you get. But in your world, you would have ticket rights for some like me revoked so that you could have more. Also, I see people use student tickets without IDs every week. And quit using phrases like “other schools”…give us facts. As for 5th year and later Sr.’s, get out and get a job and then you’ll be able to contribute and get season tickets like I had to do. You are not owed a ticket by birthright! So wipe your snotty little nose, pull yourself up by your bootstraps and find a solution…you could have had a good start on earning the money to pay for the other tickets you want with the time you spent whining on this board. MarkRichtFan was right on the money but maybe you’ll understand it a little better when I put it this way. BTW, you will have a wonderful time as a member of the democratic party.

By Dawg4life

August 30, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Glory Glory,

I gotta say I agree with you. I watched all that crap last night and most of it was trying to revive the majesty and lore of ND, and saying that no one is gonna beat USC this season.

Also, I’m convinced that half those boneheads don’t know what they’re talking about. I watched a segment where they were talking about who could surprise USC this year. Two agreed that … get this…Oregon could be a contender and might surprise USC this year. I didn’t wanna bring it up, but the Ducks starting QB has been playing baseball all summer, and he was very erratic and inexperienced last year!!!

By UGADawg16

August 30, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

and one more thing…

Sorry if the rest of the stadium is not quite as loud as the student section. As for my 4 seats, I know my 65 year old father, his 70 year old friend and my 2 year old son will be quite a disappointment for you but I assure you I will leave my voice in the stadium.

Of course the students are louder….you are young, dumb, drunk, attending the greatest University in the land, watching the greatest game men have been able to devise at the greatest venue imaginable. Quit complaining and enjoy it….you’ll have more time and more pertinent issues to be upset about later in life.

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

I am an ESPN junkie, but its getting worse every year. Now they love talking about the Big East, Does America really care about Loisville and Rutgers? I don’t. The worst by far is Lou Holtz, he actually picked ND to beat USC this year. I already know he will pick S. Carolina(the fake USC) to beat Georgia. I like Sports Night, I know its as low budget and corny as it can get but they actually make intelligent remarks regarding College football.

By shane

August 30, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

buck,thanks for clearing that up,when you said “what part of the playbook” i got your drift.i thought you meant “throw the whole playbok” at them.we have been very successful with screens in the past and i am sure the coaches have been running them during drills.timing is very important in a screen,the linemen have to get out on their blocks,but they can’t tip off the d.i am sure the guys are coached up and they and stafford will “sell” the play.one more thought,keep pounding that rock.we have a young line,but deep.we can keep fresh linemen and backs in the game at all times. ok state does not have depth on d,and though they are used to heat they aren’t accustomed to ga humidity in the dog days.if we make it a war of attrition we will win.

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Altamahadawg

Yeah I hear you, but thats not generally a problem and the sources do have drawbacks. The seats normally suck and situated in the middle of the opposition but hey, makes for good rivialry fodder

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

I have the highest sympathies and respect for the students and players of Virginia Tech, they are a team that I have always liked, but I am already preparing myself to get really annoyed with the coverage of the tragedy and “America’s Team’ It has already started and it will get worse and worse because they will have a good football team this year. I really like the idea of their fans applauding the opposing team, they are a class act but i am not ready for the ESPN coverage. It will be worse than that Clemson player that adopted his brother.

By Patrick

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

Great stats ActuaryDawg. I won’t argue research like that. But, consider this. All those stats are from LAST year of which UGA only has about 3 guys returning on their D compared to 8 for our O. Might make a difference, might not.

When it comes right down to it, gdawginkalamazoo is right. All the stats don’t mean squat until we get on the field. Until then, all this back and forth banter is just good fun anyway.

By CapeCodDawg

August 30, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

You heard it here first!!!!!

I predict that Bobo is going to call a play-action LONG BOMB on the very 1st play of the game. Everyone is predicting a dink and dunk passing game (I see where your coming from BuckNW)..and that makes sense.However, Coach Bobo is going to send a message real early,then run the hell out of the ball.

p.s. Nascar look at what you started!…lol

By rdbdawg

August 30, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Like Nascar said…other SEC schools are giving out the same number of tix but with smaller student populations and stadium seating…so I’d like to see proportions. And I’m sure we don’t give out 20,000 student tix like Penn

By Patrick

August 30, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Dawgs, one subject I haven’t seen here and was just curious about. Our OC at OSU, Larry Fedora, was the OC at UF under Zook. I know you guys will know this becasue, if I’m not mistaken, I think UF is a team that you guys are not particularly fond of. Anyway, I know UF led the SEC in total offense at least one year that Fedora was there with Zook. In those years, how did the UF offense fare against UGA? I’m not being facetious, I really don’t know and was just curious.

By caredog

August 30, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

OK, you guys, now remember. When you come to Athens on Sat, remember to put your beer bottles, cans, chicken bones etc in the trash cans. If that’s a problem and you feel like just tossing the stuff around for us all-year-round folks to look at next week, why not take it home and drop it on your mom’s living room carpet.

By ARdawg

August 30, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

It was indeed very tragic the incident at Va Tech and I truly do grieve for that loss of life. It does seem every year the national sports media picks a “cause de jour” and apparently VT is this year. I expect the Hokies will capture plenty of attention from they’re play. Should we be constantly reminded of the tragedy while trying to enjoy our college football?

btw…tonight we have FOOTBALL!…LSU and MSU….but hey…it’s SEC football

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 30, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

UGAdawg16,

Of course the students are louder….you are young, dumb, drunk, attending the greatest University in the land, watching the greatest game men have been able to devise at the greatest venue imaginable. Quit complaining and enjoy it….you’ll have more time and more pertinent issues to be upset about later in life.

You get a big AMEN from this Dawg on that one! You gotta pick your battles in life.

By GloryGlory

August 30, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

I really enjoyed the last time we played Fedora. It was a great win for the dogs.

By a real student?

August 30, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

NAS, you could have a spelling contest between students and the winner gets “Duel” tickets!

Sorry, guess that leaves you out!

By shane

August 30, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

cape cod dawg,you may be right,i don’t know about the first play,but we will see some bombs early,like at au last year.we caught them with their pants down, didn’t we.another thing about an eight man line,if a back can break through on a quick hitter he usually goes a long way.all it takes is a seam and you are in an almost empty backfield.getting back to the subject of head coaches and calling plays,what’s up with sos?i thought he would be the last coach to lose control of his program.has he?does he still call all the plays?do the problems he is having with some of his players distract him as he prepares for the season?i know he is intense and demanding,all this crap must be driving him crazy!

By godawgs51

August 30, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Is it Saturday yet?

By Aztec Dave

August 30, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

It seems to me like the less involved he will be the more involved he will be. Huh? The team will be better? Excuse me! Take the game away from the big dollar guy and give it to the hired hand and this is good? You gotta be kidding.

By stuck in kuwait

August 30, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

I know I am stating the obivious, If the O-line protects Matt Stafford we will by 2 scores

By stuck in kuwait

August 30, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

I know I am stating the obivious, If the O-line protects Matt Stafford we will win by 3 scores

By NASCARfan

August 30, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

Wow, “a real student” is STILL hung up on me misspelling ONE EFFING WORD.

Dude, your obsession needs to end.

As for sixth year senior, I’m actually a JUNIOR and a SOPHOMORE. And I’ve accomplished all of that while being a double major (the reason for the two class standings) in 2 1/2 years.

2 1/2 years, and have almost 100 credit hours.

Suck it, you Bug Wannabe SOB.

By NASCARfan

August 30, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Wow, “a real student” is STILL hung up on me misspelling ONE EFFING WORD.

Dude, your obsession needs to end.

As for sixth year senior, I’m actually a JUNIOR and a SOPHOMORE. And I’ve accomplished all of that while being a double major (the reason for the two class standings) in 2 1/2 years.

2 1/2 years, and have almost 100 credit hours.

Suck it, you Bug Wannabe SOB.

By Brian Jones TECH FAN

August 30, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

NEW RICHT OLD RICHT NO MATTER ONE HELL OF A COACH AS A LIFE LONG TECH FAN LETS GET THIS SEASON STARTED ALL READY GOOD LUCK TO THE DOGS I WOULD LOVE TO SEE TECH AND UGA BOTH WITH 10 WINS GOING INTO OUR GAM E AND PUT GOOD OLD FASHIONED HATE GAME BACK ON THE NATIONAL MAP ONCE AGIAN GOOD LUCK TO BOTH TEAMS AND PLEASE CAN WE STAY HEALTHY

By shane

August 30, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

aztec dave,having an oc call the plays allows the coach to better manage the game. he will be putting out fires wherever they occur. defense,special teams,or offense.you cannot meet with the d and call plays because your attention has to be on the field.the man would have burned himself out had he continued trying to do it all.look at it this way,richt is ceo of a corp the nets 14.5 million a year.he has to delegate to be effective.

By a real student?

August 30, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

NAS, you sure are young to be so mean! One day, after you leave Athens, you might understand that right now you probably are having your best time of life…so don’t hate so much. Work sux. (esp when your Tech grad boss yells!!!LOL…just kidding!) Enjoy that Western Carolina (cannot call it a game)…whatever.

By Buck in the NW

August 30, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Guys, I’m really stuck in a mud hole created by CMR and my back wheels are just spinning in deeper. Over on Rivals(ugasports.com), CMR is talking about what he doesn’t know about the ‘07 team and he made a big point of saying that we don’t know how they’ll respond if they get behind so he had a meeting with the SRs. to go over this. Question: if he met with the SRs., then that means they played last year ,right? Question: If Stafford is the leader of the team plus he played QB last season in the “Bug” game, since he was throwing the passes that brought us from behind to win the game, I would think that he may have learned a little bit about coming from behind and how to win. Point is why hold a meeting with returning guys about handling adversity and exclude your team leader because he’s a Soph.

By A-ville Ranger

August 30, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Who wouldn’t agree with the game-day on ESPN guys that ball control would be the best way to keep the OSU offense off the field ? Trouble with that is we don’t know how ready the young O-line is.I’ll say again the best chance we have is to disrupt their offense with our D-linemen.

By shane

August 30, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

buck,you are stressing over minutia,chill!stafford was probably excluded because he wasn’t a senior. the offense knows that he is the qb,but he has nothing to do with the d or special teams.seniors are expected to show leadership,and richt was probably telling them to step up and lead the younger guys.fernando on the line,the rbs,brown and lump, miller at lb,and the senior wrs.stafford cannot do it by himself,he doesn’t catch passes,he doesn’t block and he doesn’t tackle. he will probably welcome all the seniors he can get showing leadership.staford has three winning games,these guys have been winning for four years.believe me,with so many young guys on the o line stafford wants the seniors to lead.

By Buck in the NW

August 30, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger, our line won’t have to hold their blocks very long if our receivers catch the ball. Are you thinking in terms stunts, twists or blitzes in general then we’re on the same page but Stafford has been forged in fire and he’ll get rid of the ball in a hurry. That’ll be a help to the “OL” having a QB who’s been there done that and won.

By Gen Neyland

August 30, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

New parking arrangements for UGA home games this year…Park anywhere you want around Grant Field, take the highboy coach shuttle to the front door of Dooley Field. Return trip simply reversed. And it won’t matter if Tech has a home game scheduled the same day…Plenty of parking space and it’s free…Shuttle 30 bucks RT…sign up at www.foc.com and reserve your seat NOW…

By A-ville Ranger

August 30, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

Buck we’re on the same page alright.Watching the Miss St LSU game tonight the ST qb threw two interceptions that were the receivers fault. First one he pulled up short and let the DB get position.Second one he ran the route short.I was reminded of our receivers last year.At least half the picks against Stafford were where the receivers ran bad routes,didn’t get separation or didn’t go after the ball.On an earlier post I said they need to run clean routes,get separation and catch the ball.Stafford can’t be on both ends,let’s hope they’re up to the task.

By JERSEYDAWG

August 31, 2007 7:01 AM | Link to this

Stafford handS off to Moreno a quick 25 yard gain! Stafford toss sweep to Moreno touchdown!! From the Garden State to the Peach State there will be no better TB then the kid from JERSEY. As a transplanted Yankee and a Dawg fan for life a GO DAWGS SIC EM!!!!!!

By TCM

August 31, 2007 7:25 AM | Link to this

There is no need to be nervous. Every year it’s the same story with many programs all across college football. Rebuilding time. UGA will be fine and the offense showed you a glimpse of what can be in the bowl game against Va Tech who has a pretty legit squad across the board minus the QB. Once these young WRs and OLM settle into the season it will be business as usual. CMR has needed an offensive coordinator from DAY ONE so this is really long overdue. CMR’s gimicky offense like he ran at FSU is just not UGA Football. That 2nd half of the Peach Bowl last last year really told a great deal of the story. UGA is going to be fine and once another WR really steps up opposite BAILEY and MASSAQUOI, WATCH OUT, SEC CHAMPS BABY!!!!

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 31, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

General, you forgot to mention the free pizza and sodas.

Patrick, even on game day the stats from last year (or the last 100 years) won’t help anybody. Since Spurrier left, the Florida offense really hasn’t been that great against us. The games have always been within 1 or 2 scores. Of course Spurrier really put the hammer on people when he could, especially UGA. But during the Spurrier era they could really sock it to anybody and usually did. Looking back I am amazed that they only had the 1 NC during his tenure.

By AltamahaDawg

August 31, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

TCM, you may the first person I have ever heard say that CMR playcalling was TOO gimicky, usually its considered as too concervative. In fact the VaTech second half prabably looked a lot more like the FSU days of old more so than any game CMR ever called. I have to disagree with you about needing a OC from day one. First of all, day one was Richt’s day one of being a head coach. How in the world do you expect a lifetime OC taking on a HC job for the first time to be comfortable with anything but calling the plays himself. He HAD to do that, just to find comfort. I think he has said that in not so many words many times. Plus I think you are in a very small minority of dawg fans that does NOT APPROVE of coach Bobo.

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 31, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

Brian Jones, Thanks dude. I hope you guys have a victorious trip to South Bend. Nothing better than seeing abunch of ND hats, car flags, home flags and decal disappear this early in the season.

By Tech Smells

August 31, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

This from Sporting News writer Matt Hayes who has predicted a 31-28 UGA victory.

“Georgia. One NFC scout told me last fall that he watched tape of Georgia sophomore quarterback Matthew Stafford two years ago, when Stafford still was in high school. Yeah, Stafford is that good — good enough to lead Georgia to the top of the unsettled SEC East.

Now, the issue: The Bulldogs struggled throughout fall camp on the offensive line and will start true freshman Trinton Sturdivant at left tackle — the key position in protecting Stafford’s blind side. More scary: Sturdivant, who wasn’t considered an elite pass blocker in high school, likely is the unit’s most talented player. If Stafford has to worry about getting hit, he won’t be effective.

Oklahoma State, the Bulldogs’ opponent Saturday night, has enough speed and athleticism on defense to present problems. Speed guys linebacker Donovan Woods and rush ends Nathan Peterson and Marque Fountain could make Stafford look a lot like the guy who struggled early last season — and nothing like the guy whose play in a bowl win made many think he could be a future first-round draft pick.”

By gdawginkalamazoo

August 31, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

I thought we lacked on offense last year? Line play too. But didn’t VaTech have the #1 defense in the country last year? Different coach this year on the line.

By AltamahaDawg

August 31, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Somebody help me out: why do we start Sturdivant at left tackle, why not flip with Adams? Is he just not natural on the right side, or is he literally the very best O-lineman, and we don’t want anyone else protecting blind side, irrespective of experience?

By AltamahaDawg

August 31, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

OK since nobody knows the answer, its because cheese aint exactly quick footed.

By Kevin McKinney

September 4, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

A great leader knows how to delegate, and to whom. I think Bobo is the right guy. Not nervous at all…

By Dan

September 5, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Comments for posting by “the BEST win championships”—YOUR COMMENTS are as bad as your SPELLING. Please learn the difference between “there” and “their”. You are obviously young and not very experienced, because there are other things then winning. When you look at the qualities in Mark Richt, along with his coaching abilities, there is no better coach anywhere!!!