UGA

By Spike

July 28, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

First, avoid at all costs injuries. With this schedule, we will need everybody healthy. Second, develop a place kicker. We are going to need a good one, like Bennet and Couto, and not another Andy Bailey. Third, get Richard Samuel and AJ Green ready to go. Fourth, figure a way to throw more to Kris Durham, he has great hands. Fifth, get Brandon Southerland healthy. Finally, get an attidude like we had at the second half of the season, not like the one we had at Tenn. I was at that game. It was ugly.

By clint

July 28, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

I think making sure special teams are dependable should be on the list. In the SEC, a lot of teams are even on offense and defense so it’s special teams that make the difference in some games. Lets hope that Blair Walsh is the real deal.

By Howdy

July 28, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

1. Offensive Line
2. Offensive Line
3. Offensive Line

In real estate, it’s location, location, location. Same thing with football. You get where you want to go with the offensive line.

By jason

July 28, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Consistency in practice and work ethic. That has to be #1. 150% total team effort. As for individual goals; I would have to say establish confidence in our new kicker. He will have to fill some big shoes. Last set your 2 deep on the OL. Get them work. Mesh and mold first string with the second. My main concern is along the OL. While we have alot of talent and depth there; we also hav alot of inexpierence.

By BobDog

July 28, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

1. Re-establish the offensive line;
2. Defensive end
3. Kicking game (place kicking and kickoff)

Chip, what is the deal on the new 40 second clock?

By mcdawg

July 28, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

O-Line, O-Line, O-Line

By Alpha Dawg

July 28, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Priorities for camp:

1) Stabalize offensive line. The unit is replacing two seniors. I don’t think you can under estamate the leadership and experience provided by Velasco and Adams last year. Someone needs to step up here.

2) Lock down place kicker; make sure Walsh is the guy. We’ve been spoiled over the last 4 years with Coutu. That was made crystal clear after he got hurt and Baily couldn’t hit a FG or XP. No SEC title this year if its a weakness.

3) Maintain punt return team and improve kickoff return team. Kickoffs have been a weakness of the dawgs since Richt became coach. Know that they did improve last year, but with the athletic talent on this team, they need to be much better.

By Dog44

July 28, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

1) Offensive line 2) Special teams 3) Finding the “go-to” receiver alongside MoMass 4) A solid 3rd string RB behind Moreno and King (history tells us there will be at least one significant injury at this position)

Chip… Last summer you (or someone at AJC) did a short piece on Dave Van Halenger’s perspective on team chemistry. It was very helpful. Any chance you could ask him that question again this year?

Thanks.

By UGA in 08

July 28, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

1. Work on getting KM & CK on the field at the same time…get explosive!!!!

2. Pass rush is king!!! With a strong pass rush everything else on D goes from good to great…

3. Fundamentals and formations…mixing formations confuse the opposition and fundamentals prevent silly penalties.

3b. Special teams!!!!!!!!!!!

By Matt

July 28, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Kicking is the #1 concern by a mile. I have a bad feeling that Walsh may cost us a big game this season.. OL was a strength last season and I think it will be again. Sturdivant is a potential all-american and Ben Jones is a freshman, but has been practicing since January. Another big concern for me would be getting the true freshman some serious reps. AJ Green and Tavarres King may be the top 2 recievers in the SEC in a year or so, Carlton Thomas could be returning kicks this year, and its going to be tough to not find some sort of role for Richard Samuel. GO DAWGS!!! 32 Days!

By Chuck Carswell

July 28, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Flush out any sense of entitlement the kids may have. To me that is the chief concern. The X’s and O’s and player development will come naturally to the coaching staff and veteran leaders.

By reality check

July 28, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Kicker and offensive line are about the only real question marks. The receivers and Staffords footwork and consequent inaccuracy under pressure are also a work in progress, but the experience level continues to improve all around.

The thing I really like about this team is defense, running game and depth. Year in and year out that wins championships.

By joe

July 28, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

If UGA can’t find a decent kicker, they may lose up to 3 games this year on missed FG attempts. In the SEC, you MUST have a kicker who can win the game kicking a game ender from 50+. Coutu will be sorely missed…and o-line has got to step it up or they’ll be looking at 4 losses…

By JB

July 28, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

We have depth, talent,speed,experience,great coach’s. What continues to scare me under the CMR era is where their head is when they come out of the tunnel ! I for One hope Knowshon is the guy who gives the team a killer, take no prisoners attitude. Any sleep walking this year and we’re 9-3.

By DawgDave

July 28, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

I’m just not sure (I guess only the dawgs know) whether or not kicking will be a real problem. I mean this kid Walsh can kick! I honestly think we are not only safe at that position, but maybe even better (no joke)!

I think starting with the same intensity we finished with last year is the key. Another slow start could mean a rough year for dawgnation.

By Wil Walton

July 28, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Humility. Responsibility. Consistency. The rest will work itself out.

By innocent bystander

July 28, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Dog 44 thanks for the question about Van H’s comment last year. He listed two or three essentials for a championship team. It was an unusual take. I’ve been trying to remember what he said for months. Maybe someone reading this can remember. Also I hope Chip can respond to the question about the 40 second clock

By innocent bystander

July 28, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Dog 44 thanks for the question about Van H’s comment last year. He listed two or three essentials for a championship team. It was an unusual take. I’ve been trying to remember what he said for months. Maybe someone reading this can remember. Also I hope Chip can respond to the question about the 40 second clock

By Bryan G

July 28, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

1. O-line
2. Placekicker
3. Focus. They have a tough year ahead.

By MDawg

July 28, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

FOCUS! OL Kicker DE FOCUS!

This team must be focused on each game…if the staff can keep them on track on each rep then drill then practice then game as CMR described in his press conf last week we should be fine. The OL is my main concern hopefully they can jell early so we can expand the playbook as there confidence grows. Walsh will have to earn the job just as Stafford did. Let all the kickers & punters in camp audition for the job in camp then pick the kid whose best at handling the pressure. DE is a concern for us going into every year because we have a draft pick(s) to replace but there’s always someone waiting in line. This year should be no different however if we can’t get pressure from the ends then with our LBs we could go 3-4 or 3-3-5. All those areas need to be addressed but none will matter if there head’s not right each & every play!

By otisfirefly

July 28, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

1. Offensive Line

2. Get Caleb King ready, not only as backup, but as a rotational player, (key, pass blocking)

3. Work the crap out of A.J. Green. UGA needs to utilize more skill players other than the HBs and Mo. Mass.

By JY

July 28, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Keep their heads out of the Media!!!!!!!!!

By JohninJax

July 28, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

I agree with all the post. We need a strong O-line, D-line, and kicking game. GO DAWGS!!!The way I understand the 40 second clock….in the past after a play the officials would take 10 or 15 seconds to place the ball down and then the 25 second clock would start….now what they are going to do is as soon as the play is over…the official will set the ball down immediately and the 40 second clock starts…it is kinda the same thing in regards to the time but i guess that the officials what to simplify it…. this is what i am hearing…please feel free to correct me.

By WVICK

July 28, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

O-LINE IS TOP PRIORITY. AS THE O-LINE GOES SO DOES THE REST OF THE DAWGS.

By Chip Towers

July 28, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

On 40-second clock: For the third year in a row the NCAA is messing with the clock rules in an effort to shorten games… . The latest is to adopt the rule used in the NFL in which the play clock starts ticking down from 40 seconds as soon as the previous play is blown dead. The theory is it eliminates the unaccounted-for time lost as the referees reset the ball and whistle it ready for play. They go back to a traditional 25-second clock at the change of possession and in the final two minutes of halves… .

Coaches are fairly split about. mainly they all wish the ncaa would stop messing with the rules. But teams running spreads and no-huddles like it because they think they can run more plays faster. You can also play very deliberately if you wish. CMR said he’s “jealous” they didn’t have the rule before because he quit running the no-huddle a couple of years back because SEC officials were so slow to reset the ball and insistent that the defense get a chance to match personnel… .

I or someone else will be doing a story soon.

By Ted Striker

July 28, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Defensive Priorities:

1) Limit yards after contact/catch — wrap up ball carrier at point of contact 2) Create turnovers, either by contact or stripping the ball. 3) Find a solid 2-deep substitution rotation to leave gas in the tank for the 4th quarter

Offense Priorities:

1) Eliminate penalties, especially in red zone 2) Understand and execute pass protection assignments 3) Maximize yards after catch or contact (second effort and/or downfield blocking)

Special Teams: Put the best players on the field. Make special teams an extension of offense and defense

By Stephen

July 28, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Give Knowshon the damn ball. Everything else will work itself out.

By Jay

July 28, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

1.Eliminate stupid penalties in red zone (drives me nuts when they go backwards) 2.Turnover margin: must do some ball hawking and make smart decisions from the qb position. 3.Create atmosphere of urgency and aggression: Hair on fire every minute, snap and day and continue into every game…we are better than you, we know it and you know it, now here comes the whippin!

By Will

July 28, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Start preparing for South Carolina right now! The first 2 games we should win easily. Let’s try and not get anyone hurt and let’s win those games in preparation for the cocks. To me, USC is the most important game on the schedule. We were NOT ready last year and it cost us a shot at the NC.

By SSIdawg

July 28, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Work on …

Where to stand as a team for the NC trophy presentation

Who should strike the pose after a geat paly on the field

Who will be the player reps for team uniform colors for each game

What to do after the first score against Florida this year

Get the list of excuses ready for when the team goes 9-3 and is selected for the Outback Bowl

Start the PR machine for UGA to be pre-season #1 in 2009

Remembering back to 1980 is becoming more difficult each year

By newnannative

July 28, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Demiko Goodman needs to be in the mix at the receiving positon. When healthy, he has proven to have great hands and make plays. His speed is second to none and with him on the field, it could open doors for the big play as well as the short gain.

By Dorsey Hill

July 28, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Priorities:

1) Can Ben Jones handle the center position as a true freshman?

2) Who are our top 7 WR’s?

3) Can we protect the QB if we have two TB’s in the game because of Brandon’s injury?

4) Can we get Stafford to throw in rythym and not off of his backfoot?

5) Probably most important: how expansive can we make the rotation at almost all positions so that we can get through Vandy healthy and with a lot of players we can count on without jeopardizing our chances of winning? More than any other season we are going to have to be deep and play lots of people not only vs. GSU, Cent. Mich and Vandy but also vs. USC, ASU, Bama and TN if we are going to be fresh for LSU, UF and Auburn. Other than Stafford, I’d like to see everyone maxed at 50 plays or less per game. If we are truly a No # 1 team and we are going to win the MNC, our No. 2’s and 3’s will have to be as good or better than most teams #1’s.

By TradeMe

July 28, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Mental Toughness!!! I am positive CMR will have his guys ready skill-wise to play the game!!! However, sometimes games are lost not on the field, they are lost between a player’s left and right ear!! If they work on the game that’s in front of them, and not the weeks ahead, UGA will be a force to reckon with. Having swagger is one thing being overly cocky is a entirely different subject. Forget the preseason polls.. Forget off the field mishaps…Get them to buy into the big picture!!!!!Executing flawlessly!!! The rest will take care of itself!!! Go Dawgs

By epb

July 28, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

FOCUS

URGENCY - EVERY WEEK - EVERY PRACTICE - EVERY GAME

HAVE FUN -

Hey, we have the athletes and great skills as do many teams…. 75% is mindset and the rest is planning and execution.

By Bee Sting

July 28, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

doggies need to work on:

1. Alcohol Rehabilitation and Education.

2. Academics - guide more players into majors such as “Sport Studies”, “Child and Family Development” and “Housing” to avoid potential and future academic casualties - to heck with their lives after football - world needs ditch diggers too!

3. Stealth Assualt Management - or “how not to get caught” for rubbing pregnant womans stomach or breaking the eye socket of fellow students.

By dufferdawg

July 28, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

I think we will miss Brandon Couto more than any other player…with the schedule we have, 2…maybe 3 games will come down to a FG…it makes me nervous to count on a true freshman in that role….2nd…I think controlling egos will be essential given all the pre-season hype…I think the new mantra should be 100% EVERYDAY…EVERY PLAY !

By Santa Cruz Dawg

July 28, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

1. Establish Outstanding team leadership from the upper classmen and stars like KM.

2. The Offensive line must be ready and be two or three deep at every position.

3. All of the special teams units must be outstanding.

By Dawgtime

July 28, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

IMO, we need to focus on outside pass rush via DE’s. In every other area UGA is loaded. We need to expand the bitz packages.

GT fans, why are you responding to UGA blogs. Your team is sorry. You are going to a 1950’s offense. You are competing against UAB, Middle Tenn State, and UCONN of recruits. Get a clue. You will always be a second rate school.

We all know the GT player accussed of rape was innocent. When I read it was a female victim, I said, it couldn’t be a TECH player.

Tell me all about Joe Hamilton’s enigeering degree. The dude is a joke.

Is Mr. Houston still in the drug business?

By MountainDawg

July 28, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

The Dawgs have a ton of top priorities, so narrowing it down to a top 3 is tough. Given that, I’d say…

1) OL - The offense succeeds or fails via the O-Line. Developing solid execution, depth (getting the younger kids depth) & staying healthy (when possible). BTW, Ben Jones is a stud, checkout the prep/all-star camp of him on YouTube/GoogleVideo…he dominates a slew of “top tier” linemen.

2) Special Teams - Especially Kicking. We’ll need clutch placekicking for sure. KO returns & KO + punt coverage are also essential.

3) A toss-up between consistent pass rush & diversifying the offensive attack. We’ll need steady pressure on the QBs to mount an effective D. Also, we’ll win/lose by the ground attack, so we need to get Southerland more carries. Brannan is an under-utlized stud who has loads of talent. We also need to throw to the TE’s more. Defenses are going to be keyed in on Moreno & MoMas, etc…that’s why going to Southerland, Chandler & Durham (great size & hands) will be crucial to keep the ball moving!

By B'ham Dawg

July 28, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

To me a big change this year will be the 40 second playclock. In the closing minutes of a ball game, with no timeouts left, Running out the playclock cant be any easier than this. Now, instead of trying to get the ball back with 3 minutes left in the game with time, there wont be alot of it left. We would have lost the Vandy game last year if that rule had already been established.

By I-DOG

July 28, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Fundamental Football:

1.) Work on run blocking repeatedly, if we can run the football, everything else will be helped by that.

2.) Work on cutting down on penalties, false starts offensively along with delay of games, and unsportsman likes on D that keep drives going

3.) Ball Security, receivers and backs. Challenge Stafford to go 8 games without throwing an int on 1st or 2nd down and none inside our 20 or inside their 20.

By david

July 28, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Bee Sting,

Your contribution will finally put to rest the myth of intellectual superiority of NATS attendees.

By Denver Dawg

July 28, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

My biggest concern is Stafford. He isn’t very mobile and his accurance is nothing more than average. He overthrows receivers on a regular basis, or just throws it too hard (sometimes one in the same) and he also just flat out misses open receivers. My next concern is our receiving corps. Stoafford isn’t the only problem with our passing game. Our receivers are by no means stellar.

Stafford and that erratic arm scare me. He’s just inconsistent as hell. That leads us to 4th quarter comebacks or losses because we can’t get enough points on the board to win.

By I-DOG

July 28, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Big Dawg;

On the previous thread you said that you thought that Munz was a better blocker than Southerland.

What you contribute on this blog usually turns out to be true and you have good insider knowledge… I just can’t imagine any Fullback being better at coming out of the backfield and doing their assignment, often with devestating results… than Southerland.

I’m not saying that Munz isn’t a good blocker, I’m glad to hear that you and the coaches are impressed with him, but a better blocker than Southerland? That’s like saying a player has a better motor than David Pollack?

By AltamahaDawg

July 28, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

B’ham, Vandy also would not have scored just before the 1st half either. Also since the entire 2nd half was totally dominated By UGA, I think its quite possible we could have played it to where Vandy would have never even had the ball late.

By bbdawg

July 28, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

1. Caleb King and Moreno need to throw blocks like Thomas Brown did. Time after time he obliterated huge linemen and mobile linebackers.
   1. OL All of UGA’s best years have included great OL’s.
   2. More shorter passes to TE’s and RB’s who along with WR’s must CATCH THE BALL.

By DOGGIE

July 28, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Improve on defending kickoffs. If Walsh can kick as good as they say, our defenders should have additional time to get down deeper to make tackles inside the 20 yard line. Better yet, kick the damn thing in the end zone. Groom a backup for Stafford. We should be able to give our backup quarterback playing time in the first two games. Nothing beats real game experience. Learn how to work the new clock rule to perfection. No 12 men in the huddle for a penality please. Keep working on our subbing - this includes all defensive positions and mainly our running backs and receivers. We have tons of talent - use it - get them the experience - keep them fresh. How many times did we wear down the other team in the 4th quarter last year doing this very thing? GO DOGGIES!

By RICKY

July 28, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

OFFENSIVE LINE

By shane #1

July 28, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

1- Set the two deep for the O line early and make sure the new guys get plenty of reps. 2- Kick coverage could be better and We need more pressure on opposing kickers. The field goal completion percentage against us last year was insane. Let’s block some of those kicks and get some easy scores. 3- Our skill posistions on O and D are in good shape. It will be a real battle to see Who starts opposite Mo-Mass. The D line looks to be in good shape to Me. Very deep and with outstanding tackles, and only one starter to replace. Also UGA’s LB and DBs could be outstanding, especially if Jones continues to improve. I am not too worried about placekicking, two walk-ons kicked wee in spring practice and Walsh is rated by some to be the best kicker in His class. Who knows, maybe if Richt is a little antsy about trying a FG Southerland gets the ball on some fourth and one plays.

By Oledawg

July 28, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Trinton Sturdivant, Rennie Curran, Geno Atkins, Asher Allen, Rashad Jones, CJ Byrd, Dannell Ellerby and many other great athletes on D will win the games for UGA. Spread Offenses will abound in the SEC and other conferences. They will be more competent than a one-dimensional Hawaii. DEFENCES WIN GAMES! More true in the SEC than anywhere. While most bloggers here seem bent on coaching UGAs Offense, you have missed half the game. You had better start givin’ love and mentioning BIG D names for the guys who give the Offense the chance to win the game. SC beat us last year with D and they are better this year. They changed from run to pass D at the snap of the ball and vice-versa. Stafford would back up with the ball, look up and see people swarming where he had changed the call to pass when they showed run D. I have faith in Rodriques overcoming such a ploy, but Spurrier will gamble with something else. So you see ,it is not just what the Offense stars are capable of doing that makes a game. It is much more dynamic than that. We have to have our greatest D in years to accomplish the expectations this year. Give them love in your blogs. They deserve it and will need it thru the year.

By smyrna man

July 28, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Learning to spell O-V-E-R-R-A-T-E-D

By AltamahaDawg

July 28, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Amen Shane, when is the last non-muffed block we had against anybody. Need to go all Boss Bailey on them this year. A blocked FG has determined who represented the SEC East the past 2 years. I’m sure other years swung on it as well.

By AltamahaDawg

July 28, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

smyrna man, come on, the gators might not underachieve thier preseason ranking as historically they are one of the tops, you never know, dont be so hard on them.

By SB

July 28, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Blair Walsh

http://www.prokicker.com/recruiting/signup/uploads/1886.wmv

By godawg

July 28, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

1. Team Chemistry. Successful teams have great leadership, have strong bonds and an “us against them” attitude.

2. Offensive line. I agree with many on here. You have to protect the QB and open holes if you want to score on a consistent basis.

3. Defense. Defense wins championships.

4. Receivers. Stop the drops.

5. Special teams. Sometimes the difference between victory and that other thing.

By Rabun Dawg

July 28, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Wonderful Bee Sting, how could we ever live without you Bees coming on here and slandering us? My biggest concerns are the Kicking game, solid Defense, and avoiding being overconfident with all of the media hype.We have the athletes in place, we need to execute to the max, on both sides of the ball. Let’s remember this, almost everyone else is improved as well, and no one is going to roll over for us, so we have to give all on every play!

By auburn suxs

July 28, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

I have a question for anyone, Can you tell me the last time UGA lost to a SEC west team I think it was UA back in 2005 I could be wrong but I think CMR only has about 2 or 3 losses in his 7 years at UGA against SEC west teams.

By Nick

July 28, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Offensive line depth experience I think is a must especially considering that trip to Arizona in the heat of summer. Those big guys are going to have to be able to substitute without missing a beat.
The kicking situation is big. Our last few kickers have been so clutch over the years. I want to continue that tradition. Speical teams is something I think should be over-stressed, and I mean all aspects of it. Most notably on KO return. It’s been abysmal lately. And I love seeing all those blocked kicks, keep that up somehow. Work on receivers’ confidence and soft hands. Make Massaqoui reach his potential, get Durham and Green into the mix like they ought to be. As far as the running game, I’d love to see a Moreno/King combo so get Caleb in the gameplan and let him learn as much as possible during pre-season practice so he’s not too lost during gametime. Coach Richt: Keep up with the attitude! I love it and I think the players and fans eat it up. Who’d have thought Florida could have hired a bigger whiner at head coach than Spurrier??? It’s been awhile since Florida’s whined this much about the UGA game! I think the rest will take care of itself. Go Dawgs!!

By Nick

July 28, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Offensive line depth experience I think is a must especially considering that trip to Arizona in the heat of summer. Those big guys are going to have to be able to substitute without missing a beat.
The kicking situation is big. Our last few kickers have been so clutch over the years. I want to continue that tradition. Speical teams is something I think should be over-stressed, and I mean all aspects of it. Most notably on KO return. It’s been abysmal lately. And I love seeing all those blocked kicks, keep that up somehow. Work on receivers’ confidence and soft hands. Make Massaqoui reach his potential, get Durham and Green into the mix like they ought to be. As far as the running game, I’d love to see a Moreno/King combo so get Caleb in the gameplan and let him learn as much as possible during pre-season practice so he’s not too lost during gametime. Coach Richt: Keep up with the attitude! I love it and I think the players and fans eat it up. Who’d have thought Florida could have hired a bigger whiner at head coach than Spurrier??? It’s been awhile since Florida’s whined this much about the UGA game! I think the rest will take care of itself. Go Dawgs!!

By Paddy

July 28, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

By Big Dawg

July 28, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

I-DOG

As hard as it is to believe- from Coach Richt’s, Bobo’s and Searels’s own mouths Munz is a more devastating blocker than Southerland but is not as good overall as Southerland is a great ballcarrier, pass receiver and just seems to have a knack of making the right play at the right time. Anyway it is a moot point at this time because both won’t see any action until at least the South Carolina game. Thank God we have Chappas who has steadily improved and Southerland may have a hard time getting back on the field when he does come back.

Now as for all of these fellow dawgs with their concerns with our OL, this may be a minor concern but it is not a major concern as we are 3 and 4 deep at all 5 OL positions as several of our walk-ons would be starters at several other SEC schools. As it has been almost every year the real concern here is at receiver, who will step up and make the difficult and timely catches that keep drives alive, can we get through the season with very few injuries, has Stafford continued to improve his mechanics i.e. not throwing off his back foot, stepping into his throws etc? Who will be our middle linebacker, has Marcus Washington recovered or will someone else step in to fill that void in the middle? Who will step up at place kicker? IMHO these are the true concerns not the OL or DL.

Go Dawgs

By Rob

July 28, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

Mark Richt is 19-5 against SEC West opponents, the last loss coming to Auburn in 2005. This is one of many absolutely amazing facts about this man that seems to be lost on almost everyone outside of Georgia. He is the most underrated coach in America.

And if you don’t think that’s impressive, consider that the “great” Urban Meyer has already matched his loss total for a 5-5 record against SEC West opponents in just 3 years on the job. He has yet to beat Auburn, has a losing record against LSU, and was absolutely destroyed by Bama in 2005. Maybe he should write a book about it.

By auburn suxs

July 28, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Hey thanks Rob , sorry about the tpyo I did mean that OTHER SCHOLL IN ALABAMA

By auburn suxs

July 28, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Hey thanks Rob , sorry about the tpyo I did mean that OTHER SCHOOL IN ALABAMA

By Chip Towers

July 28, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

Good one, Smyrna.

By smyrna man

July 28, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

No problem Chip… Thats what I am here for

By connorsgp

July 28, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Must get those bullpuppys ready for that 48 to 17 a* whippin on Nov 1….make sure the D is ready this year for a real humbling experience. I hope the coaching staff makes sure you girls wear all black in Jville..you know how sweet you look in black…..2008 Gators 48 puppies 17

By Very disappointed

July 28, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Two degrees, 27 seasons(1 missed game),28 ga/fl games.I got my refund for the ga/fl tix in the mail. I guess longevity and loyalty dont count like those all important points. Just needed to vent!

By Self Righteous Dawg

July 28, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

I would concentrate on being good little doggies. Stay out of jail and obey the LAW! Y”all need some discipline down there and stay out of trouble and thuggery.

By Dark Corner Dawg

July 28, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

Defense!Defense Defense! It wins ball games period. A nasty one like UGA played against Hawaii. If UGA plays like that every game then the Dawgs will win a conference championship and possibly a ?????

By Money Man

July 28, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

Very disappointed….. obviously those two degrees were no help. Let me clue you in on something…. MONEY BUYS LOYALTY!!! Follow the MONEY

By Linda Lovelace

July 28, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Learning how to not choke on The Big One

By AltamahaDawg

July 28, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

You’ve been a season ticket holder for 27 yrs and dont have enough point for the Cocktail Party?

By Lee

July 28, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

Georgia fullback’s setback might have profound effect on the running game. When the dawgs get pass the first two games it might start to show up then. Maybe the OL will not have the sophomore jinx. How many players will be suspended for the first games?

By Spooner Matt

July 28, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

PARTY, PARTY, PARTY

We have got to get backup in the party school rankings.

We are dropping like a rock in the rankings just like the football team will once the season starts

By Mike

July 28, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Do you know what Tim Teacup’s crap taste like? Urban Meyer does!

By Mike

July 28, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Urban Meyer, the Sideline Crier

By Toccoa

July 28, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

On Special teams O-line, STOP the rush! NO blocked kicks this year!

GO GAWGS!

By FL DAWG

July 28, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

1) Defensive Intensity. Lack there of cost us a number of points last season. 2) O&D Line. You win ballgames in the trenches. O line opens running lanes and passing lanes. D line puts pressure on qb and stops runs. 3) Kicking game. We need to replace the points production…although TD’s would be better than FGs. 4) WR Catching the ball, I haven’t checked the stats, but I bet dropped balls cost Stafford several % points in completion ratings.

By old gold

July 28, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Staying out of jail

By S.E. Dawg

July 28, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

We need to figure out what our encore will be in Jax. that Cryer hasn’t thought of.

Seriously, be consistent, keep heads on straight and play every down like it’s your last on both sides of the ball.

Plus we’ll need to find our go-to receiver.

By DG

July 28, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

I agree with Santa Cruz Dawg. Leadership is going to be key. The team leaders need to step up earlier than they did last year. We can’t afford to go through half of the season wondering who or when the the team leaders are going to emerge. It’s not the coaches decision but they can create an environment to help speed up the process.

By Atlanta Gator

July 28, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Alta~Dawg——The annual Princeton Review “party school” rankings have just been released. The University of Florida was number one; UGA was number seven. You combine that with an BCS-MNC in football (2006) and two NCAA tournament championships in basketball, and throw in the second highest SAT scores in the SEC (after Vandy, of course), and you might think something is going on in Gainesville … or at least we’re training a bunch of very smart, athletic bartenders. : D

See you in Jacksonville, you ol’ Dawg. I’ll bring the mixers.

By 2N4YEARS

July 28, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Georgia started winning last year when leaders emerged on both sides of the ball. For the D it was Howard. For the O it was Moreno. Howard is gone. #1 Find a replacement. #2 Practice smart. That means take care of your proven starters. #3 Find out whos worthy of playing time from your NEW tallent pool. Now, Go win some games!!!

By adawgfan

July 28, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

Someone please kickoff! I can’t stand it anymore, I NEED SOME GEORGIA FOOTBALL!

Thanks Chip for the great blogs leading up to the season, but the anticipation is killing me. With all the media hype and the way the team is shaping up I can’t wait anymore! I look at my tailgate smoker every morning and wish I could just head on down to the Classic City and start bar-b-queing some ribs. I’ll see ya’ll on August 29th.

GO DAWGS! Sic em’ Woof Woof Woof Woof!

By gaytor slayer

July 28, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

HAVE LEGENDARY PRACTICES EVERY SINGLE DAY.

By AltamahaDawg

July 28, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

Oh, I get to pick up the real booze? Figues! Princeton my foot.

By Palmetto State Dawg

July 28, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

Chip, have you had a chance to talk to Coach VH? How did the summer workouts go for my beloved Dawgs?

By AltamahaDawg

July 28, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

old gold, that was in case the last 20 times you came up with the exact same thing went un-noticed?

By Justin

July 28, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Number 1: Find out who is going to step up and make plays on offense and defense. You can count on Stafford, Knowshon, MoMass, Rennie, Geno, Dannell, and Asher. We need to find out who else wants to make a name for themselves and help lead us to the ‘Championship’.

By Gen Neyland

July 28, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

…excerpts from the Tennessean…>

…> The Tennessee coach was asked his feelings about being selected to finish third in the Southeastern Conference’s Eastern Division.

“We were picked third in ’98,” Fulmer said. “And we won the national championship.”

…> “Those teams that are getting a lot of hype and a lot of talk, they deserve it,” UT defensive end Robert Ayers said. “They represent the SEC well. Teams like Georgia and Florida, they’re what makes the SEC a good conference. They deserve what they get and we just want to try and win week in and week out in the SEC.”

…Go Vols

By EmmettDawg

July 29, 2008 3:08 AM | Link to this

1) Find leaders/starters on the offensive line. We had a good young line last year, but we lost our only 2 seniors.

2) Find leaders in the defensive secondary. We have the experience and talent in the back seven, and if they audible well/use the NFL-style playclock to their advantage.

3) Work on special teams.

By ............................................BuLLdawg

July 29, 2008 6:13 AM | Link to this

.

.

Were I one of the coaches, I would have said our majority priority is to figure out a way to have the AJ-C not diss us every day. It’s getting very boring for a solid football team.

Perhaps even the AJ-C could have an UGA blog where Tech fans don’t log on as whoever they want to log on as and say all kinds of junk because their academics in their athletics department absolutely sucks.

.

.

By FLA DAWG

July 29, 2008 7:45 AM | Link to this

1. O Line; Moreno & King are going nowhere if the holes aren’t there and Stafford can’t pass if he has to scramble.

2. Defense; Aggressive pass rush.

3. Improve Stafford’s passing accuracy for the Balanced Attack.

4. Kicking / Punting. Could make a huge difference in those close games.

By Dave

July 29, 2008 7:49 AM | Link to this

Number priority is to keep the starters out of jail.

By workinDawg

July 29, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

1. Offensive Line.
2. Offesnive Line.
3. Offensive Line.

If our o-line gels, this team could be very good. If they don’t, all the hype is for-not. Folks love QB’s, TB’s & WR’s but the o-line & d-line win & lose ballgames.

By old gold

July 29, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

staying out of jail

By joe hamilton

July 29, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

old gold……you’re living in a glass house.

By old gold

July 29, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

staying out of jail

By Oledawg

July 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Like life, these young men should play with verve and passion. Every thing else will take care of itself.

By dawgfan4life

August 1, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

The offensive line. A team is only strong as they offensive line. The line set the tone for greatness.