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AJC > Sports > UGA > Blog > Archives > 2006 > October > 19 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USNeeding to believe again
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Let’s hope this is as bad as it gets.
It’s been a while — the latter part of Jim Donnan’s last season, in fact — since I’ve detected a lack of faith and wavering of hope on the part of many in the Bulldog Nation. But this week there’s no getting around it. Quite a few die-hard Dawg fans not only have given up any dreams of making it to the Georgia Dome this year, they don’t really BELIEVE the team can beat any of the Big Three without a lucky break or two.
That’s not being fainthearted or less than true fans or jumping off the bandwagon. Unfortunately, that’s just being realistic.
While the knock on UGA fans from some corners is that we’re hopelessly unrealistic about our team’s chances and start every season expecting a national championship, those of us who actually follow the team know that’s far from a Georgia tradition. For many years, we didn’t even dare hope for an SEC crown, having seen the program settle into a rut as the third-best in the Eastern Division.
Full credit to Mark Richt for changing that mind-set. Thanks to his taking three of his teams to the SEC championship in five years, winning it twice, Georgia fans had begun to believe this was how it would be from now on.
The 2006 season has shaken that belief to a greater degree than you would have expected with a 5-2 record. We knew this would be a rebuilding year, but we didn’t expect what we’ve seen at times this season: Richt and his team floundering, threatening to implode like last year’s Vols. Even in some of the Dawgs’ wins we’ve seen a team that doesn’t seem to believe in itself (the fourth quarter against Colorado with Joe Cox rallying the troops being the lone exception). And, worse, a coaching staff that doesn’t seem to have figured out how to get the kids to believe in themselves again.
Sure, there are many UGA fans who refuse to concede any game remaining on the schedule, but this week their defiant stance has come off more like whistling past the graveyard. And, for me at least, that’s the biggest difference between 2006 and the past four seasons: From 2002 on, I always felt that Richt and the Dawgs were capable of beating anyone they faced if the team played to its full capabilities and the coaches played it smart. (OK, I’ll admit I didn’t really expect us to win in 2004 against undefeated Auburn, but other than that I always thought we had a chance.)
But this year, with the obvious step down in talent in several areas, the largely uninspired play, the stubbornly wrongheaded game plans and continuing indecision on the part of the coaches, and the fact that no obvious game-changing playmakers or team leaders have emerged, that belief that the Dawgs only need to pull it all together in order to have a chance at winning out just isn’t there.
Of course, that doesn’t mean the team can’t undergo some miracle transformation (unlikely as that seems at this point). Maybe finally settling on a starting quarterback — along with the cold, hard slap of reality that ANYBODY on the schedule can beat them, as Vanderbilt proved — will spur the players to kick it up a few notches.
And while, like others, I’ve been very disappointed in how the UGA coaching staff has blamed lack of execution on the players’ part rather than considering any shortcomings of their own, I hold out hope that within the confines of Butts-Mehre there’s been a realization that Georgia has quite frankly been outcoached several times this year, and a determination not to let it happen again.
I believe that Mark Richt is the right man to lead Georgia to the level where dreams of a national championship every year don’t look silly. I think he has a potential superstar in Matthew Stafford, and that with some tweaking of his staff and more productive recruiting outside the skill positions, Richt can make those dreams come true.
As for this year, a convincing win against Mississippi State Saturday in Athens would certainly be a step in the right direction. What what a lot of us would really like to see though is some evidence that Richt is adaptable enough to get a mediocre team to play over its head and with enough heart to beat somebody that they really shouldn’t be able to beat.
If that happens, I think this momentary lapse of confidence on the part of the Bulldog Nation will be replaced by that across-the-board optimism that others think is our trademark.
Comments
By DJISTHEGREATESTQBEVERTOPLAYINTHEHISTORYOFFOOTBALL
October 19, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
MR has screwed the pooch on this one. Not taking any blame but putting it off on his players. How typical of him through out his UGA career.
This team might not win another game. They are not going to get better 8 games into the season. They might win this week. But next well will be hard to watch.
By Buck Cochran in the NW
October 19, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this
Funny you changed your blog Bill to the topic you have. Hung up about 3 min. ago from Thur. FB talk with Reptile relative. His observations and mine are exactly what you’re saying here. This has been a real, maybe the biggest, test of MR since he’s been at Georgia. Coaching a QB with the talent that MS has and having to play him has been a growing time. I expected, along with Reptiles and Dawgs and others that MR would bring with him the type of “O” that he ran at FSU in the 90’s. He didn;t and as HE has said he’s become more conservative as a head coach. Oh! how much I hope he’ll make some changes. He knows what needs to be done and I’m not the smart one to tell’m. Now, starting Sat., we’ll begin to see if things are going to be different. Will he start using all of his “O” in a creative way? Don’t know but will soon.
By Cuz
October 19, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this
What member of the Bulldawg Nation is not dissapointed by a loss to our bi-annual Homecoming lamb. Be this as it may, I will still be there to cheer on my Dawgs through all of the rest of the games, Big Three included. And I believe that on any day any team can be beat. I still think we beat at least one of the big three possibly two. But I am taking painkillers and having surgery Friday. I bet I am so doped up on Saturday, I won’t be able to tell which Dawgs or Dogs have the ball.
I have been wearing my Bulldawg pride all week and will continue, win or lose.
Now GATA……
By volgrad1985
October 19, 2006 08:57 PM | Link to this
it’s easy to point to the resurgance of tennessee this year and say that uga will turn things around next season. however, there is one big difference between the two teams and that is fullmer’s willingness to make necessary changes verses richt’s stubborness to admit to mistakes and correct them. i don’t forsee wholesale fixes on the uga staff this offseason (particularly, richt giving up playcalling to a real offensive coord and the firing/hiring of a defensive coord). because of that i believe uga may be in for a bit of a continued slump after this season as well. another very interesting fact was brought up in previous ajc blog this week, and that is in the past 3 seasons, uga has had the following number of players drafted into the nfl: 2003 - 8, 2004 - 6, 2005 - 5. the blog notes that even fewer are expected to be drafted after this season. notice the trend? for all the ‘top 5’ recruiting years uga has, it is obvious that these guys aren’t being used, or properly coached up, to the degree they should. again, this does not bode well for the near future of this program. it seems clear that unless richt has a complete change in philosophy, uga is quickly being relegated back to the number 3 spot in the sec east behind the vols and gators, just as they were accustomed to being throughout the 1990s.
By volgrad1985
October 19, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this
by the way, i forgot to say one thing…..please uga, man-up for a change this season and beat florida.
go vols!
By Buck Cochran in the NW
October 19, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this
cuz, a prayer and luck for your operation tomorrow. We’ll hold the fort down for you. Good post volgrad1985.
By Dawg 05
October 19, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
I think these Dawgs need some help from the fans this week. We can’t have another poor performance by the fans like last week, we need to be loud and get excited, pump some energy into the players. I know everyone complains that its hard to get up for afternoon games against weaker opponents, but the support in Sanford last week was pretty pitiful. We couldn’t even get loud for the team entrance. I’m not asking for LSU 2004 type noise, but I think if the fans can bring some energy the players might gain some confidence and play with more intensity. Personally, I think the minute these Dawgs start playing with confidence will be the minute they return to the greatness we have come to expect from them.
By STephen
October 19, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this
To the dawg fans who arent informed enough to listen to Coach Richt’s call in show Monday night. HE ISNT SHIRKING BLAME. Everyone is saing he is TO BLAME for where we are…. he is admitting that things arent going all ok.
Do you realize that 5 yrs ago we would have KILLED to have the complaint we have now.
Who do we have to thank?? COACH RICHT SO while we blame him…lets also thank him. He is why we expect so much, and i pray he always is here for us to have this problem. 3 trips to ATL in 5 yrs, and ONE off season. Viva Coach Richt!!!!
By mayanbenny
October 19, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
well said bill.let’s hope the team can pull together and get this season turned around.don’t forget this confrence race aint over yet.give em hell boys i’m still with ya.
By JDawg
October 19, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this
Thank you Bill for saying it. It’s true the coaches can’t pass and catch and tackle for the players, but I wish CMR would have the balls to take some blame for this RECENT let down. The “God Complex” that comes with millions of dollars is getting a little tired. Tenn. and Fla. are not down anymore and the little mistakes can and are snowballing into bigger, systemic problems. The first step is admitting you have a problem….until then, the prettiness is going to continue to fade. This off-season will be a critical turning point for the Richt era. Can or will he be honest about the situation and act decisively?….it’s an election year, and the forseable future for the Dawgs is hanging in the balance.
By War Eagle
October 19, 2006 10:04 PM | Link to this
Stephen, thanks for the nice comment on other blog, I hope someday UGA vs Auburn, both unbeaten to play for the marbles, plus it would be thrill for great fans on both sides of the ball…good luck Sat and against Gators.Cuz, how are you feeling, give us a report.
By Mabel Frudd
October 19, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this
Could someone please provide the Hotline number for abused and battered wives. I may need to use it this weekend if we lose to Miss. State. Thankyou Kindly……Mabel
By thomas
October 19, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this
12 and 0 0 and 12 I will always be a dawg! thank you coach MR for what you have done and will do.
By War Eagle
October 19, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this
cuz, just saw your report for surgury tomorrow, best to you, remember the ole` War Eagle has been though the same 4 times, all will be well thinking and praying for you.Let me know soon so I can give your cousin Pat Dye a breifing about you.
By Gen Neyland
October 19, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this
My thoughts are with Cuz….and my hope is UT whips U of AL….Go Vols
By SOS
October 19, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this
MISS STATE BY 10…
By SamoanDawg
October 19, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this
We need to sign 14 linemen every year. 7 on each side. We need some of those corn bread fed, hard nose, blue color type of linemen. Guys we have now are too fat and immobile, particularly on the O-line. Their feet are so dadgum slow, my grandma’s feet can move faster than theirs. Calloway needs to coach these guys up to bar. There should be no more of this crap, that we’re too young/inexperience. We’re heading to the second half of the season. Everybody’s game should be jacked up to the next level.
HOW BAD DO YOU WANT IT GUYS?!! C’MON! GET PHYSICAL! IT’S TIME TO PLAY SOME HARD NOSE OLD FASHION BUTT KICKING FOOTBALL! LIVE ON THE EDGE! GIVE THE BULLDAWG NATION ALL YOU GOT!
GO DAWGS!!!!
By Maryland Dawg
October 19, 2006 11:37 PM | Link to this
I hope we all remember the Goff/Donnan years as we ask ourselves how bad it is. MR is a far more superior coach than both these clown and he will make the proper adjustments with his staff in the offseason. As for Stafford, once our recievers learn to catch his torpedos our offense will open up. Look I was a student in Athens the last time we lost to Vandy and trust me we will never be that bad with MR at the helm. This is a blip on the screen and we will be back in ‘07. I’m with you all the way coach now let’s just figure out how to beat those trailer park lizards from gainsville.
Go Dawgs!!!!
By BirdDawg
October 19, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this
Bill,
Thank you very much for the not-so-subtle dig at that absolute idiot-moron, Carter Strickland. I am sick and tired of the way that piece of $hit talks down to us, and God help him if he is still working the ‘Dawg beat next year. We deserve someone decent, like Winklejohn, not that freaking piece of crap.
But I am right with you. I never would have thought that Mark Richt would be the kind of coach who would deflect blame when he and his staff deserve their fair share.
If I were a recruit, I would not want to play for a Coach like that, and that’s the God’s honest truth. Now, Milner drops passes, that’s not his fault. But running out of the shotgun 80 times a game is.
And that complete waste of oxygen Willie Martinez deserves 95% of the blame for the performance of the defense this year.
And John Eason, who I cannot even think of any more things bad to say about, deserves 250% of the blame for the performances of our wideouts for the last 5 years.
And the thing is, unless Damon does something (and I have absolutely no faith he will, I still think he’s a bit of an Adams’ puppet) we’re going into next year with Willie The Moron Martinez coaching down our defense, John Eason once against showing our recievers how not to catch the ball, and Mark Richt calling the offensive plays.
The Vanderbilt game destroyed my faith in Coach, because he refuses to shoulder any blame.
If he would just do that, say he and his staff have made many mistakes this season, and not blame it all on the kids, then I’d have no worries about next year competing for the crown.
But as long as Mark Richt remains prideful and stubborn, then I’ve lost faith in him and his ability to lead this team.
Mark, you’re a good Christian man. Your behavior, your pride and stubborness, is doing your reputation a huge discredit.
I’m almost heartbroken.
By tyyosh
October 20, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this
Guys, I would not form an opinion of CMR’s position on blame, pridefulness, etc. based on quotes lifted here and there and stuck in a story, especially given the way UGA seems to be portrayed by certain writers. A previous poster was right - defer judgment and listen to the call-in show or something long enough to hear unedited discussion over a long period of time to get a real sense of what he is thinking.
By jrmdvm1
October 20, 2006 03:15 AM | Link to this
If I am showing a horse or training a dog, I must do my best to train them, and then, having knowledge of their strengths and weaknesses, guide them in their performance to produce the best possible results. If they do not perform up to their potential, it is my fault. And, each and every one of them is different, and I must adjust to their differences. Until I realize that, there will always be more “mistakes” in their performance, and “we” ( the animal and me ) will not have consistent success over the long run. It is no different in managing a sports team in any sport.
It is my feeling that a coach should shoulder the blame, even when it wasn’t his, just so that he will not damage the confidence of his players. My biggest “letdown” with the UGA football coaches is that they haven’t done this. This concerns me more than the losses. I believe that they have allowed the team’s confidence to be damaged. Just go back and read the player comments BEFORE the Tennessee game. They were already doubting themselves. With the great start against Tennesse I had hoped that the doubt had been overcome. Obviously it was not.
After saying all that, I still believe that CMR will turn this disturbing trend around. As I read more comments from them, I believe that the coaches are shouldering more and more of the “blame”. It is also important that the players not lose confidence in their coaches either. Win or lose, I love my alma mater, and I do believe that CMR is the right person for the job. Remember that he is still learning how to be a head coach. He will do what is right and best for his team. I just hope that it is sooner rather than later.
By JB
October 20, 2006 07:36 AM | Link to this
I’ll bet you that CTT at Auburn could pass any of his coach’s wifes on the street and not recognize them. CMR will know his and call the children by name. MY point. CTT keeps it “BUSINESS LIKE ” because he knows firings come with coachs who don’t get it done. Just look at his staff the last 5 years. Mark is a very different kind of guy. It’s hard to fire a coach who’s little girls birthday party you just came from. It’s the truth, and ya’ll know it. He’s just a decent man…A family man. No CHANGES IN ATHENS UNLESS THEY QUIT. PS. I’m not saying CTT is not a good man, he just understands more about keeping his contract. ( that’s for you WAR EAGLE before you blast me)
By Buck Cochran in the NW
October 20, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this
Learning how to be a HC? How long does it take. ALL HC WILL MAKE MISTAKES DOESN’T MATTER HOW LONG THEY’VE COACHED OR HOW MANY THEY’VE WON! Some things haven’t changed since day one and need to. Naming a QB and sticking with him is a very important move. Samoan mentioned the “OL”. Think about it, have we had a good “OL” since the Donnan recruits have left? I would appreciate any opinion. The “spread offense”? Run it more and play to the strength of your QB because that’s all he ran in HS. I’m not even going to try to tell MR how to coach. Loyalty is good but loyalty to a fault isn’t. MR has to make any decisions and I hope he’s not to close to his Asst. Coaches to do so. Let the Matthew Stafford era begin!!! “Here’s looking at you ,Kid”! Go!
By Buck Cochran in the NW
October 20, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this
Conyers, BTW, I’ve not mentioned much about the “spread option O” because the Reptiles are doing quite well with it so I don’t think I needed to comment. That type of “O” will work, is working and will continue to get even better in the SEC. Those who had thought it wouldn’t work for some archaic reasons are just wrong. Not tough enough, GIVE ME A BREAK!
By 82DAWG
October 20, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this
Every team, every coach goes through a down period. Can’t win 10 games every year. Dooley had as many down years as up years. Fulmer went 5-6 last year. Paterno had three horrble years. What about Stoops at Oklahoma? The true test of a great coach, is how do they handle it? What went wrong? What is the plan to fix it? The obvious problems are:
The loss of Van Gorder has not been overcome by Martinez. The defense is simply bad, even with top talent.
The offensive line HAS been able to recruit, they just seem to lose 50% of them to shoulder injuries. I had never heard of UGA losing players to shoulder injuries until Calloway came here. Now they drop like flies. Brock, Miller, McKenzie, the list goes on. I think he needs to be replaced. NOW.
Other than those two areas, to me, it just looks like rebuilding pains. Was the offensive line not decimated by shoulder injuries they would be able to create opportunities in the red zone, the defense wouldn’t be left on the field all day, the confidence would be higher, the new players would get game experience and the program moves forward.
One thing I will admit. The bleeding hasn’t been stopped yet this year. It won’t until the off season. We just have to hope for the best right now. To me 7-5 is the very best we can hope for. I would not be surprised to see 6-6. At 6-6, we might not even get a bowl invitation.
Coach Richt, we are the stockholders. What is you plan to improve the performance of your or organization? Short term and long term. Do you have the correct management staff in place to ensure we get the top performance out of our resources? Are you willing to make the tough decisions in order to get the program back on course and on top of the market?
By Mutts lower the bar to below sea level, still lose
October 20, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this
By Kick a neo-con in the CCUUNNTT a day
October 19, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this
BuLLdawg’s been put down, at his own request, as he could not live with the knowledge that his once mediocore mutts were now in utter disgrace and ruin. Oh, the horror of the lie, the horror, how could he have thought Georgia had risen so far to mediocraty, when in truth, they still sucked
By austindog
October 20, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this
I think the schedule this year has a lot to do with the listless play. Apart from SC & TN, which of the other 5 games did any Bulldog fan get excited about? Every week it’s another lousy team. Georgia has played ONE GOOD TEAM this year. One game to get really excited about in two months. I think the players think the same way.
Is anyone excited about MSU? They might as well close the new upper deck on Saturday because it’s going to be vacant. (Bet on it?)
Next year’s schedule has a “TBA” to start the season. Please Evans, pick a D1.
By AltamahaDawg
October 20, 2006 09:51 AM | Link to this
Stephen, thank you, some of us actually read and listen to call in shows and post game interviews. ANYONE in here insisiting that this coach has any history of shirking responsibility or not shouldering blame, just need to get thier news outside of a blog. You look pretty silly foaming at the mouth over stuf that ain’t happening. Aside from a couple of direct answers that were exactly honest about particualr breakdown, (are you saying we havent had player execution breakdown)I have heard absolutely nothing remembling unfairly blaming his players.In fact Ive heard several times quite the opposite. Frankly he has been considerably kinder to his players than the media and blogs are. Its stupid to think he isnt going to have to deal with absolute, horrific mistakes on the field when asked directly about them. I think he has carefully worded the fact that the play hasnt been good about as well as you can. The world sees whats going on, you can’t gloss that over but so much. And hell no, Eason is not going to talk publicaly about the drops, nor is CMR going to trash Eason, Callaway, Martinez in public during the middle of a season. Talk about a program in disaray, lets see the median frenzy if he starts to publically question his staff or himself. Plus he doesnt need to in the AJC, why? You folks have not the least clue what is said to the players, in the meeting, behind closed doors. Don’t flatter yourselves to think you know 10% of what goes on. What are you folks talking about? The problem is the coaches are not publically blaming thier scemes enough to satisfy the negative ninnies in a sports blog? paleezzz. Have you ever actually interacted with human beings in person? Somebody please post the quotes this crap comes from. I swear some of you flip in the wind like an old tabloid page.
Bill you are correct, we used to pray we didnt lose a bunch of “vandy” every year. BTW, we had talent then too. Its pretty funny to see the absolute outrage directed at CMR because he just doesnt know the way we do it here, and the expectations of the Great University of Georgia. We just dont lose to Vanderbilt. BS We used to hang our hat on barely beating such. He’s the only reason we have the least bit of expectations left after 20 yrs.
By AltamahaDawg
October 20, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this
JB, need we remind you that CTT about his his butt canned behind his back. Thats a great business atmosphere he’s got going on over there. He replaced a few more coaches over the past years, because a few left and a somebody took the fall for him in 03. He has just plain had turnover too.
CMR hasnt fired anyone who has been wining SEC East title in past few years…..really? What is in his head. Why do you folks insist on predicting what CMR will NOT do. You have no idea what he is going to do this offseason. I think there is prabably a better DC than WM, but its kinda tough to fire a guy after his first year, after just wining the conference. Now in his second year, MANY factors have left him looking silly (come on guys, show a little more knowledge that jumping to simpleminded conclusions). We will see what happens to him. Wouldn’t break my heart to look around, I just think if you guys are highly critical of a move that hasnt even been realistic yet. Again, if you want anyone better, you got to handle that right. Bloodletting in a press conference is not going to happen. Anyone really think CMR has been patting WM on the back in private lately?
My money is on a move that changes Calloway off as the Offensive Coord. I think that is a symbolic and perhaps meaningfull way to shake up thing on offence without actually giving up playcalling, which is how CMR is comfortable running the program now. Some of you sound like you think that CMR makes up stuff in the dirt on game day. The playcalling is actually just a selection process that CMR and the booth goes through given the options that has been practised for months. Calloway is the one responsible for giving CMR those tools. Changing who physically calls it aint going to mean anything. The change will be what the OC prepares, during the offseason. For the record, I think Cal has had more success than failure,and some tough injuries to overcome, I just see that as a possible move.
By Ryan
October 20, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this
Thanks Richt & Joe T.
Yall sucked so bad the past 2 weeks that the game tommorrow will not even be televised.
Great
Looks like its gonna be me, Larry, and a bottle of scotch.
loren whadddddddddddya got
By Brooks
October 20, 2006 10:42 AM | Link to this
We are spoiled bottom line. Bill makes a great point in his article. Not long ago, diehard Bulldog fans were excited to go the Peach Bowl. Now we consider the Peach Bowl a failure. We now expect a trip to the Dome every year. That is not reality. You don’t stay on top. The SEC is too tough. Coach Richt has made 10+ win seasons an expectation for all Dawg fans. There will be many more to come. Sometimes you just have to take your lumps and drive on. We are set up for the future. We have the QB we want. We just need game experience and few bigtime receivers. I think we are getting one in Israel Troupe. A.J. Green hopefully to follow. Either you have talent or you don’t. I know that from being a coach myself. We are going through a down year. Everybody has them. Some longer than others. Just ask Nebraska. I have seen alot of people trying to sell tickets for this Saturday. That is unfortunate. If you are a true dawg fan then you show up and support whether we are 7-0, 5-2, or 2-5. Noone feels any worse about where we are than the players. We need to show them we appreciate them. They don’t intentionally drop passes or miss tackles or field goals. It happens. We win together and we lose together. We have come a long way. Stay the course. Be proud of the “G”. See you in Athens on Saturday. GO DAWGS!!
By Brooks
October 20, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this
Ryan, man what a ridiculous post. You’re an embarrassment to Dawg fans. We don’t need that kind of garbage on here. Buy a ticket.
By Scooter11
October 20, 2006 11:01 AM | Link to this
Ryan: Maybe we’re not on TV because MSU has sucked all season. Our Dawgs are always a candidate for TV. Like Brooks said, ‘Buy a ticket’, and become a real Dawg fan instead of what you obviously are.
By Heep On The Blame
October 20, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this
Keep pilin the blame on CMR. Keep barkin with unrealistic demands, not expectations. The decision to move on to South Beach for MR gets easier every post.He’s goin home to clean-up Da U. Don’t believe it look at how unfocused the Coaching Staff is from top to bottom from something. That something might be job uncertainty and that leads to unfocused players.
By AltamahaDawg
October 20, 2006 11:16 AM | Link to this
BROOKS, Im sure I say you there when Goff was 4-7. I’m sure you were there, when we lost to Southern Miss, when our very own QB coach looked like he had never heard of a football play, and a couple of future NFL guys couldn’t catch or run to save our lives. I don’t think this blog is very representative of your kind of support. Plus Good lordy folks, its just fun to be a fan, damn. I sure wasn’t kicking trashcans coming out of the stadium saturday. Was a great day to be breathing in that autumn air. And for all you shallow lived, negative, know it alls, that can’t even stand to watch CBS come this next saturday at 3:30, you wont see me waiving from Alltell at ya, next to my Bulldawg Buddies and our Bulldawg Belles. I’ll be waiving cheeering, and feeling sorry for ya. (on soo many levels)
By Bob
October 20, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this
Brooks, amen. I think Coach Richt has to make some changes in the off season, but can you imagine blaming coaches during the middle of the season. Sounds like Mike Vick type crap. We have been spoiled and yes we should have high expectations. Can’t think of any top notch program that has not had down periods…Penn State, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Bama, Texas, Oklahoma and now FSU and Miami. Va Tech is down this year. Franchioni has hardly been the saviour that Texas A&M expected. Tennessee hasn’t won a conference title since 98. USC had a long down stretch before Pete Carroll got there. Hell, they couldn’t even beat mediocre Notre Dame teams. Michigan has been down and seem to have had a resurgence this year. Before Tressel got to Ohio State they could never beat Michigan.
Lets get real. I expect rival fans to pile on. Hell our fans do the same to them. But while criticism is certainly warranted, some of the folks on these blogs need to see a get a life. I have been Dawg fan since 66. I finally got season tickets this year after serving in the Army for 30 years and yeah I am disappointed, but more than anything, I am grateful. I watched UGA pound the Vols in Knoxville from Balad, Iraq in 03, but let me assure you it is much better seeing them live in Athens.
Go Dawgs
By TennDawg
October 20, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this
Damn, this is the most negative bunch of folks, with the exception of a few diehards, that I’ve ever heard. Coaching mistakes? Sure. Less than perfect play? Sure. Remember though, these boys are young and inexperienced (in most positions). Everything will be alright. Easy on the panic button. Beat MSU! GO DAWGS!!!
By Ryan
October 20, 2006 01:01 PM | Link to this
I would buy a ticket, but if you have ever been to p** like I have its doubtful you would want to ever go back.
That place is still trapped in the 80s
so once again thanks richt I bet espn woulda picked it up otherwise
By ConyersDawg
October 20, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this
Sorry Buck, but the gatorsa spread “O” is not working. 21 against Tenn. and Auburn like Georgia last year got it figured out and shut it down.
This is one dawg who has not lost confidence! This team has the potential to homestly win out. Call me blind but the recievers are talented (BuLL SAID THIS WAS THE MOST TALENTED RECEIVERS IN THE HISTORY OF GEORGIA) I never agreed to that but they are talented. The sencondary just needs to man up and cover better.
Why do you think CJ Bryd is up for more playing time. Because he is learning the position and he is a lot bette r then Tra Battle. Read any of my post and you will see that I am not a big fan of Tra. He will make some good plays but he is always a liabilty to me.
It is good that CMR finally said we are going with this guy and that is it. No more when is the next guy going to get a series. The light bulb has come on for Stafford and the future begins Saturday.
Bill King, why don’t you tell us what you would do differently then what Martinez is doing instead of complaining all the time.
By LowCountry Dawg
October 20, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this
I agree that the situation is serious but this is no time to panic. 2006 has been a tale of two different teams, both offensively and defensively. If you will reflect on each game UGA has just not been able to put together four solid quarters, or two good halves of football consistenly. Some games offensively we have been woeful the first half and came to life the second(like Colorado). More recently the offense has been good the 1st half only to stumble in the 2nd half (like Tennessee and Vanderbilt). The defense has played great a number of games in the first half (like Vanderbilt)only to fall apart in the second half (like Tennessee). At times the coaches look great, at times the players have played great. We just need consistency. Could it be that replacing quite a few defensive and offensive starters has left us with some players who are still growing up to the level of SEC competition? We do have some returning quality players but look how thin we are with returning players at others. Mark Richt has a steady hand with his team. He is just what we need. Support the Dawg coaches and players and better times are ahead. It may take a little while to get back to the top but I believe that these guys will make the Dawgnation proud once again. I have been a true Dawg fan since 1964 and will not give up now.
By Bill King
October 20, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this
One thing I’d do is dump the “read and react” defense, since we react too slowly. I’d turn ‘em loose and gamble more. Couldn’t do much worse than they have.
Especially against Florida, I’d really try to get in Leak’s face like Auburn did in the second half last week. He doesn’t like to get hit and tends to hurry his passes when he’s blitzed. A veteran college football observer (who’s also one of the world’s biggest Gators fans) admitted as much and said that he couldn’t understand why Martinez didn’t go after Leak more last year and suggests that if Georgia is to stand a chance this year, that’s what they need to do.
I’d also rethink how we’re using our linebackers, since the schemes we’re using don’t work all that well when you don’t have an abundance of talent at that position.
Among other things.
By Bob
October 20, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this
Ryan, You should be thankful you can listen to Larry. You should try listening to a crackling radio while Air Force plays Nevada on AFN Radio HOPE to get a Georgia score before it fades out again. I wish it were on TV too, but blaming Richt is really a stretch.
By thomas
October 20, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this
what a bunch of b***!!! cry like the girls you are.
By Juan Daniels
October 20, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this
Wish I coulda caught balls thrown from Stafford..Dude is the next ELWAY GO DAWGS
By ed from miss state
October 20, 2006 06:46 PM | Link to this
MISS ST-20, UGHGA-17…THE real bulldogs have a better defense and special teams…thornton will have at least 150 yards on the ground in a ball controlled shortened game…puppies will limp to jax with 3 straight humblers BETWEEN THE TWIGS…STATE CRUISES!!!
By War Eagle
October 20, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this
JB, first, CTT is a family man who has two handsome son`s in grade and middle school. he loves Auburn small town environment. He fires coaches not doing their job. he loves the University and its people and he has reward the “family” with being the winningest SEC coach since 2001. One unbeaten season, 4out 5 West division wins or ties # 2 in the final poll in 2004, high grad rate and will be around a long time, without worry of his contract.He speech freely on his beliefs without any fear, also he is a gambler…he will not run a QB draw on 3-15 CMR and Mike Shelia should thank CTT for his contract because UGA and Bammer had to pass on a equal or better his contract. CMR is a fine man, good coach, likes Athens and all the family, but Auburn is Auburn and UGA is UGA…JB have a nice weekend… good luck tomorrow against State..
By War Eagle
October 20, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
JB, one last comment about your post and the little girls having a birthday party, Believe me CMR would rather win a SEC title or beat Gators or auburn than worry about the atmosphereor or who is happy at a birthday party..If circumstances continue with his problems, he will have to send a few coaches to the unemployment line to catch a breath of air.
By Buck Cochran in the NW
October 20, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this
HELP! DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW I CAN LISTEN “ONLINE” TOMORROW? WE DON’T HAVE A STATION OUT HERE THAT CARRYS THE GAME. HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO FINE ONE.
By Gen Neyland
October 21, 2006 12:03 AM | Link to this
BC in the NW : MAYBE, try to link up w/ wsbradio.com
By Ed
October 21, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this
Buck, go to georgiadogs.com and look for “GXtra.” You may find it on the multimedia link. You will then have to register, provide a credit card number, and pay about $10 a month for unlimited access to all games. I’m listening to the MSU game right now from my computer in West Texas. Good luck.
By willysee in n.c.
October 21, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this
Mr. King I disagree with your assessment that the dogs have less talent.Also the schemes seem as good as past years under Richt what I see is alot of unprepared and uninspired play.By unprepared I,m talking about having it drilled in practice.What happined to finish the drill!!!This group has the athletes to compete with any team on the schedule.Coach Richt needs to take a fresh look at his staff.
By Buck Cochran in the NW
October 21, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this
hHE GOT THE 2 TDs! LOST MT AUDIO FEED, HOW DID THEY GET BACK DONW THERE AT THE END?
By chazz
October 24, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this
I think that dawg fans suck, and I am one of them. Man, when UGA was whipping Wisconsin in the Capital One Bowl, their fans were jumping up and down, chanting like Baptists at a revival. The Badgers came back. We get behind in a game, and it’s like there showing reruns of 9/11. I think it is just out and out sh—ty to have a school’s fans boo one of their own players and call for firings. That’s the kind of crap that Gator fans pull. Come on! Get behind ‘em!!!!
By ringleader
October 24, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this
I am still stuck on the pre-season meltdown prediction by the pickum Guru in Mobile, Danny Sheridan……..3 of 5 years to the Dome with Donnans Dogs, but not with the last four years recruits, makes you wonder.