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AJC > Sports > UGA > Blog > Archives > 2007 > June > 19 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USIt’s not easy replacing a legend
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We all knew the day would come when Larry Munson would step down as the voice of Georgia football, but many Bulldog fans hoped (and still hope) that time wouldn’t arrive for quite a while.
But even if Munson’s health improves enough for him to do part or all of the 2007 season, UGA has to come up with a replacement sometime soon. I’ve been mulling over possible candidates for the past couple of seasons without settling on a favorite.
Some fans think the announcer needs to be someone with UGA ties, and that certainly would help ease the transition a bit. But I’m not sure that’s really a requirement. After all, when Munson was hired, he had no UGA connections; he was a longtime Vanderbilt announcer who was coming off a season on the Atlanta Braves’ broadcast team. I remember a lot of fans griped he was “no Ed Thilenius,” Munson’s popular predecessor. It took us a couple of seasons to warm up to Larry, but once he started identifying with Georgia as “we,” the fans came around. Yeah, he’s a “homer,” but that’s not why people quote and buy recordings of his best calls; it’s the color, the quirks, hunkering down, thinking of Montreal, hobnail boots and the whole shebang.
A lot of fans think color man Scott Howard, who also handles UGA basketball play-by-play, deserves a shot. And Howard probably is the best option on at least an interim basis. He certainly is a Bulldog and does a pretty good job on the basketball broadcasts, but I’m not sure he ever could approach Munson in conveying the excitement of a game.
Actually, there probably aren’t many announcers not of Munson’s generation who could.
The main thing I’d like to see UGA do is hire someone who is an announcer, first and foremost. If he has Georgia ties, great. But don’t give him the job just ‘cause he’s a former Dawg. That didn’t work with head coach and I don’t think it would work in the broadcast booth. Buck Belue might make a good replacement for Loran Smith on the sidelines, but he just doesn’t have the radio chops for the top job.
There are UGA-connected announcers who do, like Chip Caray and Ernie Johnson Jr., but they have great jobs already that would conflict with football season. But, hey, it might be worth a try for one of them.
Brad Nessler doesn’t have UGA ties, though he lives here, but he’d be unlikely to consider jumping from ABC/ESPN. Longtime sportscaster Bob Neal, who used to do some Bulldog games on TV back when TBS carried the SEC, seems a bit too laid back. And while he’s 20 years younger than Munson, Georgia probably doesn’t want another senior citizen. Neal’s son Dave does play-by-play for the Lincoln Financial Sports coverage of noontime SEC games, but I frankly haven’t been impressed with his work.
Local sportscasters Bill Hartman and Chuck Dowdle have very strong UGA ties, but neither has much play-by-play experience. I know Jeff Hullinger, who returned to town to work for WSB Radio (which anchors the Georgia football network), has done plenty of play-by-play, but I don’t think he’d be a good match with UGA. I remember talking to him back when he was with WAGA in the ’80s and I was covering TV, and he had a rather condescending view of Georgia football fans. We don’t need someone sneering at us while he calls our games.
So, basically, I think UGA ought to go with Howard for the short-term, and try to land a first-rate, experienced play-by-play man in the long run. If they must use Buck, keep him on the field. If they want a former Dawg in the booth as a color analyst, I’d try Kevin Butler. I like his outspoken approach on WNGC’s “Fifth Quarter Show.” And down the road, when he’s through with the NFL, David Pollack and his natural gift of gab would be a nice addition to the broadcasts.
Let’s just hope we haven’t heard the last of Munson, though.
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Comments
By Cuz
June 19, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this
How can you mend a broken heart…
How in God’s name can you follow Munson. John Adams could not follow George Washington and closer to home, Ray Goff could not follow Vince Dooley.
In the eyes of the Dawg Nation, there is no replacement. It would have to be done by committie. Get a group, Kevin, Hondo, Buck and as many others as you can grab to throw in those zingers that we have come to love.
Look at the sugar falling from the skies! Look at the sugar falling from the skies!
Larry, we wish you health and happiness. Thanks for the memories of a lifetime. Just do me a favor.
HUNKER DOWN JUST ONE MORE TIME!!
By RED and BLACK
June 19, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this
Pollack would be a great replacement. Not sure if Chip Caray would be good. He struggles with play-by-play with Braves baseball. Pollack would be great but I would rather he be on the field coaching the boys up. Buck Belue is not that good. I think he should stay where he is at. What about Tony Schovanie (sp)? I am not sure if he has any history with UGA but he has a decent voice. Hullinger not so much.
By dawgsig
June 19, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
Larry Munson cannot be replaced, but we need an announcer with passion and fire for Georgia football. That’s what makes Larry unique. Howard is o.k., but he has no fire. We need a native Georgian who loves his State AND his Dawgs!!
By GW
June 19, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this
Howard seems to have plenty of fire to me when he has had the rare opportunity to get excited in basketball. Chances are this job will become a revolving door when Munson leaves. Michael Adams may have a radio buddy tucked away somewhere out west. Why not Munson for home games and Howard on the road as a means of transition in 2007? Would that not help Munson and allow the fans to keep him around longer?
By Phillip
June 19, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
I went to an AA meeting tonight in Opelika! It was for my Substance Abuse class. They have them in Auburn too, but not every night. I didn’t really know what to wear. I wondered if they would make me state my name and claim to be an alcoholic, but they didn’t. I am not one. I really don’t like alcoholic beverages. Anyway, I didn’t know quite what to make of it. Some of the people in attendance looked as if they had had really hard lives. Some woman read some list of objectives and then some guy read a list of steps. They then took turns stating their names and claiming to be alcoholics. Afterwards, everyone said, “Hi Eunice!” or whatever. LOL! It’s true! Then each one gave their little talk. They then spoke of having been “powerless” back when they drank, but slowly gaining a sense of “power” by declining to put themselves in places (i.e. bars) where it would be tempting. They mentioned having to drop all their former associates who are bad influences. Several spoke of a sense of loss (lost jobs, legal problems, in and out of jail, estranged family members, etc.). They claimed that they now feel powerful because they don’t have to be worried about being pulled over, having to call a relative to bail them out of jail, having to call an attorney, losing jobs etc. now that they don’t drink. One woman talked about having had a really bad day at work and having been tempted to hit the bar instead of coming to the meeting! She said as long as she takes it one HOUR at a time, she will be OK. Some of the others spoke of taking it one day at a time. They then did some kind of prayer which they called the “Serenity Prayer” and passed around the collection basket and did some other type of prayer (Lord’s Prayer I think they called it). They also passed out chips to people who had made it so long without drinking. I’m not sure I buy the whole concept of it, but there you have it!
By Tricia
June 19, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
There is no replacement for Larry. I think Scott Howard gets plenty excited. Whoever comes in needs to make it his call because there is not another Larry. As much I hate to see it happen his health and well being is more important. Maybe a few games this year with Scott calling the others. I also like Wes Durham but guess that he has too much loyalty to tech. He is a good announcer as is his father. God bless you Larry
By lincolntondawgfan
June 19, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this
Georgia football with out Larry Munson, what a sad day that will be !!!!!!!!!!
By Bill W.
June 19, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this
Phillip, not sure why you shared about an AA meeting on here but from the things you mentioned that is not how AA was orignally supposed to be. Check out the book “Alcoholics Anonymous”. You can find it in any book store or online- http://www.aa.org/bigbookonline/ The book is AA not just the meetings.
-proud member of AA
By dawgman
June 19, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this
Bill, I sat next to Hullinger and his wife at a number of UGA football games over the years. I never heard a condescending line from him about the fans or team. Dawgman Gwinnett Bulldog Club
By Anonymous
June 19, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this
I’ve been a resident of GA for 20 years but I’m not a UGA fan although I enjoy attending at least one game a year. I’ve heard Munson off and on for many years and while he may elate true Dawg fans, he is such a homer that he has no objective credibility with the general college football public. If his job is to make fantasy (distant memories)seem like real life in UGA’s football program, he is excellent and can never be replaced. He was very entertaining when few college games were on TV because you usually had Munson or nothing. With UGA on TV frequently each fall, you need someone much younger but with skills that will develop his own following on radio just as Munson did over time. All of us have to be replaced sometime. Anyone remember the name of Munson’s predecessor? There probably was a greater gnashing of teeth when he departed because no one had ever heard of Munson on college football. Let’s keep the issue in perspective.
By Gen Neyland
June 20, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this
Munson has ties to MN and the fishing is good up in the Boundry Waters. Go for it, Larry. Say hello to Bud Grant for me. No matter his decision, he’s one of the best ever to call the game…and sadly, the world moves on…
By Freedawg
June 20, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this
Scott Howard is great. He calls a really good game on the basketball side and is the true homer I want to listen to. Screw objectivity, I can get that on TV. If I am going to listen to someone else on the radio I want the guy to be accurate but definately pulling for the Dawgs in his tone and excitment and definately when the close calls go against us. I vote for Scott. Love to Larry, whatever your decision you are the best. Thanks for the memories, hopefully its not over yet.
By Steve
June 20, 2007 3:47 AM | Link to this
QUICK UGA, name the pressobx at SANFORD STADIUM for LARRY MENSON while he is still alive. Its an absolute no brainer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By johnnychimpo
June 20, 2007 4:13 AM | Link to this
you people don’t understand how big of a jackass david pollack is. the only thing he’d be worse at than coaching is being a radio/TV announcer.
By johnnychimpo
June 20, 2007 4:14 AM | Link to this
you people don’t understand how big of a jackass david pollack is. the only thing he’d be worse at than coaching is being a radio/TV announcer.
By Kendall
June 20, 2007 4:57 AM | Link to this
Wow. We knew it would come one day but sure didnt want it to. In my mind, Larry Munson is Georgia football. I will never forget the way he took us to the games when we werent able to be there. Always made you feel like you were right there with him feeling all the emotion he was feeling. Nobody does better than Larry.
By duff
June 20, 2007 5:38 AM | Link to this
My favorite thing is the pregame show where you can just sense the excitement of the whole crew. You can just feel how they are getting fired up for the kickoff, just like we Dawg fans would if we could be there. It all leads up to a crescendo when Larry proclaims “Get the picture…” If any Red and Black bleeding fan doesnt have the hair standing up on the back of his neck at that point, then THEY should retire. That’s what we need to look for in the next announcer (notice I didn’t say replacement; not possible). Scott Howard should at least be the interim if not permanent choice…love how he gets fired up at a call that doesn’t go our way in B-ball. God Bless you Larry. To paraphrase one of your famous calls: “Oh you Larry Munson!”
P.S. Anyone who recommends Wes Durham for the job is in my book yella’.
By Gator Bait
June 20, 2007 7:27 AM | Link to this
Good riddance. Maybe you can get a mule to bray at the mictophone and do as well as he does. Legend, my butt!
By hirsutedawg
June 20, 2007 7:43 AM | Link to this
Gator Bait, I think I speak for UGA fans everywhere when I say “F* You”
By richtfan
June 20, 2007 7:50 AM | Link to this
Scott Howard represents the best of all worlds both in the short and long term. He is a homer, but he’ll also tell it like it is if we’re stinking it up. His basketball calls are unique. He doesn’t want to be like Larry because he knows Larry is a one of a kind announcer. He does not try to parrot Munson. Scott is a Bulldog all the way and is involved in the Athens community, having 3 children in Athens area schools.
He would be an excellent first choice IMHO.
By Rawhide
June 20, 2007 8:27 AM | Link to this
As a native Georgian, (and Tech fan none-the-less),…..I have to say that I hope we have not heard the last call from LM.
He is an icon of this great state as well as the voice of UGa.
I hope God blesses Munson and his health improves to allow him at least one more season talkin’ Dawg football to his millions of fans!
By godawg
June 20, 2007 8:28 AM | Link to this
Jeff Dantzler is a good experienced announcer and play-by-play man, lots of excitement in his voice, a homer, lomgtime Dawg fan and afficianado of Georgia sports and its history. Pair him with Howard.
I hope Larry will do at least one or maybe all the home games this year. It appears traveling with the team is a big cxoncern for him. Have him do the home games this year with Howard and Dantzler in the booth and the they do the road games.
Jeff also has to promise not to make any lewd comments about coeds on the air.
You’re welcome Damon…
By KennesawTech
June 20, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this
As a Tech fan, I would tell Gator Bait to go away as well, though I would not use the colorful words that the hirsutedawg used. Munson is a legend and will be greatly missed even by this Tech fan. I remember how I felt when Al Ciraldo left so I could only imagine the pain that UGA fans will feel at the departure of Larry. I envision a game in the future where “Toe meets leather” and “Sugar is falling from the Sky”. I for one wish Larry well and God bless.
By Vince the Prince
June 20, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this
No one can replace the great Larry Munson, whom I have been listening to since I was a child. Larry is the best in the business, but I can understand wanting to slow down at his age. It has to be a grind at 84 years of age, or any age.
UGA is fortunate to have such a great announcer, and if he does step down, he will be sorely missed.
God Bless you Larry and I wish you the best in whatever choice you make.
By Kyle
June 20, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this
Jeff Dantzler is my pick. He is a solid play-by-play guy regarding UGA baseball and basketball and I have no doubt that he would do just as well with football. There are few more knowledgeable about all things UGA sports than Jeff. His earlier experience in the Athletic Assoc. sports information office is also an asset. Also, he’s young and, should it prove to be a good fit, he could be with us 50+ years. I’m not pals with Jeff but from hearing his enthusiasm on AM960 the Ref call-in shows for the last several years, I can confidently say that I would be shocked if this gig were not his dream job. Give the guy a shot.
By Doug
June 20, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this
Kevin Butler does a good job announcing. It would be cool having him announce, while his son is on the field punting! :-)
By godawg
June 20, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
Laugh of the Day! This is funny as hell…
Ramblin Wreckage! Tech Students Crash the Wreck
This just made my week. A regular Humpty-Dumpty. Can all the bugs men and all the bugs bees put the Ramblin Wreck back together again? ROTFLMAO!!!
By somesuch-dawg
June 20, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
good riddance, Munson has been killing me ever since the tech game in ‘04 that he absolutely MURDERED. I was at the game, then i watched a replay on tv, then i listened to his replay and was appalled at how awful he had become. Sometimes I go to games now just so i dont have to listen to that broken-down hack to try to have a clue as to what’s going on. Does he even remember that there’s a down and distance on every play?? My uncle’s amputated toe could do just as well.
By altamadawg
June 20, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this
who really cares? Munson is severly overrated just like the DAWGIES theseleves are every single year! Let the guy move on with his life.
By jeff
June 20, 2007 9:39 AM | Link to this
I am sick of reading these @&& holes bash Larry Munson, Knocking him for being a “homer” That is what he is supposed to be you idiots. When he is on the air he is not the news broadcaster, He is not supposed to be unbiased, He is the voice of UGA!!! And he is supposed to pull for the DAWGS! There is no replacement for Larry! The next guy in the booth just has to find his own way and make his own name. But Larry can never be replaced!
By Gator Bait
June 20, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this
Hirsutedawg. Your lack of education and intelligence is cery evident in your response. My mother always told me that using curse words indicated a lack of vocabulary. He gets into the game and neglects to say what is happening. ‘4 yards abd three inches to go’ is not much of being a sportcaster. I would vote for Buck Belue, if I had a vote. At least he is not a braying mule.
By defacto dawg
June 20, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this
I couldn’t agree more with your thoughts. The primary requirement for any replacement should be their quality as a broadcaster, not their ties to the university. Scott Howard and Jeff Dantzler are near parodies of themselves as they atttempt to be more “Munsonesque” than the other. Neither are top quality broadcasters in my opinion.
There must be some young, quality broadcasters around the country that would kill for the opportunity to be the voice of the Dawgs.
Please, WSB and Hondo, dont choose Howard and/or Dantzler. If you do, this is one Dawg that will ignore the broadcasts.
By WSP Dawg
June 20, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this
Jeff Dantzler, Scott Howard, and Neal Hondo are my picks!
By Jim
June 20, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this
Georgia has had two of the best announcers ever - and had them back to back. Ed Thilenius called games like he was calling a war and Munson is Munson. Just hope they don’t pick some smooth, silver tongued devil that sounds like he’s doing a weather forecast. If you’re listening at home you care as much about the flavor and passion of the game as you do about the technical aspects. Jim
By Gator Hater
June 20, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this
Sorry to say, I agree with Gator Bait. I’ve been on the road and listened to a Dawg game and for the life of me, sometimes I have no idea what’s going on. “Run Lindsey” tells me nothing of what’s going on. “Herschel Walker, Herschel Walker, oh you Herschel” tells me nothing of the game. The old man belongs in our memory, but does not belong in the broadcast booth any more. I like the idea of Buck Belue.
By dawgsonaplane
June 20, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
Gator baits mother taught him not to use dirty language. Your mother should be applauded for your upbringing seeing as she did such a good job of teaching you class. Ok, nevermind, enough. She failed at raising you just as you failed her as a son. THE GATORS BELONG IN THE ACC. ESAD
By Dawg Lover
June 20, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this
Regardless of who Georgia hires to replace Munson, I’m afraid the new guy will not have much to cheer for over a long period of time. All these prize recruits can’t pass entrance exams or stay out of Jail. Other good players are opting for the NFL and the Dooley scheduling of layups is about over. Auburn lost a shot at the National championship because of the layups in their schedule. Does Georgia play any West Coast teams? Notre Dame? Nope, but they’ll play College of Charleston.
By shane
June 20, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this
remember the titans,i am so fortunate to be old enough to remember the titans of college football,the ledgends.ara at notre dame,woody at osu,bo at michigan,bobby at tech,vince at uga,shug at auburn,and of course the growling old bear.larry is one of these giants.papa bowden and joe papa are the last,i hope they will be around a little longer.god bless you larry.and “run lindsey,run” ‘
By gdawginkalamazoo
June 20, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this
Bill, if we had wanted a silvered tongued smooth talking professional broadcaster in the booth Larry would have been gone a long time ago. The broadcaster’s job is to describe the game for us in his own view and add color to that. Larry would have made Walt Disney puke he added so much color to his broadcast. I wouldn’t have it any other way either. I have been away for a awhile and am not familiar with Howard or Dantzler but it seems these guys have a lot of support from the fan base and Larry himself. I think that the new guy should be a UGA guy with in depth knowledge of out history. What are you going to hire a guy that has to read from notes prepared by his assistant while calling the game? We’ve got CBS and ESPN for those clowns. Sad, sad day when he unplugs the mike.
By Big Dawg 34
June 20, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
In my opinion Larry Munson is the greatest play by play announcer ever in the history of sports.I know that it is hard to think of his retiring,but he is 84 years old.One of his calls I never forget was against Auburn in 2002 when he said,”Touchdown,Oh God A Touchdown.”That was great.I think two people that should take his place should be Scott Howard at play by play and Buck Belue at color.Thanks Larry for so many great years.GO DAWGS!!!
By oldtimedawg
June 20, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
Hate to see Munson go but would like Whatayagot Lauren to go with him. He is old and worn out as an announcer with no energy and slows down the whole broadcast
By Tenn Dawg Lover
June 20, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
Marooned up here in Tennessee, I remember the lament when Lindsey Nelson left as voice of the Vols. Then a new guy comes in and the fans learned to love him also, but then he retired. Life goes on. We’ll get a new announcer and learn to love him also.
By Buck Cochran in the NW
June 20, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this
Gator Hater, you heard the “Run Lindsey Run” call and all you heard was “Run Lindsey” which told you nothing? The entire lay took maybe20 sec. max so your radio wasn’t on when Munson said “Buck’s rolling to his right, he gonna throw, theirs Lindsey Scott cutting back across the middle….etc,etc…He’s at the 50, the 40 Run Lindsey run, Lindsey Scott , Lindsey Scott, Lindsey Scott!……..Now those are not the exact words but just off the top of my head I can and will remember those words. Some one in the Nation must have that call on tape and will post the entire play. I don’t understand how “Run Lindsey” could tell you nothing unless you just happened to turn your radio on for the last 5 seconds of the play……even a couple of my Reptile friends and relatives called last night after they heard about him not coming back on “Talk Radio” coming home from work to say how they hate to see Father time take down one of the Greatest but that’s life. “Run Lindsey” told a few hundred thousand what was going on.
By birddawg
June 20, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this
Ron Franklin
By masivatack
June 20, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this
those of you who bash the greatest ambassador UGA will ever know just don’t get it.
Just from his tone, you can visualise everything on the field. His eccentricities make everything he says so much more believable and heartfelt.
I cannot believe that people are criticizing his style, because that is what it is. Style and heartfelt passion is what this world could use more of. Maybe it is just the stat heads who don’t like his style, because it is less by the numbers.
I dunnow, I think those of you who are saying that he is a “homer”, haven’t listened to the games very much. He speaks with nothing but respect for our opponents, his pessimism is what makes every great play seem more amazing. Since I was a small child, my dad turned off the “general college football public” slanted announcers and, even though I grew up in the mountains and didn’t get very good radio reception, that just added to the grit and rasp of every down.
I can tell by a lot of the responses by the Tech fans, that they understand what a wonderful tradition this Legend has brought to each game.
If and when he really leaves the booth, our coaches should call a mandatory meeting for all players and staff and replay every amazing call he has given us the privelage of experiencing, just to illustrate what being a dawg is really about. If that doesn’t fire up everyone in the room, they don’t deserve to wear that “G” on their helmet.
I just hope we can send him off to retirement with a fitting goodbye. Can you imagine Sanford stadium rocking with a win in his final broadcast?
I get chillbumps just thinking about it…
By Judge Dawg
June 20, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
The whole crew needs rethinking. I have believed that the present shortcoming is that the game is being dramatized apart from much that is happening on the field. This is classic radio but when the game is also on TV …….
By masivatack
June 20, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this
here is one of my favorite tribute videos of Larry…
http://youtube.com/watch?v=fMi9nwILsu4
By Greg Watson
June 20, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this
Don’t forget about Matt Robinson. Currently calling games for the Jax Jaguars.
By Buck Cochran in the NW
June 20, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this
BIRDDAWG…RON FRANKLIN….GREAT IDEA
By Randy
June 20, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
Scott Howard needs to get the job.
I listen to all his basketball games(the only way to follow GA basketball w/o going to the games) and love the way he calls them.
Scott Howard would do a great job of bringing in some of Larry’s passion.
By gdawginkalamazoo
June 20, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this
godawg, Thanks for that link. On a sad day for UGA, that link will make any Dawg laugh.
By Erk
June 20, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this
Larry, hunker down for one more season! Just don’t let Michael Adams be in on the replacement decision. He would choose someone like Jeff Hullinger just to spite everyone.
By Greg Watson
June 20, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this
Don’t forget about Matt Robinson. Currently calling games for the Jax Jaguars.
By cooter11
June 20, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
Bill King is a homer.
BK=Larry next
By FRED
June 20, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this
What a great, great announcer Larry is. And this from a life long Tech fan and Alum. I was on the short end of the stick on many of his calls, but he is still one of the best of all time. He will be sorely missed. And, I still miss Al. The Tech/Georgia games will not be the same. Let’s hope the Jackets can win one this year.
By Laughing at UGA fans
June 20, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this
You hillbillies are clueless if you think Munson is some sort of broadcasting god. Dementia set in for Munson years ago, back when he did games for the Falcons…..Why do you think they cut him loose? He’s the worst broadcaster in big time college sports. He misses plays, mispronounces players names and has no idea what he is doing or where he is. You rednecks are so stuck on tradition that you will tolerate a doddering old man as the face of broadcast excellence…..Of course, why should I be surprised. You are the same delusional fans that think Georgia is a great program because they won a national title all the way back in 1980…..Keep dreaming….
By Bulldawg Nation OR Chapter
June 20, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this
Today I looked in the mirror and a red and black tear was running down my face. Say it ain’t so, Mr. Munson. His retirement would be the end of an institution. He is the only commentator I know that gets their calls run during national television broadcasts. He can never be replaced. Don’t look at the next broadcaster as his replacement it would never be fair to the new guy. Oh God, please heal him enough for one final year.
By hirsutedawg
June 20, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
Gator Bait, you’re right my language was coarse and crude. Here try this, “take your preferred phallic device and place it in your anus” Go ahead and get yo’ mama to show you how to use spell check while she’s at it.
By Michael Scharff
June 20, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this
I think that Scott and Jeff are a great pair for basketball, and I would love to see them get the football gig when Larry decides to hang up the microphone. Scott is easy to listen to, and Jeff has a terrific style on color.
By Old Grad
June 20, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
I am a Tech Grad and a die hard fan but I must admit that I will listen to Georgia games just to hear Munson. I remember when he came to Atl with the Braves and Milo Hamilton. If he retires I am going to miss him and at the same time feel very old.
By gdawginkalamazoo
June 20, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this
Just listening to all those sound bites put up today on the AJC. And BTW thanks AJC for putting those up. I totally forgot that Bulter’s FG try was for a 100,000 miles. I was there and could have sworn it was about 60 yards, as drunk as I was.
By Laughing at UGA fans
June 20, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
HEY LAUGINGH AT UGA FAN UR STOOPID IF U THING MONSON IS NO GOOD EVER 1 NO HE IS THE BEST DAWG ANOUNCER EVER UR PROLLY A STOOPID GAITER FAN AND R MAD THE SPERIOR IS NO LONGER CAOCH HA HA HA HA!!
By Steve
June 20, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
It will be hard replacing Larry. Ga football will be different without him but we will make it. Not only do I remember the great calls I also remember where I was when the great calls were made. He is special to all of us Dawg fans.As for someone saying he doesn’t let you know what’s going on in a game if you can’t figure it out then you need to be at the games watching in person.
By Gary T.
June 20, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this
Munson’s greatest call may be the ga-fl ‘76—- “end around to Appleby- He’s gonna throw a bomb…”because that may be the one that started his flamboyant commentary.
I read some of the comments, including one by a low animal- a lizard lover, that was derogatory. The Gators-have the worst announcer and the biggest homer in the history of the free world- mick huber.” A great run by the Gator back - oh my!!! Second down nine . Yes, those eight men who tackled him really got lucky.” I’d rather hear someone puke.
Mr. Munson deserves a place of great honor at UGA- name something for him NOW so he can enjoy it while he is alive.
As for a replacement, what about Jeff Dantzler?The replacement must be energetic- no Pat Summerall laid-back type. No raving idiot like huber, either. The best announcer out there right now I believe is Gene Deckerhoff of FSU and Tampa Bay Bucs, but he most likely would not come. He is Munson-like, but with his own style.
God bless you, Mr. Munson and maybe the DAWGS can win at least an SEC title for you this year!
By gdawginkalamazoo
June 20, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
Didn’t the Gator announcer pass away recently? What was his name? Charles Nelson Reilly? Didn’t he say “oh, my” a lot.
By tk hardy
June 20, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
Just listened to the “greatest ever” soundbite poll on the AJC. A tear in my eye for sure. You’ll be missed Larry.
By JR
June 20, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
Great spelling. You have to be a sad Ga. Tech fan.
By shane
June 20, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
according to rivals.com ben jones has commited to the dawgs,reel’em in coach.
By michael
June 20, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
On CSS last year they were doing a “comedy central style” roast honoring Larry Munson. At the end of the night, Munson got up to speak and he said that whenever he retired, he would like to see Wes Durham as his replacement. I would like for him to give the score of the game a little more frequently. Howard can remain as the color guy. That would make for a pretty good announce team.
By I-DOG
June 20, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
Gotta Agree with Cuz that whoever follows Munson will have a tough time. How can you fill those shoes?
I find it interesting that the Georgia Bashers have so little material. I mean all they can do is say that 1.) “Richt hasn’t won a national title in his first 7 years as a head coach. 2.) ” Georgia players frequently get arrested for drinking beer”… “devestating” considering all other college campuses are testaments to alcohol free living. 3.) “UGA lost to KY and Vandy in 06… is this the best they have? The Dawgs went on to dismantle #5 Auburn on the Road, win the 6th consecutive against tech while shutting down Calvin Johnson, and then beat ACC Powerhouse V-Tech by lighting up their #1 ranked defense all consecutively after hitting this historic low point.
By gatorfan
June 20, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
some one needs to tell bill king to retire!!!!
By alldaydawg
June 20, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
My dream team would be, Chip Carey with Kevin Butler as color. Buck on the sideline and Scott doing the 5th quarter show
By MariettaDawg
June 20, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
Wasn’t it Dantzler who got in trouble a few years back for asking some co-eds on the air what color their panties were?
By moonman
June 20, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this
I think Scott Howard would be a good choice, but I really do like the suggestion about Tony Chivante from WSB radio. He is a Dawg fan, and he has some very funny and entertaining comments on his sports broadcast. Sounds like a good team, don’t ya think?
By bigirondawg
June 20, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this
If I’m not mistaken, Dantzler got into trouble for wondering aloud, during a live baseball broadcast, what color panties the ball-girl sitting on the sideline was wearing.
Personally, I thought it was hil-freakin’-larious when he said that. Seems not everyone agreed with me, though. :-)
By gatorfan
June 20, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this
Yes, Gary T. our announcer is terrible and unbearable to listen to. I apologize for all of our classless fans we have that have no other life but to come on a UGA board and critisize them. Gator fans are the worst and I am one of them…I’m ashamed to say
By S.E. Dawg
June 20, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this
Maybe we should have an announcer talent contest and find someone close to Larry’s style or at least submit a resume’ and allow people that are qualified to try-out. We still might be able to fine someone with his style of announcing.
By Lee
June 21, 2007 6:04 AM | Link to this
If we’re looking for someone that the average Dawg fan can relate to, I’m thinking Larry the Cable Guy.
By Gator Hater
June 21, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
We shouldn’t try and duplicate Munson’s style. How about Ray Stevens? At least it would be entertaining. “Did you see that catch?” “Yeah, I did. He caught it over between the cheerleader with the pony tail and the one with the buck teeth.”
By ameliaislandmike
June 21, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
Gatorbait ….. WE wouldnt have that jackass that calls Fla games with his patented “OH MY” . Cant believe you have nothing better to do but poke fun at a gracious Sr. citizen. Come on down to Amelia Island and Ill whip your a* in the name of the true announcing legend.
By this is for BuLL
June 21, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this
BuLL, look at the CWS and notice that the mighty ACC is in the finals and the sucky east conf is NOT!
By Cuz
June 22, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this
Stop and think about it. Many of us could sit in the chair and come up with witty comments. That is not the point. 84 years old, blind as a bat, his ungowa is gone, Tarzan reference by him, the man is incredible. Yeah he gets somethings wrong because he is calling from his heart, not his eyes that have failed him. His crew has done a great job of keeping him in the game and probably the reason he still is alive. I am 48 and with my health issues I plan on being dead before I turn 84. Critics, shame on you. Hate is so ugly. You can put pefume on a pig and you still get a stink. You Munson bashers, I would not tinkle on you if you spontaneously combusted. Just stay away from the Okefenooke when you do catch on fire. You people are beyond pathos. I would say get a life, but I just would rather you be gone to face the eternal Dawg in the sky, Grizzard, who gives you the escalator down to the boiler room.
By Pitbull
June 22, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this
So here is the joke: SI rates UGA’s schedule the 14th most difficult in the nation of 121 teams. It also rates Tech’s schedule 9th hardest of 12 ACC teams. So which does the AJC choose to pick on? Yea, the AJC is biased and it sucks too.
By Christopher
June 23, 2007 4:47 AM | Link to this
1957 UGA Football Cheerleaders 50th Anniversary Reunion in Columbus
(UGA played Auburn in Columbus every year at the time at Memorial Stadium.)
Pictured outside Memorial Stadium are the six surviving female UGA football cheerleaders, and the granddaughter of one.
They are in the fourth photo in the video clip. (The one with the motorcycle.)
From left to right are Gladys (Henderson) Barnes, Myrtle (Jenkins) Anderson (seated in the driver’s seat on the motorcycle), Agnes (Watkins) Hollingsworth, Betty Joe (Turner) Lee, Lucille (Martin) McDaniel and Sue (Jones) Billingsley.
(The young lady in black is Gladys Barnes granddaughter Hope Timmons.)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=fBPmc7JdneY
By lady dog
June 28, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
You don’t know what run Lindsey run means? Can you understand what Buck back, in trouble, got a block means? I, obviously, never played football, but I knew exactly what Larry meant. Does having to wear orange screw up your brain?
By AnnistonBoy
June 29, 2007 2:22 AM | Link to this
Lady dog,
I wouldn’t go as far as to say OBVIOUSLY you never played football. Great big fat strong strapping bulldyke that you are you probably would make a mean linebacker. Tell the truth!
By GATOR MEL FROM PLANTATION
June 29, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
right on gatorbait…get another whiner to announce the annual loss at the cocktail party…TITLETOWN RULES!!!
By gamecockgary
June 29, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this
I PREDICT LARRY’S last game will be the walloping the puppies take between the twigs when the ole bawl coach starts our new dynasty…farewell loser!!
By Vandy Lover
June 30, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
Good riddance. The Jerk was fired at Vandy because he was so bad as an announcer. Maybe UGA can get some slobbering drunk from the parking lot to take his place. Anyway, we’ll beat you again this year!!!
By Gator Bait
June 30, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
To Lady Dog. Did you play pulling guard for the Dogs? Are you like the other big fat lady dogs riding in a red Cameros with a Georgia bumper sticker? Have you ever been to a Georgia Game? I doubt it. Your only connection to Georgia is visiting Bars in Athens and swilling down a few PBRs with the boys
By anon
July 1, 2007 6:16 AM | Link to this
“19-14, they pitch it to Bo Jackson, they block, he comes out stumbling to the 50, one man got him on the Georgia 42 or 3 … Flag down, little Sanchez got him, now watch the penalty, because we’ve killed ourselves with penalties in the 3rd quarter, and it may be on Georgia. You don’t win championships doing that and you know it. Auburn, you know now what they got in the back of their mind … they can’t tie it, but they can beat us. Georgia leading 19-14, needing a play of some kind, a break of some kind, Hunker Down you guys! Dawgs are in a 6… actually only 4 standing, they’re in a 6-4. They pitch it to Bo Jackson, one man knocked him off balance, and we came up and got him … Ball back on the 21, and it’s 2nd down now and 17, with 2:05 to go, Auburn trying to break our hearts. 19-14 and the Dawgs lead. Again you guys, Hunker down! Auburn up to the line… Carver got him from behind! Back on the 30! … Oh man! 2 big plays, 84 seconds … 3rd down and 21. Auburn back on the 30. Watch this now. I hate to keep saying it, but Hunker Down! you didn’t hear me you guys Hunker Down! … pass complete to the 21… Timeout Auburn. Timeout 49 seconds left … 4th and 17, I know I’m asking alot you guys, but Hunker it down one more time! … Pass into the endzone… and the Dawgs broke it up! They broke it up! … The dawgs with 42 seconds… I won’t ask you to do that again you guys … 32 seconds, Lastinger up to the line… Lastinger falls back on the 16 … GA students standing and roaring 23, 22, 21 clock running, running. Oh look at the Sugar falling out of the sky! Look at the Sugar falling out of the sky! Here comes a GA fan running out across the field. And now everybody roars, 3, 2, 1 and they’re carrying Vince Dooley off the field. Dawgs have won it. Somebody threw something on us. Dawgs have won it 19-14. The defense hunkered this thing down.”
By anon
July 1, 2007 6:18 AM | Link to this
Now what may I ask, was so difficult to understand about his calls?
By anon
July 1, 2007 6:22 AM | Link to this
“Will Tennessee hurdle the line? Will Tennessee just dump a little dink pass in the end zone? Will Tennessee run a toss sweep? Goal line defense, 7 seconds. A fresh back in there, Jabar Davis. Watch him hurdle, let’s see if that’s what they do. Their blocking back’s moving, and they give it to Jabar. JABAR HE FUMBLED! And we dive on the ball! And we pick it up! We got a man running on the 20, 25, 30, RUN! He’s got blockers behind him, the 40, the 30, SEAN JONES GOING ALL THE WAY! SEAN JONES ALL THE WAY! Picked up a fumble and ran about 95 yards, and he had 6 blockers behind him all the way. Sean Jones picked it up. They were gonna run a sweep with him… (he) dropped the ball. Old lady luck just laughed out loud right there! Holy Smokes! (Scott Howard voice She was wearing hob-nail boots Larry). The ball game just made a little change right there. Its 19-7, time is out at the half. We’re gonna try the extra point. Sean Jones, with those wonderful hands picked that ball up and came running. You should have seen the escort he had all the way down there. They set it down and the extra point is up, and the kick is good. And the dawgs lead 20-7.”
By anon
July 1, 2007 6:53 AM | Link to this
Now again, what may I ask, was so difficult to understand about his calls?
By Gator Bait
July 1, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this
Stupid example if you ask me. He is nothing but a parking lot drunk. “Babble, babble, oh my God, oh my God.” is not being an announcer. He has no class, no intelligence.
By Pago Pago
July 2, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this
GREAT calls Anon!!!!!