ajcsportstalk

By geekboy

December 7, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

first

can this dude coach smart athletes?

By bob

December 7, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

my response….PARTY!!! is he coaching our bowl game???

By Crux

December 7, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

I like the hire… I was hoping for Chris Hatcher but I do like Johnson’s resume of success. I also like his history of adjusting the offense to what suits the players he has. He’s done that both at GSU, Navy, and Hawaii. Finally, I think with the highschool connections he has and with his history in this state, recruits will know what this man brings to the table. GT is gonna be GOOD TO GO in CPJ;s hands!

By Dawg19

December 7, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

I think this hire by GT will improve upon the success that they had under Gailey. The first 2 years may be a little tough as Johnson, his coaching staff and Tech players have to make a pretty big adjustment to the style of play. Hopefully under Johnson, Tech can start to come into the annual “Good ‘ol Fashion Hate” matchup with UGA a little more respectable than they have in the past years, with the exception to 2006.

By Mayson Crane

December 7, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

It’s a great hire for Tech, but, I’ve been a Navy fan for 55 years and I thought Paul Johnson was exactly what the Academy needed and he proved it. I’m sad to the point that I don’t know if Navy can duplicate what he’s done for them, I sure hope they can.

By Andrew Benton

December 7, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Tweet Tweet! I loved P.J. while he coached at the real G.S.U. in Statesboro. The option offense is fun to watch but it will not beat U.G.A.

By gtstudent09

December 7, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

BRING HIM HOME, DRAD! This may be the best thing and the best news I could ask for before finals.

By Bruce

December 7, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

As per usual Mr. Jeff Shultz is once again wrong about Ga Tech, and for that matter almost everything else. If the same performance statistics that were used to oust Chan gailey from Tech are applied to Mr. Shultz’s incorrect analysis then there can be no doubt Mr. Shultz has to go!

By JD

December 7, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Well done, DRad. Make sure we get a good DC if Tenuta leaves…and beat UGA!

By GTGreg

December 7, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

WooHoo! Great get. Now let’s see if we can hang on to Tenuta.

By ga_tech_92

December 7, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Welcome to The Flats Mr. Johnson!

CHEER

I was at Southern before Tech and cannot wait to see the Coach Paul Johnson version of the Jackets.

GO JACKETS!!!

WELCOME COACH PAUL JOHNSON!

By Andrew Benton

December 7, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Tweet Tweet. P.J. will never beat Georgia!

By GT08ACCchamps

December 7, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

It was the best move possible. I can only hope we are able to keep CJT as DC.

By Michael

December 7, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

I’m kind of thinking he might go to the spread option (like West Virginia). That would be just what Ga. Tech needs (although the pro style offense doesn’t bother me that much).

By GT55

December 7, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Paul will have no problems recuiting. Coach Johnson is a winner and thats just what we needed at GT. Thanks Rads. Now we need a winner in P Hewitts job.

By jeff

December 7, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

i am excited. i think he could run an offense very similar to what Oleary had with Friedgen. we could run the option or pass. we could have a joe hamilton type offense.

By Recker Mom

December 7, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

D Rad made a good choice and so did Paul Johnson. I hope Tenuta stays with the program. I’d like to see a triple option offense with Nesbitt at QB and a killer Tenuta defense.

Go Jackets!! Sting ‘em…

By George P Burdell

December 7, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

Terrible hire. Just another middle of the road, may win 9 game coach.

The triple flexbone will not work in top-tier division I football. The guy has no recruiting experience at Navy (you get what comes in the door there).

I would have much rather had Charlie Strong (ace recruiter, resume includes Lou Holtz, Steve Spurrier, and Urban Meyer), Will Muschamp (didn’t DRad say he wanted youth, energy and excitement?), or heck, even Tenuta.

This two-degree former Tech student athlete thinks it is just more of the same. Tech has so frustrated me that I’ve converted to Auburn. Better (and far more serious) football and the same disgust for UGA (sic).

War Eagle.

By ViewFromMidtown

December 7, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Hey geekboy, do you have any clue about the requirements to get into the Naval Academy? He’s probably coaching smarter athletes there than he’ll have at Tech.

By PeteC

December 7, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

GEEKBOY are you serious?

“Can he coach smart athletes?”

What do you think they he coaches at Navy!

By Even Steven

December 7, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Before today UGA had clearly the best coach between the two rival schools. Today, provided this all gets done as expected, Tech caught up.

By reebok

December 7, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Fantastic hire! Will Tenuta stay?

By PeteC

December 7, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

GEEKBOY are you serious?

“Can he coach smart athletes?”

What do you think he coaches at Navy!

By ProudTechFan

December 7, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

great move by the Athletic Department at Ga Tech for getting there guy. i think it was important to get the head coach we wanted as soon as possible, so he can get a chance to look at whats already in place, and make sure the recruits that have already committed make Tech their home come signing day. this proves that Tech is about football and we are not going to sit and let everybody around us get better. The ACC is a very competitive league, but its not like the SEC where you have to go undefeated to win the conference. He has recruited and coached in the state before and im sure still has ties around the state to get the type of athletes he wants. lets finish off the season with a positive note and get ready for next season.

GO JACKETS!!!

By SignalMtnDawg

December 7, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Good Hire for Tech

Johnson has roots in Georgia, should recruit well, and will bring some excitement.

Gailey was like Donnan - an excellent coach that just missed hitting a home run…. afew more wins out of both - and these guys are still coaching.

Here’s to GT going 12-1 every year!

By Robby Monk

December 7, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

This is an amazing hire. As a GS grad, Ive already bought my GT season tickets. Kudos to the GT’s AD

By GTSam

December 7, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

I’m absolutely thrilled with Tech’s hiring of Paul Johnson. He is a proven winner, recruiter, and motivator and with a little time will have the Jackets back where they need to be. I’m confident he will know how to adjust his offense to be successful at the next level. There is no doubt he will recruit well in the state of Georgia and elsewhere. The future looks very bright for the Jackets! We will be a force to be reckoned with!

By OldTechFan

December 7, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

After hearing the news I am absolutely pleased. Coach Johnson’s abilities are well documented and he know how to lead a program. His ties to the state, his integrity and his background speak well of our new coach.

It’s been a long time, if ever, since a coach coming into the program brought with him the tangibles and intangibles Coach Johnson brings. To those of us who love the Institute all of what I see in Coach is what we want embodied in our student athletes.

I have had numerous discussions with other during the search and, without question, Coach Johnson name kept coming up as the one we hoped for. The others discussed always seem to have a “but” factor, i.e.age, experience, history but in Coach Johnson it appears the total package is there in place.

I do hope we can keep Coach Tenuta and other, important, cogs on the staff but I have full confidence in Coach Johnson to move the program forward.

Go Jackets!!!!!!

By Headhunter

December 7, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

This is a good hire for GT but they still don’t have a QB worth two dead flies.

Also, let’s hope his GA Southern connections can help him recruit. As head coach at The Naval Academy how much recruiting can you do? A kid either wants to go there AND has the academic qualifications or he doesn’t.

By me

December 7, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

I am confused, wasn’t the object to hire a young, energetic coach that was media savvy and could bring in a new fan base? Johnson is 50 years old and is hardly a media darling.

Tenuta is gone. No way he sticks around to play second fiddle and he can get more money and bigger games at LSU. This was a safe hire, but I don’t think it was a great hire. Not sure how Johnson will do at the first legitimate Div-I he has had. One thing is certain: Radokovich overplayed his hand. This is what Tech is, we better get used to it.

By bravesfan

December 7, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I think that he was clearly the best choice of the candidates left on the table, although DR may be proven to be a shortsighted numbskull for passing up Muschamp.

By BuzzFactor

December 7, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Well he is a proven winner, and a pretty popular coach with local ties. I had some others on my favorites list, but he was one of them. I feel a lot better about this hire than I did when Chan was anounced, and Chan did a lot for us. He just couldn’t move forward. Paul is the man to take Yellow Jacket football to the next level. Glad to have ya Paul Johnson!

By DirtDobber

December 7, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

Am hoping for better days at GT. Fans filling up the stadium , anticipating great things , will help Johnson succeed . DRad did the right thing but now fans need to return and support.

Surprised to see the announcement before both affected teams’ bowl dates.

By Michael P Cameron

December 7, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

Yes!

By Glenn EE71

December 7, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

This is great. He was my first choice all along, a proven winner everywhere he has been.

So, Mr. Schultz, the coaching search “fizzled”? Hardly. The next time you guys do a hit piece on the locals (and if history is any indication, it will be very soon), make sure that your facts are straight.

The guy in Annapolis (Bill Wagner) gave us more respect that you folks do and many Tech fans are subscibers to your paper (that is, your customers)- though I don’t know why.

BTW - I read your article in a friend’s copy.

Glenn

By G Man

December 7, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Looks like a solid hire. Head coach with good track record. Maybe Tenuta will stay, but could be tough because he will have other offers. Recruiting should have another uptick. Let’s get behind the guy and go forward, as GT will start moving back up again. Go jackets!

p.s. Yep, Schultz was right on the money again. AJC press doesn’t miss a beat (awful as usual).

By Reporter man

December 7, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, an AJC reporter back when the AJC was good, gets confirmation from Navy AD, who sounds bitter and says Johnson will not coach in the Poinsettia Bowl.

By Brewer for GT President

December 7, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

I grew up in The ‘Boro during the Paul Johnson years and I’ve been to countless games in Paulson Stadium where 80% of the fans left at half time because PJ’s offense was up by more than five touchdowns. I know this was D-II ball, but still… He has decades of coaching experience at GSU, Hawaii and Navy. His first time at GSU included coaching under one of the legends of college football in the south (and the only UGA fan I could stomach), Erk Russell. Erk was a man of character and a great motivator. I think PJ learned a lot from Erk. Johnson also understands tradition and academic excellence. He can win with tight constraints put on his football team, he proved that at Navy! With the speed of Nesbitt and the developing running backs and wide receivers, Paul Johnson will end the 6 year offensive drought and restore GT football to greatness to match our never wavering academic excellence. This is the next step to greatness for Paul Johnson and for Georgia Tech. THWG!!!

By Eagles1x6

December 7, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

I am an alumni of GSU and have watched Paul Johnson for years. Great hire! I am happy for him and GT.

By Ken Whisenhunt

December 7, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

He’s a great fit for a lot of reasons:

Recruiting - he’s got great contacts in Georgia dating back to his stint at Southern. His experience at Navy will also help since he’s used to a system where academics are important and not every athlete can fit the system.

Offense - Flexbone, triple option, whatever. His teams rack up yards and score points by any means necessary.

College vs. Pro - Johnson has coached exclusively in the college ranks. He understands the difference between coaching 19 year old college kids and 27 year old professionals.

Accountability - based on what I’ve read, this guy reminds me some of Fridge when he was OC at Tech. If the QB has just thrown an INT, he will get an a*-chewing when he comes to the sideline.

This is a great hire and Tech has really stepped up to the plate in a big way.

By MisterT

December 7, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Love it! Just waiting to make sure he doesn’t get buyer’s remorse and pull a Cremins.

I would really love to see Tenuta & Giff stay!

I think the $’s show that Tech is committed to winning football. Athens is not going to be happy about this.

We will definitely pick back up our season tickets now. I imagine they will require and even larger donation to cover this. Maybe not though. Winning again will fill the seats again.

By DD

December 7, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Looks like Ga Tech will have a bad offense. We need a coach that wants to pass the ball.

By bb

December 7, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Awesome!

Paul Johnson has proven he can ‘coach’. You don’t win consistently on the Div 1AA level or at Navy without coaching players UP (i.e. taking players and making them better). That is what GT needs.

Chan Gailey did a decent job of recuiting good players, but I’m afraid he was more of a manager than a coach (better suited for the pros than college).

I am not worried about Tech’s offense, it will be better under Johnson.

By Tech Sucks

December 7, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Who??? Wow, if I were a Tech fan, I sure would be pumped. Ha. Pretty pathetic that every coach they wanted kept telling Tech, NO THANKS. The insect program will never be good again, that’s for sure. It will always be a 7-5, or MAYBE 8-4 program every year and will always settle for an average bowl. It will go 2-8 against UGA every decade. Please just do something about that pathetic, high school stadium you have. I have never seen such quiet fans or so many empty seats.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Congrats to GT fans…you have the best coach in college football.

Everyone knows about his expertise in designing offenses. But what you might not know:

I give Johnson two years to be in the ACC Championship game, if Tech fans will be patient enough for him to install his system. After all, it’s about winning football games, not seeing who can recruit the next 1st round NFL quarterback.

By UGAUGAUGA

December 7, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

It’s comical to read the optimism and quotes from Techies. They are identical to what was written and said when Chan made the scene. Tech wanted a young, energetic coach with new ideas, but they hired Paul Johnson anyway.

By son_sir

December 7, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

As a former Georgia Southern player and lifetime GT fan, my reaction is, HELL YEAH !

Damn good job DRad !!

By Wreckhorngoes "THWUGA!!!!"

December 7, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

WELCOME TO GEORGIA TECH, COACH J!!!

Assuming the reports are correct (I’ll believe it when I see DRad and Coach J together in a press conf.), it should be a great match.

Time for all Tech fans to hop onto the running boards as Coach Johnson takes the wheel….(Coach, remember, WE DON’T BRAKE FOR BULLDOGS!).

Go Jackets!!!!!!!!!

By Scooter

December 7, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Dec 7th ring a bell anyone?

By Ntwallace

December 7, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

All military academys actively recruit. They just go after kids who can meet the strict academic requirements and want to serve their country after graduating. It’s a smaller universe of kids, but recruting is still a major effort.

By beano

December 7, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

They are already polishing the Heisman nameplate for Josh Nesbitt. Nesbitt will be a STAR…Techies will forget about Joe Hamilton. PJ is a great hire if it deosn’t fall through last minute. We are talking military…military =$$$$.

By Awesome Hire

December 7, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

This guy can flat out coach.

It will be fun to see UGA begin to fear the last game again.

They won’t at first, but they’ll learn.

By Techman

December 7, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

So..do you think we’ll ever see the ball in the air again. If that’s the case we should have kept Gailey! If I see the wishbone every play my season tickets are saying bye=bye

By Techman

December 7, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

So..do you think we’ll ever see the ball in the air again? If that’s the case we should have kept Gailey! If I see the wishbone every play my season tickets are saying bye=bye

By Tech Sucks

December 7, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

To USNA77 Are you high? That was a joke right? “The best coach in college football?” I literally started crying from laughing so hard after reading that. You may actually be the biggest moron “blogger” ever. Well done!

By gt in sc

December 7, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

outstanding hire!!! burdell, your stupid observations show a total lack of football smarts. and how could you switch your allegiance to auburn, or any other school for that matter? we prefer tech fans on this blog. go away. welcome, coach johnson. happy to have you here.

By RAMBLE ON!

December 7, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

GREAT HIRE, NOW LETS START WORKING ON A NEW BASKETBALL COACH!!!!!

By son_sir

December 7, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

UGAUGAUGA - It’s also comical that Fleabags like you are concerned enough to come post so much on Tech blogs, then play it down like you aren’t.

By AlabamaRamblinwreck

December 7, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

This is a proud moment for GT football. They have hired a winner, on the field and off. He will continue to run a respectable program, like Chan, but we will be more disciplined and more motivated on gameday. Our offense will be unpredictable, and that is the key to beating fast, athletic defenses!!

Recruits in GA and all over the country: If you like to win and get a great, highly respected education, it is time to commit to Georgia Tech. It won’t be easy, on the field or in the classroom, but it will be worth every minute of work you give.

I would like to have Paul Johnson be our coach for the next 20 years!!!

By Manny

December 7, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

I’m a lifelong Bulldog fan (even before I moved down here) but I also like Tech.

Paul Johnson is exactly what this team needs. And I know that the running backs on Tech is loving life, right now.

Those Navy splits (on the offensive line) are HUGE!

By Central GA Dawg

December 7, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

As a Bulldog, this worries me. I feel that he is a great coach and a proven winner who trained under Erk. He will take Tech to the next level and compete with the Dogs. In my humble opinion, this is a great move by the Yellow Jackets and should make the Saturday after Thanksgiving much more interesting.

By army guy

December 7, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson is a terrific hire for Tech. Being a fan of Army, we never had hope or success against Paul’s Navy teams. He is a class act and with his Georgia roots, he will recruit well and take the program to the next level. Also looking forward to see how Tech’s offense (Nesbitt and crew) will take off under Paul’s leadership. Let’s give him a couple of years and Tech will be leading the ACC for years to come. Great hire Dan !!!

By Petey

December 7, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

That is a fantastic hire. He is a proven winner and Tech is in the midst of a recruiting hotbed they haven’t been able to capitalize on in the last 7 years.

Bad hire for UGA, assuming Johnson hire’s some good, young recruiters, UGA will lose out on some ATL kids they would have previously signed.

By LydiasDad

December 7, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

We’ll give it a chance. I just Tenuta stays or we’re done.

By puzzled

December 7, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

How can the AJC “sports reports” the hiring process so wrong? Please hire someone that is worth a darn to report on the home town team!

Go Jackets!

By BuzzFactor

December 7, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Johnson is a winner!

By Smell the fear

December 7, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

The puppies on here are whistling past the graveyard. Before he’s done, Johnson’s name will be mentioned with Dodd and before Ross. I hope the Dawgs are 11-0 when we go into Athens next year.

By gt in sc

December 7, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

hey UGAYUGAYUGLY, what is comical is you mongrels posting your idiotic crap on this blog. thanks for your interest though. what is REALLY comical is ugay thinking they should be in th NC game. what a joke. UGAY SUX!!!!!!

By 82DAWG

December 7, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Johnson is the best the nats could have hoped for and better than they deserve. My only concern for them is that he runs a triple option. That offense went out in the NCAA D1 25 to 30 years ago. Might as well be running the single wing or the flying T. He has said that if he got the job, he would change his offensive style, but then he will be experimenting in an offense that did not make him successful. Oh boy, sounds like Tech still has more questions than answers.

By like his daddy used to do

December 7, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

exceptional hire by GT. This is the guy we wanted. can already see Nesbit leading the charge next season. Schultz, you must feel a bit ashamed with the timing of your article.

By aaaetc

December 7, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Geekboy, you don’t think any of the cadet athletes at Navy are smart?

By To the doubters

December 7, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Yes, Johnson is going to run. No, it will not be three yards and a cloud of dust. Backs will be ripping off 10, 20, 30 yarders. And, as GSU folks know, he throws deep a good bit. Very exciting offense.

By DirtDobber

December 7, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

George P. Burdell should change his name to Benedict Arnold [the traitor] .

By RamblinLonghorn

December 7, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Tech Sucks: What exactly does UGA have to show over the last 2 decades?

Don’t act like UGA is some college powerhouse, because it’s not. It’s a perennial 2-4 loss team now; not good enough to compete with the big boys like OSU, USC, Texas, Michigan and Oklahoma to name a few, but good enough to win their SEC division most years.

By MIKEFINO777

December 7, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

“THERE’S NO WAY HE CAN WIN IN THIS CONFERENCE WITH THAT OFFENSE”…ummm didn’t we hear that a couple of years ago in gainesville florida ???

By BuzzFactor

December 7, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

I see a few comments about passing enough. Isn’t the object to win? If Johnson can win and take us to the next level, I think we’ll all be happy. And I think he will do just that!

By GSU Homer

December 7, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Tech just got a lot more fans in state. Bulldog fans can say what they want to…and of course will, but…Mark Richt just finished swigging a bottle of Mylanta after hearing the news…..

Congrats, Tech just got a ton better!

By son_sir

December 7, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Petey, It is a great hire ! He already has a great recruiter in place with Giff Smith. I’m ready to see that enthusiasm that was so prevalent in Statesboro in the 80’s and early 90’s being brought to The Flats. Dwyer, Nesbitt, and Roddy Jones in the Flexbone ! Look out !!

By Mike

December 7, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Great Hire for GT…WOW!!

By tg

December 7, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

very excited about the hire! i can’t wait to see what coach johnson will do with josh nesbitt and jonathan dwyer!!!

By Chris

December 7, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

For the 7 millionth time, his flexbone/spread option is NOT THE SAME as the old wishbone/triple option. It’s way closer to what Florida or Missouri runs. Navy just has a lot more pitch or run plays because they don’t have the receivers to throw to. Johnson has stated on numerous occasions that if he had the athletes, he would throw the ball more.

The hallmark of a good offensive mind is adaptability, and he’s shown that in spades. Let’s hope he can either keep Tenuta or bring in a better defensive coordinator than he’s got and Navy because Allowing 44 to Notre Dame this year is pretty troubling. Of course, they scored 46 on ND, so it’s academic, but still…

By patH

December 7, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Hey 82DAWG, I remember you guys saying West Virginia’s spread would never work against the Dawgs.

How did that work out?

By Petey

December 7, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

By the way,

Johnson ran a balanced offensive attack when he was O.C. at Hawaii because he had a good throwing QB. He will adapt his scheme to match whatever the best talent is he has on the field.

That’s the sign of a great coach.

By Randy

December 7, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Great!!!!! I am glad he didn’t slip away

And for all the UGA fans that want to come on here and bash him, we don’t need you. You guys are so nervous now that I bet you have to squat to pee. Your opinions don’t matter much anyway, A week ago you were saying you should have gone to the NC game, should have gone to the Rose Bowl, weren’t going to go to NO for the bowl game and so on. After getting beat down by USC and UT and after a mediocre game against power house Troy y’all were ready to fire your head coach, your OC and kick Stafford and half the receivers off the team. Shows what you know and how important your opinion is to us……

Paul

Welcome to Georgia Tech. I for one look forward to next season.

Please keep Tenuta on your staff.

THWG

By Tech Fan

December 7, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Welcome to GT Paul Johnson. I think he will be a fantastic coach and very successful at GT.

By Randy

December 7, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

George P Burdell - I guess if that is how you feel, we’ll see you on the AJC Auburn blog buddy.

Good Riddance.

By Jon

December 7, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Wow…I graduated from Ga. Southern when CPJ coached there and he did some amazing things. Even more WOW…You get a proven head coach who can win and all you GT people can do is talk about beating UGA! There is the distinction between UGA and GT. UGA talks about winning national championships. They don’t talk about beating GT.

By 82DAWG

December 7, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Spread offense is the current rave and it works. Triple option, mmmm, not so much anymore.

By Wreck doesn't brake for bulldogs

December 7, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Confirmation from Annapolis newspaper. Coach Johnson met with his Navy team about noon today and told them he was coming to Tech. Bill Wagner’s blog has the link.

By michaelgee

December 7, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Great hire, this will reunite Giff Smith and Paul Johnson. Giff is a GSU alum anyway! The Georgia Southern Erk Russel Pipeline lives!

Happy Days are back!

By Tech Sucks

December 7, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

To RamblinLonghorn UGA is not a powerhouse? Moron. Wins since 1997:

TX - 98 OSU - 97 Michigan, FSU, UGA - 96 Oklahoma - 95

If UGA were in the sorry ACC, they would have over 100 wins. Get your facts straight before you post a BS blog.

By GA Tech insider

December 7, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

Thanks to all the Tech alums for calling into the AA with your pledges. More money is needed but your response was enough to show Coach Johnson a commitment he wasn’t expecting and couldn’t refuse.

Thanks to all of you, Coach Johnson and his family will be in town this afternoon for a press conference with DRad…By the way, I suggest that you buy your season tickets now because they will be hard to get starting next year. THWG…

By son_sir

December 7, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Great day for the Jackets !! That’s a very bright light at the end of the tunnel !

By Pat

December 7, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

DAWGS GET TO SUCK HINDTIT AGAIN.

ATHENS SUCKS—-ALL PLAYERS WILL NOW COME TO THE FLATS

4 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS AN D MORE TO COME

SICK PUPPIES HAD ONE YEAY OUT OF 115 YEARS THANKS TO US AND ONE PLAYER

By Relax, be happy

December 7, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

The only reason Navy’s defense was shaky this season is that it was literally all freshment and sophomores. No experience at all. Yet, they still went 8-4. Calm down. It’ll be alright.

By Joshua Barlowe

December 7, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

Nice subtle jab in the headline there, AJC sports desk. We all know your true colors.

By Hey 82Dawg

December 7, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

Go play in the road.

By GTBALTFAN

December 7, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

I’m a Ramblin wreck and Helluva happy engineer.I will travel to see the Jackets next year. No more disappointment.Welcome, Coach J.

And as for “Tech Sucks”,”UGAUGAUGLY” and the rest or your unwelcome lot, why don’t you waddle your fat little asses down to a fire hydrant and pee. We don’t care what you think. You’re hateful, idiotic morons. Stay off our blog.

By Sanjeev

December 7, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

geekboy -can this dude coach smart athletes?

Do you think you can or would have gotten into the Naval Academy? Yes he can coach smart athletes.

By BullDawg Rick

December 7, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Congrats NATS…

Paul Johnson is a very good hire!! His offense is gimmick & unpredictable. If you keep a good D you will do well…

To the DumbA$$ errrr GeekBoy…

PJ coached at the Naval Academy. Those are the real ‘student-athletes’ of college football. He took over an 0 - 11 team and developed winners. If you are so lucky, he’ll do the same at Yech…

By Kevin

December 7, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Coach Johnson, PLEASE don’t take our tickle piles away!!

By Pat

December 7, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

hey mangy puppies—-go eat your YOUNG—-AND BE AFRAID—-VICK GETS OUT IN 2 YEARS

By gtne80

December 7, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson may turn out to be the best or worst coach ever at Georgia Tech. That is impossible to predict.

What can be said is that shortly after dismissing Coach Gailey, our AD spelled out his criteria for a new coach.

From a previous interview: Radakovich emphasized that the new coach should “energize and entertain our fan base.”

It appears that Mr. Radakovich did not stick with his own criteria in his hire of Paul Johnson. Nothing in this hire is either energizing or entertaining. An outsider’s perspective is that we got desperate and settled for our second (or third or fourth) choice.

That said, “Nothing succeeds like success.” Pepper Rogers was entertaining, but was a mediocre coach at best. Bobby Ross was neither energizing nor entertaining. What he turned out to be was a winner and it’s amazing how entertaining and energizing THAT can be.

By Buzz

December 7, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

What’s your reaction to Georgia Tech’s hiring of Paul Johnson?

—> WOOHOO!!!

Do you think he’ll be able to adjust his offense to emphasize more passing?

—> No Question - see his stats as OC of Hawaii

Given his successful stint at Georgia Southern, will this help in his in-state recruiting for the Yellow Jackets?

—> Is that a serious question? The guy has a recruiting network already in Georgia. I’ll say “yes”

By joseph

December 7, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

HE’S NOT GONNA RUN A FREAKIN’ FLEXBONE OR WISHBONE YOU IDIOTS

He ran a spread option at Hawaii and he always has adjusted his offense to his players.

By Carter

December 7, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

I assure you that UGA fan’s are not “shaking in their boots.” This is not a step-up from Gailey. The guy who said “Giff Smith is a great recruiter”….what are you smoking. They have one decent year, and you make that claim. How many top 15 classes has Coach Smith produced??

By Kevin

December 7, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Coach Johnson, PLEASE don’t take our tickle piles away!

By usna77

December 7, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

82dawg and others….you might want to find some tape of a few Navy games. Johnson runs practically the same offense that West Virginia and Florida and others run, except Johnson puts the quarterback under center instead of in the shotgun.

With an athletic quarterback and a Kyle Eckel type fullback, with offensive linemen that weigh a little more than Navy’s 250# average, a PJ offense at GT will pile up tons of yards on the ground and in the air.

It’s “not the rave” and “doesn’t work,” but Navy has led the nation in rushing three straight years, and is going to a 5th straight bowl game, with 1-AA talent.

By Pat

December 7, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

athens is he armpit of georgia and home to mangy stinky cheerleader dogs who eat their young!!! SCUM SLUT BAGS

By Randy

December 7, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

6 years - 14 million per the Sporting News

By TB

December 7, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson is one of the best coaches in America.

A few facts here to help both confused Tech & Dawg bloggers. First, Coach Johnson is an outstanding offensive coordinator. He runs the spread offense. Depending on the athletes in a given program, he can run the ball (see Georgia Southern & Navy) or pass the ball (see Hawaii). In either case, he does so in record setting/extraordinary fashion (please see past years see NCAA stats).

Second, Did you know who Coach Johnson beat for the 1-AA Championship while at Georgia Southern? Answer: Jim Tressel’s Youngstown State Team (now coaching at Ohio State). Johnson wins’ where ever he goes.

Johnson instills a sense of accountability/urgency in all of his players leading to outstanding results.

By George P Burdell

December 7, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Hey Randy, DirtDobber, GT in SC,

You people are like a bunch of abused spouses who refuse to leave.

Me: She beat you up pretty good this time, huh?

You: Yep.

Me: Why do you stay and take it?

You: She loves me.

Me: Sure has got a funny way of showing it.

I can only get hit in the head with a brick so many times before I start wearing a helmet.

Triple flexbone. Have fun with that. I hope he wins and beats Richt 9 times out of 10. I’m not holding my breath, though.

By Tim

December 7, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

I personally am pretty pesomistic about this hire… We needed to make a splash with fans and I don’t think we even stuck a toe in the water. I want to win and it seems as though Johnson has done that in his career, but he better be creative because Army and Air Force do not equal Clemson and Virginia Tech. The best of luck to Coach Johnson and his crew. We’re gonna need it…

By Bee happy!

December 7, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

No Carter, you mutts aren’t shaking in your boots, you are whistling past the graveyard. Pay attention.

Tech just got a lot better, UGA. And you know it, too. Watch out!

By Earl

December 7, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

82DAWG- it’s not scheme, it’s execution. Any offense will be successful if you execute.

You mentioned that Johnson might as run the single-wing and then said “the spread is the thing right now”. They are the same thing 82DAWG.

By fayncDAWG

December 7, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Coach Johnson is a very good coach and probably a great person. I, though obviously a Dawg fan, wish I could say this is a good hire. Reality says that this hire WILL NOT significantly improve GT. Last year was the first time in years (decades?) that GT outrecruited UGA. We know already that this will not happen again this upcoming recruiting season. And barring a total flop by the 2008 Dawgs, it will not happens again for years. GT plays in a lousy football conference in a state that has an SEC team! 70 percent of top-rated recruits are probably not intrigued with the thought of taking Physics, Calculus, and Chemistry just to get a degree. Just a few things working against GT in its quest to get top-rated recruits. GT will continue to average 7 wins per season! And it will be a long time before one of those wins comes against UGA!

By BuzzFactor

December 7, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Kevin - quit humping my leg! Go back to your blog and lick your bawlz.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

to gtne80..

If your AD’s criteria for a football coach is to “energize and entertain,” I would be looking for a new AD.

At Navy now, we want our AD to hire a football coach who can win football games, period. As you suggest, “energizing and entertaining” are byproducts of winning.

By EaglesFan

December 7, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

UGA talks about winning national championships? They only won 1 in 1980 and playing Georgia Tech with Paul Johnson at head coach pretty much ensures they won’t play for another national championship anytime soon.

Also, if Georgia Southern moves up to the bowl championship series then UGA might be losing to them in a few years too, if Hatcher stays. The only real difference between I-AA and I-A is depth of players.

Georgia Tech will reign over UGA soon and it will make all Georgia Southern fans very happy!

GO TECH!!

By Tech Man

December 7, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Tech is going to be beating Georgia so bad next year, the UGA players will spontaneously start spooning each other and humping each other’s legs.

By FurmanTechFan

December 7, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Tenuta is gone…let him go else where, from what I have heard he is a mean, abrasive S.O.B. and doesn’t get along with the other coaches. Let Johnson do as he pleases, this guy is the real deal.

As far as Jeff “fair and unbiased” Shultz. He is a raging idiot…Who writes and article about the coaching search sizzling the morning of the day they are suppoed to announce the new coach…truly shows the value of a UGA education.

By Randy

December 7, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Hey Kevin

I see you finally came out of the closet and are no longer hiding behind the stolen name of yellowblood.

I guess the nervousness cause you to make the error…..

The other boy dogs will be laugh when they see you squat to pee.

By John

December 7, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

He is the best possible choice for the job. And, to answer one poster’s question, he has experience coaching smart players. That is all he has at Navy. I really thought Alabama should have taken Paul Johnson ahead of Nick Saban last winter. This will be great.

By Parker

December 7, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

He won at Navy, enough said. And he kicked butt at Ga. Southern. Start recruiting running backs!!

By DawgFan

December 7, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

I think it is a good hire for Tech, He has coached up the Naval Academy to bowl games, Won a DII National Championship at Ga, Southern, and is therefore familiar with recruiting in Georgia. Maybe He can bring some Competition back to the UGA - GT Rivalry.

Good luck in your bowl game Jackets!

By Questions?

December 7, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Two questions Paul Johnson must answer. How well will he recruit? I keep hearing fans on this blog refer to him as great recruiter but he has never recruited big time college football talent. There’s a big difference between recruiting at GA southern and recruiting at GA TECH. And he hasn’t really recruited at all since 2000 because he’s been at NAVY. How well can he adapt his offense to the big time college football level? Will he convert to a spread type offense now that he can get better athletes or will he go pro style? What he currently runs will not work in the ACC.

By erkseagle

December 7, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Div II ball “Brewer for GT President?” Are you sure you went to any games in the boro? We’re Div 1-AA now called the FCS, which is Division 1.

Congratulations GT! Get ready for some exciting football games! Let all the doubters say what they want, but you all just got yourselves one hellava coach. I knew PJ couldn’t get away from BLUE, GOLD AND WHITE! I might even make a few games when Georgia Southern isn’t playing.

By Nate

December 7, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

As a GT who happens to be from Stateboro, i’ve honestly had a pipe dream for the last three years that we would fire Chan and hire Paul Johnson. BEST IDEA EVER!!!!

By son_sir

December 7, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

gtne80- I’ll tell you what’s “energizing or entertaining”. Winning football games ! Coach Johnson has proven he can do that. I played for Erk at GSU with PJ as an assistant. I’m telling you…This is a great hire for GT !! Hell, I’m even considering season tickets to Bobby Dodd and I’ve never had season tickets anywhere. I hope there isn’t too much schedule conflicts for me between the Eagles and the Jackets.

By Phan of Paul

December 7, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Glad Tech did not get an ex pro coach.

50 is not young however.

By Not an Exciting hire

December 7, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

That option stuff won’t work in big boy football. UGA’s linebackers will out run and level Tech’s sorry players. And Tenuta will be leaving as well. With a weaker defense, there is no way Tech wil be able out score top opponents.

By Buzz Belle

December 7, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Welcome to GT Coach Johnson. Also welcome your wife and daughter! How can we find out when they get here to have an arrival party - Tech style?

If I had a son sir, I’d tell you what he’d do - he ould yell THWG like his daddy used to do!!!!!

By Dawgie Doo

December 7, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

I’m so happy I think I’ll step out back and pee on old Dipsh!t’s head (my frequently abused ceramic UGA Bulldog)…Hell, he may even get #2 today!! LOL

By Chris

December 7, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

-Carter

Giff Smith hasn’t been the recruiting coordinator long. I think last year’s class was either his first or second class at Tech. He’s getting great athletes interested in Tech, which is a monumental task. So yes, we do have one decent class and make the claim that he’s a great recruiter.

For the record, I’m pumped about Paul Johnson coming to Tech. He’s a great coach, great motivator, and he’s got a track record of success at an institution where it’s even harder to get athletes than at Tech. We might not be ACC champs next year, but we’ll have a better chance to win every week. He may not be the youngest or most charismatic guy out there, but he’s not ancient and he’s proven to be a pretty entertaining and quotable interview at times, which is more than we could say for Chan “awww, shucks” Gailey.

By jacketbacker

December 7, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

The fleabags just got very, very nervous! we just hired the perfect fit for Tech. Stay tuned. The end of the streak is coming soon!! Go Jackets and to HELL with ga.

By Buzzsaw

December 7, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

One thing to remember, a good coach adapts to his talent. The Academies all run the ball. The athletes they bring in dictate that. Paul has coached what would bring success to the program. I believe he will do the same at Tech.

I still remember the completely indifferent feeling I had when Gailey’s hiring was announced. The hiring gave alumni no reason for joy. I can honestly say that this hire has finally given us reason to celebrate. Not only does CPJ understand the academic side of things, he can also coach. His .732 winning percentage, 2 National Championships at GSU and his record at the Academy all point to success.

Hopefully, recruiting has not suffered during this process and CPJ can pick it up and finish with a flurry.

Finally, I think Tenuta will probably stay one year and then leave for a head coaching job somehwhere unless he gets offered between now and next season.

GO JACKETS!!!!

By Scott

December 7, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Being a UGA fan I am not real excited about this hire. Watching what Paul Johnson has done at NAVY makes me think the UGA domination could be a little tough to continue. Someone asked could he coach smart athletes. Lets see he has been very sucessful at NAVY, do you really think school at Tech is harder than the Naval Acadamy? I look for Tech to be a much more consistant team than they were under Gailey, which I think had as much to do with his firing as anything. Good luck to you guys, I think we will see improvement within the next couple of years over at Tech.

By Ted

December 7, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

GT gets new coach great but the AJC still has the same writers, well we cant win them all.

By Slim from the ville

December 7, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Johnson can go 1-10 for ten years in a row as long as the one W each year is against UGA, he will be a great coach

Or let me say this another way, he can go 10-1 for ten seasons and if the one L a year is to Gerogia, he will be a suckass coach.

Period.

By What a bunch of morons

December 7, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

Can he recruit big-time college players? Hell, Johnson could have taken EVERY DAMN ONE of Gailey’s teams and won at least 10 games with them. He will recruit no worse than Gailey, gut likely better. Why don’t you Dawgs just go to hell? Oh wait, if you’re in Athens, you’re there already.

By GW

December 7, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Great we got the guy that couldn’t decide on SMU Duke or Us……Fantastic. So much for hiring a “young coach to energize the fan base”

By Joe

December 7, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Doesn’t change much. The Jackets are what they are… a 7 win regular season team 95% of the time, with the occasional 9 win season when things fall well. Holiday trips to Boise aren’t likely to change…

By Schultz

December 7, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Shove that up your a.ss Schultz

By Schultz

December 7, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Shove that up your a.ss Schultz

By Schultz

December 7, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Shove that up your a.ss Schultz

By Schultz

December 7, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Shove that up your a.ss Schultz

By Schultz

December 7, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Shove that up your a.ss Schultz

By mikegadawg

December 7, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Johnson is a weiner!

Let’s make it 8 in a row.

Hate to say it, but I think GW got it right on this one.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Can he recruit big-time college players? Chuck Amato could recruit big-time college players to NC State. Anybody can recruit big-time college players to Notre Dame.

One of Paul Johnson’s favorite lines is something like “our opponent didn’t recruit a single player on our roster.” Speaking about Notre Dame, and all of their Parade HS All-Americans, he said “and at Navy we have a bunch of guys who march in parades.”

Johnson knows that the number of “stars” beside the names of your recruiting class doesn’t show up in the final score.

By James Dial

December 7, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

What is with Tech fans and their infatuation with UGA. Every other comment mentions UGA. Then, I go to a UGA blog, and no one even mentions Tech. Guys, quit giving them the pleasure of obsessing over them!!

By What a bunch of morons

December 7, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, and the mutts would not have escaped unbeaten either.

By Insects

December 7, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Hmmmm…SMU, Duke, or GT? He had the choice of 3 lousy programs. He is not a top-tier coach. He is 50 and hasn’t coached in a major conference. Tech fired Gailey when there weren’t any young, talented, exciting coaches out there to really hire. I give Johnson 3 years max. Under Johnson and w/o Tenuta:

GT Offense: Slightly better GT Defense: Significantly worse Recruiting: about the same Record: 7-5 or 8-4, the usual.

Tech’s problem is not the coaching. It’s the academics. Tech has not been on the national scene in over 15 years and boy has college football changed since then. It also seems that the school is not committed to winning.

By The new 40

December 7, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Chan Gailey was 53 and acted 73. Johnson is 50 and acts 40. Be happy Tech landed him. We just got much, much better. THWG.

By Dorsey Hill

December 7, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

To the idiot who asked “can he coach smart athletes?”

Navy’s players get into school on the very same requirements as the general population. The same can not be said about Tech which has a different standard for football and BB players than regular students, as do the vast majority of public institutions.

So I guess the question is: Are all Techies as dumb as this guy?

As to Paul Johnson, I have always said that there are plenty of in-state players available to run an effective option attack. There are far more qualified qb’s for Johnson’s system than Georgia’s, for example, simply because more teams run an option attack than a pro-style attack in HS.

In addition, because teams with GT on their schedule will only see that sort of attack once a year, one week to prepare for it will give them an advantage. However, the limitation is that Johnson’s system does not produce NFL qb’s or wr’s. Even for rb’s the adjustment to the next level will be difficult. Therefore, GT may be a less attractive destination for skill position players than before. (Too bad they didn’t make this hire when CJ was in HS. He’d have been a Dawg!!!)

All in all, the Johnson hire has the potential for success, but there is also the distinct possibility of continued mediocrity and inconsistency.

To my fellow UGA fans: Over the last 30 years, Tech has been competitive with UGA only when they have been mentally tough as we pretty much have had the better players. We have been whipping their butts lately because they haven’t been tough enough. I suspect that will no longer be an issue. We better come ready to play a Paul Johnson coached team.

Of course, if he does start winning he’ll be on the first train out of town and away from those losers and on to greener pastures. So even if he is good, I give him 2 years tops and he’s gone.

By Dan

December 7, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

An outstanding hire. As OC or HC, at Hawaii, Georgia Southern, and Navy, Johnson’s teams (1) win, and (2) score plenty. The comments about his offense “not working at this level” are amusing; they remind me of folks saying that Urban Meyer’s “gimmicky offense” wouldn’t work in the SEC. Yeah, it was so gimmicky that the Gators won the national championship in Meyer’s second season. Paul Johnson is an innovator. Tech fans are in for a treat.

By Marcus

December 7, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson doesn’t run a “one-trick pony” offense. Paul chose to run the flexbone at Georgia Southern and at Navy because that particular system allowed them to be highly competitive at those respected schools when the talent level was at a lower point.

Coach Johnson’s offenses at Hawaii in the early 90’s threw the football all over the place and they even ran a variation of the “run and shoot” offense at Georgia Southern when he coached under the legendary Erk Russell during the 80’s run of national titles at GSU.

Those who criticize and think that all Paul Johnson can do is run a flexbone offense either haven’t seen his entire coaching track record or are ignorant beyond belief. He’s a good coach and he wins a lot more ballgames than he loses.

By PT

December 7, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

What the crap is this. I thought Drad wanted energy and excitement. A carbon copy of Chan?? Boring??? I get sick and tired of GT not taking a risk, on a young rising coach that fire up the Alumni,fans, and players. I read these post and cant believe what I’m reading, this is why we are an average program because we just go along with everything they do. Get ready more 7 wins and a lower level bowl, nothing will change with PJ, this is unfair… I’ll support him though, I have no choice.

By michaelgee

December 7, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

All I can say to the UGA fans is this, you guys all loved and respected Erk. And who did Erk win his National Championships at Georgia Southern with as His HAND PICKED Offensive Coordinator? Mr Paul Johnson, who later became Georgia Southern’s next National Championship Head Coach.

When Erk hand picks an OC and hands his offense to a guy, you can believe Paul Johnson knows his stuff! Erk said it!

Cheers to Coach Paul Johnson and GT!

Get your season tickets fassst!

By yellowblood

December 7, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Let me get this straight. We beat out Duke and SMU for the services of Paul Johnson. I sure hope he knows how to Tickle Pile.

By ED

December 7, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Div II ball “Brewer for GT President?” Are you sure you went to any games in the boro? We’re Div 1-AA now called the FCS, which is Division 1.

Congratulations GT! Get ready for some exciting football games! Let all the doubters say what they want, but you all just got yourselves one hellava coach. You are not going to believe how polished and exciting the offense is going to be! I knew PJ couldn’t get away from BLUE, GOLD AND WHITE! I might even make a few games when Georgia Southern isn’t playing.

By Doug

December 7, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Wow, y’all Techies sure have gotten real full of yourselves all of a sudden. Pretty cocky attitude considering your new coach hasn’t even called a play on the Flats yet.

Johnson will probably prove to be an improvement over Gailey, but the Dawgs aren’t going to just quiver in fear and lay down for him. How ‘bout y’all wait until Johnson actually wins a game against Georgia before you start acting like the balance of power in this state has dramatically shifted.

By WEGOTNAVYSCOACH!

December 7, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Mark Richt just polluted his britches! How will he match wits with the guy who let Delaware score 59 points!

By frank

December 7, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Good hire for GT! It’s gonna be Pearl Harbour Day reining down on the dawgs and the ACC next year!

Dear Coach Johnson, please bring back the white jerseys/gold pants for home games. Also, put the GT back on the fifty. GO TECH!

By Mike T.

December 7, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Navy will up the ante and keep Johnson. They don’t want to start losing to Army.

By Ron

December 7, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson? Are you kidding me? A 50 year old fat, old fart D-! reject coach that ONLY Duke & SMU would even consider hiring? GT was competing with Duke & SMU to get THIS guy? Remember, UGA passed on hiring Gailey for a REASON. See why? That’s why they hired a YOUNG dyanamic coach with a solid record at a D-1 school in a BCS conference. THIS passes for “excitement” according to D-Rad? D-Rad has had MONTHS to prepare for this change. Anyone who didn’t think Gailey was going to be fired, regardless of this year’s record, is clueless. Any dedicated GT fan KNEW Gailey was a disatrous hire after his first year. It took the “clueless” folks 5 more years to figure that out. No less than GT President Wayne Clough STATED PUBLICLY that the decision to can Chan HAD BEEN MADE…MONTHS AGO!!! We spent MONTHS considering a replacement, and we chose Johnson?? ARE YOU KIDDING ME !!!!!!!!!! I pay a seat license, higher tickets prices, and watch GT play Troy & Samford, for THIS??? Did D-Rad EVEN CONSIDER someone West of the Mississippi, someone like Mike Leach at Tx Tech, whose offenses have SHATTERED EVERY NCAA Offense record on the books the past 5 years, and who is looking to move on to another program. As a longtime Alum/Season Ticket holder, who was totally opposed to hiring Gailey to begin with, I say D-Rad has ROYALLY screwed us GT fans. Johnson’s offense tactics have been thoroughly discredited by ALL of the Top 20 D-1 programs. That’s why they don’t run it. That’s why most D-1 programs won’t even consider hiring Johnson. As for his record at Navy, PLEASE !! Just look at the absolute creampuffs Navy started putting on their schedule when Johnson took over in 2002. What a joke! Of course your W-L ratio looks great when you replace GT, BC, NC State, and Maryland, with UMass, Temple, Eastern Michaigan, and Kent State!!! GT is willing to pay $2M per year(avg) to get a guy that ONLY DUKE & SMU WERE AFTER??????? I’m STUNNED & APPALLED at how low GT has now sunk, and will sink. Remember all the BS-HYPE when Gailey was hired? We are now TOTALLY STUCK Johnson AND Gailey over the next few years. We are now FINANCIALLY TRAPPED with MEDICORITY. Remember how well Pepper Rodgers “new fangled” wish bone worked? GT fired him after 6 miserable years. Mark this well GT fans: WE ARE SCREWWWWWWWWWWWWEEEEDDDDD !!!!!!!

By USNA '62

December 7, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

December 7th AGAIN!!!!

By Mike T.

December 7, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

What is with Tech fans and their infatuation with UGA. Every other comment mentions UGA

Respect Baby! They do own ya.

By Kipster

December 7, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Have to agree with a few, boring.. He has to change his offense style, it will never work in big time college football. He’s got a good track record, but sorta the minor leagues of colleg…. Hope it works out.

By UGAdawgFAN

December 7, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

As a UGA Grad from Statesboro, I am scared to death of this hire. I’ve always thought he is one of the best coaches in the country from my experience in Statesboro and following his career since. Now he will be able to shine at the major level. I thought he would have been a great fit for Michigan. Give him 5 star athletes, and he will compete for National Championships. I don’t think he can get the quantity of 5 Star athletes at Tech, but if he can, that spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E for us Dawg fans.

By Kipster

December 7, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Have to agree with a few, boring.. He has to change his offense style, it will never work in big time college football. He’s got a good track record, but sorta the minor leagues of college…. Hope it works out.

By Kipster

December 7, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Have to agree with a few, boring.. He has to change his offense style, it will never work in big time college football. He’s got a good track record, but sorta the minor leagues of college…. Hope it works out.

By SeriousBones

December 7, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Thomas Paine once said that trying to reason with someone who has refused to use logic is like administering medicine to the dead.

It’s odd, but I think he knew about blogging when he said that.

Two things: first, if anyone says DRad wanted to hire someone who would energize the fan base, and that Paul Johnson does not qualify, all they need to do is check out how many posts are on this blog, and read about how many Tech fans are excited, not to mention the vitriolic replies from UGA fans. It’s obvious to me they are scared.

Second, Navy is a division I school. How can you say his offense won’t work in D-I? Tech and Navy had 3 common opponents this year…Army, ND, and Duke. Navy totalled 130 points against these 3 teams, and Tech totalled 108. Granted, these are 3 bad teams. But if we had scored and average of 7 more points a game (which is the difference here), we would be 9-3.

Oh, and Johnson scored those points with undersized athletes at the Naval Academy. You lead the nation in rushing with 250 pount lineman? Imagine what he could do here!

By Change in the air

December 7, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Just beat the necks at UGA!

By Brewer for GT President

December 7, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

erkseagle: You are correct; I meant to type Div 1-AA. My mistake… I was at GSU before transferring out to GT to finish up my EE degree. I was there for the sad Sewak years. I was long gone before the ‘one and done’ Van-Gourdhead came into town and tried to wreck GSU tradition. I went to many Paul Johnson coached games while in high school…

By Hugh

December 7, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Congrats Tech fans. I’m a Navy season ticket holder. Since I’ve followed Navy football in the 80’s, the only winning seasons we’ve had were when PJ was either offensive coordinator or head coach. We’ll miss him.

By SImple

December 7, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

This is troubling. I have to agree with Ron. No excitement, this is not what we needed. There’s a huge difference with GA Sou and Navy compared to BCS schools. The worst thing about this is my UGA fan co-workers are already giving me hell, I hope there wrong.

By Gordon

December 7, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

I’m excited, since I thought Johnson and Hatcher were the best two candidates. But has anyone checked his resume?

By Marty Shannon

December 7, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

I wish and pray for much success for Johnson. I really hope that they will keep Tenuda, and not mess up a good thing with our defence. Emotions run deep for myself as I use to play on Grant Feild as a very small child. As an Atlanta native, I will always love my Yellow Jackets. GO TECH !!!

By SOCAL/GT GRAD

December 7, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

GT fans make me laugh with delusional optimism. They’re so hungry for something positive, I know, but the glory days of Tech football are just not likely to return soon no matter how good a coach PJ is. Hell they had CJ last year, the ACC practically laid down for them to win it and they still yakked it up. They were better than UGA last year and yakked that one up too. I know, I know, GAILEY was responsible for not only motivating his troops during crunch time, but executing, kicking, blocking as well. Luckily CPJ can do all and will bring Tech 30 straight wins immediately and take all blue-chip recruits away from the mutts who have absolutely nothing going for them right now. (Pause for reflection - am I getting through?)

I know some of the crazies at UGA are hard to tolerate, but their program is seriously on the rise, and their coach ain’t half bad himself. He’s no Paul Johnson, though, who from reading posts here is the next Bear Bryant. UGA isn’t as good (yet) as some of their fans think they are, but they’re light years closer to the promised land than GT. The realistic GT fans (mostly alums) know this, but will not admit it. “THWG”

I would’ve loved to see UGA in the Rose, although we would’ve dispatched them, it would’ve been a better game than Illinois.

I do wish you success GT, but I’m afraid last year is as close as you get for awhile. Hiring a good coach like PJ does not solve all your problems. It’s a start, though. Just try to stay in touch with reality - it will separate you from the mutts. (HEY! The light-bulb finally turned on inside those little heads!!) Good luck.

By Douglas

December 7, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

I love Johnson.. I’m Georgia Southern all the way.. But Johnson is a huckleberry who would have fit better at Arkansas.. The pristine record fowards of coaches who will fail at TECH.. Many thanks.

By fred

December 7, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

YO JACKETS:

This IM’59 thinks hiring PJ is the best news to come outta th’ Flats in a while.

He has a great track record, has recruited and graduated naval officers and knows the Southeast (from Ga. Sou.) inside out!

Hey Dawgs:your blogs (when legible) look a little “green”.

Now, boys, you don’t hear footsteps coming up fast behind you—-YES!!!

GIVE ‘EM HELL JACKETS!!! and———

Thanks, DRAD!

By K-Dogg

December 7, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

GREAT MOVE BY THE YELLOW JACKETS!!!!

By happydawg

December 7, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

It must be hell trying to convince yourself this is a good hire

By usna77

December 7, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Kipster — There are many around the country who argue convincingly that the ACC is the minor leagues of college football.

What exactly is your point?

By ED

December 7, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Ron, please select from the following two words and paste one on your forehead, Idiot, Moron. Naw, paste them both.

By Ron is stupid

December 7, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Ron is stupid. Out loud!

By Hell Commeth To Athens '08!

December 7, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

THE RETURN OF IN-STATE POWER TO THE FLATS HAS BEGUN!!!

By son_sir

December 7, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Copy, paste, and save your post Ron. Open it up in a year and read it again. Then you’ll realize how big of an idiot you really are.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Simple — there are many who argue that there’s a huge difference with the ACC compared to BCS schools…

By greg

December 7, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Settle down a little…I’m reading some ridulous prediction on here about where Tech is going. I mean this with due respect, but if PJ was as good as many on here are suggesting, his options would have extended far beyond GT, Duke, and SMU, especially in a year where there have been so many big-time coaching vacancies. My opinion is that PJ is a pretty good coach. But Chan Gailey was a pretty good coach, too. This is more like apples to apples than apples to oranges.

By buzz is wiser

December 7, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

I can’t say I like this hire but I will but season tickets next year despite it. What happened to the description that was given by D-RAD, because this is not it. I have high hopes for Tech with a new coach with the talent that we have at QB and RB to run the option, I just don’t like the option at real football schools, BCS schools. The spread is the way to go right now, seems like this hire doesn’t bring us up to par with the rest of college football but takes us back to yesteryear with the option. Unless its a spread option. But Ill be there when practice is open to the public. YELLOW!!!!!!

By Lkb

December 7, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

I think this is a great choice for GT. It is not like they are going to get the elite, elite coaches out there. No one wants to be the 2nd fiddle in the State and GT will always be the red headed step-child to UGA. I received my Undergraduate degree from GSU when Johnson was down there - heck of a coach. I received my masters from UGA and I can honestly say that GT will win maybe 2 times in a 10 year period. UGA is just too good right now and even if they brought Bobby Dodd back from the dead it would not make a difference. Good luck Coach Johnson - pulling for you except for that last game of the year. lkb

By GA Tech insider

December 7, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

For those of worried about the Paul Johnson hire, think about Bobby Ross’s intensity, Frank Beamer’s type of gutsy calls, and Urban Meyer’s type of offensive plays. That is the type of Head Football Coach that just agreed to take over GA Tech’s program. Get your season tickets now…

By Simple(ton) is a Dawg

December 7, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

You can’t hide what’s inside mutt.

By Red Light

December 7, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Great move for Tech, bad move for Johnson. He could have done better. Why leave Annapolis when all you have to do is win eight games a year, go to a bowl game, coach quality kids and not worry about football 24 hours a day, 365 days a year like many of the other jobs these days. Tech is barely in the Top-40 of football coaching jobs in the nation, and he certainly deserves one in the Top-20.

By surfrider

December 7, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Good hire out of several good candidates. Tech can even the playing field with top Sec schools through either or both the option and a sophicasted passing game. We don’t need a top high school QB recruit every year to win. Remember Gary Lanier with Pepper or Doug Flutie at BC or for that matter George Godsey could run some option. This guy should understand attrition working at a top academic school. Two, remember George Welsh at UVA. He was a candidate at Tech way back and UVA was nothing basically before he came in. He coached at Navy. Third, His recruiting contacts in Ga. will go right up against Richt. Fourth, His national contacts will help in recruting na tional student athletes. Fifth, anyone who has coached in Hawaii can throw the football or knows how to.

By erkseagle

December 7, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Brewer for GT President You’ve got the best of both worlds going on right now. Enjoy PJ and tell the Techies that they have a lot to look forward too.

By GATA_PJ

December 7, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Anyone that thinks PJ’s style of offense can’t work in big college football needs to look at the offensive numbers that GSU racked up on UGA in 2000 and 2004. At tech he will be working with talent beyond what even GSU had, and he got the most out of some very athletic and talented players that he had at GSU.

If tech wants to “energize the fan base” then there is no bettter way to do that than to win games. And PJ will win games. I’d bet any of you dawggy fans that Tech will beat you guys at least 3 out of the next five seasons and that tech will get into one of the BCS bowl games within 3 years.

By Nolan School

December 7, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Sad to see Tech didn’t go with Charlie Strong…still…Tech Man for life…Coach Johnson, welcome aboard.

Newland North Carolina’s loss is North Avenue Trade School’s gain. The man can coach. If Tenuta bolts for LSU or anywhere else, go get Charlie Strong to run the D and stand by…just in case.

It will at least be interesting.

Besides, I’ve seen John Tenuta’s D play more like Judy Tenuda’s D way too many times. Good riddance.

By College Football Fan

December 7, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

I think it is a great hire for Georgia Tech. Having moved here a couple of years ago, it is amazing how much Georgia Tech is harassed and disrespected by the columnists at this newspaper. Take the article by Mr. Schultz this morning for example. And boy, how wrong can a guy be. But the other columnists do the same thing (with the exception of Mr. Bisher - boy, what a class guy). To Mr. Schultz, I might say that good sports columnists do not appear to be knocking each other over to write at the AJC. Anyway, great hire and good luck to Georgia Tech.

By Wife looking for season tickets

December 7, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

My GSU alumni husband just informed me that he wants GT season tickets for Christmas. Any GT season ticket holders upset about this hire and want to sell?

By Lkb

December 7, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

GA Tech Insider please lay off the weed. You know Paul Johnson by name only. He is not that intense (ask some GSU players). Don’t compare him to Beamer - not even in the same league. And to state his offense looks anything like Utah old one or FL is just laughable. Yes GT fans please buy tickets as hotdog giveaways on non sold out games are a joke. Your stadium is the size of a FL high school stadium and you can not even sell it out. Bad program.

By William

December 7, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

I have followed Paul Johnson for YEARS and he is a players coach. Everything he touches turns to Gold and we wins wherever he goes. For those tech fans that may be a little skepticle, just hang on and give him a little time to run his offense and recruit his kind of players. Him coming to Ga. Tech will be a HUGE setback from a recruiting standpoint for all the other college football programs in Georgia. Congrat’s coach Johnson. You finally got your shot with a big time school to show them that your system will win. This now makes me a Ga. Tech fan.

By Character

December 7, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Interesting how we insist on men of character to coach our athletes, part of the Bobby Dodd legacy, then discard them when they aren’t consistent winners. Tech’s athletics are superb given the size and mission of the Institute. Lets get behind Coach Johnson and Coach Hewitt and support them in every way. Tech produced character in us; that’s why we contribute so much to Tech. Now is a defining moment for us to display our character.

By '89 Dawg - Braselton

December 7, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

SETTLE DOWN GEORGIA FANS, THIS GUY HASN’T EVEN WON A GAME YET!

Mark Richt has everything under controll. Richt may want a raise though, since Tech’s coach is now higher paid than he is.

By sam

December 7, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

I’m from Oklahoma but I thought I’d pop in to see this. It’s very entertaining. I have the utmost respect for any coach of our military academies, but you guys are acting like GT just hired Stoops, Carroll, Richt, Meyer, and the like. PJ would have been nabbed by one of the big boys long ago if was as good as advertised on this blog…

By yep

December 7, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Wow, I can’t believe a big time school like Michigan didn’t want a “RossBeamerMeyer” style coach. Those are really hard to get, and to think the “mother-load” of coaches was down in Statesboro, Georgia and we didn’t even know it.

By Know it All

December 7, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

I played for PJ at GSU and I have not one but 2 National Championships. PJ knows how to get the best out of his players. He knows the game and he knows how to fire up his team. I hate Tech. But Coach Johnson is a great coach. Tech is lucky to have him. I will not sit by and let some p** ant like Geekboy or PT drag his name or his past players names in the mud. He has coached doctors, lawyers, captains, sergeants, teachers, and etc. I would bet my next ridiculously high pay check these punks have never played college ball. And for all you that doubt the option, you are in for a treat. Johnson has a passing offense that is based off the option as well. He can move the QB to shoot gun and go 4 and 5 wide. The man is genius. If he brings his staff to tech, the recruiting is going to be crazy. He has some guys that great in the living room. Any that has been recruited knows what I mean. They know how to talk to parents and push the family environment.

By G-Money

December 7, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Great move D Rad. I promise not to call you RadaDadaDingDong anymore!

By headknocker

December 7, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

I have to admit this is a good hire for Tech. I usually try to stir things up a little here, but I am willing to let the Tekkies have their day. I really don’t think it will make much real difference in playing the Dogs since our superiority was so well established under Chan’s tenure. Right now we are not getting strong competition for recruiting from GT within the state. That won’t change unless you start winning, and you won’t start winning without recruits. If the option does work at this level, UGA has some pretty phenomenal athletes who are seeing an option type attack more often than they used to a few years back, which is the key to defensing the option, discipline to stay with your assignment and not over-pursue.

I remember a lot of the same ebulation when Chan Gailey was hired. I even remember Bill Lewis being called a genius who took lowly East Carolina to an 11-1 season and a major bowl. Tech has a way of ruining good coaches.

Good luck to him, he’s going to need it.

By toby cash

December 7, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

This Georgia Southern Eagle is delighted to hear that Paul Johnson is back in Georgia. He will get the job done at Tech.

By To Lkb

December 7, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Keep it up smart guy. You’ve still got Michael Adams.

By Harry Dawg

December 7, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

This is ridiculous!

Georgia Tech gets a new head coach, and you would think they’re national champs.

Paul Johnson won’t do any better than Chan Gailey or George O’Leary.

By T-Money

December 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

As a GSU Alum living in Atlanta, it will be great to have Johnson at Tech. The man can flat out coach.

A great example was against Notre Dame, where he would wait for the defense line up, then he would send the play in. Great move, especially if the DC doesn’t pick up on it.

That and the Army games were the only ones I caught this year, but from his days at Southern, I can tell you Johnson can not only coach, but recruit as well. He did bring in some guy UGA (along with the other D-1 teams) didn’t want named Adrian Peterson.

By jerry

December 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Is this what the blogs looked like in Chapel Hill when Butch Davis was hired last year? Or Steve Spurrier at SC? Or Randy Shannon at Miami? WHAT I’M READING IS BEYOND DELUSIONAL!

By lkb

December 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

I give up. Too much crack being smoked on this blog. You would think you just employeed Bear Bryant. Recruiting for GSU and Navy are nothing like recruiting against SEC. 3 wins against UGA in 5 years. Are you kidding! BCS bowl. Hey guys - take baby steps first. Lets win the ACC, get 9-10 wins and then talk smack against the big boys. UGA has won 40 games in 4 years. GT has NEVER done that.

By NCJacket

December 7, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

I must say that I am a bit disappointed. I feel that GT should have made a commitment for change. I was willing to risk being worse (read Bill Lewis) or getting to the next level (read Mark Richt). I remember when he was hired to go to Athens, I had to tell UGA folks that they were going to be thrilled and they did not know who he was. I think someone like Hatcher or Strong would have been more risk but higher reward type of selections. I think highly of PJ, but I still think highly of Chan Gailey as a person and a football coach too. I would love to be wrong, but I am still a bit skeptical that this change is not a significant upgrade.

By They did Sam

December 7, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Sam, they did hire a coach every bit as good as those guys. But where do they coach? That’s right Oklahoma, USC, UGA and Florida.

The only time Nick Saban’s record has been much above .500 is when he was at LSU.

And I cannot wait for Johnson to prove his worth to all you smug SOBs. You probably said the same thing about Tressel.

By GA Tech insider

December 7, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

Lkb, unless you have been in the locker room, in the interview, or participating in the reference checks with his players or coaches, I’d say you don’t know anything about Coach Johnson. You may see him on the sidelines, but you have no idea of his intensity.

Now, speaking as someone from the inside, I can say that all indications are it was the same as Coach Ross. Paul Johnson is a professional who loves his kids, his coaches, and the rest of his staff. He will be a great fit for the Tech family and the community in general.

DRad made a great hire and should be congratulated.

By pcm121899

December 7, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

As the wife of a USNA grad (and season ticket holder at Navy games) and a UGA grad/Forever Dawg Fan, believe me when I say there is great sadness in OUR household today. Johnson is a smart coach. He’s also pretty darn entertaining with an interview (though not given to blowing sunshine up folks’s collective rear-ends). Navy is going to be hard-pressed to find someone as talented that will be willing to coach for them. Huge loss for the Mids. :( By the way, is my memory failing me, or wasn’t Johnson was one of the guys on the short list when they hired Richt? I’ll be watching with interest (but wistfully).

By jobe

December 7, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

lkb…Not only 40 games in 4 years, but UGA has won 71 games in 7 - in the toughest conference (including 2 SEC championships and 3 BCS bowl appearances). Let’s watch the talk about how we’re suddenly UGA level.

By stan gann, tech's wally pipp

December 7, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

not a tech man and not likely to last. can only dress him better and hope.

By GT SCOTT

December 7, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Paul johnson will not run that much option at georgia tech, he runs that at navy and at gsu because of the athlets he had. He will run a pro style offence by spreading the field and passing as well as running the ball, at hawaii he was off. cord. of the year for 3 straight years as well as hawaii being the highest scoring team in college football while he was there.We will just have to wait and see. Ohhhhh yeah uga fans get over it your not gonna play in the national championship game so just leave it alone

By The Truth

December 7, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

The big challenge for Paul Johnson will be to get Tech back to the O’Leary level with qualified athletes. Three vacated wins over Georgia since 1990 sure doesn’t give you much hope against the mutts. … anchors away!

By Michael

December 7, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Seems like a lateral move in some ways, is he going to energize the GT alums & grow the fan base beyond mainly alumni. As a DAWG I’m more focused on SEC rivals. If they keep Tenuta it’ll make Tech tougher to prepare for on both sides of the ball.

It’ll be interesting to see if Johnson stays with strict triple option or goes more towards the spread option while keeping the running game as the focus. My guess he does some of both & adds more passing like when he was OC at Hawaii. People forget when Erk Russell came up with Ham (inverted wishbone) it was a mixture of the wishbone\triple option, wing-t & Run & Shoot. Over the years the passing aspect has dropped off except when they had a QB that could do both.

By Jeff

December 7, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

I think this is an awesome decision. I certainly hope it turns out to be. Considering what this guy has done throughout his career, especially at Navy where they don’t even recruit. They just take volunteers from the midshipmen!!! I look forward to see what he can do. He SHOULD, by any means, keep Tenuta!!! GO JACKETS!

By Big-Dawg

December 7, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

GET A HOLD OF YOURSELVES GEORGIA FANS!

RICHT IS A BETTER COACH!

By BIG DADDY

December 7, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Johnson has 11 years as a head coach and has won 107 games. That is almost 10 per year. I doubt there will be too many yelling for his scalp if he can continue that level of winning. And he has a very good chance of doing so. I think it was a great selection.

By Go Dawgs!

December 7, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

**This coaching hire is not good for us, any way you look at it.

We’re going to miss Gailey. If PJ can get Tech it’s going to hurt. I hated losing to those guys.**

Go Dawgs!

By Ron Again !

December 7, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

So, GT, SMU(which died under the NCAA death penalty yrs ago), and Duke(no description needed) all wanted PJ. Well, then let’s look at the other HC vacanices: Michigan Baylor Texas A&M Nebraska Ole Miss Colorado State Arkansas Washington State Northern Illinois Southern Miss UCLA None of the teams were reported to EVEN BE CONSIDERING talking to PJ.They weren’t even interested. And, no one was interested in in PJ as an OC anywhere either. GT is not Michigan, but we are not SMU or Duke either. With SO MANY talented DC & OC candidates all over the country looking for their start, we chose PJ. As a reminder to all you longtime GT fans, GT passed over Steve Spurrier(GT QB Coach) to hire Pepper Rodgers. And, just in case you forgot, Spurrier, later on, won the ACC at Duke!! GT has WIFFED, AGAIN !! What the HELL was D-Rad thinking??????

, Baylor where coaches were fired: of c

By Mike T.

December 7, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

THE RETURN OF IN-STATE POWER TO THE FLATS HAS BEGUN!!!

LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL Side to starting to hurt, oh man my eyes are watering, oh oh oh.maybe Johnson can get Tech lined up with those teams Navy played,Temple,U Mass,good ole Army,Tech will still be 7-5.

By slick

December 7, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

To Wife Looking for Season Tickets - NEWS ALERT - They are available, no lines, believe me they are available, most times you can get 2 for 1 and they throw in free hotdogs. Oh yea, if you have kids “Doodle the Clown” performs for the kids, its an experience of a lifetime…

By Sylvia R. Williams

December 7, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Why didn’t GT interview a Black Coach.

By RAMBLE ON!

December 7, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Big-Dawg has been drinking the PBR’s early today.

By alan

December 7, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

To all the UGA people writing the negative blogs here: we know you are scared that Tech out recruited you last year and might do it again soon. High School football is getting better all over the nation and will cancel UGA’s in state recruiting edge, i.e Georgia top athletes are now no better than other states top athletes. If UGA continues to load up on Juniors/Seniors highly rated only from, Georgia they run the risk of getting inferior athletes compared to a Southern Cal or Ohio State that continue to recruit nationally. Tech has a national reputation that helps get many of these out of state blue chippers. Also PJ will be able to have better in state recruiting with his past contacts in Georgia. There is absolutely no reason now that Tech can not compete with UGA since there are now a lot more academic choices now available at Tech, even some liberal arts courses. If PJ really works and coaches, he can field a BCS team some years and always compete for the ACC Championship. Also as in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s Black Athletes are again seeing the benefits of going to school at a University rated high in academics like Georgia Tech. UGA is only rated high in academics by UGA graduates that think B.S. means BEER Sciences.

By Phildo

December 7, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

OK. I was pulling for Hatcher. Younger, maybe hungrier, but I am certainly not going to complain. Johnson appears to have ethics and has certainly proved he can win at a place operating under a disadvantage. Let’s see what he does with an ACC schedule. The best to him.

By JT

December 7, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

I think the only problem this coach will have is in recruiting. I have no doubt he can coach and has discipline, he coached at one the military academys, so that’s a given. The thing is, he doesn’t have to recruit at the academy because they don’t accept everybody and GaTech has such stringent academic requirements, it could be a hindering factor. What will be his platform, what will he sell top recruits to come to GaTech?

By Hal

December 7, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Smart athletes? yeah right, just ask the brain child of them all, Mr.Regie Ball himself…What bowl game did he miss because he flunked “busy bee 101”?

By truth

December 7, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Okay, ugag fans keep talking about how Tech obsesses about ugag. Why do you guys obsess about “vacated” games. Until you post a link to the official NCAA record books showing the records were vacated, then STFU. Even the OFFICIAL ugag athletics site shows those games as losses. But why bring it up, you’ve won the last 7, right? You guys don’t even bring up your best arguments.

So, go waste your time getting the ugag officials to change their own freaking website, if in fact those records were vacated. Otherwise, go back to sniffing your own rear ends.

Today is a good day for Tech. Gailey is gone, and a coach with a proven record is going to take the helm.

Go Jackets!

By Bacon Bits

December 7, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Has anyone heard the news? Apparently Christ was born again in Atlanta today.

By Mike T.

December 7, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Why didn’t GT interview a Black Coach. Forgot your question mark. Why didn’t they interview a Latino? Cut them some slack they hired a Senior Citzen.

By buzzfan

December 7, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

I’m hoping for the best. I would have preferred Tenuta and hope that he stays.

By Gailey Can't Coach

December 7, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

The AJC should send Jeff Schultz to cover the 5:30 press conference…That way can apologize in person.

By Wayne L. Gay

December 7, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

PJ is a class act. He was great for GSU as well as Navy. he holds his head higha and is a very capable coach of young men. His greatest asset is his character. As a season ticket holder at GS since the re-institution of football, I think that Tech made a great choice. You will see this young coach bring to Tech some of the things that Bobby Dodd did as a Coach, such as character, dedication, truthfulness and a true love for his players. Great choice and good luck Coach.

By usna77

December 7, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

JT..He didn’t have to recruit at the academy because they don’t have to accept everybody?

Au contraire. Consider this: “Hey young HS football player. I know you’re an all state running back, but you also scored 1200 on the SAT. Come and play for me at West Point, and when you graduate you can be a platoon leader in Iraq. If you survive that, and your legs are still fresh, you might get a tryout in the Arena League.”

By GT

December 7, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

TEch interviewed at least 2 black coaches…Strong and Joker

By EarlyChristmas

December 7, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Both UGA and Tech fans should be happy. Tech has a new coach and UGA fans will be getting new mobile homes from FEMA on their way back from New Orleans.

By GT Fan Jeff

December 7, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

PJ has proven himself to be a winner, pure and simple, by getting the maximum effort and performance out of his players. There is no reason to think he will do any less at GT. I am very happy with the hire and very optimistic about GT’s chances to improve with PJ at the helm. Go Jackets!!!

By GT80

December 7, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

All I needed to see was a few posts from guys that played under Johnson at GSU saying we got a great hire and they might even consider getting season tickets to TECH.

This is a great hire. Football on the Flats will be fun again.

DRAD just got every season ticket holder to re-up for next year and a few new purchases as well.

By chris

December 7, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Christ born again? Is that why the rednecks of georgia quit barking and started singing glory halleluiah?

By yep

December 7, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Class act + Character = 7 -5 and a blue football field

By Mike de Signal Mtn

December 7, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson is too good for Tech. GT can turn anyone into a loser and UGA wannabee.

By NYJACKET

December 7, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Triple option spread attack with Josh Nesbitt and Jonathan Dwyer.

It sure will be entertaining and should stick a lot of points on the board.

By Fish21

December 7, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

As long time GT fan and alumnus (‘71)as well as a former Navy FB player and grad (‘72) I can say I’m very sorry to see PJ leave Navy… he has been a wonderful coach and has created a legacy for service academy football programs that will be one for the record books.

Coach Johnson’s secret to recruiting (and yes he does recruit for Navy… he finds kids you are 2nd team All-Met and All-state all over the country who know they will never see the NFL… but boy do they want to play Div 1 FB. Next his team of recruters find out if they will make the committment to turn “pro” after graduation as a Marine or Navy officer. The potential to go from driving the ball down an oppoents throat to drivng a Mach 2.0 Navy or Marine fighter is very inticing. Finally they all have to be able to essentially graduate with a General Engineering degres at best (no Liberal Arts options or two classes a week schedules. Navy FB players start their day at a 0530 formation and inspection… hours before the rest of the Brigade. They have to take all the cored courses (such as Basic Electrial Engineering, Calculus, Chemistry and Physics… just as the rest of their classmates take.) Now I know as a Tech alumnus and annual contributor, there are breaks at Tech the FB team get that no Navy FB player has. This is an additional benefit which will allow PJ to get bigger, faster and just a motivated players without the barrier of serving in the Navy or Marine Corps in the way or going to a demanding military academy.

PJ as Tech’s coach he will set up a similar successful recruiting system but this time he can recruit bigger, stronger and more skilled athletes than he could do at Navy (remember they have to pass a physical that limites height, weight and %body fat!), but it may be difficult to find the same level of fire, intensity and dedication in his players that he had at Navy… but I bet he difinitely will get as many of these as he can to come to Tech. The parents of potential recruits will love PJ’s recruiting approach, too. (“What Mama wants, junior does!”)

BTW… one of the top GA QB prospects from the 2006 class (Robby Davis, Starr’s Mill, Fayette County) who was recruited by PJ’s regional recruiter, Coach Bohannan, is leaving after leading Navy’s JV squad to several wins. He realized that while he loved playing for Coach Johnson and all the friends he made in his Company as well as the Academy,he really isn’t cut out for being a career military officer.

He is now headed to Wofford… I say that Tech outght to get in touch with him before he registers there and turn him around to play again for PJ at Tech… and, oh BTW, he was doing great academically too so he should easily match the academic challenges Tech.

As a Tech fan and season ticket holder, I’m thrilled… as a Navy alumnus… DAMN! But that’s all right… George Welch came to Navy in the late 70’s and turned the program around to egular winners and went to several bowls, too. Then he accepted offer to go to U of VA as PJ has in going to Tech. George Welch left UVA with a complete turn around from a doormat FB program to a top 25 program annually.

All I’v got to say is to my UGA fans about the annual ritual in late November here in North Georgia… (in terms from my USMC days)… “INCOMING!!!”

Go Jackets!… Go Navy!

By Jake

December 7, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Now if we can just get a couple Tech Men on the staff… Roof to coach the defense and Hamilton to coach the QBs!

By BuzzFactor

December 7, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

I’ve seen a few folks question PJ as HC and wishing we would have goe with a Strong or Muschamp. A say we have more of a proven winner in a HC. How many promising youg OC’s or DC’s have been given HC jobs and whiffed? More than have achieved greatness. Just because someone can coach a D or an O doesn’t mean they can be a great HC. PJ has done that at more than one level. This guy is an allround better choice.

By LESD

December 7, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

The most interesting question on Johnson is on how well he recruits. Navy doesn’t recruit, and Georgia Southern doesn’t recruit D1A.

He may turn out to be a great recruiter. There’s just no evidence one way or the other.

By gary

December 7, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Hey truth - probably because those are the only 3 games we can complain about in 17 years.

By mad man

December 7, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Already the Techsters love Paul’s Johnson!!!

By LESD

December 7, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Tech fans refer to Georgia fans as rednecks to salve the wounds left by the annual loss to the Dawgs. It’s pathetic. Live in a cartoon world if you want to. It won’t make Tech any better.

By htrywe

December 7, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

P.J. will do great things at Tech. Any news if he is bringing his Navy staff?

By usna77

December 7, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

I’m still confused by those who continue to state that “Navy doesn’t recruit.”

What do you think happens?

By Galen

December 7, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Great hire, now lets make Tech’s homefield a place to be feared. While Gailey was here it never felt like we had home field advantage. Johnson lets get out there and rock the house!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By The Drill

December 7, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

The new mobile homes we bring back from New Orleans will be full of BCS money !!

By techengineer

December 7, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

I am so thrilled that they got Johnson.. I predict we win the ACC under his first season; maybe even finish in the 10 if they are able to keep Tennuta!!

By alcoholic

December 7, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Georgia Tech will always be 2nd class! like flying coach!.. 2nd tier coach, 2nd tier recruiting classes, 2nd tier AD……etc. You might have 1st class academics, but who the hell cares. OH…and you will always be 2nd tier too The University of Georgia.

GO DAWGS….7 STRAIGHT

By Theedge

December 7, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

I do not see where this guy fits the bill that the AD stated at the press conference. He wanted someone to energize the fan base. This guy is about as exciting as watching paint dry. I like the man as a coach and think he can do a great job he is just not the guy you spend 4 million buying out your last coach for.

By athens grad

December 7, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Congrats! Great coach even better man. He will open up offense just wait. Tenuta w/ Johnson is a great combo. lol

By gtne80

December 7, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Hiring a head coach for a college football program is a crap-shoot at best. Sometimes the candidates that appear the most attractive turn out to be a bust. Bill Lewis appeared to be a perfect fit for Tech. On the other hand, how many people got fired up when Bobby Ross came in to take over the program with Curry’s departure?

PJ is 50, and that is not young by head coaching standards. The impression is, however, that he isn’t playing out the string at the end of his career like Gailey was. One would get the impression that he will at least put in a visible effort to turn the program around, where Gailey was the epitome of maintaining the status quo.

Personally, I have been advocating a minority hire for several years. I think the timing is right and it would draw a clear line of distinction between us and our redneck brethren from cowtown Athens. With Atlanta as a base, a young, energetic African-American Head Coach could make significant inroads in appealing to some of the stellar talent that we’ve been watching leave metro Atlanta and head to other ACC and SEC schools.

Someone else said it earlier. Charlie Strong’s name has been thrown around for potential head coaching positions over the past several years. For some reason, he keeps getting passed over. There must be something that the ADs are seeing that I don’t in order for him to not get a chance somewhere.

I’m still unsure that this was the right time to make a change. I have been a Gailey detractor since before his hiring, but firing a coach after a year with a winning record and one year removed from an appearance in the Conference Championship game is a daring (if not gutsy) move.

That said, we’ve got what we asked for. I’m not sure Paul Johnson is the “anti-Gailey” that we were really hoping for. Stand them side-by-side and they don’t look very different (both middle-aged white guys).

He appears to be able to coach winning football. The only question is whether he can do it at Tech.

By LESD

December 7, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Coach Johnson has an impressive record of head coaching success at Georgia Southern and Navy. But Tech fans crowing about his chances of beating Georgia need only look at the numbers.

Mark Richt’s record is 71-19. He compiled that record as a head coach in the SEC, not at a service academy or a very good D1-AA program. Richt’s teams have played in three BCS bowl games in six years.

But here’s the kicker: This year’s Dawgs are one win away from finishing in the Top 10 for the FIFTH time in SIX years.

Paul Johnson is a solid football coach. But his record says nothing about his chances of beating Mark Richt’s Georgia Bulldogs.

By crackyn

December 7, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

I think I just peed my pants!

By Darren in the Springs

December 7, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

I like the hire, and cannot wait to see what he does to spice up the offense.

He did a great job at Navy. The Navy guys I work with had no idea he was leaving so they are all shocked.

Maybe he will give Bond the chance to actually be the OC. Johnson, Bond, Tenuta (if he stays)….Sounds like a great combination to me.

By Ramblin Wrecker

December 7, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

To Dan Radakovich: Thank you very much. This is exactly what GT needed.

To the Clarke County Agricultural School fans who read and blog on the GT blogs and talk about how GT fans are obsessed with their team: you are reading and blogging on the GT blog you retards!!! Do you not see the irony in that?

To those who doubt Paul Johnson’s offense: Navy, in case you haven’t noticed, plays Div 1 football. They haven’t been playing high school teams all these years. And they win with smaller recruits who don’t get the offers from big schools. Not that Johnson plans to run the full blown triple option at GT, but if he was, who says it won’t work at the highest level? Up thru 2003 Nebraska was still running the option and went 10-3 that year. Their new AD was a fool and fired Frank Solich to bring in Bill Callahan to “modernize” the program. That proved to be a huge mistake. The point of a college football program is to win, not to produce players who run prototypical NFL systems. The triple option would work and win games. I’d prefer for GT to have a unique system that brings excitement.

By GoldArchie

December 7, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Great hire! This will make giving to the Tech Fund that much more enjoyable. PJ is a great fit for a Tech man, tough, confident, a winner, and with class. That’s exciting, no gimmicks (weaing all black) or classlessness (encouraging your team to break the rules). Win with class, lose with class, don’t make excuses, and bring your best everyday- that’s what Tech got today, that’s exciting! Go Golden Helmets Go, Go, Go !

By tech man

December 7, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

We’re awesome!! maybe we can beat Notre Dame again!!

By hal

December 7, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

i have followed Paul Johnson since he was hired on Erk’s eagles original staff at ga.southern. he was a smart talented young coach. everywhere he has been he has one with this offense. at schools that were “losers” until he got there whether it was offensive coordinator or head coach. his offense will win. it is an option except the backs don’t line up behind the quarterback. just like a friend of mind said when he went to navy and was talking to some graduates there. “this man will win. watch.” thanks

By hal

December 7, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

i have followed Paul Johnson since he was hired on Erk’s eagles original staff at ga.southern. he was a smart talented young coach. everywhere he has been he has one with this offense. at schools that were “losers” until he got there whether it was offensive coordinator or head coach. his offense will win. it is an option except the backs don’t line up behind the quarterback. just like a friend of mind said when he went to navy and was talking to some graduates there. “this man will win. watch.” thanks

By shivas

December 7, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

All we need now is a beat writer who actually doesn’t try to put a negative spin on everything Tech. Just reading Winklejohn and he’s already talking about the option offense running away recruits. Keeps assuming PJ does not throw the ball. If only he could do some research and take one or two days talking about the positives, it would be nice. Great Hire!!!

By joe engineer

December 7, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

As a Tech graduate I want all of you to know that I am so excited about our new coach I might have to pull out my “Lego”set tonight!!!

By LESD

December 7, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

Navy’s 2007 schedule:

Temple Rutgers Ball State Duke Air Force Pittsburgh Wake Forest Delaware Notre Dame North Texas Northern Illinois Army

By LESD

December 7, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Golden Archie says:

“PJ is a great fit for a Tech man, tough, confident, a winner, and with class. That’s exciting, no gimmicks (weaing all black) or classlessness (encouraging your team to break the rules). Win with class, lose with class…”

Class. I guess that means he won’t tolerate the kind of dirty play that got a Tech player ejected from the Georgia game. Maybe he’ll ask Tech students not to throw bottles at Boston College. Maybe he’ll confine guys like Rueben Houston to special teams instead of starting them on defense.

No one needs lessons in class from fans of Georgia Tech.

By vent cop

December 7, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

By Alan: Yes, you may be Jacket but your Mama’s a Dog!

By Emily Litella

December 7, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

What’s all this fuss I keep hearing about Paul’s johnson? Why, it’s outrageous!

By Dawgie Style

December 7, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

This is the best thing Tech could’ve done. I was hoping Tenuta would have to take over for them. This guy is the total package and he will give MR a run for his money recruiting in GA. Watching Tech under Gailey was like watching game films being replayed before our eyes - predictable! PJ runs an offense - wherever he goes and with whatever he has to work with - that is absolutely unpredictable. Tech was a good coach away from 9 or 10 wins this year instead of 7 or 8. I don’t think it’s going to be as easy as we’re used to…PJ is no pushover, he’s a winner. This hire is not a reason to party in Athens tonight.

By JMO

December 7, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

U got’em right where u want’em now Jackets…………They’ll be really talking NC over Athens now……..But oh yeah! They been talking that since 1980 anyway.

Go Jackets!

By LESD

December 7, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

The more intelligent of you can probably tell I sheet my pants when this hiring was announced. This is going to make it much tougher to take you Tek heads out behind the woodshed. He reminds me of Erk Russell (rest his soul)…And that truly scares me. Is it too late for him to back out?

By Dawgbyte

December 7, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

I have one question. Do you think Calvin Johnson would have come to Tech to play in this offense? No, I don’t either.

By Slim from the ville

December 7, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Dear Coach Johnson,

Two words of advice:

Beat UGA.

By Oh yeah, Go Dawgs!

December 7, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Great pick! Can you say, ANOTHER 7 YEARS!!

And for the IDIOT who said “can this guy coach SMART athletes?” You have got to be kidding. Naval Academy cadets are smarter than you stupid nerds.

By Slim from the ville

December 7, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Two words for Geek boy:

Reggie Ball

By Dawgbyte

December 7, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

I think Tech made a good hire, but as a Dawg I’m glad they hired him. Otherwise, they might have gone back and made the right hire. Charlie Strong.

By pcbuzz

December 7, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Jon, uga talks about winning national championships, but dosen’t transfer that to the field and win one. A good coach adjusts his style to where he’s coaching, just as PJ has done. You don’t sell a Hyundai to a millionaire, just as you won’t recruit 5 star athletes to come play at small schools. PJ will do great, and will be a winner at GT just as he has done everywhere else.

By Dawgbyte

December 7, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

To Tech Fans:

I tried to come on and “discuss” the issue, but I refuse to be associated with these immature idiots. In defense, we get our share of yours on our blog. Anyway, sorry.

By Da Boze

December 7, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Techtubbie, why don’t you go and puke on your own UGAY site and leave ours alone. Let’s see which side of your mouth you laugh out of in a couple of years when Paul Johnson hauls your butts to the woodshed.

By Buzz Off

December 7, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

I haven’t seen this much excitement over a coaching hire since Alabama got Nick Saban. Of course that was before UA went 6 and 6 including loosing their last 4 games.

By ramble ON

December 7, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

what is comical is you mongrels posting your idiotic crap on this blog.

Relax dudette. We have no room to talk. We (GT fans) post all day every day on their blogs. I like it when the dawgs come here anyway. That’s why I post a lot on their blogs in the first place.

By B

December 7, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

what did Paul say about his coaches? about tenuta? I missed news Conf.

By Ernster

December 7, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

Why do all you people think football is so different in 1-A than any other division? Coach Johnson will mix the triple-option/flexbo ne and passing formations together and all plays will have success. The only difference in 1-A is that in general players are .1 to .2 seconds faster in 40 on average and about 15-20% heavier across positions. Guess what, that applies to BOTH offense and defense, so all these great, fast defenses you people think will stuff all triple option plays for no gain have to contend with bigger and faster blockers that will still open wide holes for faster running backs to bust through for TDs.

It is NOT different and any offensive style that is successful in pee-wee, high school or division III will also find success in division 1. Heck, it would even find success in the NFL if any coach had the guts to try it. The key is repetition in practice. When you do something over and over and over, you get good at it and it WILL work. I hope coach Johnson sticks with the Flexbone formation for half the plays. The best thing about the Flexbone is the 80 yard TD passes you can pop on the defense when they flood the box with 8 or 9 guys and leave on DB on the lone WR. I see so many box scores of old Georgia Southern games where the QB completes 5 of 8 passes for 200 yards and 3 TDs. This is why no D can load up and simple stuff the triple-option, even in 1-A.

By TechCrybaby

December 7, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

WOW! WHAT A GREAT HIRE! Paul Johnson will do a terrific job at Tech! They hired the right guy.

What was Jeff Schultz thinking, to come out with such a stupid, negative sports article, on the morning of the very day that Tech made the hire??

Jeff is very smart, actually. I was tracking his strategy all the way. It was obvious to me that, inside, he was saying to himself, “If I write that Tech is having a lot of trouble finding a coach, that will build a fire under Radakovich, and we’ll soon have a good coach at mine and TechCrybaby’s favorite school.” It worked! Your article, Jeff, was what is known as a “backhand shot.” We all thank you, as the Dawgs curse you, for this masterpiece.

WELCOME, PAUL JOHNSON! Let’s: ( 1 ) Bring in a quarterback. ( 2 ) Broaden curriculum, for a level playing field with UGA. ( 3 ) Win the ACC championship.

By Ernster

December 7, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

Oh, and let me add to those who think running is boring. I thought the same until I became a student at Georgia Southen College in 1989. That fall I watched the Flexbone and 85% running plays and fell in love. We completed dominated 1-AA that year to the tune of a record 15 wins and no losses. Had we played a 1-A team, we would have beat them too I am near certain.

Running is only boring if you don’t score and lose often. If you get 400 yards on the ground, score 40 points and win often, running is even more exciting than passing because it is what football should be, power, strength and execution to max. I would welcome a run-heavy offense (and this type is better than boring power I plays all day).

By Jason

December 7, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

I figured the UGA fans would be out in full force talking smack about this hire and how his offense would never work in a BCS conference. I guess its that inferiority complex that most have after having graduated from a tier 2 academic institution. Hell, they putall their eggs in the football basket, and still have only walked away with 1 national title in 100+ years. Thats gotta be hard.

Anyhow, I bet GT ends up looking a lot like a certain West Virginia team on offense. The same WV that beat UGA in the Sugar Bowl a few years ago. Thats probably the reason they are all here.

By bulldogbeater

December 7, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

To all you mutt lovers:

Be afraid.

Be very afraid.

UGA will lose to Tech next year and blow their chance for a national championship. It will be hilarious to listen to muttnation call for CMR’s firing.

By Patrick Jones

December 7, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

As a native Atlantan, lifelong Georgia Tech fan and Georgia Southern alum with the same year of birth and same initials as Paul Johnson, I am giddy over his hiring. Strap on your chinstraps and get ready to rush. I hope the West Stands can handle the excitement.

PJ Cary, N.C.

By Bill

December 7, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

Very pleased with this hire and I can honestly say I did not feel this way when Chan was hired. Unless you are afraid Johnson can not integrate a passing game within his wishbone offense, I honestly can’t see how a Tech fan would dislike this hire. Another high quality individual that will improve Tech from the ranks of the mediocre. Seriously, how many of you have felt somewhat apathetic towards the direction of Tech the last few years??? You almost knew this team was decent, but would never win under a very nice, good man who happened to be a very average head coach. Tech football has legit hope that not only will we beat Ga very soon, but Tech can return to an upper echelon of football. If Tenuta leaves, and I think he will, this will play havoc on our recruits. But if he could win at Navy, Johnson will make this team much better. Most optimistic I’ve felt in years. Great job, AD!!!

By Techbuzz84

December 7, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Not my first choice but a definite upgrade from Chump.With Nesbitt, Dwyer, Evans and Roddy White in the backfield ,it will work well. Welcome to Tech, Paul.

By TherealJB

December 7, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

HAHAHAHA.. HORRIBLE SELECTION..

By srschirm

December 7, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

LKB-better check your facts before you post something. Tech won 40 games from 1951-1954, and won the national championship in ‘52, something UGA hasn’t done in their 4-year run.

By JacketGrad07

December 7, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Could we please get some details on how easy it is for Paul Johnson to get OUT of his contract? If he succeeds how hard is it for him to jump to a Michicgan or Notre Dame?

By No Longer Concerned Jacket

December 7, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

First things first. What’s the good word - “TO HELL WITH GEORGIA”

I wasn’t alive to see Coach Dodd, but my father has unlimited stories of the days Coach Dodd’s teams dominated college football. 1990 was super special and I was a very happy man from 1999 to 2002. Conversely, today is equally as special. Paul Johnson is a perfect fit for Georgia Tech football.

The veer and spread, AKA triple option is perfect for a BSC school like Tech. Smaller, less talented offensive lineman flourish in a multi dimensional set with double teams and less individual match-ups. Defensively, a place where Tech generally lacks depth will spend less time on the field as the offense controls TOP. Should be fewer second half defensive meltdowns.

PJ’s a winner. He will adapt to the level of competition. I expect 60/40 run/pass against the core of the ACC. 70/30 against the Dukes of the world and slightly over 50/50 against the FSU’s and VT’s. Don’t worry about attracting WR’s to Tech. Outside of CJ, Tech hasn’t exactly picked up a slew of Parade All-American WR’s ever.

I see one down-side. This is not a great offense to have in place when playing from behind. It will be important to control tempo, score early, and recruit great kickers and punters. Sounds like Tech’s MO to me.

Imagine this, Gailey had no real quality rivalry experience before coming to Tech. Sure, he played at UF, but that was long before the emergence of FSU and Miami. PJ wins against his rivals. UGAg will continue to win games against Tech, but I would bet the farm he goes at least 3-3 against Richt over the next 6 seasons. He’ll win ACC titles, that’s a given. This guy wins everywhere and at every level, damn he’s good.

I saw a few negative comments on the blog. I guess it’s impossible to escape vial and please the idiots. One stood out over the others, George P. Burdell. Mr. Burdell, please take your two GT degrees, your negative attitude, and your obvious lack of football knowledge straight to Athens, the Democratic Party, or Russia. You must be a miserable and lonely human being to take time to identify yourself as a former Tech athlete unhappy with Tech’s new coach and an affinity for Auburn or the SEC. I’m not sure what you played, but I had teammates like you. You’re the one that hopes the person starting in front of you gets hurt or fails so you can fulfill your selfish desires. Auburn, if memory serves, GT pasted Auburn twice under Gailey. Shows what you know.

Great job D-Rad. With or without Tenuta, Tech will revive the Dodd era under Paul Johnson. I’m ready to renew my season tickets today. GO JACKETS!!!

By Patrick Jones

December 7, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Instead of all of this speculation and bad-mouthing, here’s a piece of history to chew on. Georgia Southern with Paul Johnson as head coach crushed Youngstown State 59-24 in the 1999 1-AA championship game. For you children with no perspective, the coach of the Youngstown State Penguins at the time was a guy named Jim Tressel, now head coach of the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. Tressel was crushed by 35 points by GSU in Chattanooga that year. He is doing pretty good for himself these days wouldn’t you say? Johnson has been exceptional in Statesboro and with lesser-grade athletes at Navy. Let’s just sit back and enjoy what he is capable of putting together in a couple of years with big-time recruits. So JSTFU and enjoy the excitement. It’s gonna be fun. Patrick Jones, GSU 1981, Cary, N.C.

By Tech Beater

December 7, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Reggie Ball is the new cheerleader coach. “Geek-ets”… How about another 7 years you dumb geeks!!

By bullseye

December 7, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Patrick Jones - sorry to bust your bubble, GT is not Ohio St. Nor will any person alive be able to bring the Tech Football program to the same level as Ohio St. Tech is a school who’s football program should be excited to win 7 games a year and go to a bowl. Maybe once in a 10 year period they win 9 - 10 games, but thats the best Tech can hope for. Looking over the past 40 years. Tech doesn’t have the fan base, recruiting, or facilities to be a top program. There best chance has been the past few years while Fla. St and Miami are down. What’s gonna happen we these two teams come back to form, as well as Butch Davis at NC and O’Brian at NC ST. Tech fans are grasping…

By GT Guy

December 7, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

Adios, George Burdell!! See Ya

Great Hire, no if’s and’s or butts about it. I imagine there are some ACC coaches not to thrilled about having to face CPJ. I have talked to a couple of mutt fans today and they are already nervous.

Simply Outstanding

By Kevin

December 7, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

BuzzFactor and Randy

Sorry to interrupt your Tickle Pile! I could tell that’s what you were doing because your spelling is atrocious……I’m sure it’s hard to tickle and type at the same time. And since Tech obviously doesn’t have a spelling class, I’ll spell it out for you—SEVEN IN A ROW AND FOURTEEN OF THE LAST SEVENTEEN!!! Go Dawgs and Tech sucks!

Youngblood, keep up the the good work!

By Patrick Jones

December 7, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Bullseye, Your off-target negativity amuses me. Are you in sixth grade? Did you forget that Georgia Tech was co-national champion in 1990. Any yet you ramble about looking back over the past 40 bleak years. And do your homework before rambling off. Ohio State was 6-6 in 1999, 8-4 in 2000 and 7-5 in 2001. Is that greatness in your half-closed eyes? The beauty of college football is its fluidity in the dominance of programs. You, my confused soul, are the one who is grasping thinking that you can predict the future. If you are a UGA fan, that’s great. I like Mark Richt. But there’s another Ray Goff waiting to happen. Tech has landed a coach who is destined to shut up the online village idiots.

By TrueDawg

December 7, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

Just think, bugs, with Paul Johnson as your new coach, you might be able to beat Youngstown State EVERY year!

By Dodd

December 8, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

Kevin

1917,1928,1952,1990

1942,1980

By T-man

December 8, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Hey Dawgbyte, Calvin Johnson came to Tech knowing who his quarterback was going to be. Can you say Reggie Ball? His choice to go to Tech in spite of that sad reality probably speaks more to his character and the quality of school he wanted to be associated with than anyone or anything offered by any other schools that recruited him, especially that of Dog U.

Anyway, regardless of who the football coach is, Tech’s curriculum is a severe handicap in the recruitment of blue-chippers. Everybody knows this. Tech’s dilemma has always been to find a way to compete at the highest level, even when less talent was available. It’s for that reason why Coach Johnson is an ideal fit. His reputation to coach players up and his ability to adapt means that more often than not, he will do more with less. By virtue of his years at GSU, he should be able to pick up right where he left off and hold his own in recruiting the state of Georgia and the southeast. And because of his exposure while at Navy, recruit nationally to bring in qualified student athletes that otherwise may not be available locally.

He will win and he will win consistently. His track record proves it. Starting as soon as next year he’ll show what a pathetic excuse of a coach CG was. He will beat UGAHHH enough to keep the faithful satisfied and if he wins big enough, one day get a shot to move on to a higher paying, more prestigeous football program. So in the meantime Tech fans, sit back, relax and savor the moment. The next few years are going to fun, fun, fun. - GO JACKETS & THWG!!!

By The Thunder Stick

December 8, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

I wish I could get excited, but I am looking in to my crystal ball and seeing mediocrity over the next five years with a few flashes of brilliance. In short, more of the same. Yawn. I still wish we could have landed a big name coach like Tuberville or Patrino. Sad day for the program. We had an opportunity to take a step forward, and we have stumbled in to a mess. At least we are not Arkansas.

By T. Cho

December 8, 2007 1:29 AM | Link to this

T-man: first of all, let’s not believe our own propoganda. Our athletes are no smarter than anyone else’s athletes, except maybe Florida State’s. Our curriculum may be tough for the normal guys on our campus, but the players are not exactly pushing the envelope in academics… Besides, none of them graduate! Anyway, what are you talking about with Johnson making a name at Tech so he can one day move to a blue chip program??? This dude is in his 50’s. We are it! He will be here for the next 7 to 10 years, or until we fire him. Frankly, it is not exactly a position that has been too stable in the last 20 years. I expect 6 to 8 wins a season, if we are lucky, and we will be UGAH maybe once every seven to eight years. We are what we are, and we can’t kid ourselves. Wake up, dude.

By the authority on all things football

December 8, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

I was hoping for a more gifted coach like Patrino or bringing back Bobby Ross. Hell, I would have even endorsed us bringing back George O’L. Anyway, we should all rally around this guy and keep our fingers crossed. I mean, he won’t be playing Army and Notre Dame any more - he will prove himself against the ACC powers like Wake Forest and Virginia. I honestly don’t see us beating the puppies anytime over the next five years. No one would like to hope for a winning record over the next few years more than me, but I think it will be a stretch. I am about to buy my 4 game pass, and I hope it is worth it. Go Jackets!

By the jive in the hive

December 8, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

I’m hearing that Johnson is trying to get the Def. Coord. at Arkansas State to come to Tech. WTF? We need local guys with local connections to help recruit. Honestly, I think that some of the High School coaches might make good position coaches. What would we need to do to pull in maybe the Parkview coach? He could help us with those Gwinnett County players and would probably like to take a step forward in to the bigtime ACC.

By boots

December 8, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

I am ready to buy in to the Tech program now. In addition to the new coach, I heard that in addition to pizza, parking, hats, cokes, and 4 tickets for $40, you can also get a chance to play QB for a quarter or maybe coach the defense. What a deal! Actually, it is good for the Dawgs if you guys don’t suck every year, so I hope you at least break the six win mark. Good luck in Idaho. Pack a jacket.

By Navy98

December 8, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

First - as a guy that played at Navy UNDER Johnson - good hire. Now here is my spin on it.

One - Tech is deluding itself if it thinks that hiring Paul Johnson is going to make you a national, or even a state power. Georgia has the facilities and the $$$ that you don’t when it comes to putting butts in seats. Other than alumni, no one gets fired up for Tech football, and its highly unlikely that Coach Johnson is going to energiaze a state-wide fan base. I know you make fun of UGA fans for not being graduates of the school, but since when is that a prereq? I can tell you we LOVED non Naval Academy grads to come fill our stands. The local folks love and support us - I dont care if they didnt’ go to school there? Why does that matter?? You need the folks around the state who DIDN’T go to tech start liking you guys….NOT just the alumni. For Tech to get relevant quickly - you needed to have hired someone that would be there a while like a Will Muschamp OR go out and get a huge name like a Spurrierish type (not him, but that kind of impact).

Make NO mistake about it, Navy turning around against Army and winning that rivalry for 6 years is tremendous - and something something I am VERY VERY proud to say I had a part in shaping. Tech turning it around and taking the series from UGA like that is not even CLOSE to the same realm of possibiliuty. Face it, although Tech had a GRAND tradition, and moments like 1990, its not a primary football school. It’s just not, and Coach Johnson, as much as I respect and admire him, isn’t going to be that guy to do it.

By MarkRichtFan

December 8, 2007 4:21 AM | Link to this

If you Techies want to beat Georgia, you should have raised some real money and bought out Mark Richt’s contract. As long as MR is at Georgia you have slim to no change of beating the Dogs. Paul Johnson is a fine coach, and a good man (so was Chan), but he won’t touch UGA in at least his first 3 seasons at Tech. (It could be a lot longer than that.) The drought in Georgia will be a distant memory and Lake Lanier will be full before Tech’s drought against Georgia ends!

By Reality

December 8, 2007 8:01 AM | Link to this

Yes Paul Johnson is a fine man and a good coach but Tech will still SUCK!! Try volley Ball!! You even SUCK in basketball now!!

By FloridaDawg

December 8, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

Good hire Tech!

They guy’s a good coach and will do you a good job. He’s smart enough to adapt his offensive system to the talent available so even the Tech naysayers are selling him short there.

Thought it’s been great fodder for Dawg fans, I hope PJ gets rid of the free pizza and coke promotional gimmicks. It really doesn’t become the school of Dodd and Alexander. Even as a Dawg fan, it was embarassing to watch.

Good luck to you. You’ve got a hell of a tradition to build on (absent the last few years) and PJ looks like the coach who can take advantage of it.

By Brad

December 8, 2007 8:14 AM | Link to this

Is this the young and energetic guy Tech said they would go after? Looks like another Chan to me; old offensive guru who cannot relate to the top athletes he will have to get. I am predicting another 7 straight for the pups.

By Roy K

December 8, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

Jeff Schultz - what an optimist. You should be writing about much deeper subjects. Get on the editorial page with the other butthead, luckovich. Where did the AJC find your butt?

By Earnest Thompson

December 8, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

For any of you wondering how well poorly UGA deals with Johnson’s offense, pull out the tape of the last time GSU went to Athens. The dawgs were so befuddled that in the third quarter the defensive linemen were literally diving into the ground intentionally in a pathetic attempt to stop the spread. Paul Johnson can take his’n and beat your’n, and will make Tech proud.

By Mike

December 8, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

Tech is going to do great under Coach Paul Johnson and this coming from a Navy grad who played for George Welsh!! He is football savvy has a great mind for the game and can recruit in Georgia.

By Navigator

December 8, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

I’ve already blog’d too much on this story, but I have one more. What separates our Administration to UGA’s, is that ours wanted a safe choice. UGA took a chance on a great offensive coordinator, and banked on him to be able to move to the HC position. Two times in a row, Tech went with a safe choice rather than gamble on youthful vigor. Like the Gailey hiring (offensive genius), we get more of the same.

By wes

December 8, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Why did the AJC and the President of Ga. Tech feel the need to comment on those not successful in obtaining the head coaching job ? I am not a Tech fan but have always thought of them as a “Class” institution…That article was callous and unnecessary…

By Brent

December 8, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Why all the concern from UGA fans…I get the feeling this hire isn’t sitting well in Athens.

By UGA

December 8, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

roof rooof roof!!!

Johnson’s gonna get bytd by the UGA Dawgs!!!

roof rooof rooof!

Bark Bark Bark!!!!

GO DAWGS!!!

By Johnson Is The MAN

December 8, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Excited about the hire? Hell Yeah!

Why? He said it in an interview…He wants to win a National Championship!! Not a division, not a conference, but the whole damn thing! Beating Georgia, he understands that it is just part of the deal and he will get it done. It (a NC) is his own personal goal and he has been waiting for an offer from a big time school where he thought he could do it. Yes I said big time school. We have 4 National Championships already. UGA…uno.

He chose Tech as much as we chose him so that he could prove he can do it! Will it be next year, probably not. His third or fourth year is going to be real interesting though.

Be afraid ACC. Be very afraid you over-rated, self inflated, crotch sniffing, Tennessee and South Carolina practice squad, whining bunch of drunken sister kissers called DAWG fans.

BTW: nascarfan, and probably most of you other UGAY fans…you’re complete football in general and Tech tradition idiots. Probably never played football in your life. Never been in the weight room. Don’t know what it’s like to sweat your a* off during August 2 a days. Stay on the bulldawg nation blogs and keep the hell off of our blogs. Most of us TECH fans haven’t been on these blogs so much, waiting for the CHAN/Reggie/Taylor nightmare to end. Well guess what…we are BACK! Wanna talk SMACK, you better buck up little girls. This TECH man is big, proud and loud.

SO NOW IT’s UP WITH THE WHITE AND GOLD DOWN WITH THE RED AND BLACK GA TECH IS OUT FOR A VICTORY WE’ll DROP OUR BATTLE AXE ON GEORGIA’S HEAD WHEN WE MEET HER, OUR TEAM IS SURE TO BEAT HER DOWN ON THE OLD FARM THERE’LL BE NO SOUND TILL OUR BOW WOWS RIP THROUGH THE AIR WHEN THE BATTLE IS OVER GEORGIA’S TEAM WILL BE FOUND WITH THE YELLOW JACKETS SWARMING ROUND

Damn that felt GOOOOOOD!!!!!!

CAN I GET A “TO HELL WITH GEORGIA!!”

“TOE MEETS LEATHER” “AMEN BROTHER” “GOLDEN TORNADO” “THE BLACK WATCH”

TRADITION IS BACK!!

I AM PUMPED!!!!!!!

By GA Tech insider

December 8, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

This article says it all:

Paul Johnson Hired by Ga. Tech: All Attitude

By Freedawg

December 8, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Great get for the jackets. Coach Johnson is great and he is bottom line a winner. He wins every where he goes and his offense will work. GT will be dangerous when he gets his players in there.

By UGA

December 8, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Bold: **GT can’t beat Georgia… with Gaily, Johnson or anybody else. Just get used to it Tech, 7 yrs in a row… and the strak will continue.

ROOF ROOF! BARK BARK! GO GEORGIA!!!

Bzzzzzzzz… flop**

By J-A-C-K-E-T

December 8, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

OH YEAH. THE TABLE TURNS. WE WILL SET A NEW WINNING STREAK OF 9 OVER UGA WITH JOHNSON AT THE CONTROLS. THIS IS BAD NEWS FOR THE MUTTS.

By Mike

December 8, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson is going to do GREAT in this environment and if you want to see what kind of environment he came from and the class act of the Naval Academy Athletic Director go to hometownannapolis.com and read the interview with the AD. Awesome. We will miss him. GA Tech does not know what you have here. This guy can coach any team in the country. Now he is getting the chance at the “big time”. He has done everything that could possibly be done at NAVY. Everything! 5 straight bowls. Number 1 rushing for three straight years. 11 consecutive wins over the other service academies (HUGE RIVALRIES). It goes on and on. I don’t blame the man for wanting to move on to bigger challenges. He WILL beat UGA of that there is no question. He KNOWS how to win and adjust. We have not done as well with BCS teams mainly because we don’t have the depth. It will be fun to watch!! Good luck coach! Go Navy/Tech

By Dante21

December 8, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

Every time I saw Chan, watched a game, attended a game, or got into a coaching discussion, there was one fact always in the back of my mind. “51-7”! Even when we were winning, beating AUB, MIA, or VA TECH, I could not let go of “51-7”. Even after enjoying the greatest of weekends in South Bend, I could not forget “51-7”

“That team laid down” was one of the many negative quotes about that 2002 game in muttville, and ex TECH players and coaches were the owners of those quotes. Our boys had just suffered the worst embarrassment in the history of the program on national television to our hated rivals. It was obvious to just about everyone who watched, that the team quit, gave up, laid down! Chan’s reaction? He had none.

It spoke volumes about things to come. It convinced me we had taken a step back. The lingering question was…”How far back”?

I compared the teams reaction to a similar drubbing one Thanksgiving weekend on “The Flats” under the direction of George O’Leary when we were receiving a similar drubbing at the hands of the mutts. We reacted a little differently toward the end of that game, the way I expected a well-coached team to react under the stress of an embarrassment.

I can now jettison that thought from my mind. I can now look toward a future with hope, with light at the end of the tunnel.

My faith has been restored.

By Ghost of Dodd

December 8, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

UGA’s worst nightmare just walked onto the GA Tech campus.

Paul will take the talent that’s already on campus and make it much, much better. All those one score games will be much different beginning next fall. The best part, apparently, is that the Bulldogs won’t see it coming.

Mr. Johnson, you made a great choice. Now go and make us all proud.

By Crazy Robert

December 8, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

Personally I hope this is a great pick, but I am concerned because last year I attended the Navy-Boston College game at the Car Quest Bowl in Charlotte.

Navy had the game in the bag. They had the ball, were driving and the clock was under two minutes in the forth quarter and for no obvious reason Navy took a time-out.

Needless to say they lost the momentum, turned the ball over & BC won. To me there were to answers as to why that happened. Either the coach is an idiot, or college football is fixed.

As for there being a fix, last year WV was ahead, and they were moving the ball as time was running out. In the last play the WV runner broke the TECH tackles & had a wide-open shot at the end=zone but time expired, and instead of doing what most football players would do by scoring another TD, the WV guy ran out of bounds and the game was over. I can’t help but wonder how that affected the spread.

Glad I don’t bet on things I have no personal control over!

By Perspective

December 8, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

I have no dog in this fight as a non-Tech, non-UGA, non-GSU fan. What I can offer is some honest perspective on Paul Johnson, who I observed from a SoCon rival school during his entire tenure at GSU. Tech has hired the premier triple option offensive mind in the country and a proven winner. IMO if he sticks to his true triple option philosophy at Tech, the Jackets can expect success, but I don’t know if we’re talking about 9-10 win seasons. Here’s why. The triple option will dazzle, confuse, and frustrate many opponents just as it did at GSU and Navy, and the play action passing game off it will make some opponents look plain silly. But while everybody is totally hung up on PJ’s offensive philoosphy (which I concur demands respect), here is the real, unspoken downside truth of total dedication to the triple option — what will running that system do for Tech’s defensive preparation? That’s right, when all you see in practice every day is a scout team offense that’s built around the triple option but tries to simulate a spread attack, just how good is that for defensive preparation? A lot of his success at Navy was due mainly to his high powered offenses…they literally could outscore folks. His defenses weren’t that impressive, and if you don’t play top drawer defense in the ACC & SEC, you aren’t going to win 8-9-10 games. PJ’s ability to convert to the spread is a must for Tech to take it up the notch it seeks IMO. I think he can do it.

By bob b

December 8, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

don’t care if he throws one time a game if he runs for 400 yds and beats everybody21-0 lets win(period)…

By minookadawg

December 9, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

CPJ hire could be great for GT. However, will highly touted WRs shy away from GT due to lack of strong passing attack? Will CJT leave the flats?

By Senator John Blutarsky

December 9, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I “interviewed” Joker Phillips and Charlie Strong…as they changed planes at Hartsfield! Jesse’s not going to be happy! Get your cameras ready!

By Fritz Pulitizer

December 9, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

Dang it…I was ready with the headline: “Joker named Tech Coach”. Would have been perfect.

By Richard Simmons

December 9, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

I am so excited, I just wet myself. When will the NC parade begin? I want a front row seat so I can see all those jocks up close. Oh, weeeee…..

By The Trophy Man

December 9, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

Coach, how many trophies will you need? Should I go ahead and engrave them? Thanks again for your order. …but, I will need CASH upfront…you know just in case you can’t use them…

By Schedule Maker

December 9, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

I suggest we add one more game to the regular season schedule so we can win 13 instead of just 12, before moving into post season, of course. Let’s play the DAWGS twice each season. Can we; can we?

By Dean Sausage

December 9, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

Shouldn’t you young men be studying instead of reading this…insightful dialogue? Lights out at 10 sharp!

By PR

December 9, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

INTERNAL COMMUNICATION; DO NOT RELEASE Rad, with us getting another new coach, I think it’s past time to get a new mascot. We’ve taken so much grief over the years for being INSECTS, PESTS, etc. I recommend we unveil a name that will be more in line with our image…FALCONS! Can we move on it?

By **Johnson Interview**

December 9, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Reporter: Coach Johnson, congratulations on being named new Head Coach at GT. Coach Johnson: Thanks. R: Will you make an effort to retain Jon Tenuta as D Coordinator? CPJ: Who? R: Jon Tenuta! CPJ: Oh, that defensive guy that tried to steal my job before I even had it? R: Yes.Will he be on your coaching staff? CPJ: Next question, please. R: Are you targeting any big time WRs to help elevate the offense? CPJ: Who needs ‘em? We’re gonna load up on tailbacks and tight ends. The flexbone is back on the flats, baby! R: Good luck with that coach. CPJ: We don’t need it. We didn’t need any luck to beat ND for the first time in 40 years. We didn’t need it to beat AF or Army. And, (long pause), we won’t need it to beat UGA. Don’t tell anyone but I’ve developed a plan to go steal their insecticide. Shhh! R: CPJ, what excites you the most about taking over at GT? CPJ: I can’t wait to build my flexbone offense around Tashard Choice. That kid is special. Heisman special! R: Uh,Coach, Tashard Choice is graduating! CPJ: D@*n! I hate this job already!!!!

By WFC

December 10, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

Good hire for lots of reasons, especially experience as a head coach.

By the way, as a former high school OC, I know from experience that an option based offense can be a great “equalizer” when there is a talent and depth differential.