ajcsportstalk

By DirtyDawg

January 15, 2009 9:05 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry Rashad but I can’t believe that those 76 things were actually tackles. Do yourself a favor and hang around long enough to truly learn how to ‘lock up’ and ‘put down’ a ball-carrier/receiver - not just run into him and think that’s all it’s gonna take. Face it, you ain’t no Thomas Davis. We love you brother, and we’ll miss you, but you won’t be helping yourself by bolting now.

And, by the way, those interceptions didn’t come from coverage, they came from really poorly thrown balls.

By Reshad's sister

January 15, 2009 9:07 AM | Link to this

The NFL prefers players who can tackle so I’m not sure why he’s even flirting with the idea. He needs to get much much better before taking that leap.

By Plant

January 15, 2009 9:08 AM | Link to this

Maybe he doesn’t realize the NFL scouts will have access to the film from the Georgia Yeck game.

By DunwoodyDawg

January 15, 2009 9:08 AM | Link to this

Frankly, I don’t see this as a big loss. Jones liked to body block too much for my liking. He also seemed to be out of position on several key plays. I wish him good luck on the next level.

By Bulldog Hater

January 15, 2009 9:08 AM | Link to this

If he is smart he will go. It’s not like he is gonna anything a UGA anyway. Might as well take the money run.

By Tech fan

January 15, 2009 9:09 AM | Link to this

The only game I really watched Jones’ play closely was against Tech. I had no clue about how good he was supposed to be, just watched the game. Multiple times my Tech and UGA buddies commented that he looked like a Big East safety the way he was trying to tackle. I especially noticed on a couple of Roddy Jones runs where Roddy was right on the sideline, yet Reshad not only didn’t make the tackle, he couldn’t push him out of bounds. He lightly pushed and Roddy was unphased. All I saw Reshad do was run his mouth all day, but get schooled badly all game long. A week later I see he’s 2nd-team SEC. I know the SEC has better defenses than that. This guy is an overrated, mouth-running joke. Good luck in the NFL. He’ll be worthless.

By Chris

January 15, 2009 9:09 AM | Link to this

I would focus on tackling and taking the right angles in your pursuit. Then worry about the NFL. Mr. Jones, do you remember the Tech game? You are no Eric Berry.

By Joe

January 15, 2009 9:10 AM | Link to this

Best news ever. I hope they like shoulder tackling in the NFL, because he is great at that.

By IKIA

January 15, 2009 9:10 AM | Link to this

Do you mean, “I refuse to use my arms when I tackle” Jones? I say good riddance. We have to have someome better. I bet he does not even get drafted.

By Voice of Reason

January 15, 2009 9:11 AM | Link to this

He would be crazy to leave. He hasn’t lived up to his potential yet and could only benefit with another year.

By brandon

January 15, 2009 9:13 AM | Link to this

I think that it would be a multi-million dollar mistake for him to leave UGA right now. He was barely ready for full time starting duties last season, and made plenty of mistakes.

By Bradley G

January 15, 2009 9:13 AM | Link to this

I didn’t think Stafford should have left for the NFL. He still needs to work on his decision making. If I think Stafford needs to stay, there is no way Asher Allen and Reshad Jones should leave. Asher could have raised his draft status significantly with another year. And Reshad “Can’t-wrap-em-up” Jones shouldn’t think about the NFL until after his senior year.

By RxDawg

January 15, 2009 9:15 AM | Link to this

Hmmm, Rashad is a fantastic athelete but he is not a fantastic football player. I’m quite surprised by his stats. I didn’t realize he was leading the team in so many categories. I watch every game with so much intensity and observation outsiders might think I was a coach. Time and time again I got frustrated with Rashad. There is a reason he is the starter so I still would like for him to play, but I have seen so many missed tackles, asingments, and late hits from him specificly that I really don’t think we would drop off a whole lot whatever decision he makes. If we get another saftey thats a step slower on the field, but a step faster in the head then so be it. I guess he just rubed me the wrong way this year. This is coming from someone who really thought he would break out into a star this year too. Either way, best of luck to whatever you do Rashad. It’s funny, I saw on CNN this am that there is a new trend of college football players sticking around and finishing up their education…. Not at UGA =/ Maybe we need some more blue collar players, who knows. We’ll keep chuging along and we will compete year in, year out. Go Dawgs

By Jeff Head

January 15, 2009 9:15 AM | Link to this

PLEASE GO TO NFL! TERRIBLE TACKLER, ALWAYS OUT OF POSITION! WE ARE BETTER OFF WITH A LESSER TALENT WHO USES HIS ARMS TO TACKLE AND STAYS IN THE PROPER PLACE WITHIN OUR DEFENSIVE SCHEME! HE WILL NEVER MAKE AN NFL ROSTER- BOOK IT!

By B. P.

January 15, 2009 9:15 AM | Link to this

I’d stick around for another year and try and hone those tackling and cover skills if you want to be anything other than a mediocre special teams player.

By gratefuldawghead

January 15, 2009 9:17 AM | Link to this

I will be glad when today is over with and we will know who Wants to be DAWGS in 09! I can’t help but think about Notre Dame’s Darius Walker from Georgia. He declared for the draft and wasn’t picked. He is now struggling on Houston’s practice squad. Then there is my new favorite from FSU Rolle. He is putting off the NFL to go to school at Oxford with his Rhodes Scolarship. He can play in the NFL next year.

By Texas Dawg

January 15, 2009 9:19 AM | Link to this

OU QB is staying put…would have recieved some 48 million…reason he stated he is comming back…he wants to help his TEAM win it all. This is the same with Colt at Texas…Tebow at Fla…the RB at LSU stated the reason he is returning is to show Senior leadership!!

Allen, Jones and Stafford will not have NFL careers..they will flop. All three would have helped themselves by staying. I think it says alot about them that they win nothing…not even the East…Ga was just a place for them to polish skills until draft time…Give me guys that TEAM comes first…GOOD BYE I SAY…AND DON”t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya you greedy little b*******….TEAM FIRST!

By Kdizzle

January 15, 2009 9:20 AM | Link to this

Bottom line is MONEY TALKS to these young kids as it is, and now that the NFL will be limiting what rookies can make coming out after next year, these kids are GONE…There is NO WAY that Rashad got feedback saying he is a top 3 round pick…After round 3 the money drops a tremendous amount! He would only be hurting himself if he goes in my opinion. If the kid LOVES to PLAY football he will stay and be a STANDOUT as a redshirt Junior next season, get better, stronger and THEN peace out next year. Otherwise he will be a guard and tackle in the NFL…GUARDING the water bottles and TACKLING anyone that comes near them, or should i say PUSHING…

By Scott

January 15, 2009 9:21 AM | Link to this

As for how it would affect UGA…the team would certainly have fewer penalties and more tackles.

By Fletch

January 15, 2009 9:22 AM | Link to this

Hey bulldog hater…I wonder if you go to tech…calculus major I’m guessing….HA!

By DC Dawg

January 15, 2009 9:24 AM | Link to this

Let’s all just pray that “Rashad” gets out of Athens. He’s a disgrace—a regular thug. He can’t even tackle. No NFL team is going to draft this ego, so get this attitude off the field at Sanford Stadium! Good riddance!!! Jones’ attitude is indicative of a much bigger problem with the Dawgs. There’s no spirit of team or to be true to your school and get a degree. Another indicator is lack of focus, excessive penalties (especially personal fouls and unsportsmanlike conduct), and sloppy play that does not focus on the fundamentals of football. This is attributable to the environment set by the coaches whose responsibility it is to develop, coach, and mentor these young men. The values that Stafford, Moreno, Allen, and now Jones display with their actions indicate that something very serious is wrong with the Georgia Bulldog football team.

By Bob

January 15, 2009 9:24 AM | Link to this

I agree with Bulldog hater. Might as well take the money run. I really like taking the money run.

By bill

January 15, 2009 9:27 AM | Link to this

He is absolutely NOT ready for the NFL and as a UGA fan I have mixed feelings on the subject.

I suspect he would improve his game if he stayed and therefore he may help the Dawgs in 2009 (and 2010). On the other hand it’s painful at times to watch him take bad angles or simply miss tackles. Maybe the next guy in line will turn out to be a Sean Jones or Thomas Davis.

As a Falcons fan, knowing we need help at safety, I wouldn’t waste a pick on him at this point.

I might try Asher in about the 4th or 5th round, but he is making a huge mistake by going early as he could have moved up considerably next year with a solid season.

By Go Hawks

January 15, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this

No offense to Reshad Jones but this is a TERRIBLE decision for him and a great decision for UGA.

Just look at film of how many tackles he missed against Georgia Tech. Like basic fundamental stuff you teach pop warner kids. He tried to shoulder bump that Tech RB out of bounds and didn’t even push him a foot and the guy ran another 60 yards.

He missed about 5 tackles that ended up going for like 200 yards and 3 TDs.

He needs to learn how to tackle.

By Do us a favor

January 15, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this

Please go!! I just hope the Falcons don’t waste a pick on you.

By OldDawg

January 15, 2009 9:30 AM | Link to this

If he thinks he can play in the NFL he is insane. So we don’t need him either. He will never get drafted.

By RxDawg

January 15, 2009 9:32 AM | Link to this

Interesting comments. There seems to be a common theme. Amazing we all actualy agree on something for a change =)

By Forrest Gump

January 15, 2009 9:33 AM | Link to this

Jones made most of his tackles 20 or more yards downfield and then did a celebration dance. He won’t go very high in the draft. His best chance for the NFL will be as a walk on with Oakland.

By DawgFan #1

January 15, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

I hope Mark Richt targets a better class of player for his future recruiting class than he has recently. Stafford, Moreno, Allen and Jones show that they have no depth of quality or class. It is now obvious why this season was a big disappointment. The players themselves are to blame because they had no guts or dedication to the team. Recruit classy players that put the team before themselves from now on.

By arman

January 15, 2009 9:37 AM | Link to this

Can’t tackle.

By bjohnDawg

January 15, 2009 9:39 AM | Link to this

I have no hatred for R. Jones…as it seems some on this board do.

If he applies for the draft, I wish him well. But IMHO…he is not ready.

Needs to work on his tackling. Needs to work on his positioning. Out of position a number of times last year. Needs to work on conditioning.FACT: if you dont tackle or slobber knock runners in the NFl, you dont play. They will find people that do.

My guess, low round pick or undrafted and ends up on the practice squad.

But if he says at UGA, his needs to have his heart in it. If not, then by all means roll the NFL dice.

By Dawg Fud

January 15, 2009 9:40 AM | Link to this

DawgFan #1 - who are you to judge someone’s class?

this is a business decision. don’t throw insults because these guys did not live up to your expectations. they don’t play for you and you don’t put food on their table. get a grip, man.

good luck to all the guys leaving UGA.

with that being said, if i were reshad i would stay one year and guarantee my first round status.

By Joel In ATL

January 15, 2009 9:43 AM | Link to this

I wish him the best but from the outside looking in I don’t see him making a real impact at the next level. His attitude can be called into question and I think he is a little more bigheaded than he should be especially after being redshirted. Best wishes!!!

DC Dawg I have to beg the differ with you on calling out Moreno, Stafford and Allen. Of these three I can only “second guess” Asher Allen, but as far as Stafford and Moreno especially Stafford, these guys didn’t come to UGA to be loyal. As a fan/booster/alumni it’s easy for you to be loyal because it’s not your decesion. Staff and Knowshown are not from Georgia they have no roots here, they came to UGA because UGA is the fast track and NFL breeding stomping grounds. Please look at that way. If your real you’ll be excited about Joe Cox and crew. Nothing wrong with the Bulldog program, they are turning out high level NFL prospects and that’s what it’s all about, and given that a player can get his degree is 3 1/2 years now the chances increase that more guys will leave. Don’t hate the players, hate the game. I’m glad for all of them with maybe and exception to Rashad Jones.

By TW

January 15, 2009 9:45 AM | Link to this

The ‘nice’ thing, I guess, about having a below average SEC DC is that we’re never going to be good enough to miss anybody.

Geez.

By SEC Football

January 15, 2009 9:49 AM | Link to this

I cannot believe he is even considering it. He was not even first team SEC. I agree with what a lot of others said. He missed way to many tackles. Needs to stay in school and improve. Not sure if grades are an issue with him or not?

By QuePsiPhi

January 15, 2009 9:52 AM | Link to this

Reshad is another example of glorifying these kids before they play a down. This kid was the #1 safety in America coming out of Washington High. I think everybody will agree that he is not even the best safety in Athens. All i can figure is the guy is tired of sitting in classes and doing Mat Drills and wants to give the NFL a shot. Terrible decision if he goes but its his career, have fun with the free agent circuit, that league minimum must be looking nice

By the real OLD GOLD

January 15, 2009 9:55 AM | Link to this

yawn….

By benadawg

January 15, 2009 9:58 AM | Link to this

2nd leading tackler on a team with no defensive talent, damn we were worse than i realized.

By CHARLOTTE DAWG

January 15, 2009 9:59 AM | Link to this

I think the program is in a sad state right now. All across the country, other teams have eligible players coming back to give leadership and help their team win. Unfortunately, Georgia doesn’t have players like this. And players like R. Jones don’t win championships.

I think we are better off without R. Jones but I feel all these guys are jumping from a sinking ship. There are bad times ahead for UGA. Mark Richt might not be in Athens in a few years.

We are just recruiting the wrong players. And you can’t turn around something like this overnight. It will take some time and time is not what UGA fans want to give, including myself. I want a championship in my lifetime. I’ll never get it with Richt!!

I think we are back to the Donnan days folks! Feel free to disagree.

By Kendawg

January 15, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

I for one am happy to see Joe Cox finally get his chance to play QB. If I remember correctly, we didn’t even win the East during Stafford’s tenure. At least we know from Cox’s past that he is a big winner. Maybe that will auger well for the Dawgs. As far as Mr. Jones leaving, surprisingly many bloggers have already pointed out that he missed many tackles during the season and was frequently out of position against Tech. Perhaps we can find a safety who is interested in playing safety the correct way and not in prepping for the NFL. Personally I think Reshad will be lucky to make a practice squad as a free agent.

By johndawg

January 15, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

Good bye Reshad … Go back and watch video of the GT game. He is responsible for at least 20+ points and over 100yds by not staying home, not tackling and not playing disciplined football. You’ll make a wonder practice squad player for the Seahawks…

By dog watch

January 15, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this

What defense?

By Zeb

January 15, 2009 10:05 AM | Link to this

Reshad’s got about as much chance in the NFL as I do of taking the bronze in female gymnastics!

By CM

January 15, 2009 10:06 AM | Link to this

See Ya

By chris

January 15, 2009 10:06 AM | Link to this

PLEASE GO!!! With his departure, two area would instantly inprove: TACKLING & LESS PENALTIES!! PLEASE GO!!!

By Reagan

January 15, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this

R. Jones was the biggest disappointment of the year. He was terrible on D and how many times did he let the big plays get by?? I think the only player we will miss is Knowshon and Allen. The rest can go and UGA will be better off.

By Reagan

January 15, 2009 10:09 AM | Link to this

R. Jones was the biggest disappointment of the year. He was terrible on D and how many times did he let the big plays get by?? I think the only player we will miss is Knowshon and Allen. The rest can go and UGA will be better off.

By jarvis

January 15, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

He won’t be a bust in the NFL. How can you possibly classify an undrafted free-agent as a bust?

By Up Dawg

January 15, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

I hope he does go. Why do we need someone who can’t tackle or cover receivers? I definitely won’t miss all those personal fouls either.

The entire defense is suspect. Richt doesn’t seem to be capable of getting the job done, and I can’t accept losing to Florida every year.

Meyer is building a dyansty and we’re gonna keep playing 2nd fiddle….if we’re lucky.

By chris

January 15, 2009 10:19 AM | Link to this

CHARLOTTE DAWG - you are correct. Richt is a decent coach, but he doesn’t have what it takes to get Georgia to the next level. We have been 1 game away from having a chance to play for the National Championship in four different seasons (02 FLA, 03 LSU (in Baton Rouge & SEC Champ game), 07 S Carolina & UT, & in 08 FLA), & in each game Georgia lost. Richt is decent, but he’s no Urban Meyer, Bob Stoopes or Mack Brown.

He is to soft hearted on his players & his coaches. I mean we ran Donnan out of here because he couldn’t control the actions of the players. If you look at the arrest record over the last couple of years & combine that with the total lack of discipline on this years team, we are bac to the Donnan years (except we do occasionally beat a rival)!

Be

By RxDawg

January 15, 2009 10:23 AM | Link to this

Reagan, I agree with you about how we will really miss Knowshon and Allen.

By st simons

January 15, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

45 to 42 ! hahahahahahaha

By BigBird

January 15, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this

Bradford returning to help OU…where are the players that want to help UGA…? So long guys…and get your check books ready to donate back to the place that made it possible. And 5 interceptions…? Don’t remember 1 where he broke on the ball and made a play. Let’s move on…

By TNJeff

January 15, 2009 10:26 AM | Link to this

Does he need help packing?

By Tom

January 15, 2009 10:26 AM | Link to this

WHAT DEFENSE? WITH THE DEFENSIVE COACH THEY HAVE, GEORGIA WILL NEVER HAVE A DEFENSE.

By dbc

January 15, 2009 10:29 AM | Link to this

I hope the entire secondary goes pro. They ran their mouths and then stunk up the field. Let’s start fresh with TEAM guys who want to play for a championship. A year or two from now you’ll be reading about these guys in the police blotter after their pro careers went belly-up.

By RxDawg

January 15, 2009 10:30 AM | Link to this

Chris: “Richt is no …Bob Stoopes or Mack Brown” Dude, do you realize how easy the Big 12 is? The only people Stoopes and Brown have to go through is each other. Richt is a way better coach then those 2, they just have an easier route. You said it yourself. We were just 1 game from playing in the NC game 4 year……4 DIFFERENT YEARS! Luck will eventualy bounce our way. I mean with the aweful system we have right now, what was the difference in all those years vs. the other teams that were actualy allowed to play in the game by vote. The system sucks but don’t talk or think about getting rid of a great coach because of our bad stroke of luck with it. We are very, VERY competitive almost every year. This is year was because of players, and it’s begining to show why.

By IceDawg

January 15, 2009 10:31 AM | Link to this

You’ve got to be kidding. The way the UGA secondary played in 2008 was less than stellar. Tackling, what tackling? Turnovers, what turnovers? Allen and Jones NFL caliber? I think they have more to prove. Well I guess it is inevitable, it won’t be long before the NFL will be recruiting at the Jr. High level, who knows they’re probably doing it right now. All of this will only lower the quality of play in the NFL. Pretty sad.

By TimTee

January 15, 2009 10:33 AM | Link to this

Maybe he can get a job with Detroit Tigers………..NAH.

By ?????

January 15, 2009 10:33 AM | Link to this

Hell, im going to the NFL! Where do I sign up? Is this a joke? Whos next, Caleb King? Damn players dont have any more sense than the fans!!

By MoDawg (a.k.a. 256-160)

January 15, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

Him leaving frees up another scholly for someone else. Reshad appeared to be one of only a few options we had at the safety position, due to inexperience and injuries. He came in with so much promise, but never realized his potential. Some team will pick him up and put him on a scout team as a tackling “dummy”. Best wishes, Reshad. I, for one had him pegged for a breakthrough season this year, but the only thing to breakthrough were the Tech running backs breaking through his shoulder tackling and other teams’ receivers around his poor angles.

Q. Banks will do nicely in his place and should bring back the “fear factor” teams had when Blue and Davis roamed the secondary.

By TW

January 15, 2009 10:35 AM | Link to this

Reagan - Jones is no different than any of the other defensive recruits - came to Athens to learn how to play and got nothing but the weight room.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

January 15, 2009 10:42 AM | Link to this

All season long we raised the notion of the lack of leadership on this team. It has become apparent that this is continuing into the offseason. This offseason the players should have been disgusted with the outcome of the season and yet you see so many jumping ship. This is not a good time for the Dawgs.

CMR is unfortunately coming to a crossroads at his tenure in Athens. Something has got to give with these guys jumping to the NFL, while other higher profile players are coming back to help win a National Title.

Unbelievable that this is where the program is at.

By UGA CLass of 81

January 15, 2009 10:44 AM | Link to this

It was comical watching all the UGA players talking trash when they played the “cupcakes” on their schedule…and then watch them run for cover after the Bama/Florda/GTgame. CMR needs to take care of business during the off season. I can’t recall any other team where the players were acting like a “circus freak show” on the sidelines. CMR needs to remove his headset every once in a while and chew some a@@. UGA humiliated on national TV on several occasions this year. However, I’m sure UGA wll lead the nation in arrests and personal fouls on 2009.

By tjs

January 15, 2009 10:45 AM | Link to this

Like Moreno and Stafford considered why play for UGA , get hurt and have a dubious future? Go on the marketplace, if your value is worthwhile be rewarded financially. If you really want a degree, you always obtain that in the off-season…I say GO-GO-GO !

By cambone43

January 15, 2009 10:46 AM | Link to this

Reshad needs to stay to develop more skills. He’s done well for us, and despite a bad game against the nerds, he’s only human. He represents the “G” well and would be fit for him to return. Will be nice to have Reshad and Q. Banks in the same secondary next season! WOOF!

By josh

January 15, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

I’ve wondered all year…Did the coaches just not get into Jones’ stuff for not freakin wrapping up on tackles. All year I saw missed tackles and it would seem to me that the coaches would eventually put a fire up his @$$….or maybe he never listened. if he gets drafted, hopefully the nfl coaches will fix that real quick like.

By Logan

January 15, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

I laughed out loud when i read this. If he wants to go, fine. I am sure we have some upcoming true freshman that understands that you tackle with your arms. In the NFL, I would love to see the likes of Michael Turner running right at him in an open field. POW!!!!…..Touchdown!!!!!

By Reality Check

January 15, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

Reshad, good luck trying to cover/arm tackle T.O., Moss, Roddy White, Ocho Cinco, etc!!!

By please go

January 15, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure how much Rashad and Asher will benefit from going to the NFL this year, but the Dawgs will certainly be better off.

By ATLfan

January 15, 2009 11:55 AM | Link to this

please please please please GOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

By ugapip

January 15, 2009 11:58 AM | Link to this

Bye! I just pray that the Falcons don’t draft you.

By over it

January 15, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

Lets be honest with ourselves here Reality Check, he’s not covering/arm tackling those guys, if he’s lucky enough to hang on somewhere, he’ll be getting the T.O’s, Moss’s and Ocho Cinco’s of the NFL coffee and doughnuts. Bad move Reshad, you may be a physical specimen, but that didn’t stop the tech-ers from going for 400 on him. And yes I understand there are 11 men on D, but all I can remember is him chasing the ball down the sideline after his horrible angle gave up the edge. Hey Reshad, Danny Ware thinks this is a horrible decision! Come on man, you’re not a 1st or 2nd rounder, you’re a “lucky to be picked” rounder. Should’ve stayed put man, I just don’t get it!?

By rvadawg

January 15, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

hope the recruiting class this year actually lives up to their potential. we’ve got some work to do. losing a starting CB, FS, SS, MLB, DE, DT along with QB, RB, WR, FB, and technically TE (although Chandler didnt actually catch any passes the last couple games). we’ve gotta have some players step up next year BIG TIME

By ChattaDawg

January 15, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

Good Riddance…Be sure to use that “Shoulder Technique” on the way out!

By Alpharetta Dawg

January 15, 2009 12:14 PM | Link to this

Please…please…pretty please go to the NFL…this is a classic case of addition by subtraction! By this time next year he will be driving a delivery truck.

By JaxDawg

January 15, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

I think Reshad and Asher received some poor advice. Asher is projected AT BEST a mid/late 3rd rounder. Reshad could end up like Clemons a few years ago and not even get drafted! I wish both the best as I would any Dawg, and sometimes it’s better for the team for guys like this to leave, as many times when they come back to increase their draft status they play tight and not to get hurt (See Q.Moses). Hopefully this news puts us in better position to land Greg Reid. With the departure of these two, there’s all kinds of opportunity. Our healthy D-line will hopefully put enough pressure on qb’s early while some of the young secondary players cut their teeth. Sounds like Richt may have addressed the team and told these guys that if there’s anyone who can’t give 100% and be fully committed should leave. I agree with an earlier post, give me a team full of 3 star players with chips on their shoulder than a bunch of 5 stars who feel they’ve “arrived” simply because they are rated 5 stars. Again we have a ton of talent that either missed all or part of last season due to redshirting and/or injury. Those injuries in 08 will lead to depth and greater competition for playing time this year. If you look at the roster, other than J.Owens, G.Atkins, R.Curran, AJ Green, T.Sturdivant, C.Boling, S.Chapas, and maybe J.Cox and P.Miller—no one’s job is safe. Every other position will enter spring with legitamate competition for the job, and we’ve brought in a couple pretty good classes the last couple of years and look to be doing the same this year. Should be an exciting spring to see who emerges. I predict there may even be some players who started signifigant time in 08 that may find themselves having to fight and claw to hold onto a 2nd string position. Don’t belive me? Check out the bios/film of the redshirts from last year. GO DAWGS!

By UGA

January 15, 2009 12:25 PM | Link to this

I am ready to restructure the Georgia Football Program. CMR needs to take a long, hard look at himself and his Coaches. I am not sure that we are recruiting correctly either. A lot of things just don’t work out. We are certainly not recruiting on the same level as FL & about 10 more National Programs. I don’t care what the recruiting services say. Things are right if you want 10 wins a year. That is something that GA Tech will never have with PJ on a consistant basis. But, I think we are looking for more at GA. The money is there, & I think we have some great pieces of a Program. Problem is, the pieces don’t fit. I am afraid that GA & GA Tech will have similar win records each year, with GA winninga few more against stiffer competition and probably taking Tech very seriously from now on.

By wp

January 15, 2009 12:44 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry but two of the DAWGS going pro will most likely be trying to find a team to take them after the draft is over. Guess which two.

By Einstein

January 15, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

Personally, I could care less if he stays or goes, although I don’t feel he is ready for the NFL. If he is drafted, then it will be interesting that he was selected based on size and potential, not past performance. And, it was this potential that had Rivals, Scout, and all the other recruiting services rating him a “can’t miss”, 5-star. Same with Asher Allen, CJ Byrd, and to some extent, Brian Evans. What if CWM and staff were not able to coach them up…just a thought. Peace.

By DawgMan09

January 15, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

Richt needs to stop recruiting all these “me first” players and get players who want to play at UGA all 4 years. Allen and Jones will probably not even make an nfl team, and they are hurting UGA by leaving early. Richt needs to put a stop to all this now!

By SC DAWG

January 15, 2009 1:09 PM | Link to this

He’s not even close to ready for the NFL, especially the way he palyed this year. He’s the worst safety UGA has had in a lot of years. I for one hope he hits the road along with Martinez!

By pdawg

January 15, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

Brandon Spikes is going back for his senior year…citing his friendship with Tebow as one of the reasons…hmmm. Man the gators really make me jealous….first they have this coach who is hungry for championships and is winning and probably will win again next year, second Tebow…..third a defense made up of sophomores and freshmen predominantly and LOYALTY….these kids just seem to love the program. What is going on at Ga.? Is all we want a 10 win season??????? Now to be able to win the east and have a chance to play for the national championship we would have to beat florida and now ga. tech (with their tripple option…why couldnt we stop it after having two weeks to prepare for it….why was LSU so successfull??????) . We dont even have kids who love the program…maybe they really dont see a chance of us winning with the kind of coaching going on and with florida this dominant. I am tired of hearing about 10 win seasons as if you get a championship for that

By Rob

January 15, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t know where Jones is projected to be drafted but I think he’s making a huge mistake if he declares for the NFL. He’s only been a 1 year starter and there is so much left for him to learn. If he does go, wish him well as he takes this step in his life.

By pdawg

January 15, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

Brandon Spikes is going back for his senior year…citing his friendship with Tebow as one of the reasons…hmmm. Man the gators really make me jealous….first they have this coach who is hungry for championships and is winning and probably will win again next year, second Tebow…..third a defense made up of sophomores and freshmen predominantly and LOYALTY….these kids just seem to love the program. What is going on at Ga.? Is all we want a 10 win season??????? Now to be able to win the east and have a chance to play for the national championship we would have to beat florida and now ga. tech (with their tripple option…why couldnt we stop it after having two weeks to prepare for it….why was LSU so successfull??????) . We dont even have kids who love the program…maybe they really dont see a chance of us winning with the kind of coaching going on and with florida this dominant. I am tired of hearing about 10 win seasons as if you get a championship for that

By Joey

January 15, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

Just read where UF linebacker Spikes is returning next year as well as all of OU underclassmen. Also Tebow, Bradford… They all “feel loyal to their University”, or want to “compete for another championship”, “set a good example”, etc. Our (UGA) juiors and sophomores are leaving as fast as they can get out of town. And we wonder why this bunch is not competing for championships with UF and OH? It seems they have “team” players; we have “me” players.

By 2N4YEARS

January 15, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this

Do us all a favor & declare for the draft.

By Coach Smith

January 15, 2009 1:46 PM | Link to this

This kid is NOT READY…niether is ASHER (good against the run cornerbacks are not usually top priority)

JONES was nearly benched before the SCarolina game and didn’t show up in that game until the end…

He is a redshirt sophomore and he needs to stay but it wouldn’t be a big loss if he left

By raymond

January 15, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

Rashad you and Asher Allen need to return to UGA for another season. I think sometimes you see big recruits out of high school feel like they have failed if they are not NFL ready stars after three year and their ego takes over. Don’t let the temptation get the best of you and while you are at it go talk Asher out of making the same mistake.

By BR

January 15, 2009 2:15 PM | Link to this

After all the missed tackles Reshad had this year, and all the personal fouls, I can’t say I’ll miss him terribly. He didn’t seem to want to be at UGA like Asher Allen and Rennie Curran.

By Will

January 15, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

I can’t understand why Brandon Spikes is NOT going pro? He was the best defensive player in CF last season.

I had a glimmer of hope for next seasons “Worlds Largest Waste of Time and Money Cocktail Party Game”, but now I have none.

By Pledges For Nothing

January 15, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

The question is not why these kids are declaring early, BUT why they ever come here in the first place. They see a Botox Boy who still resembles the Boca Boy of his youth. He has all the natural toughness of a swallow and all the motivational skills of Stewie from Family Guy. We will not win ANYTHING of substance with this punk as coach. I sincerely hope he goes on one of his missionairy trips like Tebow, BUT I hope he assumes a “Missionairy Position” that he really likes and stays. What would we expect of a Bobby Bowden “disciple”?/ Look at Bowden’s collection of cretin offspring and just shake your head in abject disgust. Well, at least it is the typical SEC garbage next year, so they go at least 6-2 in the conference, beat the 2 pansies we will play, and split against Tech and Oklahoma State and with 9 wins we get to hear “Can’t fire Richt he goes 9-3”. Sorry, Meant to say 10-3 with a win over a Big 10 stiff in the Also Ran Bowl.

By No Name

January 15, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

Ashy Allen is going to have a hard enough time getting drafted. Jones will be lucky to end up in Canada.

By KYLE

January 15, 2009 2:45 PM | Link to this

Reshad and Asher were our best defensive backs last year and it would kill us to lose both in one offseason. There is no doubt that Reshad could play better. They all could stand to play better on defense. He is still a good player and we need him. If he wants to get his now then that is fine and I will wish him luck. GO DAWGS!

By KYLE

January 15, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

Asher Allen is NFL ready and it was apparent by the way that quarterbacks avoided him. I just wish he had not delcared. He is a real student of the game that loves to do things right. This along with his athletic ability will allow him to succeed. Good luck Asher!

By Travis

January 15, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

With the loss of so much in the secondary already it would be nice to have him back, and would really help him as well if he learned to play the game and wrap up on plays!

By Nate

January 15, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

hahahahaha you must be kidding me…

I wonder how many of those “tackles” were Reshad bumping someone on the sideline and them falling out of bounds ten yards later from losing their balance.

And interceptions are good in any form they come. It just seems to me thought that Reshad’s all came in meaningless points in the game and they were mostly all just badly overthrown balls where Reshad was waiting way behind the play. Maybe he should switch sports and play center field instead.

By K-DAWG

January 15, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

Man, who are these kids listening to, thinking they are ready for the NFL. Reshard, you need to stay another 2 years, I know if you are thinking about going this year and don’t, you will definitely be going next year. All UGA players and DAWG NATION, look around and wonder why there are more Ga. players leaving this year, coaching ? not enjoying the college life ? academically ineligible ? kind of makes you wonder, are they happy at UGA after a couple of years.

By dawgstheone

January 15, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know when Jones’ press conference is scheduled to announce his plans to go to the NFL? Will it be televised?

By gratefuldawghead

January 15, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

MSN.com has a list of the early classman going pro intitled “Did they make the right call”. Good write ups on Moreno and Stafford but Allen and Jones aren’t even listed among the 40 they have! Makes you wonder.

By Resevoir Dawg

January 15, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

Anytime a marginal player decides to leave early, I always look for the underlying reason. Perhaps Rashaad is having academic struggles, or maybe his family is struggling financially and he thinks he needs to help out. Maybe some agent is filling his head with big dreams. The fact that he has done an about face so suddenly may mean there is some motivation that’s not clear to the public. I wish him well if he goes, but maybe one of those young hotshots will get a chance to shine.

By MoDawg (a.k.a. 256-160)

January 15, 2009 4:10 PM | Link to this

I just got word that he is NOT going pro.

Hopefully there will be some serious competition at the safety position next season and we can get someone like Q. Banks who loves to hit people back there and someone on the other side to be a ball hawk. If Reshad wins the battle outright, so be it.

In any event, GO DAWGS!!

By reebok

January 15, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

Probably in trouble academically and needs an escape route.

By Oledawg

January 15, 2009 4:25 PM | Link to this

K-dawg- You are hitting close to the heart of what we all have begun to wonder. I had a nice blog, but lost it before posting, read the latest postings and you are asking some of the questions that we need to face and ask if we can help.

By willie

January 15, 2009 4:28 PM | Link to this

Its ablut money not education and team spirit. Wake up people. I would take the money and tell MARTINEZ good luck. UGA needs defensive players who can play without much coaching to be successful. That makes it sad to see good players leave but I can not blame them.

By Knowshon Hauls

January 15, 2009 4:34 PM | Link to this

I hope he goes. He’s terrible.

By JaxDawg

January 15, 2009 4:53 PM | Link to this

Living here in Jacksonville, FL and seeing/hearing about UF more than I would care to, there are some subtle but distinct differences between us and them.

Coaching: Meyer’s philosophy is a very “Art of War” type. Whenever he goes up against an opponent he doesn’t just coach to win, he coaches to completely crush them. Some will say this is classless, but if you humiliate and destroy your opponent completely then it’s in their heads the next time you have to face them. How many Dawg Fans are ready to give the gators the win this year because of all the players we lost and the ones they have comming back? Now ask yourself how much 49-10 has to do with it as well. They also attack, attack, attack, whether it’s on offense or defense. Our coaches on the other hand, tend to coach more conservatively. Bend don’t break defense, eat the clock with slower run drives even if it’s not going to result in a score many times with the most modest of leads. They seem content simply with a win and not style points. This is why in recent years we’ve gotten such good games from the likes of Vandy, Kentucky, Ole Miss, Miss ST, and even the UAB’s and Troy’s of the world. They’ve played close enough to us that they feel like they can play with us and win and have occasionally started to. They don’t fear us. Florida has had the same problem with Ole Miss for whatever reason,who beat them this year, coincidence?

Player philosophy: Florida seems to have little fear of placing pressure on younger players and not only putting them in position to make big plays, but EXPECTING them to. You can tell they trust their players in big time situations simply by many of the plays they call. They also have no fear of messing with a kid’s head by benching them if they make a poor play. UGA on the other hand, seems to coddle players more, much quicker to redshirt for fear of not putting too much on a younger guy (we’ve heard this said before) Playing bend don’t break because of fear of getting beat by the big play. Running the clock out with the slimest of leads, for fear of turing the ball over while trying to score. I know I’m going to catch some grief for this one, but sometimes the truth hurts: More Passionate Fans: yes I said it, and no I’m not a gator in desguise, I was born in Athens, at St.Mary’s Hospital on Baxter and I am a lifelong Dawg, but this is the truth. They have a home field advantage at the Swamp, and opponents can’t hear themselves think in that place, you hear analysts talk about it all the time. I don’t think too many teams/coaches really worry about coming to play between the hedges. I know we as Dawg fans would like to think so, but really ask yourself, when is the last time that stadium was so loud you couldn’t hear yourself think or it felt like it was going to come crumbling down because it was shaking so much? I remember games in the 80’s against rival opponents where it was absolutely nuts!! Don’t believe me watch the fans and listen to the background noise on UGA and UF game playbacks, there is a difference. I’ve even spoken to band members who are frustrated because they are only allowed to play a very limited music selection, where other bands are playing a variety of music to fire up players and fans. Who knows why Asher and Reshad decided to leave it could be ego, it could be fear of injury, or it could be out of frustration in being stuck in a defense that doesn’t allow them to play aggressively and show what they are truly capable of. I don’t think UGA and UF are that far apart, but those subtle differences are making a world of difference. They have a culture over there that right now appears to be lacking at UGA. Why is it even after winning a NC Tebow, Harvin, and Spikes all decided to return, while Stafford, Moreno, Asher, and Reshad are bolting for the NFL having accomplished so little? Culture. We need to bring the Junkyard Dawg mentality back on defense and attack and be the ones to dictate to oposing offenses what we are going let them do and not allow them to come in and run their game plan business as usual. On offense we should treat every possesion as if it’s a game winning drive and expect to score TDs everytime we touch the ball whether we’re winning by 4 or 40. Our goal should be to have opponents put away by no later than the midway point of the 4th qtr and allow our reserves a chance to get valuable game experience for when its their turn to start in the future. The more we score in a game the more reps we get and the better the team becomes. This also allows the defense to play more aggressively. If you’re up by 30 getting beat once by a big play doesn’t hurt like it does if you’re only up by 10. The blowout games breed confidence and swagger, so when we do play the UF’s and Bama’s of the world we’re ready. Also if the starters are only playing 3.5 qtrs a game then they will be more rested as the season wears on. We shouldn’t have to scratch and claw every single week for a victory, and definitely not against lesser competition. As fans our goal should be to make coming to play between the hedges absolutely dreadful for opponents. We’ll know we’ve arrived when analysts start talking about how tough it is to play there. In my opinon these are the subtle differences between the two programs and why UF just won it’s 2nd NC in 3yrs and we’re still just a solid 10 win a year program. These are the things that have to change at UGA to get to the next level. We’re a lot closer than many may think, and who knows maybe these are some of the things Richt and the staff are looking at changing. As for how close we are, consider this : in the Mark Richt era at UGA only USC has more wins during that span. GO DAWGS!!

By DawgGirl32

January 15, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this

Jones is staying. I hope this means he’s FULLY committed to being a Bulldog.

By DawgGirl32

January 15, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

I think Reshad just wanted to scare us all a little bit with that “I’m leaving” threat and I don’t think it worked haha.

By 407 Dawg

January 15, 2009 6:03 PM | Link to this

JaxDawg I agree with you 100%. I live in Orlando and I know exactly what you pointing to. First and I hate to say it to, they have more passionate fans. My wife and other members of my family are all UF grads and I have been to the Swamp and I have only seen the type of emotionally charged crowds I saw in Gainesville at best 2 or 3 times in Athens. It doesn’t matter if they are playing LSU or FAMU you can’t find one empty seat in the stadium. I can remember just last year I went to see Georgia play Troy and I saw plenty of empty seats. I also agree that teams don’t fear us the way they fear Florida. I guarantee you if we hung 60 points on some of these teams we play on regular basis it does breed a confidence in your team. To me it seems like we have no swagger or confindence at all in certain games. I get so tired of hearing the excuses of us coming out “flat”. Why is that? Coaching? Players not living up to potential? I think it is a combination of both but it does say something about your program when you have sure fire first round draft pick like Brandon Spikes coming back and we have guys bolting out of town as fast as they possibly can.

By RxDawg

January 15, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this

Great post JaxDawg, kudos

By WOW!

January 15, 2009 6:25 PM | Link to this

Look at how vicious you kids were when you all thought he was leaving. Holy crap. Stafford and Moreno weren’t even out the door before some of you were stabbing them in the back, and this kid NEVER left. You guys should be embarrassed with yourselves. Look at how you reacted over a young mans NON-decision to try and better his life, and go to the NFL. This thread is proof that uga has the worst fans.