Notebook: Georgia still likely for Capital One Bowl

All indications are the Bulldogs’ next game will be on Jan. 1 in Orlando in the Capital One Bowl against a Big Ten opponent . The only realistic scenario that would take Georgia elsewhere would be if the Cap One opted for 8-4 Ole Miss.

Whatever the case, Richt began some subtle politicking. “We’ll wait and see where we’re playing,” he said. “We’re looking forward to finding out where that is. The one thing I know about the Bulldog Nation is they’ll show up. We’ve already pre-sold a high amount of tickets right now and I’m sure they will continue to buy them to let these bowls know we’re serious about showing up.”

… Georgia did not bench freshman Richard Samuel after he fumbled a kickoff return that set up Tech’s second touchdown of the third quarter. “That was tough on him,” Richt said. “I’m not going to sit here … I’m just going to love the kid, you know what I mean? We all know he feels bad about it. He doesn’t need me to tell him about it. He knows that it’s important to hang onto the ball. But it came out.”

… Once again kickoffs were an issue for the Bulldogs. Twice freshman Blair Walsh kicked off out of bounds and the Yellow Jackets constantly were rewarded with good field position after Georgia scores. Richt indicated he’ll search far and wide for a new kickoff man. “We might have to go to Poland our something to find a guy that can kick it out of the end zone. I’ll give him two scholarships.” Richt said he’s “very comfortable” with Walsh handling extra points and field goals.

… The biggest ovation of the day was reserved for retired play-by-play man Larry Munson. He was carried out to the 10-yard line in a red golf cart between the first and second quarters. After a video tribute and remarks from P.A. announcer Brook Whitmire, Munson, with his chin quivering, doffed his cap to the crowd, which responded with a standing ovation.