There’s too much comfort, too little accountability, at Georgia
Mark Richt needs to realize that the Georgia program can't survive on autopilot any longer. (Brant Sanderlin/bsanderlin@AJC.com)
ATHENS — Smart coaches don’t go to sleep one night and wake up the next morning dumb. They don’t suddenly design bad plays, or create bad game plans, or recruit bad players.
They don’t suddenly forget how to prepare and motivate a group of young men (even if at times seemingly way too much energy is being spent worrying about the color of their helmets or jerseys).
Mark Richt is not dumb. He did not wake up one recent morning less of a football coach than he was when he led Georgia to two SEC titles. But by now he probably has realized something: He has to change. His methods have to change. Everything that might affect direction and atmosphere has to change.
Richt did not wake up dumb. But he did wake up to find the Bulldogs no longer rank as an elite program in the nation. Or in the SEC. Or in the state.
Things got too comfortable. The program has been on autopilot for too long. You watch the results — the Bulldogs are a shockingly pedestrian 10-7 since the Alabama debacle last season — and you see how Richt reacts, in that, “Don’t worry, it will all work out because it always does,” kind of way. Fans can’t help but wonder, “Where’s the fire? Where’s the anger?”
There’s also this question: Where’s the accountability?
The problems at Georgia are similar to those that can afflict any long-time success story. The Bulldogs have declined partly because they’ve grown stagnant. Autopilot doesn’t work in sports. It’s why coaches get fired so often, particularly in “emotion” sports like football and hockey. Old messages and old methods have a limited shelf life.
Georgia doesn’t need a new voice. It just Richt to raise his voice — or his foot. The program needs some tension.
Question: Do you think anybody in Gainesville or Tuscaloosa feels “comfortable”? Ever. Or do you believe like I do there is always some tension in the air? And do you believe like I do that the assistant coaches who work for Urban Meyer and Nick Saban, and the athletes who compete for them, always are on edge? There’s never a chance of things getting stale.
I don’t get that feeling at Georgia. Didn’t have it last year, either. There has been too much comfort. There has been too little accountability. Richt will tell you that he’s a different guy out of public view, that, “People who know me know I have an edge.”
Know what? I don’t want to have to go looking for it. If a team lacks an edge, the coach’s edge is buried too deep somewhere. Or it has been dulled like an old knife. That’s Georgia right now: no edge. The Dogs are like a dull, rusty old knife that really only works in the Vanderbilt game.
“If you’re going to be accused of something,” Richt said Tuesday, “being accused of being a nice guy is not the worst thing.”
Not really. Not if you’re losing.
Richt defended his resume at Athens, as he should. Then he took the appropriate detour: “It’s not like we’ve just been floundering around. [But] this year we have been, let’s face it. I don’t like it.”
It remains to be seen what he does about it. He can shake up his coaching staff. He can change his schemes and his approach to recruiting.
But the major changes need to be bigger picture. Coaches and players need to be worried more about playing to a standard. Fearing the head coach wouldn’t hurt. They’re sloppy. They’re undisciplined. That’s not talent. That’s coaching.
Where’s the accountability? Why don’t these problems exist at Florida or Alabama?
Mark Richt: Is anybody listening to you anymore? If not, why not?
Richt knows these issues can’t be fixed during the season. “It’s got to be more of a tweak than a wholesale change,” during the season, he said. “But [after] every season, you must reevaluate. You must.”
He’s not dumb. He should know where the problems start.
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423 comments Add your comment
Lightnin
November 4th, 2009
7:36 am
trueblueBravesfan – what was that midget Eric Zeirs excuse for setting all of those UGA & SEC records?
Phil Fulmer
November 4th, 2009
7:42 am
Hey….I need a job. How would I look in Red and Black??
Required Reading | Hard Knox Sports
November 4th, 2009
7:43 am
[...] Not enough accountability at Georgia. [AJC] [...]
Dawg1992
November 4th, 2009
7:46 am
A good perceptive article without an agenda and touches on a major problem for both coach Richt and many parents-An authority figure who is too soft hearted with his kids and provides no consequences (or at least none the players fear)= no discipline, no acountability by players, and players/kids who will continue to make the same mistakes over and over without improving due to their lack of accountability. Hines Ward and David Pollack are gone and the players who are there now are not sufficiently self-motivated and have no fear of consequences so why would they be accountable when they don’t have to be? Is a student more likely to do homework for a teacher like Richt or Saban? We have been hearing for years how tough and competitive Richt is “behind closed doors,” however, that refrain rings hollow based on the players flaunting his authority seemingly with impunity game after game. This “I am one tough-steely coach behind closed doors may be a created self-perception by Richt over the years to get tougher but now is one he simply believes has come true merely by his saying it over the years. The product and results say otherwise. I believe if he looks in the mirror and is honest with himself, he can and will right the ship.
Northern sympathizer
November 4th, 2009
7:46 am
Jeff’s best article ever.
» SEC links: Is Brandon Spikes a YouTube victim? John Clay’s Sidelines
November 4th, 2009
7:47 am
[...] Jeff Schultz of the AJC thinks the Georgia football program is on autopilot. [...]
Tom
November 4th, 2009
7:56 am
Fianlly, someone has the gonads to say what everyone has been thinking for the last two seasons.
barneyb
November 4th, 2009
8:00 am
CMR says “tweak”? Is he kidding? A “tweak”? Just another reason the entire staff (himself included) need to go! Massive wholesale changes are needed. If he fails to clean house, he needs to go, also. Sad to say, but this will not get any better next season. You don’t need to be clairvoyant to see that.
King Gator
November 4th, 2009
8:03 am
Nice guy, good coach.. sucky team.. punks need to be motivated and fearful of losing thier playing time. Only comodity with the players that works. Keep it up Dawgs — We enjoy winning about every year in Jax. Go Gators!
King Gator
November 4th, 2009
8:04 am
I think there’s a coach with a losing record @ Iowa St that needs a job.. hurry before Auburn gets him.
95,000 Fans - Every Game!
November 4th, 2009
8:21 am
Even if we don’t win another game, we are a better program than most, and that includes your newly adopted team GT! The economic impact of one UGA game is probably larger than all of Tech’s season put together. You know it, Bradley knows it, you just finally have a chance to “down” the GA program and create some controversy in an attempt to increase readership. I’m sorry but there will be no Pulitzer for your shoddy opinions because you are second team at best.
Cobb Dawg
November 4th, 2009
8:22 am
Amen brother! But have you ever seen a coach lose a team/program like this and get it back on track consistently. There may be some but I can’t recall any off the top of my head.
My stadium's bigger than your stadium
November 4th, 2009
8:24 am
95,000 fans watching a loss.
Shug
November 4th, 2009
8:25 am
Go way back up there and read David Jones’ comments. They’re on point.
My stadium's bigger than your stadium
November 4th, 2009
8:28 am
Max capacity of Sanford Stadium ( a former landfill named after Fred G. Sanford) is 92,746.
Ddawgdavis
November 4th, 2009
8:30 am
I know science has really advanced in the past few years, but is it too late/earyl to dig up Erk? We need Erk to compliment CMR! Or the modern day Erk.
Georgia Headlines – 11/4/09 | MrSEC.com
November 4th, 2009
8:31 am
[...] along with many Bulldog fans — writes that Richt’s “methods have to change. Everything that might affect direction and atmosphere has to change.”Yep. A season that could still wind up 9-4 is call to blow up everything at Georgia but Sanford [...]
gatordowneast
November 4th, 2009
8:32 am
For the poster who claimed Florida players are taught to cheat and was glad UGA has Richt and staff:
1. Check who leads the SEC in penalties…again.
2. We are happy you have Richt and staff also. Love Martinez as a D Coordinator and think Bobo is fine as a play caller and OC.
Good luck against Tech.
Boomhauer
November 4th, 2009
8:32 am
95,000 fans every game wrote: “even if we don’t win another game, we are a better program than most, and that includes your newly adopted team GT”. Do I even need to comment on this? Dang ole stupid dogs fans!
BulldawgInJacksonvilleBeach!
November 4th, 2009
8:35 am
Jeff,
Perceptive and excellent column as usual. I want to make two points. The day BVG left was the day our defense started their slide downhill. I had questions about CWM being up for the job. And second, while Joe Cox maybe an excellent game manager when did the coaching staff at Georgia determine that Joe was not going to be the type of QB that would lead us to a come from behind win. That being said, I agree with the other comments on here when CMR stated that after last season there was going to be alot of soul searching. Well instead of soul searching how about searching for a young and upcoming DC and offensive coordinator along with a Running Backs Coach who can actually coach!
The Dogfighter Returns
November 4th, 2009
8:40 am
” the ship be sinking in athens” neutered dogs are jumping off the ship.
JPeat
November 4th, 2009
8:42 am
Agree . . . . but can someone please explain to me CMR reasoning behind starting Joe Cox? As CMR states “he is our best chance to win” – I ask win what? – I think it is time to get ready for next year – let’s get someone ready at quarterback – let’s not have to go another year with an unproven unplayed person at the quarterback position – I am ok with King and Ealy at running back – but lets move Samuel back to linebacker and get the Defense ready – we don’t need another repeat of this year – Maybe the new DC will come in and make some changes and light a fire – maybe coach should bring in Tony Robbins to motivate the team -
shards1967
November 4th, 2009
8:42 am
Hardcore UGA fans know all of the above comments to be 100% accurate. It is time for change, as Richt has simply been too close to his PALS ( aka coaches ) to make the necessary changes. The Sugar Bowl vs WVA was an early indication of the UGA Defensive staff to interpet their ( WVA ) spread offense and make the needed game corrections. DJ Schockley almost brought UGA back but CWM could not handle them. Too little and too late.
Now? Throw the bums out ……………ALL of them, including Mark Richt. If we do not do that, then this exact same time in 2010 will reveal the same problems. It is now obvious to folks that only ocasionally watch college football that UGA has NO D> and it the result of a lack of QUALITY coaches.
Damon Evans must pull the plug now ………or Mike Adams should.
UGA, class of 71&73
Prison Guard
November 4th, 2009
8:44 am
Another word for accountability in this sense is fear.
Georgia players are not afraid to be renegades or commit mindless penalties because there is no fear of punishment. There are no consequences of action or worry of reprisal in Athens. Until that changes, things will continue exactly as they are now.
It’s just like the prison system. Kids are going to jail at record rates because they have no fear of punishment. It is a strange but clear parallel.
Topp Dogg
November 4th, 2009
8:49 am
GT is licking their chops, UGA will score but Tech will control the clock and the game.CPJ is the new man in town so play tough or get back up on the porch.
Buck Baloney
November 4th, 2009
8:53 am
I just want to say that Coach Richt should stay because he is a good Christian man.
Disgraced Dog
November 4th, 2009
8:56 am
I think the Dawg fans should do Saturday what the Cleveland Browns’ fans are going to do for their upcoming Monday night game, show up late. Let all the empty seats at the beginning of the game send a message to Richt that if he doesn’t do something QUICK to shake things up & fix the woes of this underachieving, UNDISCIPLINED program, he can take the water girl & go back to Tallahassee.
JohnG
November 4th, 2009
8:59 am
MUSCHAMP!
EW
November 4th, 2009
8:59 am
The problem started when Richt decided to take the “CEO” role of the team and delegate responsibilities. Great idea if you have the makeup of a CEO, but Richt doesn’t. Any CEO will tell you that you have to let people go who are slowing you down and CMR just won’t do it.
EW
November 4th, 2009
9:00 am
Didn’t I also read that FSU’s Defensive coordinator just announced he was leaving? Maybe we could do an even trade?
Eric
November 4th, 2009
9:00 am
Sick Naban and Oscar Meyer are still on their honeymoons. In Tuscalooza Saban probably fears for his life if his team should fail. In Gainesville Meyer really is honeymooning…with Timmy. So your comparison is apples and oranges. UGA will be back, but it may take a total coaching change. I still say they should go after Saban. If anyone could steal him away from the toilet paper and washing power crowd, it’s UGA.
Pago Flyer
November 4th, 2009
9:00 am
We’re a little scared of TENN TECH, you just know they’ll be “jacked up” for this game! Will the DAWGS????
Tucker T
November 4th, 2009
9:00 am
Good job summing up the feeling in Athens. Mark Richt seems like one of those “good old boy” coaches that is always mellow, friendly, and even tempered. That often doesn’t make for a good head coach. I think Mike Smith with the Falcons is a good example of the temperament of a head coach. He laughs and celebrates with his players when appropriate but he will also lose his sh@t and get in a players face when necessary. The players and the coaches have to know that if they screw up there will be ramifications. I think that’s a big part of this problem with penalties. I think Martinez has to go this off-season and Richt needs to show a more dissatisfaction with the team and let them know that the recent performance is unacceptable.
EW
November 4th, 2009
9:04 am
If Richt and staff feel the heat now, just watch what happens if/when we lose to Tech. Someone’s gonna have to get out of the kitchen, and Willie’s on the short list. CMR has earned the right to turn it around, if you can’t see that, you’re crazy. But SOMETHING has to change, the lack of action is what’s pissing people off.
Dawg Tired
November 4th, 2009
9:11 am
I think you’ve figured this one out, Jeff. My concern is I’m not sure CMR has figured this one out. In fact. it actually amazes me that I could possibly think he may not have figured this out. “None are so blind as those who will not see.” If he even momentarily thinks about not getting rid of CWM, he does not get it.
Mike Anthony
November 4th, 2009
9:11 am
Desr Jeff:
Most of the time I think you are a jerk. Today you wrote
an article that is accurate, true, and to the (correct) points.
Best wishes,
Mike
JDawg
November 4th, 2009
9:11 am
I think Richt has made a mistake. Kept Bobo calling plays too long, kept Martinez too long. If Evans decides Richt isn’t the guy and some ask who out there is better – Gary Patterson. Look at what he has done with TCU. They have beaten Oklahama and Clemson away. You can discount their conference, but then you have to also discount the attractiveness of the school for recruiting. No national TV, recruit against Texas, OU, Ok St., Texas Tech, Texas A&M, Arkansas and LSU. They play solid defense and win games they shouldn’t while destroying teams they should. Some big school will pick him up this year – Michigan? A&M? If Georgia is going to make a move now would be the time, while there aren’t many other marquis programs that have a coach on the bubble.
Nice post Commie
November 4th, 2009
9:13 am
Shultz, you’re an anti-Capitalist/American/Freedom douche, but you are 110% correct with this piece. Richt HAS to know where the problems are, and he needs to figure out being a loyal friend and boss are two totally different things!
JDawg is a moron
November 4th, 2009
9:16 am
Keep holding your breath Techie with your fake handle. Richt will right the ship as well you know. Idiot.
Gator Dawgpounder
November 4th, 2009
9:17 am
As a Gator who attends UGA home games with friends, I am even sad with the demise of the program. I am sure CMR is a fine man who teaches christian principles but UGA needs to make a decision pretty quick, what do they want, someone who’s main thrust is teaching young men who to be men (who I think he might be the best) or someone like Meyer, Saban and even Miles. The AD had better act quick because I can only think of a couple of assistants who have been tutored under driven coaches and they are Muschamp, Smart and Charlie Strong. If you are looking for a HC with experience, I have a name that no one mentions. Tennesse was interested and he turned them down but now it might be the right time; John Gruden. He wouldn’t tolerate anything but effort and accountability. He would be the perfect choice to challenge the up and coming Lane Kiffin.
Gator Dawgpounder
November 4th, 2009
9:20 am
One more comment Eric; if Saban and Meyer are still on honeymoons, what is Richt on, a funeral procession?
EnjoyFootball
November 4th, 2009
9:21 am
This coming from a man who had never heard of media matters! Who are you accountable to? You need to find something to write about that no one else see’s is going own. You are no different that the other reporter of this paper. You state the obvious. When was the last time the ajc had to hire reporters because of readership increases. Accountablility ?
goodgator
November 4th, 2009
9:23 am
Meyer is coaching Thugs??? Obviously you didnt see the game, and the multiple times UGA players gouged eyes, ripped off helmets, hit players after they were out of bounds…..I could go on and on.
My point, Brandon tried to reciprocate…….and Meyer doesnt tolerate that. It would be nice to see CMR discipline his players……maybe you would have a team willing to play for their coach!
JB
November 4th, 2009
9:24 am
Father,Pastor,Manager,boss,business owner, etc…………………………………what do these people have in common? It all starts with them in their area. they set the tone. The success and failures of their responsibility starts and ends with them. I hold Richt. Yes, he’s allowed an OFF year. Any of you call the BEAT DOWNS an OFF year. losing to Tennessee 31 to 24 in a hard fought game an OFF year. losing to Florida 45 to 35 is an off year. We/Georgia has big issues. When this much money and passion and involved, look out. Richt doing nothing at year end will set this program back 10 years.
Abilene
November 4th, 2009
9:37 am
JB may be overstating the situation when he says that Richt is setting the program back 10 years, but it’s clear that the program is in serious decline, and that Richt is incapable of turning things around.
Richt has got to go, the sooner the better.
OldDawg
November 4th, 2009
9:37 am
I’m really shocked at all this whining going on. The Dawgs are one of the premier football programs in the country with one of the best record, over last 7 seasons, on the books. We’ve taken a step backwards this year, both on offense, and defense. However, the record could be better with a little luck-something this team has not been able to capture. I think we have the best coach in the country, and he will make the right (best) decision on his time. I agree, mid-season is not he best time to demote, or fire someone. Look what is happening at Southern Cal right now, and that guy is a pretty dang good coach. I don’t care how good you are, you are going to have to face adversity sooner or later. We as the DawgNation need to come to our player’s, and HC’s, side. I feel like I am reading one attack after another. Personally, I am so proud to have Mark Richt as our head coach. He is a great man, great father, great person, and an outstanding football coach. Let his record speak for itself. The fact that he has to defend his record right now, is beyond belief. Yes, our team has problems this year, and problems in life are normal. It’s how you deal with them that counts. My freshman year at UGA was in ‘79, and our team lost every non-conference game, and finally lost to Auburn to keep a team with a losing record out of the Sugar Bowl. The Dawgs were not very good that year. Dooley, of course, was the coach. The very next year something magical happened. It’s gonna happen again, but we have to stand by our players & coaching staff during the 1 out of 8 years we have a hiccup.
Lilburn Dawg
November 4th, 2009
9:40 am
Jeff, you are exactly right even though a lot of Dawg fans don’t want to accept it. For the last year or two when Richt started getting some criticism, many Richt supporters on these blogs would run to his defense and speak up about how wonderful he was and that “he averages 10 wins per season”. I sure got tired of reading and hearing that. It’s funny to me now how only a few people are sticking up for him. His former supporters are, for the most part, gone into hiding. And I haven’t heard that ‘10 wins per season’ phrase in a loooooooong time…..thank goodness!
rich
November 4th, 2009
9:44 am
georgiadogs.com reptorts that tubberville was in athens all this week.. If there is one person that can give richt advice on how to fire someone its tubberville.
Abilene
November 4th, 2009
9:47 am
OldDawg, it’s not just “1 out of 8 years we have a hiccup.” The trend is downward, and the reason is that Richt has gone as far as he can go. Look at other schools like Tennessee and Georgia Tech. They reached the point with Fulmer and Gailey where it was obvious that those coaches were not going to take them to championships and BCS bowls, so they replaced them.
UGA needs to face the reality of the situation and replace Richt. Now.
Irene
November 4th, 2009
9:49 am
Jeff, could this issue start at the top – I mean above Richt? Florida (my alma mater) has a more competitive culture created long ago by Jeremy Foley, the AD. I think Foley was instrumental in creating the “new” atmosphere at UF that begat championships in football and basketball. (Although he did have a boo-boo in hiring Ron Zook – a guy who was too much of a friend to his players and assistants. But Foley canned him after three years.) UGA always attracts great talent, they have plenty of money, devoted fans, a great stadium and facilities. But what is the culture behind the scenes? Shouldn’t you examine the AD’s role in this scenario as well?