Calls to fire Richt definitely premature
Mark Richt isn't yet on the hot seat. (UGA Sports Communications)
Back in June, John Pennington of MrSEC.com wrote that the two SEC coaches who would be on the hot seat if they had bad seasons this year were Mark Richt and Les Miles.
Pennington was inundated with attacks from Georgia fans. And, he notes, “Even Bill King of The Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Junkyard Blawg took up the issue. …He provided a G-rated commentary on my commentary (unlike a lot of the emails I received) and concluded it as such: ‘We’re disappointed, but we’re not deluded. Georgia fans know we have a good thing going with Mark Richt and that it’s only a matter of time before he brings the Bulldog Nation another national championship. … Richt on the hot seat? Only in some strange alternative universe SEC.’”
Not surprisingly, after Saturday’s meltdown against the Vols, and with Georgia looking at a struggle to try and get a winning season, Pennington thinks we’ve moved into that alternative dimension.
And he’s issued a challege, asking me to write about “the mood of the fanbase right now” and whether I now admit “that Richt’s seat can get (and is already) warm?”
OK, I’ll bite.
Are there Georgia fans calling for Richt to be fired? Sure. Are we hearing such calls from more than just the usual lunatic fringe? We are.
Is it a realistic response, and do I really think Richt’s job is in jeopardy?
No and no.
As Chris Low of ESPN.com put it, “Richt has been too good, too consistent and too classy for any reasonable Georgia fan to call for his job.”
Now, Willie Martinez’s job definitely is in jeopardy. In fact, I’d say barring a miraculous turnaround like he pulled off in 2007, Martinez is gone. Mike Bobo? He might skate by if he can discover a running game and make the Dogs respectable on offense by the end of the season. But his seat definitely is warm.
Do I think Richt needs to take decisive action in upgrading his staff after this season to avoid putting himself on the old hot seat?
Yes, without a doubt.
But those of us who recall the Years in the Wilderness (also known as the Ray Goff era), know that just because Richt’s program has faltered a bit and isn’t performing up to the high standards he set for himself early in his tenure, that isn’t a rational reason for a coaching change. I still think Auburn was insane getting rid of Tommy Tuberville.
So in answer to MrSEC.com, as I read the Bulldog Nation, fans are unhappy. Very unhappy. And as I wrote earlier today, many fans don’t like what they’re hearing from Richt so far. But there is not currently any widespread support for getting rid of him, especially among those who have the ear of Damon Evans or Michael Adams.
If we’re still having this discussion a year from now, that’ll be a different matter altogether.
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415 comments Add your comment
41 38 49 38 45 24 37 41 17 20 45
October 12th, 2009
2:03 pm
First!
L-Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:05 pm
GLORY GLORY TO OLE GEORGIA!!!!
WHAT TO GEORGIA TECH FANS AND UGA FANS HAVE IN COMMON?? THEY BOTH OBSESS WITH THE DAWGS!!!!
GO DAWGS!!!
LOOKING FORWARD TO CHEERING THIS SATURDAY!!!!
Dave
October 12th, 2009
2:07 pm
With the disaster that this season has become (or doubtless will be by year’s end), Richt will HAVE to shake up his staff in order to get better results. The Dawgs obviously have the talented players they need to win games, it’s just a matter of motivating them and putting them in the right schemes. If anyone can get it done, Coach Richt can.
GeoffDawg
October 12th, 2009
2:07 pm
I’m not an alarmist and generally believe that we have the right to be optimistic with CMR in charge given his track record. That being said, if there aren’t some major personnel changes this offseason, there’s a real risk of alienating a whole lot of Georgia supporters. Fans are getting increasingly fed up with the lack of execution and the subsequent lack of (at least public) consequence. Willie Martinez has often had to deal with issues beyond his control but at some point, you have to make the determination that the responsibilities of his position are just beyond him. He’s not cut out to be a coordinator at a major program. Fabris, on the other hand, needs to just get out of football entirely. With his stubborness and failure to recognize when something’s not working, maybe a career in politics would be better suited to his talents.
Arkansas is next
October 12th, 2009
2:08 pm
How bout’ that Gator D. 5 Games = 2 Touchdowns Allowed
jaxdawg
October 12th, 2009
2:09 pm
First!!
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:10 pm
Behead those who insult St. Richt.
jason
October 12th, 2009
2:12 pm
Fire Richt? Are you nuts? Just because you tell the players to do something doesn`t always pan out. Ask a coach, teacher, or parent. It`s decision making is something we can`t do for them. Honestly some guys have stepped up and some haven`t. The staff could be looked over but Mr. Richt has done a great job.
Frank Lane
October 12th, 2009
2:13 pm
I agree. Richt now has a great opportunity to show just what kind of coach and leader he is. He cannot accept mediocre results. That is the nature of responsibility and leadership. He does not have to fire anyone. He just has to produce results. If he can do it with his current staff, I will worship him.
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:16 pm
I’m sure St. Richt has just let off a huge sigh of relieve after reading this blog.
Andy in Blairsville
October 12th, 2009
2:17 pm
After 2 SEC losses 2 weeks in a row I was curious whose head the fair-weather segment of the UGA fan base would be after…..now I know.
Pathetic but so predictable.
Barnacle Bill Bavasi
October 12th, 2009
2:18 pm
I believe even ol’ Vince Dooley had a clunker of a season now and again. This year may be that. Still, I think some adjustments are needed to get things back on track. That likely means saying goodbye to l’il Willie Martinez.
GSU Eagle 91
October 12th, 2009
2:18 pm
Dawg Nation, you have an excellent Head Coach, and the pasture is not greener on the other side, in this instance… The Defense is lousy, and needs an overhaul. And where is the running game? There is a ton of talent in Athens, and probably always will be. But Paul Johnson ( who was 62-10 at my alma mater) will recruit well at GT, and win 9-10 games per year until he moves on.
I think the Dawgs will be 6-5 going into the Tech game, and there will be a lot of jobs on the line that day…
J. Tenuta
October 12th, 2009
2:18 pm
Hey, I hear Tenuta might be interested.
Mustang
October 12th, 2009
2:19 pm
As a Dawg fan. I really was shocked to see that on Saturday. He will show us what he is made of (as a coach, we know what kind of man he is). We need someone with some fire on that staff. They are too dang nice all the time. Nice guys finish last.
P
October 12th, 2009
2:19 pm
Oh please fire him, please, please, please, please….Please kill the golden goose.
MoDawg
October 12th, 2009
2:19 pm
Not a big fan of the “fire Richt” crap that’s going around. That does not make sense. That said, we would all feel better about the state of affairs with the program if Richt would show that he is sick and tired of the mediocrity. Reading some of his comments from the press conference, I’d say he’s beginning to show it. We need some fire within the ice, Coach!
Bring back “evil” Richt…
Einsteindawg
October 12th, 2009
2:19 pm
The obvious things about our team are unprepared, undiscipled, and out of shape in the second half. We also look confused and frustrated. I don’t know who is at fault, but I do know that CMR is well-paid to correct these problems. If he doesn’t, he should be fired. Just my opinion.
Dave In Tampa
October 12th, 2009
2:19 pm
CMR needs to stay. However, the DC & OC need to be demoted or fired. I was hot the other day and still am very dissapointed. At saying that I will support this team through think and thin like I have for the past several decades.
Ramble on!!! Why the “St. Richt” comment? Oviously, you don’t share the same Christian values as CMR. Football aside, your on the wrong side of that issue. Let’s keep it as a football blog. Knock me, Knock UGA as a whole, but why take a shot at someone’s faith. It just shows the lack of class when any individual go after someone’s Christian beliefs regardless of the Institution.
cajdawg
October 12th, 2009
2:20 pm
I want Richt to say, but the built in premise is that he makes changes, WILLINGLY. If he won’t make signficant changes than he forces Evans to make a decision.
If Martinez has any dignity and respect he will resign and won’t put Richt in a hard decision. Bobo will be demoted to QB coach, Richt will call O plays and a special teams coach will be hired.
jack bull
October 12th, 2009
2:20 pm
truly, whoever posted first, those numbers says it all… those are very BIG numbers that our defense is giving up. even if turnovers were the cause of half of those numbers.
scheme/philosophy has to change, personnel isn’t going to……
Villa Rica DAWG
October 12th, 2009
2:20 pm
Take Martinez and the Co-Coordinator too.
Chris
October 12th, 2009
2:21 pm
Thank you Bill for referencing the dark Goff years. Richt is the type of guy who will not do anything until the end of the year obviously but keeping Fabris in his current role would be inexplicable. It was heartening to see the punt defense actually rush the punter and force something to happen.
I understand the general philosophy to be safe and avoid turnovers but we can have the same number of current turnovers occassionally not calling for a fair catch or trying to block a punt.
Coach Richt brought us back to national prominence. He’s a very bright man and competent coach. He knows some serious adjustments are in order and it will be interesting to see how he responds.
Valdosta Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:24 pm
I love these Tech nerds that think if Coach Richt stays around they are in good shape against us, he is 7 and 1 against Tech you idiots! 7 and 1! There is no way Richt should be fired, and I agree with you Bill Auburn was crazy to let Tommy go. Richt has done great things at UGA and now it is time for him to make the hard decisions a head coach must make. I remember a comment Bobby Bowden told Coach Dooley on whether Mark was ready to be a head coach, Bowden told Dooley the only thing he worried about was if Richt was mean enough to make some of the tough decisions he would face as a head coach. Well it is time to see if he is Mean or tough enough, to do what’s right for UGA. However I will say it again, firing Mark Richt is crazy. Now I would like to see UGA spend some cash on assistants like Tennessee did and lets bring the Georgia alum back to coach in Athens, Will Muschamp and Kirby Smart just to name a few. I know they are both defense guys but hey they belong at UGA!
GO DAWGS and to hell with Ga Tech!
heeldawg
October 12th, 2009
2:24 pm
We are over-rated, over-priced.
Fl fan here
October 12th, 2009
2:26 pm
please keep Mark Richt for another 6 years so that we can take the series lead from you…And to think we gave you a head start of 20 games…eat it poodles
GeoffDawg
October 12th, 2009
2:26 pm
Andy in Blairsville – at what point do you think someone should be on the hot seat? CMR, no. Willie Martinez, definitely. Do you mean to say that he hasn’t yet had enough opportunities to demonstrate his competence for the position? You act like this is the first time he’s ever had a subpar performance.
Villa Rica DAWG
October 12th, 2009
2:26 pm
In fact, why wait until the end of the season???
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:27 pm
You guys made him a St., well, till he started losing. That’s why Dave in Tampa.
Ya’ll were so proud of it before. Now, Coach Bill King is knocking his demeanor.
chazzo
October 12th, 2009
2:28 pm
Richt is in a tough spot. If he doesn’t change the coaches, perhaps they continue to suck. If he does change the coaches, he is in a weak spot. His authority has been usurped. I trust that he will find the answers. Perhaps we should get off his back.
Richt’s game is all about excution. He will put a true freshman out there for a fourth and one play. It builds incredible confidence in his players. It is as if he says, “You are going to do this,” and when it gets done, it’s great. Since so much of gameplan depends on execution, naturally, it is an issue. I don’t see that as blaming his players. I like how richt handles his players.
As far as not putting the blame on his coaches publically and directly, well, that’s just class. We don’t know what is occuring behind the scenes. Humiliating someone could result in in-fighting and bring the house down. He is handling this okay.
As far as his demeanor goes, it is what it is. If he were a hothead, maybe he doesn’t have QBs who pull off last second plays like the hobnail boot or the fade against Auburn.
I was flat out disappointed Saturday, and, as Bill suggests here, I spoke out of frustration.
We will see how it goes from here.
Me
October 12th, 2009
2:28 pm
Fire Bill King instead….things have gone downhill ever since the AJC got cheap, gave up on real coverage and went to this freebie ”blog”. The Cox family has no shame…..
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:28 pm
heeldawg, you have to be rated to be over-rated. Just a thought.
misterwax
October 12th, 2009
2:28 pm
How much louder will it get when they lose to Vandy on the road in 5 days?
Disgusted and Embarrassed
October 12th, 2009
2:28 pm
CMR is long over due to make changes to his coaching staff. Why did we allow Vangorder to get away? We should have paid him head coaching money to stay. Our defense has been porus with the exception of 2007 since his departure, especially over he last 2 years. Our team is down right embarrassing. We let a punk coach like Kiffin come in and just totally dominate us. CMR I hope you are just as embarrassed as I am. Where is our pride? Why can’t we finish the drill? Georgia is nothing but a lot of talk; we are a wanna be. Top ten recruiting classes year in and year out, and we give up 30+ frequently now. Where is our tradition? I heard no complaints this year from the players about mat drills….ect… CMR what are you going to do about this mess? How did you allow this program to descend to the this bottomless pit? Why can’t you guys close on some top defensive and offensive lineman? I thought Sereals was the real deal; why can’t he close on some top notch OL? What the hell has happened to our tackling? We look like a bunch of girls out there grabbing and ducking like we are scared to hit. I know what the deal is: we just want to be pretty boys with our dancing and stupid untimely celebrating. When we scored against ASU to win the game you would have thought that we just beat USC West. Evans, what the hell are you doing to help Richt in his quest to regain control of this team? Adams, what are you doing other than just talking. It is time to start walking the talk instead of talking the talk. The fans do enough talking for you guys, it is your responsibility to walk the talk and take a more business approach at doing your jobs. I have been spending roughly $1500 to $2000 a year on Georgia football. This figure includes: tickets to games, shirts, and other collectibles, but until I see changes I am closing my wallet. You guys don’t deserve the facilities that you have nor the attention that you get. Adams, Evans, and Richt, it is past time for you guys to begin managing our beloved bulldogs properly. I am very concerned that our football team is going to end up just like our basketball program. In the toilet!!!! Get it together guys. Stop trying to play Mr. Niceguy Mark Richt and run this team like it your own business.
NC Mtn Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:29 pm
I watch our defense and I see alot of confusion and missed assignments. We recruit great talent, but maybe we need just one defensive back who has more smarts than natural ability. He can help some of these guys from on the field, because they all seem to be looking to the sideline for instructions. Whether this is from incompetence or insecurity, I don’t know. I have seen so many plays where the corners or the linebackers never move more than 3-4 yds from where they were when the ball was snapped. Are they afraid of making mistakes because they’re not sure what to do or has WM paralyzed them with indecision by his coaching method? In business, bad management always leads to insecurity and indecision from fear of making mistakes. I do think that we need to start doing alot more stunts and shifts in the defense to confuse quarterbacks. As it is now, we set up, he reads the defense, and they pick our zone apart. Our pass rush seems to funnel in through the center, when it exists, and the quarterback simply rolls outside where there is no pressure.
dnorwood
October 12th, 2009
2:29 pm
I agree with every word in your article.Mark Richt is the best coach we could hope to have and is an outstanding represenative of the University.All the great coaches have bad years throughout their careers.We need to stick by Coach Richt,he’s the best.
Bulldawg65
October 12th, 2009
2:30 pm
I agree. As a devoted Dawg fan, I’m angry at what I feel are “coaching” mistakes made this year and do feel that if something isn’t done Richt “might” be in jepordy, but I dont think it’s time to call for his head on the preverbial “chopping block”…yet. After all, who’s going to replace him? I’ve got the upmost respect for Coach Richt and although frustrated by his lack of emotion, I do commend him for his composure, from one Christian to another. But I will admit, in Athens you can’t keep loosing to Tennesse, Florida AND Tech, plus no SEC championship and feel safe. I hope and pray that this embarrassing loss is the final kick in the pants they need to make the right changes and get the Dawgs back on top!
Valdosta Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:30 pm
Fl fan you did not know what football was until Spurrier got there, and y’all still wear jean shorts and have mullets. Remember there are only 11, count them 11 teams in the history of the sport to have over 700 wins, and Florida is not one of them!
Dawg Blawg
October 12th, 2009
2:30 pm
another performance like the one in Knoxville and somebody should go!
Norman Bates
October 12th, 2009
2:30 pm
Georgia fired the best coach they ever had. Yes, Jim Donnan brought in top athletes. Donnan could motivate the players. Richt would do better as a professional poker player as his emotionless manner does not put any incentive into his players. Vince Dooley was a joke. He was a master at scheduling weak sisters to play and poor mouthing all accomplishments. Adams needs to fire Richt and crawl on his knees to beg Donnan to come back.
Saint Simons
October 12th, 2009
2:30 pm
45 – 19 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hahahahahahahahahahahaha
Gary
October 12th, 2009
2:31 pm
No – Richt’s job is not in jeopardy at this point. He has earned the right to make changes and get it right – heck even Donnan and Goof (sorry his coaching tenure earned that nickname) had a chance to change coordinators and turn things around. Only the foolish are calling for his job right now. Simply correct the problems and make a few changes and I guarantee those voices calling for his ouster will be silent. Of course, the success we have been spoiled with early in his tenure and up to 2007 needs to return.
Stat Man
October 12th, 2009
2:31 pm
First, let me point out that I am a TECH fan.
That said – the worst thing for UGA would be to do anything to Richt. I’m not the straight tunnel vision fan and spew hate in all directions not located in the Flats, and in fact Richt almost (remember I say almost) makes it hard for me to hate UGA (another reason I’m glad Larry retired – he too almost made it impossible to hase UGA. He is just that classy of a guy, on and off the field.
For goodness sakes UGA fans – just 19 games ago you were ranked #1 in the nation – so for any of you to scream for Richt’s job are only proving your ignorance.
Now then, after all that “love” I just showed – I also want UGA to start playing better (you only have one patty cake left) so when we beat you again this year, it won’t be beating a team with a 5-6 record!!
Dave In Tampa
October 12th, 2009
2:31 pm
No Ramble, you said said. Own up to it! We all want him as our coach. Bill King is not a coach. He’s posted an article. That’s it. Get a clue! Show me one Georgia fan that said that CMR is a Saint? You can’t. You created it because for his 1st 7 years you couldn’t touch him. Think about.
DawgDoo
October 12th, 2009
2:32 pm
The dawgs have quit, somebody needs to take responsibility for that, it starts at the top, period, end of story.
dawginduluth
October 12th, 2009
2:32 pm
Hmmmm. The “he’s better than Goff” logic doesn’t do much for me.
Keep Richt and we will never have a national championship while he’s here. If you can accept that fact, he’s your guy.
If you want an occasional shot at the SEC crown, he’s your guy.
If you want a losing record against Florida, he’s your guy.
He ain’t my guy,
Kincade
October 12th, 2009
2:33 pm
Breaking News Buck: Tennessee just scored again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hint for RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:33 pm
Ramble, I like your bloggin style and I like your team. But you gotta try to acquire some word usage skills. I see embarrassing miscues in about every other one of your posts. You come across like a mutt. .
L-Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:33 pm
I usually do not read the responses in these blogs, but I decided I wanted to know what the UGA fans were thinking on this topic……
And as I said in my firt post at the top…..
What do Georgia Tech “fans” and UGA fans have in common?? They are both OBSESSED with The Dawgs!!
Tech “fans”… welcome to our blog and happy stalking of our program. Just do nto obsess with us too much and forget to buy those Thursday Night tickets. I would hate for your players to be playing in front of a non-sold out 55K Stadium on a Thursday….. oh wait……
GeoffDawg
October 12th, 2009
2:33 pm
Norman Bates – It’s hard to take football advice from someone who dresses up in his mother’s clothes.
Valdosta Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:34 pm
Ramble ON he is 85 and 25 in a little over 8 seasons, I’d say thats pretty damn good! Only a handful of coaches ever won 80 or more in first 8 years, none are from Tech, and before the Gaytors chime in Urban got half of his at Utah!
Vols 45 Dawgs 19
October 12th, 2009
2:34 pm
Where’s the hobnail boot now Dawgs?
boots
October 12th, 2009
2:34 pm
Richt is a great coach who has just hit a down cycle. Two years ago, we had the best team in the country and ended up #2. Last year, there began to be some cracks in the system, and Richt needs to react quickly and strongly. How he does, and how the team responds, will go a long way to determining his long-term record as a head coach. Martinez is gone and Bobo needs to figure things out quickly. Richt is here as long as he wants the job.
Northside dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:35 pm
something’s gotta give here folks..the knoxville performance was beyond pathetic ..team was passionless, coach richt spent more time fluffing his air and smirking than getting the team up to play UT. can’t remember a game where everything went wrong. it was horrible and a win against the sisters of mary in nashville this weekend isn’t going to make everything ok
Saint Simons
October 12th, 2009
2:36 pm
20 to 11!!!!!!!! hahahahahahaha!!!!!!
snapshot
October 12th, 2009
2:36 pm
I think Mark Richt is a good man and a good coach. I am sure FSU would like to have him as their head coach.
Midtown Jack
October 12th, 2009
2:37 pm
Richt will not be fired, he shouldn’t be, but he needs to take a hard look at what’s going on, please are u kidding me? The team is listless, the play calling is unimaginative. let’s not let support of the dawgs blind us to the fact that this is not acceptable.
R F Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:37 pm
Hire Will Muschamp!
Just A Grunt
October 12th, 2009
2:37 pm
To all the Bulldog fans – How does it feel to be “that” other Georgia team? Maybe now maybe the sports segments of the local news can devote more then a passing reference to Georgia Tech. If you aren’t a native of Atlanta you wouldn’t even know that the Tech campus was downtown.
Glory, Glory
October 12th, 2009
2:38 pm
GO Daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwgs. 3 and 3 is AOK with me!
LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL
KnoxDawg
October 12th, 2009
2:39 pm
Crompton named SEC offensive player of the week for a career day. Enough said!!
obvious dude
October 12th, 2009
2:39 pm
Never say “in my opinion” or “I think” or anything like that. If you are writing it, then we all know that its your opinion!
mcdaviddawg
October 12th, 2009
2:39 pm
Richt says we don’t need a knee jerk reaction. I think it’s past time for a reaction, and if he won’t change than the program needs to change everything. This didn’t start this year, we have underachived for the last several years. ALmost every Richt season has seen the incredible lose because of lack of preparation and game plan. With only a slight dip in athletic ability the program has fallen apart. He hasn’t developed talent which is whay we sit with a quarterback with no previous experience. The program is on steep downhill run, that was foretold by games against Tenn, Alabama, West Virginia,and even Vanderbilt. Lord help if we lose at Vanderbilt this week. The big question is what to do with the Florida tickets.
icedawg
October 12th, 2009
2:39 pm
Mark Richt has been a very good coach. UGA is fortunate to have him as their head coach. When he has had good supporting cast they’ve done exceptionally well, when not, not so well. Right now the supporting cast has proven itself suspect, very suspect. Hopefully, gracefully, he will make the necessary changes and improve the supporting cast so that UGA can get back on track. No one should be immune from being relieved. The defense has been deplorable. The offense not much better. With the supposed talent there, it must be more a coaching problem. However, I question the level of talent that we’re supposed to have on defense. I am not convinced that talent on that side of the ball is a good as everyone has said. Consider the size of the defensive backfield. They are mismatched with most of the receivers in the SEC. It is pretty difficult for a 5′10″ or less db to go up against a 6′4″ receiver. We do not have a killer defensive line either. Therefore people are eating our lunch. I don’t know if more defensive scheming would improve the situation when man for man match up we are holding the short end of the stick. But the Russells and vanGorters seemed to get more heart and better performance out of their players than the present coach. I am afraid that we’ll have to suffer through a less than stellar year. Sure hope the right people are found and this thing gets turned around.
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:40 pm
I knew Richt was better than O’liary the first year we played. He’s the best coach UGAg has EVER had…let me say that again. HE’S THE BEST COACH UGAg HAS EVER HAD.
I say fire his azzz. Chan Gailey’s out there. So is Patrick Nix.
BUT, he ain’t better than Paul Johnson.
Bigbadbeeeeeee
October 12th, 2009
2:40 pm
I love it, a couple of years ago Mark Richt walked on water and now everyone wants him gone. Just face it Dog fans you are a second tier program who thinks its a national player. The last time you did anything significant was 1980, even GT has a more recent National Championship than you. You will alway be the big boys bitch, FLA, USC, Texas, Oklahoma, Alabama, Ohio St. LSU, etc….. You will never be a big time program but yet you all think you are, its such a joke. Leave Mark Richt alone your lucky to have such a good coach and just come to grips with the fact that you are second tier and will never be a big time national power. GO VOLS….BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!!!!!!!!JACKETS RULE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!and will beat UGA again.
dawgster
October 12th, 2009
2:40 pm
Theres no way that Coach Richt should go, but i do have to agree that it appears that changes will be needed on the defensive side, i believe Coach Richt will have no choice and believe me it will be a very difficult choice, for him, my concern is who is out there that will come here that doesn’t already have a very good situation at the school they are at…..Maybe Kirby Smart, but i’m sure he is making a tremendous amount at bama and likes working for Saban, i think Will Muschamp would not leave Texas unless it was a Head Coaching position, i’m sure there are others that would be quite capable, but i would hope it could be someone with a georgia connection….
Kung Fu Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:41 pm
Time and Time again, any coach can win at least 8+ games at UGA. Richt has been here 9 yrs and had some nice moments, but bottom line is staying at the Top Dawg.
LSU and FL just reloads year after year and don’t even think about being 2nd best. Bama is on the rise fast and it’s a matter of time before they claim the BCS. They could win it this year.
These top teams in the SEC surround themselves with the best assistances and when they get hired away, the coaches just reload with another one.
When will Richt learn that loyalty can only gets you so far. He is wasting so much talents with these clueless assistances. We’re probably going to be in the same situations next year and Richt is going to blame on the young qb being lacking game experience while should have play them now and build for next year.
If UGA falls to 6-6 or 7-5 next year, Richt should be FIRED. Being nice and mellow is great and all, but without fans support. Sanford stadium would be empty and donations will much less.
jaglaw
October 12th, 2009
2:42 pm
Bill….dont forget about firing Jon Fabris.
innocent bystander
October 12th, 2009
2:43 pm
Most sensible thing you’ve ever written.
Dave In Tampa
October 12th, 2009
2:44 pm
“But he Ain’t…..” Nice Ramble On. I thought Tech had better academics than that. Obviously, you did not go there.
Gainesville Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:44 pm
I do not want to see Mark Richt fired!!! Do do want to see Mark Richt get “the eye of the tiger” back!
He seems to have lost something. It may be because he has surrounded himself with poor and mediocre assistant coaches. Time to get lean and mean again, Coach Richt! Fire the bad assistants, including your friend Willie and get the “eye of the tiger” back!
Mike S
October 12th, 2009
2:45 pm
Personally, anyone calling for Richt’s head right now is a moron. Period.
That said, anyone not calling for Willie Martinez’s head right now is a moron. Period.
I know there are a lot of people who think making moves mid-season is nota good idea and possibly counter-productive. I do not suscribe to that way of thinking.
Were I coach, and there are good reasons I am not, LOL — Willie Martinez would not be DC today. He would be demoted to Secondary coach (where he once did a respectable job) and given the option to remain through the end of the season.
Rodney Garner would be promoted to DC and be given one simple instruction, Get them motivated, get them mean, and be agressive. If we get burned on some calls, so be it, but put some damn pressure on the QB and force them to make plays.
Next, Joe Cox would be on the bench, and Logan Gray would be given his chance to operate the offense against Vandy. Put some speed at the QB position and move the pocket, use Gray’s legs and some options to open up the running game.
I would PREFER Murray or Mettenberg being given the opportunity to play some this season and LEARN, but I understand Richt’s wanting to keep thier eligibility. Still that means we have a Frechman QB next season. 6 of one half a dozen of the other.
No matter what, something needs to be done. Saturday was unacceptable, and someone has to pay for that. Be it martinez or Bobo being dumped, Cox being benched, or other starters being pulled — RICHT MUST DO SOMETHING TO SEND A MESSAGE TO THE TEAM AND FANS THAT THIS LEVEL OF PERFORMANC IS UNACCEPTABLE!!
MrSEC.com » Blog Archive » The Junkyard Dawg Bites Back
October 12th, 2009
2:45 pm
[...] says now about my prediction that a bad year would land Richt on the hot seat.And as a good sport, he’s done just that:“Are there Georgia fans calling for Richt to be fired? Sure. Are we hearing such calls [...]
obvious dude
October 12th, 2009
2:46 pm
I have free tickets to the fla game and I’m not going to go…and I live in jax!
Nashville Dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:46 pm
Kung Fu Dawg has a point.
Why isn’t Richt build toward next year and start playing one of the freshman qb? I know Murray is has bump shorter, but what about Matty. Just because he was rated behind Murray doesn’t mean anything. I think he can play big time qb.
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:47 pm
Dave In Tampa I threw the “ain’t” in there for you mutt fans.
dawg76
October 12th, 2009
2:47 pm
I don’t think Richt needs to go. I see this slump as just another stage in his coaching tenure at UGA. How he reacts and adapts to this will tell if Richt can become a really great coach.
Optimistically Pessimistic
October 12th, 2009
2:48 pm
Maybe Stafford, Moreno, and Massaquoi were better than we thought…covering up alot of bad coaching and play calling. CMR should, at the very least, start calling the plays again. And, please, would someone contact Brian Van Gorder and offer Mont Kiffin-like money to bring him back to Athens?. At least one coach on the sideline would have a little bit of fire in his belly!
UGA 89
October 12th, 2009
2:48 pm
Guess when Richt is leading by 20 or or pace for a 10 win season and he paces the sidelines fussing with his hair, looking stoic and smirking, it’s quiet confidence. When the team is being whipped by UT, its passionless out of touch. C’mon Mark, you’re better than this, show some damn fire! The team and/or the coaching staff need a swift kick in the arse.
Mike S
October 12th, 2009
2:49 pm
And my level of spelling was totally UNACCEPTABLE on that last post. Sorry.
Robert
October 12th, 2009
2:50 pm
Anyone who wants to see Richt fired is an idiot. He is a good coach, he just needs to surround himself with better assistants.
Joshhh...
October 12th, 2009
2:50 pm
@ Obvious Dude – if that’s for real, I’ll take them off your hands…
@ Junkyard Blawger – should we make a move right now or after the season is over?…
Willie Martinez
October 12th, 2009
2:50 pm
I dont know why you people are so upset. I told you on this very blog last week that i would hold TN under 50 points and I delivered. The heat needs to be put on the offense not me.
Dawg Crap
October 12th, 2009
2:50 pm
Tech fans are not obsesses with UGA, they’re obsessed with UGA’s obnoxious fans and enjoy seeing the pain inflicted on their beloved daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwgs! Go Vandy.
Dave In Tampa
October 12th, 2009
2:50 pm
Nice try Ramble On. Thanks for playing!!
dawgstephen
October 12th, 2009
2:51 pm
CMR forever. Anyone who looks at the entire body of work and what he means to this university can see that. The coordinators do need to be looked at and evaluated. Coach Richt can fix them and keep them, or decide changes and bring new in.. However, CMR WILL DO THE RIGHT THING and fix it.
http://www.dawgstephen.blogspot.com
RunningDog
October 12th, 2009
2:51 pm
The nerve of Mark Bradley stating that Coach Richt needed lessons from Paul Johnson. We’re having a tough year, but it’s not over yet. Last time I checked Tech still hasn’t been to a BCS game.
Made famous by Hershel
October 12th, 2009
2:51 pm
Dawgs are great, Cox is heisman material, richt is the second coming of lombardi. All is good right? Go Dawgs.
Larry
October 12th, 2009
2:51 pm
“As Chris Low of ESPN.com put it, “Richt has been too good, too consistent and too classy for any reasonable Georgia fan to call for his job.”
You make a mistake if you assume that their is such a thing as a “reasonable” Georgia fan
Stat Man
October 12th, 2009
2:53 pm
Hey Valdosta Dog—
Ever hear of someone named Bobby Dodd???
Before you go spouting off about Richt’s 85-25 record in his first 8+ years and saying how not many do it and nobody from Tech – please take a breath and digest these FACTS:
Bobby Dodd was 101-28-4 in his firts 10 years at Tech (yes, including his 4-6 mark in his first year) – even a better winning percentage than Richt has at UGA. Now add in two SEC championships and a National Championship and please don’t show your ignorance by trying to drag Tech (or Flordia, or whoever) into the much your season has turned in to.
Mike S
October 12th, 2009
2:53 pm
RunningDog, and they won;t be this year either, they will be watching Miami or Va Tech play in the BCS while they remain in the second tier of ACC teams.
Ackworth dawg
October 12th, 2009
2:53 pm
Leave CMR alone, he’s the best thing that’s happened to UGA since Munson.
GeoffDawg
October 12th, 2009
2:54 pm
Bringing Kirby Smart back to Athens may not be that big of a stretch. Reportedly, Saban will not even allow him to speak to the press because he wants to be the one to talk about his defense. He may be ready for a higher profile position and doing it at his alma mater would be the icing on the cake. Agree about Muschamp though – he’s not making another lateral move. He only leaves Texas for a major HC job.
Knoxville beat down
October 12th, 2009
2:54 pm
45-19 enough said.
BCS Bound
October 12th, 2009
2:55 pm
Not this year puppies, how do you spell under achievers? U G A
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:56 pm
It’s not really the coaching, people. Remember it’s the Refs. I mean for crying out loud just last year, your esteem graduate Tony Branyard said:
I have been covering college football as a professional journalist for 32 years and, without being too dramatic here, there is a good chance that the excessive celebration call on Georgia’s A.J. Green last Saturday against LSU is the single worst officiating mistake I have seen in my three decades of covering the sport.
I mean, how is any program going to recover from a travesty as that?
Now, once you get those SEC refs calling games fairly, everything should be OK.
I think they’ll be doing the GT game, so, I guess that’s another lose.
Steve
October 12th, 2009
2:56 pm
I think people just had probably greater expectations that what we should have for this season. Loosing our big punch on offense is going to cause you problems any year. I for one believe a Coach can only focus the given talents of the players and that you shouldn’t coach your players to do more than they are capable. It is definitely time for our coordinators to show what they can do with the talent we have for the rest of the year.
Ed
October 12th, 2009
2:56 pm
Agree that Richt isn’t on the hot seat right now, but I think the hot seat is only 12 months or so away if things don’t get turned around. Remember that Fulmer, Tuberville, Lloyd Carr and Charlie Weis were once the toast of their college towns. 3 of those guys have a MNT – all were forced out. Weis is still hanging by a thread and could be a second-half swoon away from getting fired.
What’s disturbing about Richt is that he seems a little out of touch with the situation. I and many other Georgia fans knew that this was going to be a tough season because we are poorly coached on defense, yet Richt maintained the status quo, even after Georgia’s defenders quit on Martinez (in my opinion) in the ‘08 UF and Tech games. I’m reminded of the definition of insanity. What in Willie Martinez’s 4-year tenure as defensive coordinator indicated that ‘09 would be any different? Of course, ‘09 has been a repeat of what we’ve seen since the ‘05 Auburn game – defensive meltdowns, blown coverages, little pressure on the opposing QB, porous run defense, stupid penalties, etc. This makes 3 meltdowns against Tennessee in 4 years, which from an offensive football standpoint will never be confused with the 1980s San Francisco 49ers.
I’ve seen this team quit too many times in the last few seasons to give Richt a lifetime pass. Somehow he needs to find the “Finish the Drill” mojo from the early part of this decade. Otherwise, he’ll go the way of Phil Fulmer.
RAMBLE ON!!!
October 12th, 2009
2:56 pm
that was last week, my bad.