Fan talk: Schedules, special teams, Stafford and celebrating the holidays UGA-style
A great gift for any UGA fan. (University of Georgia Press)
Here’s wishing everyone in the Bulldog Nation a merry Christmas and happy Hanukkah. I hope your holidays are full of joy and you get to spend them with family and friends. And for those of you traveling, please be safe. If your holiday gatherings are anything like my family’s, you’ll probably wind up talking Dawgs and getting some UGA-related presents. Along those lines, let’s help out someone looking for last-minute gift suggestions as we check the Junkyard Mail. …
Julia McKenzie writes: Bill, I’m among those folks who have left their Christmas shopping until the last couple of days and I still need to get something for my uncle and another gift for my Dad, both of whom are UGA alums and big Bulldogs fans. I don’t want to go the logo cap, T-shirt, jacket route because I know they’ve both got plenty of those. What can you recommend?
I’ve got two suggestions for you, Julia. First is the new, updated edition of “Damn Good Dogs! The Real Story of Uga, the University of Georgia’s Bulldog Mascots” by Sonny Seiler and Kent Hannon (University of Georgia Press, $34.95). Originally published in 2002 and first updated in 2006, this handsome coffee-table volume devoted to UGA’s favorite dogs is lavishly illustrated with more than 500 photographs, most of them in color, and tells the stories of all the Ugas and their adventures and has lots of great shots of vintage memorabilia. The new edition adds 80 pages about Uga VI, Uga VII, Uga VIII and super sub Russ. A portion of the proceeds from sales of the book benefit the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine. My other gift recommendation is the DVD set “1980 Dawgs: The Inside Story of the National Championship Season,” which exhaustively chronicles the greatest Georgia football season (and which I’ve written about before here). I think either would be a big hit with your uncle and dad.
Jesse Murrah writes: How do you think UGA’s schedule will be affected next year with the new additions to the SEC? And Chip Caldwell asks: When will we know the 2012 schedule? I thought it was supposed to be completed already.
A couple of athletic directors had indicated the schedule would be released this week but that didn’t happen. Apparently incorporating Texas A&M and Missouri, preserving traditional rivalries and working around nonconference deals has proved trickier than some thought. The conference issued an update this week saying it was working through the “final stages” of the 2012 football schedule, adding: “We’ll release it once it’s complete, but not before Christmas.” There are lots of rumors, though, including reports out of Missouri that Georgia will open its SEC schedule visiting the Tigers. That would move the Dogs’ traditional SEC opener, South Carolina, back into October. That actually might work in UGA’s favor, which is probably why folks in Palmetto State are grumbling about it. Meanwhile, there are competing rumors floating around about which SEC West team will go off Georgia’s schedule to make room for Missouri — Alabama or Ole Miss. Alabama would seem to make the most sense, since Georgia is owed a home game by the Rebel Black Bears, but we’ll just have to wait and see.
Jim writes: Given the attention, or lack of, to special teams of Georgia this year and the fact that hiring a special teams coach would take away from the 10-coach limit of the staff, wouldn’t a simple fix to the problem be to name one of the coaches on staff as the special teams coordinator? Because special teams are an important aspect of a football game there should be a special teams coordinator just like there is an OC and DC. This would establish a chain of responsibility for mistakes by the special teams and a roadmap for correction.
Yes, since Mark Richt doesn’t seem likely to take on special teams responsibilities himself, as some head coaches do, naming one of the assistants to coordinate special teams work would appear to be a good idea. One thing’s for sure. Georgia needs to change from the way it approached special teams this season, as the Chattanooga Times Free Press documented recently, and Richt appears to recognize that. I liked this quote from him: “If we’ve got to put a bunch of starters on defense on some specials or starters at wide receiver or whatever you’ve got to do —tailback, I don’t care what position. We’ve got to get the best guys out there and understand how crucial it is.”
KSS writes: Where do you see the 2012 Dawgs finishing the year? Will they be a legitimate contender?
Georgia returns a lot of starters and the Dogs will probably be the favorite to take the SEC East again, especially if a couple of key players stick around instead of leaving early for the NFL and the Crimson Tide comes off what’s already another advantageous schedule. If a consistent running game can be established, yes, I think UGA could be a contender for the conference championship and beyond in 2012.
OkieDawg writes: Hey Bill, I read in the AJC that [Aaron] Murray, [Bacarri] Rambo and [Orson] Charles requested an evaluation of their projected NFL draft position. I have also heard rumors that [Cornelius] Washington and [Sanders] Commings requested an evaluation from the league. Can you confirm how many players have requested an evaluation and the possibility of each leaving?
Sorry, we don’t know exactly how many players have submitted their name, only those who’ve talked about it publicly, and that’s the group you’ve mentioned (though Murray isn’t really seriously considering it; he just wants to see how he rates, and that’s also likely with Commings).
Todd writes: While I count myself as a member of the Dawg Nation, the general sense that I get from the majority of our fan base is one of disinterest in the success that Matt Stafford is having in the NFL and I don’t understand it. I have followed his NFL career from his first year where Detroit won 2 games (after winning none the year prior) through this winning season and I have to say he has exceeded my expectations. He really has been worthy of the #1 overall pick in the 2009 draft but I hardly hear any Georgia fans talking about him. … With all the Tebow hoopla in recent weeks and the way Gator fans are crowing, doesn’t make sense when we have the better quarterback and I think he proved it Halloween weekend when they blew out the Broncos in Denver. Where is our pride in ole #7?
You’re right, there doesn’t appear to be a lot of Stafford fever in the Bulldog Nation, though I have heard from fans who’ve been following Stafford, especially this season. Overall, I think a lot of Georgia fans were disappointed that he left early for the NFL without first winning an SEC title in Athens and that perhaps lessened the enthusiasm for him. But I imagine that will change if Matt gets the Lions to the Super Bowl.
Travis Hill writes: Hey Bill, love reading your Blog. It’s like you are reading my mind as a fan. I am hoping and praying that we will be able to keep coach [Todd] Grantham in Athens for a long time. Coach Richt owes him big time. I am still worried about our special teams and our offense under [Mike] Bobo. I am not a Bobo basher. I wanted Bobo to succeed more than anyone. I thought Bobo was a great player for Our Dawgs. He is a great recruiter and QB coach. I just think that sometimes Bobo cannot adjust to defenses after they adjust to what we are doing. The LSU scheme was excellent in the 1st half, the players just did not execute. But I really question the coaches’ decision to keep kicking to the Honey Badger. I mean kick it out of bounds or directionally. I was just shocked. Thanks again for your writing. My crew is in Section 325 each and every year … and we are loud!
Yeah, the punting strategy — and special teams strategy, coaching and execution — left a lot to be desired in that game and over the entire season. As for Bobo, I think you may be right about him having trouble adjusting on the fly. When his game plan works, though, Georgia’s offense has been pretty awesome.
Garrett from Bainbridge writes: Hey Bill, I’ve been following your blog for a few years now and continue to enjoy reading it every week. I was wondering if you knew if there was a video made of the Larry Munson memorial service at Sanford Stadium and, if so, do you know where those of us who were unable to attend the service could find it online? I would greatly appreciate it if you could help me with this, as it killed me that I was unable to make the service in person.
I haven’t seen any video of the complete service show up online so far, but there are snippets. The official memorial video can be seen here, there’s a fan-made highlights video here and there’s a nice clip of the Redcoats playing “Georgia On My Mind” at the service here. Perhaps the athletic association ought to consider releasing a video of the complete memorial; it would make a good fund-raiser for a worthy cause.
Got something on your mind concerning UGA athletics or a question for the Junkyard Blawg? Send it to junkyardblawg@gmail.com.
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113 comments Add your comment
Strangers, waiting, up and down the boulevard
December 23rd, 2011
11:02 am
Happy Holidays to you and your family, Bill.
Go Dawgs!!!
31-17 Dawgs STILL Run This State!
December 23rd, 2011
11:06 am
Happy Holidays Bill, thanks for the outstanding blawg! Can’t wait to go to Tampa and see this great group of Dawgs tee it up one more time! GATA
Red Clay Hound
December 23rd, 2011
11:09 am
Merry Christmas Bill, and as always thanks for keeping us informed.
CTG Punches Himself in the Face
December 23rd, 2011
11:11 am
“Travis Hill writes: Hey Bill, love reading your Blog. It’s like you are reading my mind as a fan. I am hoping and praying that we will be able to keep coach [Todd] Grantham in Athens for a long time. Coach Richt owes him big time.”
Is embarrassing UGA in CTG’s goals and objectives for 2012? If so, he should earn a huge bonus.
anotherdawg
December 23rd, 2011
11:11 am
There’s more UGA fans pulling for Stafford than you know. Most of my friends root for all former Dawgs to do well. Have you seen the new Batman trailer with Hines Ward, it’s pretty cool. http://content.usatoday.com/communities/entertainment/post/2011/12/chilling-dark-knight-rises-trailer-arrives/1
Me again
December 23rd, 2011
11:12 am
The countdown o next year…….
Dawg'88
December 23rd, 2011
11:21 am
Sorry Bill for the long post. Just wanted to get your blog corrected.
Good quick response there Bill.
Merry Christmas!
Bill King
December 23rd, 2011
11:28 am
Dawg ‘88: Caught me in the middle of proofreading!
david
December 23rd, 2011
11:29 am
Im not a huge Bobo fan, but we avg about 33 points a game– thats pretty good. Merry Christmas to all
SSIgator
December 23rd, 2011
11:35 am
“But I imagine that will change if Matt gets the Lions to the Super Bowl”
Yeah, he can get them to the Super Bowl, but it is going to cost him a small fortune to buy the whole team tickets to the game.
SSIgator
December 23rd, 2011
11:37 am
I’m really a closet tekie.
Pago Pago Dawg
December 23rd, 2011
11:38 am
‘Ole Miss Black Bears?!?!?! Dang, it just doesn’t sound right. Too bad they gave in to the naacp, jesse jackson etc.
SSIgator
December 23rd, 2011
11:39 am
I wear women’s clothes!
dawgfan
December 23rd, 2011
11:40 am
When was Stafford supposed to win an SEC title for us?
2006: He was a true freshmen. True freshmen don’t win SEC titles. Tebow didn’t even start when he was a true freshmen.
2007: We got sort of close. This one’s on the coaching staff. Bobo was flat outclassed on both losses. Stafford played well that year.
2008: We had one of the worst defenses in UGA history. Look up the stats if you don’t believe me. How is that Stafford’s fault? Was he supposed to volunteer to play linebacker or something?
Stafford was a DGD and we’ll be lucky to get another extraordinary talent like him if this is the way we treat them for leaving early.
Thanks.
DIT
December 23rd, 2011
11:44 am
Agreed, move Bobo to QB coach and go out and get a new OC OR CMR needs to call the plays. We need Bobo for recruiting. Looking forward to the Outback Bowl. Nice to have the Dawgs playing in my backyard!
Go Dawgs and Merry Christmas
SSIgator
December 23rd, 2011
11:58 am
“We’ve got to get the best guys out there and understand how crucial it is.”
Say what you will about Richt, but after only eleven years it sounds as if he has finally recognized the problem. Wonder if it will take another eleven years to implement a plan?
1+2
December 23rd, 2011
11:58 am
My issue with Bobo is that he out thinks himself. The Dawgs can have a play or a strategy that is working perfectly. Instead of sticking with it, Bobo will eventually go away from it. This makes absolutely no sense to me. Make the other team adjust to you – you don’t adjust to the other team because you believe they are about to adjust to you.
duronimo
December 23rd, 2011
12:00 pm
Coach Richt is not an easy one to “peg”. I know he wants to win it all every year but it’s clear that he finds the well being of those around him more important. In that regard, he reminds me of the great Georgia Tech coach, Bobby Dodd. Dodd had great teams. He won a National Championship without cutting corners (if you don’t count the “tear-away” jerseys which were awesome).
Dr. Morpheus
December 23rd, 2011
12:04 pm
Merry Christmas, Bill, and thanks for a great blog. The quality of your articles has been outstanding this year. Commenting on Todd’s thoughts about Matt Stafford, I’ve always held him in high regard and have followed his NFL career closely. After struggling with repeated shoulder injuries, he has come back in 2011 to put up big numbers (with ex-Tech star Calvin “Megatron” Johnson being his prime target) and bring the perennial loser Detroit Lions to the brink of making the playoffs for the first time in this Millenium. My thinking is Stafford didn’t get as much love from our fans as some players because his outward demeanor is quiet and reserved. Additionally, the team as a whole underperformed in his junior year and he chose to move on to the pros rather than play another year. I don’t hold any of that against him. If you go back and watch his UGA highlights, the guy made a whole lot of great plays and led us to a number of huge victories including a road upset of Auburn as a freshman, the Florida endzone celebration game, the blackout win over Auburn, and two great wins over Tech. He went out in style as Georgia came from behind to defeat Michigan State in the 2009 Capital One Bowl (bringing his UGA bowl record to 3-0). To me, supporting our guys who go on to the next level is part of being a Georgia Bulldog, something I’ve practiced all the way back to Fran Tarkenton’s days with the Minnesota Vikings. Stafford, like others including favorite UGA receiver MoMass, keeps up with the Dawgs and shows his support. I’ll be watching the Lions play the Chargers on Christmas Day and pulling for our old QB to outduel Philip Rivers and bring home the win.
BobDawg
December 23rd, 2011
12:09 pm
I get the Chattanooga Times paper and David Paschall does a great job covering the Dawgs…
UGA fan...not fanatic
December 23rd, 2011
12:10 pm
some UGA fans actually pulled for Quincy Carter?……yea right….
swimdawg68
December 23rd, 2011
12:12 pm
I can’t blame Stafford for leaving early, is there anyone out there that would turn down $40 Million?
I agree with some of the comments on Bobo, I think he is over his head as a OC. Why would you change what is working in a game to go to something that had very little chance of working? Example, in the first half against LSU we ran mostly the spread offense and it worked really well. To start the second half we put Murray under center for 3 straight plays. We did that for 3 series in a row even when we fell behind. We took away all the momentum we had gained in the first half, including our defensive momentum. I lay all that blame on Bobo. I love UGA, I have been a season ticket holder for over 30 years sitting in the club section and sadly, I don’t see us reaching the top(National Championship) with Bobo as OC. Sadly, CMR does not share my point of view. There are some Todd Granthams out there for our offense that we should bring in if we wish to catch Alabama and LSU and play on their level. Or, are we satisfied with just being SEC East champions? Not me.
UGA fan...not fanatic
December 23rd, 2011
12:13 pm
(though Murray isn’t really seriously considering it; he just wants to see how he rates,
Let me rate him, cant throw the long ball, cant throw a deep out, cant win a big game….and chokes under pressure
Dr. Morpheus
December 23rd, 2011
12:13 pm
Before I get back to work, I had to copy this quote from Michael Carvell’s AJC recruiting blog. “AJC Super 11 defensive end Jordan Jenkins of Harris County High School has set his announcement for Jan. 9. He will reveal his choice at 7 p.m. on “The New College Football Show” on FOX Sports South. Tennessee has been eliminated by Jenkins, who will pick between Alabama, UGA, Florida and Auburn. Alabama has been the longtime leader for the 6-3, 250-pounder, but UGA has gained a lot of ground recently. Jenkins and his father are big fans of Bulldogs defensive coordinator Todd Grantham.” Grantham goes over the top occasionally with his passion, but players and recruits know he’s got their backs.
BobDawg
December 23rd, 2011
12:18 pm
You know, I have gone back and watched the LSU/UGA conf. chpship game and I really think the coaching staff at Halftime thought we had the Tiggers “gassed” as we were on offense for most of the first half… I really believe Bobo and crew thought we could play smash mouth football in the 2nd half and run the ball coming out of halftime . LSU had been on defense at the end of the half and I think we wanted to tire them and it backfired… Not agreeing with the decision but maybe trying to explain the reasoning…
AltamahaDawg
December 23rd, 2011
12:19 pm
What seemed to be overlooked is the most important factor that contributed to the struggles on the ST this year is that we came into the season with 70 scholarship players.
Look back at all the articles in early August. UGA was very thin at spots, particularly Lbs . Didn’t think they could afford to lose even one. That’s your “front line players” that were not on the ST.
Came into the year lacking 15 scholarship players. Think about it. Does the equavalant of an entire defensive unit make a differnce when having players to put out there?
It’s easy to NOW say, we need to start putting some of our defensive starters out there, but it’s not so easy to ask your LBs to sprint down the field 80 yards 7 or 8 times a a game, then get out there and give 110% effort with no substitution coming.
Depth.
BiggdawgK
December 23rd, 2011
12:21 pm
Rumored 2012 schedule:
Sept. 1 – Buffalo
Sept. 8 – at Missouri
Sept. 15 – Florida Atlantic
Sept. 22 – Vanderbilt
Sept. 29 – Tennessee
Oct. 6 – at South Carolina
Oct. 13 – at Kentucky
Oct. 20 – Open
Oct. 27 – Florida (Jacksonville)
Nov. 3 – Ole Miss
Nov. 10 – at Auburn
Nov. 17 – Georgia Southern
Nov. 24 – Georgia Tech
AltamahaDawg
December 23rd, 2011
12:29 pm
Has also been some rumors of replacing that Nov. 3 with a Bama game. Some specualtion that they need to interupt the Ole’Miss return visit (which is not sacred ) to solve some other issues elsewhere. The above seem more likely though.
BiggdawgK
December 23rd, 2011
12:31 pm
I know that will make the deluded Georgia haters yell and cry but it doesn’t bother me. We get spurrier and his eternal desire to beat UGA later in the season, we get another open date before the gaytors after several decades of them getting that advantage and even get Ga Southern with a similar offense to the trade school the week before we spank them .
If we do end up as the SEC opener for Missouri look for them to be pumped and focussed just like Boise St was this year. I still like the way this sched lines up for the Dawgs to have a good shot at another return to the SEC Championship game.
Merry Christmas and GO DAWGS
AltamahaDawg
December 23rd, 2011
12:33 pm
Interesting point SSI. I guess it helps to just ignore that for the vast majority of those 11 years, UGA has been one of the better team in the league on ST to make it?
Preston
December 23rd, 2011
12:35 pm
In regards to Matthew Stafford, that is a surprising read for me. Everyone I know (including myself), is very excited about Stafford’s emergence as a bonified NFL star. Good to see yet another DMG doing well in the NFL!
Sam Robards, Dawg Fan
December 23rd, 2011
12:35 pm
How come EVERY post I try to place on Bill’s blog gets eaten? I don’t have this problem with Bradley or Schultz…
Sam Robards, Dawg Fan
December 23rd, 2011
12:36 pm
Stafford was a fantastic QB at UGA, and while I don’t care at all about the NFL, I do look in from time to time to see how he’s doing.
I also can’t understand the Stafford bashing that goes on in the fanbase: in fact, it really p!sses me off.
Would ANY other school throw away a QB who lead their team to a Sugar Bowl victory and a #2 final ranking? I sure hope not, because that’s DERANGED.
Did Garrison Hearst, Eric Zeier, Hines Ward or Terrell Davis win SEC titles while at UGA? Nope, but people love them (I do, too!). So why is Stafford treated so poorly by the fanbase?
Yeah, I get it, we were preseason #1 in 2008, but I never bought into the ranking (even then) because our defense was ATROCIOUS. I don’t care how good your offense is: if your defense can’t stop anyone, you CAN’T WIN. So how is that Stafford’s fault?
It isn’t. ‘Nuff said on that.
I think Alabama is going to come off the schedule next year, which means we’ll get ANOTHER year of ESPN placing an asterisk beside our record when it’s discussed that says, “UGA didn’t play Bama, LSU or Arkansas this year” in an attempt to degrade our team and their accomplishments.
Heck, they already have: look at the ESPN SEC Blog for proof.
Sorry if I’m rather angry today, but my nerves are a little raw right now: probably because I have to work a full day today. Humbug indeed…
Go Dawgs!
Top Row Dawg
December 23rd, 2011
12:37 pm
Drew Butler is only inches away from the SEC longest average puting in a carreer.
Blair Walsh is only a few points from being the SEC leader in points scored.
Looks like the blocked punt and the returns hurt Drew considerably on the net, he was 2nd in average punt. 44.3.
Also Walsh was second in FG’s made. (19)
Just thought to post THE REST OF THE STORY.
Athens= God's Country
December 23rd, 2011
12:43 pm
BobDawg
You’re an idiot. Merry Christmas.
Dr. Morpheus
December 23rd, 2011
12:52 pm
BTW, I’m not ashamed to say I wanted to see Quincy Carter get his life together and succeed in the pros. His leaving paved the way for David Greene to start at a redshirt freshman and lead the Dawgs to 42 wins.
AltamahaDawg
December 23rd, 2011
12:58 pm
What hurt Walsh is that we attempted so many loooong FGs, (half of which he made) in situations where other team just punted.
duronimo
December 23rd, 2011
1:08 pm
Matthew Stafford is doing UGA proud. Without him Detroit would be a lower tier NFL team. Tarkington always made the teams he played on better and Stafford has the same magic. Georgia without him would have had more bad years in a row and Richt would be gone.
Wet Willie...keep on smiling
December 23rd, 2011
1:21 pm
ESPN doesn’t have to degrade you wins sport for the teams you beat speak for themselves! If you really want a great Christmas present then hope Alabama is moved off your schedule for 2012 and years going forward. Jenkins will roll with the Tide as well as Goldman,Winston,and Jones. That 3 of the top 10 players in the country folks. Merry Christmas.
Richt`s Hammer
December 23rd, 2011
1:39 pm
When Michigan State hangs 50 on us, will you still love me and give me a fat raise and a new contract.
Brother Richt
Hairy Dawg
December 23rd, 2011
1:39 pm
Tebow was a part of two national championship teams and won the Heisman. Stafford didn’t do either of those things. If he had, he would be a god in Athens.
ugab
December 23rd, 2011
2:05 pm
CMR has never been good at keeping players around for the players senior season. Plenty of Ga players have left Uga early for the draft. Most of these players go late in the draft and they are a bust in the NFL. Boykin stayed to become a better player. I believe O Charles is close to being NFL worthy. It would benefit Charles and Rambo to stay for the one more year. EVERYONE KNOW THAT MONEY TALKS. THERE IS ALWAYS THE RISK OF GETTING INJURED. PLAYERS HAVE TO GET INSURANCE INCASE OF INJURY
ugab
December 23rd, 2011
2:08 pm
I am very happy for Stafford. Every Dawg fan wishes Stafford would have came back for his last season. MONEY TALKS.
7576DAWG
December 23rd, 2011
2:17 pm
I think if CMR had changed his Defensive coordinator out in 2008 like everybody wanted ,Stafford would have stayed in 2009 and we may have even won the national championship in 2008 and 2009. Martinez was the worst defensive coordinator in the history of Georgia . Maybe he was a very good position coach but the coordinator job was waaay over his head , just like the offensive coordinator job is waaay over Bobo’s head. The bad thing about it, is the AD feel’s the same or Bobo would be making a lot more money than he is. Too keep Grantham raising his salary to 1 million is a must and should be enough to get a 3 year extension but at $400,000 that is already too much for Bobo . You can’t gauge Bobo’s success by just looking at point’s per game. To me the most important stats are turnover’s in the big game’s and how many of those game’s do we WIN. THAT’S WHERE BOBO HAS FAILED.
The problem is who would we get as offensive coordinator to replace Bobo. Anybody good enough will leave after a year or two to be a head coach somewhere or go to the NFL as a position coach. We have to hope that Bobo will finally learn from past mistakes and at least become good enough to not lose game’s for us. If that happen’s it will be enough because a great defense will take care of the rest.
UGA fan...not fanatic
December 23rd, 2011
2:31 pm
yep, the more I look at that schedule, I see 11-1, win the east and lose to LSU again.
Special teams, 1st: the FG unit, Blair Witched sucked this year, 2nd: that stupid punt team formation where the 3 guys get directly in front of Butler sucked. 3rd: Logan Gray’s fair catches were sorely missed.
UGA fan...not fanatic
December 23rd, 2011
2:32 pm
the special teams apologists are out in full force now.
Joey
December 23rd, 2011
2:48 pm
What’s so sickening is our punt and punt return teams killed us in the first game of the year and the last (SECCG).
In all three of our losses, we were right in the game for a half or more, then those two STs were the catalyst for the other team getting momentum – and scores.
Time and time again, Boise, SC, and LSU began drives inside of our 25 yard line, which is asking too much of any D.
I just seems with Richt, even in the good seasons, it always something – bad luck, poor coaching, non-coaching (STs) – that keeps UGA from getting to the top. With the STs as bad as they’ve ever been, in year 11, it makes you wonder if Richt CAN do what it takes to get us to the top?
Jim
December 23rd, 2011
3:16 pm
I think Bobo’s main down fall is, like Richt, he only has experience under one coach. Sitting in one place too long isn’t good. The successful coaches ie Saban and Miles worked for some pretty successful coaches to get where they are. Look at Richt’s staff. Most of them are Richt trained. As for calling plays, I would think Richt has a lot of input on the play selection during games. He isn’t wearing those headsets for looks.
I’m looking forward to the Bowl game and hoping that we have some running backs show up. According to the papers in Michigan, Michigan State believes getting pressure on Murray will disrupt his footwork and result in him missing receivers by five yards.
We best bring our A game because they have a lot to play for.
Richt`s Hammer
December 23rd, 2011
3:37 pm
Wow with that schedule we could win maybe maybe maybe 6 games. Great news, pass the buscuits.
Hammer
Richt`s Hammer
December 23rd, 2011
3:39 pm
I know we really are terrible. 5 Star recruites everywhere and Choakdawg still has eat the other team`s kicker..
Move On
December 23rd, 2011
5:10 pm
You can’t be serious about dropping Alabama from the schedule’ are you??? That would be a COP OUT for sure!!!
Only 3500 Attend Munson Memorial
December 23rd, 2011
5:40 pm
“Garrett from Bainbridge writes: Hey Bill, I’ve been following your blog for a few years now and continue to enjoy reading it every week. I was wondering if you knew if there was a video made of the Larry Munson memorial service at Sanford Stadium and, if so, do you know where those of us who were unable to attend the service could find it online? I would greatly appreciate it if you could help me with this, as it killed me that I was unable to make the service in person.”
It is sad so many could not attend.
JDawg1785
December 23rd, 2011
5:54 pm
“Damn Good Dawgs” is a great read. Any Georgia fan who doesn’t have it should pick it up. I have the 2006 version and had trouble putting it down when I first bought it.
Merry Christmas and Go Dawgs!
AltamahaDawg
December 23rd, 2011
6:00 pm
well, sorry that the details are not as cutting edge analysis as it all “sucked”.
bitter dawgs fan
December 23rd, 2011
8:24 pm
0-12 record IS captian america —-aka—QB fantastic— turnover murry’s top 25 record—————-enough said——-0@12—nasty yaaaaaw
——————-sorry cling on’s——time for —–HUDSON MASON————
bitter dawgs fan
December 23rd, 2011
8:25 pm
just saying——–evan joe cox had a 50% record against top 25 teams
—————what will it take for st richt love fest with murry to be over???????????????????—-0-12
BiggdawgK
December 23rd, 2011
8:49 pm
Only bama and gaytor fans are so stupid and tech fans so lacking in imagination that they actually think using a name with dawg or dog in it will make anyone believe they are a real Georgia fan.
Pago Pago DAWG
December 23rd, 2011
9:22 pm
We thought the SEC made the Conference skeds? The SEC will switch Bama with Missouri, this IS not UGA’s fault.
We’ve already been invited to the game by our Bama family, but now?
SEC Observer
December 24th, 2011
12:31 am
Georgia should go 12-0 with that schedule in 2012. No big out of conference games and you avoid LSU, Alabama and Arkansas once again. You don’t even play A&M.
What a gimme.
RED DOG 77
December 24th, 2011
12:52 am
Happy Holidays Bill, Glad to see you are back on the “real” BULLDOG BANDWAGON…………….You have to admitt you were quite the “downer” during the early part of the 2011 season……….Great to have ya back!!!……………Regards, RED
doggie
December 24th, 2011
1:47 am
Richt`s Hammer… I’m curious, what does your handle mean? Doesn’t make sense. Help me out.
Chris
December 24th, 2011
2:35 am
Great article! the ajc is a great cite for all sports news, and I appreciate it. Have a merry christmas and im looking forward to another year of reading these blawgs and of course a great win January 2nd!!!!
Go DAWGS!!!
Chris
December 24th, 2011
2:37 am
bitter dawg fan
you truely are one. Murray is a great player and i dont see why you don’t understand this. What makes you think Hudson Matson would be better? The coaches play the best players. Come on man
UGA fan...not fanatic
December 24th, 2011
6:22 am
and the nincompoop is at it again
RedandBLackDAWG
December 24th, 2011
6:57 am
Merry Christmas and happy New Year, to all of the true DAWG fans on this blog. 2012 is going to be a very good year for UGA, and true fans are going to enjoy the ride.
GO DAWGS and GATA
bubba4dawgs
December 24th, 2011
8:11 am
Should be a good year in 2012 but we’ll need a strong finish in recruiting this year for continuance of a good year in 2013. I hope we can reel in the big 5 on the “wish list”!! HAPPY NEW YEAR DAWG NATION, ALL THE COACHES AND THE DAWGS!! GO DAWGS…..BEAT MICHIGAN STATE!!!
bitter-grench that stole dope smok-in running backs---dope bag---hahahah
December 24th, 2011
9:43 am
if qb murry starts it will be easy to see that any top 25 team we play will be a loss
——murry is 0-12 against top 25 teams———-fact———-i guess he will still get 35 td’s
next year———-but winning a sec championship——-with him—–please
—-give me MASON —or give me death—-not really
Joe
December 24th, 2011
9:48 am
“Yeah, he can get them to the Super Bowl, but it is going to cost him a small fortune to buy the whole team tickets to the game.”
Matt Stafford is 10 times the QB Tim Tebow will ever be in his dreams. Hell, Tim Tebow won’t even be in the NFL in 5 years.
LakeDawg
December 24th, 2011
10:30 am
I think the luke warm response to Stafford is because of the impression he was not “all in” when he played at UGA. It appeared to me and others as if he looked at UGA as just an apprenticeship for the NFL.
Still@theKool-aidBAR
December 24th, 2011
11:44 am
LakeDawg look at the Majors the football players are taking. Most of the UGa players are looking at UGa as an apprenticeship for the NFL don’t kid yourself. They are not smart enough to get in college without football and are ready to get out as fast as they can.
DawgByte
December 24th, 2011
2:15 pm
Todd & Bill -
I’m an enthusiastic fan of Matt Stafford’s. I have a picture of Matt with my son and two nephews at the Globe after a G-Day game. Matt was very accommodating and his parents were polite and happy to let their son take a picture with fans. Matt’s a class act and has come back several times to support our players and coaches. Stafford is a damn good Dawg and deserves the support of every UGA fan.
Lastly, I’ve always enjoyed watching him play. Matt is a rare talent with an arm that defies imagination. As he gets older he will get better and better…. increasing his completion percentage and reducing interceptions. I rarely watch the NFL, but when the Lions are on TV I make it a point to watch.
Farrah
December 24th, 2011
5:13 pm
LakeDawg look at the Majors the football players are taking. Most of the UGa players are looking at UGa as an apprenticeship for the NFL don’t kid yourself. They are not smart enough to get in college without football and are ready to get out as fast as they can.
That sums it up nicely. Call the UGA players whatever you like, but they are most certainly not student-athletes. Most of them can barely read.
LakeDawg
December 24th, 2011
8:22 pm
That sums it up nicely. Call the UGA players whatever you like, but they are most certainly not student-athletes. Most of them can barely read.
————————————————————————————————————————————–
And you know this how?
EX-Contributor
December 25th, 2011
3:43 am
I bet Richt is praying it’s Bama that is removed from the schedule and not Ole Miss. Nothing like an easy schedule to pad winnings and to get a contract extension. At least at UGA where the Admin and a lot of the fanbase are not serious about a first rate football program, unlike Bama, LSU and ARK. That’s why Santa won’t be bringing UGA fans an SEC championship for a very long time. Happy New Year.
Fran G. Pani
December 25th, 2011
7:36 am
MSU 42, Athens School for Remedial Studies 10
Yellow Fuzz
December 25th, 2011
8:38 am
Merry Christmas to all those in the dog nation that are not AH’s.
dogdawg
December 25th, 2011
8:46 am
Coach Todd Gratham is the reason we are 10-3.We need to extend his contract at all cost.Dooly would never have won the NC in 80 with out Eric Russell,and Ritch would be gone if not for CTG,2012 will be a great year.GO DAWGS!!
chazzo
December 25th, 2011
10:47 am
I’m not a Bobo basher or particularly a Bobo defender. i will say, though, it would be pretty difficult for anyone to adjust on the fly with the shaky running crew the dawgs had this year. This also gave Murry fits. Murry’s one big issue, in my opinion, is that he sometimes tries to force things to happen when he gets flustered.
Overall, our young team hung with the #1 team in the nation for a half of football! The best thing that came out of that is that our young players now realize that they can hang with the #1 team in the nation. It doesn’t matter who goes pro (with the possible exception of the center). The Dawgs also proved this year, that it all comes down to the offseason conditioning and players who want to get better and contribute to the program.
If the Dawgs get caught up in the hype of being ranked high in the 2012 preseason polls, Richt’s seat will get warm again because it will be a crappy season. If the Dawgs work and take one game at a time, the sky is the limit.
SLOBBERKNOCKER
December 25th, 2011
11:40 am
Glad for Stafford. Whatever happened to Knowshon? Don’t even rememer Demetrick Evans, only started three UGA games yet played 9 years in the NFL. Wow. Where was he at GA. What happened to MoMass? Saw that DJ (Formerly Danny) Ware scored a winning touchdown for the NYG’s a couple of weeks ago. AJ Greene taking it up a notch in Sincinnatta. John Stinchcomb retired from NO. When did that happen? Will he show up weighing 185 like his brother in his next carnation? Isn’t Phillip Daniels st ill playing for the ’skins? I think so. Mac Strong comes to mind. Sounds lot a lot of DGD’s are still out there to me. Miss ya, Larry. Merry Christmas, Lewis G. I’d love to be sitting on a bar stool with you guys in heaven discussing the Outback Bowl.
shane#1
December 25th, 2011
11:54 am
Merry Christmas to all good Dog fans, and you too, Thomas Brown. Best wishes to all “enemy” posters. Even Thechies.
Dr. Morpheus
December 25th, 2011
12:33 pm
Merry Christmas to all. @Slobberknocker, MoMass is performing well with the Cleveland Browns. I just learned about Pro Dawg (http://pro-dawg.blogspot.com/), a blog that reports on UGA players at the next level. Check it out and support this worthy effort. (And how ’bout that Matthew Stafford vs SD?) Go Dawgs!
Yellow Fuzz
December 25th, 2011
1:38 pm
Ok. Merry Christmas to all those in the dog nation, even the AH’s. This day only!
UGA fan...not fanatic
December 25th, 2011
2:00 pm
Yellow Fuzz, they prefer to be called nincompoops. Merry Christmas, good luck in yall’s bowl game.
Ole Miss Black Bears???
December 25th, 2011
2:45 pm
How long before we turn back the ‘political correctness’ train? I mean, really. Was it truly offending anyone other than the ‘Reverend’ Jackson and his ilk? Those folks are ‘offended’ at anything that will enhance their bank account.
tony
December 25th, 2011
4:09 pm
Let’s just hope they won’t take ALABAMA off the schedule. The dawgs schedule would be the weakest ever if they do and will kill their chance to play for a nc even if they win all their games.
tony
December 25th, 2011
4:12 pm
Oh, give the right person an extension…..where would the dawgs be without Mr.Grantham.
Doggie in NC
December 25th, 2011
7:03 pm
Who on here really thinks that Ark was the 3rd best team in the SEC this year? Good offense – bad defense – we found out what that gets ya the last few years – DAWGS would have whooped some piggie arse! Relax guys – we were one bad play (USC) and one half of football away from playing for it all this year (you really don’t think they would have picked Bosie over us if we had won the other two) – OK State may have bumped us though. I expect a great game with MSU (back and forth – down to the wire). Win or loose, we should stack up pretty good against our schedule next year. GO DOGGIES!
CRO-MAGNON MAN
December 25th, 2011
7:27 pm
I AM A BOBO BACKER. THINK HE HAS DONE A FINE JOB WITH OUR OFFENSE CONSIDERING WE RUN THE I FORMATION WITH ONLY A FRESHMAN TAILBACK WHO MUST GROW UP QUICKLY. NO OTHER TAILBACKS OF SEC CALIBRE…ONLY FLASHES FROM SOME OF THEM. BROUGHT OUR ONLY OFFENSIVE HOPE, A PASSING ATTACK, ALONG QUITE WELL WITH NO OUTSTANDING GO TO GUYS LIKE AJ GREEN. GOT THE VERY BEST OUT OF OUR RECEIVERS THIS YEAR. PUT OUR RBS AT ALABAMA AND TELL ME THEY ARE PLAYING FOR NC. AND MURRAY HAS PLAYED WELL, BUT HE IS NO STAFFORD…JUDGE BOBO ON WHAT HE HAS TO WORK WITH, MORENO, HEARST, ROBERT EDWARDS, AND STAFFORD NO LONGER PLAY BETWEEN THE HEDGES…HOPE BOBO STAYS AROUND, BUT THE ONES WHO WANT A MAJIC MAN AS OC ARE THE SAME ONES WHO WANTED TO REPLACE CMR WITH THE MISS. STATE HEAD COACH OR SOME OTHER FLASH IN THE PAN!!!!
Embarrassing, isn't it?
December 25th, 2011
8:43 pm
The Indianapolis Star newspaper recently posted an article regarding “special admits” to colleges. So called “special admits” refers to the preferences given to athletic recruits that would not normally meet admissions standards. While there is nothing surprising about the fact that colleges use different standards for some athletes, the interesting point is the degree of preference given.
The newspaper studied 55 of the countries largest public universities and found that the preferences given to special admits at many schools was disproportionately favoring athletes, particularly football players. For example, in 2004 the University of California reported that 95% of freshman football players on scholarship were special recruits while 47% of all freshman athletes on scholarships were special admits. In contrast, only 2% of all freshman students were special admits. At the University of Georgia and Texas A&M University, 94% of freshman football players were special admits.
And that’s the shameful truth about Mark Richt and his team of bozos.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Old Coach
December 25th, 2011
10:44 pm
@cro
You are exactly right about Bobo. He has done a great job running the I with a freshman go to guy at tb! I think that Georgia will regret the day Bobo leaves UGA. A very good coach and great recruiter.
wins-by-a-link
December 25th, 2011
11:40 pm
Still wondering: Will someone please tell me why would anyone punt to the Honey Badger? I’ll bet Bama won’t kick anywhere near him.
Bill King
December 26th, 2011
11:33 am
What Part of #1 Draft Pick In The Whole Damn Draft Do You People At Georgia Not Understand !!!!!!!!!! Name one # 1 Draft pick Other Than Matt Stafford From GEORGIA That GEORGIA HAS EVER HAD !!!!!!!!!
Dawg in gatorville
December 26th, 2011
12:51 pm
I have no interest in Matt Stafford what so ever. I was not a good DAWG so to speak.
He had no leadership that anyone could see, he only wanted to get the the pros healthy.
I can’t blame for that but he could have been a great leader at UGA and he failed at it then left them.
His senior year he could have been HUGE. The team could have been a contender. Instead he was getting his fanny kicked around the NFL and the Dawgs took a nose dive that year due to a less than capable QB. Just Sayin..
Dawg in gatorville
December 26th, 2011
12:52 pm
I meant he was not a good Dawg,,
01HAWK
December 26th, 2011
1:02 pm
PUPPIES…………………………………You get lucky again. But you still will not win a BCS Championship, nor a SEC Chamionship…………….. LOL
With Alabama not appearing on Georgia’s schedule, the Bulldogs will not face West powers Alabama, LSU or Arkansas for the second consecutive season. The Bulldogs will play West opponents Ole Miss and annual rival Auburn.
01HAWK
December 26th, 2011
1:06 pm
With the schedule that UGA will have next year, you have knocked yourself out of a BCS Championship game. The schedule will be graded anywhere from # 50 to # 75. Your schedule this year was the # 64 toughest.
louis from cherry log
December 26th, 2011
3:59 pm
MATT STAFFORD = RENT-A-DAWG…no decent player want’s the “uga” label pinned on them forever…uga fans are d/a’s…for real, for sure….
Bill King
December 26th, 2011
6:42 pm
DAWG IN GATORVILLE HE WAS AND IS A BETTER DAWG THAN YOU! SINCE HE LEFT GEORGIA HE HAS RETURNED MANY TIMES AND DONATED MORE THAN 100K TO HIS OLD SCHOOL HOW ABOUT YOU WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR GEORGIA !!!!!!!!!!
Dawg One
December 26th, 2011
7:08 pm
MSU 42, Special Admit U 10
kral
December 26th, 2011
7:37 pm
Yes sir, that SAt score makes you special..the higher you get,,, ell your snit begins to smell better..by the way how many correct answers separate a 950 from 1050…embarrassing
docdawg
December 27th, 2011
12:56 am
Bobo is improving, without a running game, absent since Moreno, what do you call, LSU sent the house ib the 2nd half, should have tried Malcolme way earlier but hopefully the running game will be much better and deeper next year. like to see Gurley and one more power runner commit, 3 and outs in the 2nd half of SEC game wore D down, no revelation there. Stafford finally healthy for the year, stats rock, he shows toughness, smart checkoffs, if Detroit gets a power runner and another L O tackle they will be tough next year. Matt was smart to take the offer instead of salary cap his senior year. if they can protect him, next contract should be a whopper, and they could make serious noise over next few years in playoffs
dawgdip
December 27th, 2011
8:43 am
What’s the update on a new contract for Coach Richt. Having been out of town for the last week I have not seen anything on this. Any news????
wally
December 27th, 2011
9:46 am
A long time Bulldog fan, but I would like to see some Christianty in the Bulldog nation. On another blog I read Aaron Murray was thought to have a beer in his hand, his mam is planning a great Tampa Bowl party. I would think beer will be flowing like water.. As good anouncer as Larry Munson was I really doubt he was a christian. I know Tim Tebow was a Gator, But his christian character is certainly not one to be over looked. CMR and the Bulldogs can learn alot by watching his life. Still a Bulldog fan and wanting a Bowl victory.
WDE
December 27th, 2011
11:17 am
@wally how many Bloody Mary’s you had this morning?
UGA Insider
December 27th, 2011
1:40 pm
Brandon Smith looking at NFL hard as well. We could lose 5 or 6 guys early. If that’s the case we are back to rebuilding mode.
DunwoodyDawg
December 27th, 2011
3:48 pm
Bill I don’t normally comment on here, but seeing you write Rebel Black Bears makes me shudder. Yes, I really do think they would have been better off with General Akbar.
oh!myvaginahurts
December 27th, 2011
4:53 pm
Rugged dawg running back.
http://blogs.ajc.com/uga-sports-blog/2011/12/27/isaiah-crowell-under-weather-for-georgias-first-practice-in-tampa/?cxntfid=blogs_uga_sports_blog
UGA sports blog
Isaiah Crowell ‘under weather’ for Georgia’s first practice in Tampa
12:41 pm December 27, 2011, by Chip Towers
TAMPA — Back at my room after Georgia’s first Outback Bowl practice. Will be posting some reports later this afternoon. For now, here’s what you need to know:
1.Tailback Isaiah Crowell is “feeling under the weather,” according to coach Mark Richt, and was standing on the sidelines and not participating, at least for the open part of practice early on. His left ankle apparently is not an issue and he will be able to play in the game.
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UGA sports blog
Isaiah Crowell ‘under weather’ for Georgia’s first practice in Tampa
12:41 pm December 27, 2011, by Chip Towers
UPDATED WITH SOME PHOTOS BELOW . . .
TAMPA — Back at my room after Georgia’s first Outback Bowl practice. Will be posting some reports later this afternoon. For now, here’s what you need to know:
1.Tailback Isaiah Crowell is “feeling under the weather,” according to coach Mark Richt, and was standing on the sidelines and not participating, at least for the open part of practice early on. His left ankle apparently is not an issue and he will be able to play in the game.
mountainman
December 27th, 2011
10:01 pm
When will the dawgs get a proven coach who can take us to the NC game…as long as everyone is fine with winning the SEC East in the SHORT Term, maybe they are satisfied! We are going to get outcoached again in the Outback and will be in the same secondary role again next year!!! When was the last time the Dawgs were in the top 10 at the end of the year? That’s as good as it will get with this overpaid and over-rated coaching staff.
Rural Eucation
December 28th, 2011
10:13 am
It is obvious that the SEC powers want Ga. To matter again. This 2012 schedule is another gimme.
2012 schedule
December 28th, 2011
10:25 am
Aug. 30
South Carolina at Vanderbilt
Sept. 8
Auburn at Mississippi State
Florida at Texas A&M
Georgia at Missouri
Sept. 15
Alabama at Arkansas
Florida at Tennessee
Sept. 22
LSU at Auburn
Kentucky at Florida
Vanderbilt at Georgia
Missouri at South Carolina
Sept. 29
Ole Miss at Alabama
Arkansas vs. Texas A&M
Tennessee at Georgia
South Carolina at Kentucky
Oct. 6
Mississippi State at Kentucky
Arkansas at Auburn
LSU at Florida
Georgia at South Carolina
Texas A&M at Ole Miss
Vanderbilt at Missouri
Oct. 13
Alabama at Missouri
Kentucky at Arkansas
Auburn at Ole Miss
Florida at Vanderbilt
South Carolina at LSU
Tennessee at Mississippi State
Oct. 20
Alabama at Tennessee
Auburn at Vanderbilt
South Carolina at Florida
Georgia at Kentucky
LSU at Texas A&M
Oct. 27
Ole Miss at Arkansas
Texas A&M at Auburn
Florida vs. Georgia (Jacksonville)
Kentucky at Missouri
Tennessee at South Carolina
Mississippi State at Alabama
Nov. 3
Alabama at LSU
Missouri at Florida
Ole Miss at Georgia
Vanderbilt at Kentucky
Texas A&M at Mississippi State
Nov. 10
Texas A&M at Alabama
Arkansas at South Carolina
Georgia at Auburn
Mississippi State at LSU
Vanderbilt at Ole Miss
Missouri at Tennessee
Nov. 17
Arkansas at Mississippi State
Ole Miss at LSU
Tennessee at Vanderbilt
Nov. 24
Auburn at Alabama
LSU at Arkansas
Kentucky at Tennessee
Mississippi State at Ole Miss
Missouri at Texas A&M
2012 schedule
December 28th, 2011
10:26 am
SC has LSU and Arky
UF has LSU and A&M
UGA has Ole Miss and Auburn
looks like the east is on a platter for the dawggies. GO gamec*cks!
UGA Insider
December 28th, 2011
10:47 am
Love the new schedule!! Thanks SEC!
By Oct 6 UGA will be running on all cylinders and we will destroy our only roadblock to an undefeated season….. USCe.
really
December 28th, 2011
10:48 am
Schedule is out. No Alabama!!!
GEORGIA
Sept. 8: at Missouri
Sept. 22: VANDERBILT
Sept. 29: TENNESSEE
Oct. 6: at South Carolina
Oct. 20: at Kentucky
Oct. 27: vs. Florida (Jacksonville)
Nov. 3: OLE MISS
Nov. 10: at Auburn