Bradley’s Buzz: Someone else likes South Carolina in 2010
"Don't despair, Steverino! I like your chances next time." (AJC photo by Brant Sanderlin)
It’s not yet Valentine’s Day, so this is subject to change, but the leader in the clubhouse for post that has peeved the most folks in 2010 is the one where I dared to suggest South Carolina might be poised for a better football season than the Georgia-based SEC representative.
I got the usual dismissive response — “Bradley, you’re just trolling for a reaction” — but I really wasn’t. I actually believe South Carolina is poised for a better season. And now, from Bruce Feldman of ESPN.com’s Insiders, comes something in the way of corroborating testimony. Feldman lists South Carolina as the No. 1 team being overlooked for 2010. (Link requires registration.) His rationale:
“If the Gamecocks don’t come up with that clunker in the bowl game, I suspect they’re preseason top 20, but let’s not overreact too much to that game. QB Stephen Garcia did make some nice strides in 2009, and Carolina does return 19 of 22 starters. Better still, it just landed a potential impact freshman in RB Marcus Lattimore, who could — and should — do wonders for the SEC’s worst rushing game. Those reasons have me thinking this should be Steve Spurrier’s best Carolina team yet, although that’s probably not saying all that much. New O-line coach Shawn Elliott needs to bolster the group up front (they did surrender 36 sacks last season). The schedule also breaks fairly well with Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and Arkansas all having to visit Columbia this year. The two toughest SEC road games: at Florida and at Auburn.”
Understand: I’m a Gamecock skeptic of long standing. I got much grief from the Palmetto State when, back in 2007, I agreed with Lee Corso that Spurrier would never win the SEC while working in Columbia. (And then, as is invariably the case with me, Spurrier and Carolina beat Georgia in Athens.) But I do think there’s a stability with the other USC that isn’t present anywhere else in the SEC East save Vanderbilt. And I think that stability will count for something this fall.
Would I pick Carolina to win the East? Nope. Even with the players and coaches Florida has lost, I’d take the Gators. And I think Georgia could have a nice rebound year and maybe even go 9-3. But I think the Gamecocks could likewise go 9-3 and beat the Bulldogs at Williams-Brice on Sept. 11. (That will be the first road start for whoever is Georgia’s quarterback.)
I know, I know. South Carolina always promises much and delivers much less. I’m fully aware of the Chicken Curse. But this one time, I could see the Gamecocks finishing (slightly) ahead of Georgia. This one time.
Then again, I liked the Colts over the Saints. And Texas over Alabama. And Tech over Georgia in basketball. And Tech over Georgia in football. And …
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
164 comments Add your comment
dawglover
February 10th, 2010
1:26 pm
FIRST?
dawglover
February 10th, 2010
1:28 pm
My first first and I even read the article. Was having a crummy day til now. Had to lay off a relative. The holidays will be a little strained this year.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
1:29 pm
Kudos, Dawglover. Hope this brightens up the day.
La Jolla Dawg
February 10th, 2010
1:32 pm
I think you meant to say the Gamecocks, not the, “Gators could likewise go 9-3 and beat the Bulldogs at Williams-Brice on Sept. 11..
HTF
February 10th, 2010
1:33 pm
Marcus Lattimore for Heisman. He’s going to be the first ever 4 time Heisman winner. I can feel it. This is our year!
UGA 2010
February 10th, 2010
1:33 pm
Good point Mark, jus as long as you dont say UGA will go all the way im happy, oh, AND THANKS FOR A GOOD ARTICLE. Seems hard to come by these days. slow in the sports world
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
February 10th, 2010
1:34 pm
I hate to agree but I also think the best the DAWGS will do next year is 3rd , I will for one just be looking for improved coaching on both sides of the ball ,but I do not expect a big year 8 or 9 wins maybe. which is not that far from a big season 10 being a big year .
La Jolla Dawg
February 10th, 2010
1:35 pm
There’s a typo here Mark. You wrote “Gators” could go 9-3 when you meant Gamecocks. Probably because you don’t really mean it.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
1:36 pm
I did, La Jolla. Thanks.
CowetaDawg
February 10th, 2010
1:36 pm
USC’s gonna have to fix that O-Line before they even think of having a running game. I’ll take Caleb King & Wayshaun Ealy over Lattimore any day. If UGA runs the ball well, which I think they will w/ no Matthews or Norwood, UGA could win this bigger than “experts” think.
La Jolla Dawg
February 10th, 2010
1:36 pm
Oops, posted twice. Sorry, didn’t think it went through the first time. Not rubbing it in, promise.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
1:37 pm
Got caught up in the spam filter, La Jolla. That happens sometimes when South Carolina’s nickname is invoked.
NoGaGator
February 10th, 2010
1:37 pm
Mark, I agree with you. Biggest problem for USC is that they consistently fade down the stretch, possibly due to lack of depth when the inevitable injuries pile up. They play strong at the beginning of the year (ex. UGA) but at the end, not so much (ex. UF). They need to stay relatively healthy for your prediction to happen.
devildawg
February 10th, 2010
1:38 pm
Thats it, Mark. Pick SC and Florida, please. We have all seen how your picks have gone this year, straight into the toilet. Just don’t pick the Dawgs and we will be fine. Give your kiss of death to someone else.
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
February 10th, 2010
1:39 pm
Hey I was in the top ten posters on this one. my work day is complete I will spend the rest of the day at the water cooler bragging.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
1:39 pm
You’d be a rich person if all you’d done was bet against South Carolina over the years. But I do like the look of this team more than I’ve liked any Carolina team … gee, I don’t know … maybe ever.
AndyC
February 10th, 2010
1:40 pm
While I do disagree with Mark often, I will agree that the Sept. 11 game in Columbia is a very dangerous game. The dawgs will be playing a very young and inexperienced QB on the road in an unfriendly environment.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
1:40 pm
Then again, a lot can happen between now and Sept. 11. The game is seven months and one day away.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
1:40 pm
South Carolina has a shot because they have the 3rd best defensive staff in the SEC, right behind Bama and Georgia. Defense wins championships in the SEC. South Carolina will beat Florida because Florida’s defensive staff is so anemic (so will Georgia, LSU & Bama) and the loss of 11 starters.
Disagree with you about Florida–down year for them, 8-5 if they’re lucky (Lose 5 of these 7 games: FSU, Miss St, Tenn, UGA, Bama, LSU, South Carolina) . Their defensive staff is #8 in the SEC. Chuck Heater? Come on man.
Disagree about Georgia. Georgia will win the East this year with defense and win the SEC Championship. UGA is #1 in the SEC EAST defensive staff-wise BY A MILE.
Bama lost 9 defensive players in 2009, so they’ll go 9-3 in 2010.
DC Braves Fan
February 10th, 2010
1:41 pm
Good grief, Mark. Feldman says the Gamecoks have a favorable schedule because Bama is coming to Columbia? A favorable schedule wouldn’t have Bama on it. The Gamecocks may play the three toughest SEC West teams next year (reasonable minds can disagree about whether LSU belongs in that group, but let’s just say that I see them heading in the wrong direction). Maybe if MSU was coming to Columbia, that would be a favorable schedule. They won’t beat Auburn or Florida on the road, and what is the likelihood that they’ll do better than .500 against Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and Arkansas? And that assumes they don’t slip up against Vandy or UK.
Whatever you think of Georgia, I’m not sure how one can elevate SC to contender status with that schedule. They are certain to lose 4 games, and that won’t win them any trips to Atlanta other than perhaps the Chic-Fil-A Bowl.
devildawg
February 10th, 2010
1:43 pm
Whatever sky high is smoking, pass that on over here.
NC Dawg
February 10th, 2010
1:43 pm
The Dawg’s defense will win the game in Columbia.
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
February 10th, 2010
1:46 pm
I am happy about the Dawg’s new defensive staff also but still worried about not having the personal to man it properly in the first year , that along with a brand new QB and its hard to have the high hopes.
Dawg Tired
February 10th, 2010
1:47 pm
Mark – You may be right about all this. The biggest if to me is whether Spurrier is really into the whole thing. He seems to not have nearly the energy or passion he had at Florida.
Brewdawg
February 10th, 2010
1:49 pm
I just cant wait to see spurrier throw his visor. My favorite part of the SC games…..
Mike S
February 10th, 2010
1:50 pm
Sort of like Chris berman predicting a Buffalo-San Francisco superbowl ever single season, keep predicting it every year and some day (NOT 2010 THOUGH) you will be correct.
So, today wust end in Y since both Bradley and Shultz are taking shots at UGA.
Pretty interesting that for a team nobody cares about because they are in a downcycle with no end in site all anyone on AJC seems to care about is UGA UGA UGA UGA.
Carolina Cream Pie
February 10th, 2010
1:50 pm
I like South Carolina for vacation, but it really isn’t good for anything else.
Football?
BWAH-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
sky high
February 10th, 2010
1:52 pm
UGA has excellent defensive talent (#5 on rivals at DL, DE, and #11 at DB). But it’s the defensive staff that’s so much better than East competitors. UGA is #1 in the SEC in quality of defensive staff.
QB? Looking great there too.
Aron Murray- 5000 yards of offense, 63 td’s 2 state championships, 56 college scholarships offered. Parade Al-American
Hutson Mason- 4500 yards of offense, 55 td’s, Parade All-American
Logan and Zach–Both top ranked QB’s coming out of High School.
Oklahoma and Miami both won a National Championship with a Freshman QB.
SSIgator
February 10th, 2010
1:52 pm
sky high -
UGA win the East? Do you have the Kool Aid on an IV drip?
winterville
February 10th, 2010
1:52 pm
If the Saints can win a Super Bowl then certainly some day South Carolina is going to break through and win the SEC. Someday!
SSIgator
February 10th, 2010
1:56 pm
Again this year we get to hear SOS say “It was only UGA, not like we beat a football powerhouse”.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
1:58 pm
I think UGA just picked up the defensive back coach that helped shut down South Carolina in the Bowl game, Scott Lakotas?
Good news for Georgia, bad news for South Carolina.
The Lone Trumpeter
February 10th, 2010
1:59 pm
Carolina will be good, but not great. The same offensive line returns, and sometimes that is not a good thing. They do have a new o-line coach, but does he have the horses? Their season and ours boils down to the game in columbia next year. Winner gets off to a great start, while the loser has to rebound and fight back from the first sec loss.
Dawg Trainer
February 10th, 2010
1:59 pm
I can see the Disney version of USC winning the East now:
Someday, the ‘Cocks will come…
To Atlanta, that is. Won’t be in 2010 though!
Heavy Dawg
February 10th, 2010
1:59 pm
sky high is high. DAWGS don’t have the best defensive staff in SEC. Alabama does. Unless he was against hiring Smart from them.
Brewdawg
February 10th, 2010
2:00 pm
Great, another annoying FL fan on a UGA blog. Get a freaking life man!!!!!
Go Dawgs!
SSIgator
February 10th, 2010
2:00 pm
Or the other SOS quote “UGA always gets all of these 4&5 star players. I wonder what happens to them up there.”
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
February 10th, 2010
2:00 pm
hoping you are right sky high
GO DAWGS !!!!!!!!!!
The Lone Trumpeter
February 10th, 2010
2:00 pm
sky high- good point.
Jimmy Sessions
February 10th, 2010
2:00 pm
USC has the talent,but if they don’t correct their usual mistakes(offsides,too much time,OL not blocking,and lack of passion in some games)it will be another 6-6 or 7-5 year.HOWEVER,if these mistakes are corrected;I see the gamecocks going 9-3 and 2nd in the east.
DAWGS BETTER IN 2010
February 10th, 2010
2:01 pm
Georgia’s record 10-2 and South Carolina same as years past 7-5 maybe 9-4.Florida and Alabama struggle some next year,LSU vs Georgia in SEC chanpionship game.
Ditto from a Gawga man
February 10th, 2010
2:02 pm
In the SEC usually, a solid, senior QB can carry the team, unless his name is Jumpin Joe Cox. TG and Greyhound that he is Gone. Garcia OUGHT to perform well with SS’s input. That kid has some issues but maybe he has matured. He is talented and he is why I say ditto.
If SC has the tough D vs UGA like always …………the game for UGA could be a rough one, especially with our new QBs. On the other hand with our new?? improved running game and more seasoned o line and our depth, we could prevail. The UGA QBs will have to be ready.
This game might be a wild one.
Go Dogs.
winterville
February 10th, 2010
2:02 pm
Does SSI stand for Steve’s Surly Idiot?
Dawg Trainer
February 10th, 2010
2:02 pm
I KNEW that post wouldn’t make it past the filter. But it was witty, if I say so myself…
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:03 pm
South Carolina’s O-lINE can’t pass protect (36 sacks–geez–worse than Tebow and that’s bad) and can’t run block.
Georgia’s 2 backs and Branden Smith will outrun anyone in the SEC.
Big B CH 99
February 10th, 2010
2:04 pm
I’m a tech fan, but as a football junky, I think that if the Ol’ Ball Coach is ever gonna take S. Car. to Atlanta, then this next yr is the yr. I think Florida is gonna be down next yr, they’re replacing Tebow and a lot from their NFL-level Defense. I think Derek Dooley will do good in Tenn, but next yr is a re-building yr. I expect UGA to be better, but i don’t know how much, they will have a great Running game & Green/Charles, but a young QB will make mistakes. I expect their D to be better, but I don’t see them going from in terms of national rankings a middle of the pack (50s – 60s) to top 20 D. I think that a team w/ a really good D that can shut down the run will have a good chance against UGA.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:05 pm
Grantham is the guy that’s been coming in for years to TRAIN BAMA.
Grantham is the guy Nick Saban tried to hire to run his defense. Saban thought Grantham was more qualified to run his defense than him.
Muschamp, Foster, Smart all recommended Richt hire Grantham.
Hootie Bookems
February 10th, 2010
2:09 pm
I was told the other day that 2010 is the year of the Gamecock on the Chinese calendar. That’s funny I thought the year of the Gamecock was always “next year.”
WonderDawg
February 10th, 2010
2:10 pm
Thanks, Mark. Now I can start saving my money to put a big wad on UGA, Sept 11. You know, if gambling was legal …
SSIgator
February 10th, 2010
2:13 pm
Yawn. Some things never change. UGA fans before the season “This is our year. Great players, coaches, blah, blah, blah.” UGA fans after the season “Just wait until next year. Great palyers coming in, will be pre-season #1, a new energy, blah blah, blah.” As Clinton would say “It’s the coaching stupid.”
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:15 pm
If Florida couldn’t win in 2009 with 22 starters returning, Charlie Strong & Tebow, they have no chance n 2010.
The Florida fans chant the same old garbage–”we’ll get em’ next year”
Not this time.
annoying FL fan
February 10th, 2010
2:15 pm
Brewdawg = another pathetic UGA fan who thinks EVERY blog ever is a UGA blog, even if it’s a Mark Bradley blog following a post about South Carolina. You’re the one who needs to get a freaking life man. Jeeez!!
annoying FL fan
February 10th, 2010
2:16 pm
Oh, and
GO GATORS!
Heavy Dawg
February 10th, 2010
2:17 pm
So you are saying that Saban thinks that Grantham is a better defensive mind than him and that he is better than Smart? And that Saban doubled Smart’s salary so that he could keep a lesser coach around?
Sorry bud, I think you are reaching for the stars on that one.
jw
February 10th, 2010
2:19 pm
Spurrier brought in a good class of course lets not look too closely at who he took. Hampton was arrested 2 days after signing for drinking at school. The ole ball coach as YET to comment on his prized 4 star recruit who has already been at 4 high schools and now appears headed to a 5th, the alternative high school! Of course, he does not currently have the test scores to get into college but somehow has the grades??? hmmmm….
jw
February 10th, 2010
2:20 pm
Oh yes, and Marcus Lattimore said Spurrier did the Cha Cha Cha with his mama, that was one of the reasons he chose South Carolina. I guess CMR needs to take some dance classes!
dawgfan
February 10th, 2010
2:20 pm
I don’t see UCONN on the schedule. They should be fine.
It looks like the media is honing in on their darkhorse darling for 2010. Thank God its not us.
SSIgator
February 10th, 2010
2:21 pm
SOS – “What is the highest number of points UGA has ever given up at hom?” UF Asst. Coach – “Never more than fifty.” SOS – “Well, I guess we will have to hang at least 50 on them.” A painful day for UGA in Athens 1996.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:22 pm
You have to get 210 yards a game rushing to win the SEC.
South Carolina got 113 a game in 2009 (ranked #99 in NCAA).
They pikced up a great RB, but they have the same O-Line. With the coaching upgrade, they’ll probably improve to about 150 yards a game, not good enough to win the SEC East.
Georgia will average 220 a game rushing , like we have for the last 5 games.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:24 pm
UGA has averaged 247 yards a game rushing in the last 3 game sof the year, includes the Bowl game.
South Carolina–113 a game.
W0W!
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:26 pm
247 yards a game rushing in last 3 games for UGA.
227 yards per game rushing for Ga Tech, a team that runs the ball 84% of plays.
UGA is ranked #5 in rushing in the NCAA over last 3 games.
SSIgator
February 10th, 2010
2:27 pm
Auburn, GA Tech and Texas A&M. WOW!
WonderDawg
February 10th, 2010
2:28 pm
come on, sky high, it took Saban til year 2 at Bama before his defense started working. No way our guys learn a new system in one spring and one fall practice. Look for general improvement but also look for guys looking lost sometimes too.
The offense is where we will have trouble again. As in the past couple of seasons, good, SEC DCs will shut our predictable offense down for stretches in games, especially with a brand new QB running it. Remember what happened against Bama and UF in ‘08, and OSU, LSU, UT, and UF in ‘09. What will change?
It will take Richt going back to the NFL for a OC for the Dawgs to seriously challange for the SEC again. Just a realistic outlook …
"Off theMark" Bradley
February 10th, 2010
2:34 pm
Do I need to say any more? The last paragraph sums it up.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:34 pm
Grantham is known as a 1 year turnaround guy. Colts from 3-13 to 13-3 in 1 year, Browns 4-12, to 10-6.
Richt also turnsarounds quickly after poor seasons, in both 2002 & 2007, coming off a bad season, turnaround years, UGA finished #2 in the final polls.
Richt has a lot of resolve that really shines under adversity.
Robert Nephew
February 10th, 2010
2:36 pm
You are overlooking the Vols. We will be much better than people suspect this fall. I think 8-4 or 9-3 is very realistic and I think we handle the Gamecocks in Columbia.
WonderDawg
February 10th, 2010
2:39 pm
Also, what’s it gonna take for some fellow UGA fans to give some respect to Urban Myer? Guys, he loses a coordinator every year and it never matters. He could take the defense over himself, like he did the special teams a couple of years ago, and UF would still win 11 or 12 games. He’s every bit as good as Saban, and they are head and shoulders above everyone else in the SEC.
On a related note, Bill Bellichick visits the same 2 colleges every off-season to “see what new schemes the 2 coaches have created. Myers and Saban. Needless to say, he doesn’t visit Coaches Richt and Bobo …
Heavy Dawg
February 10th, 2010
2:41 pm
No sky high, you said that Saban thinks that Grantham is a better defensive than himself. I think you made that up out of thin air. Don’t give me his teams resumes.
I don’t think Smart would have been the best hire, I don’t know but Grantham may be better than Smart. But to say that Grantham is better than Saban & Saban has said this, is bull. Do you have a link?
SSIgator
February 10th, 2010
2:44 pm
WonderDawg -
Now, now. Bill Bellichick would visit UGA if he was in the market for a bulldog – for his kids.
Heavy Dawg
February 10th, 2010
2:44 pm
No wonder dawg, Grantham is a better defensive coach than Saban. Saban said so himself.
Santa Clause
February 10th, 2010
2:48 pm
I am with you on this one Mark!
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
2:48 pm
I like Todd Grantham. I think he’ll do a nice job. But if he’s a better defensive coach than Saban, isn’t it a bit strange that only one team made him a coordinator before Georgia came calling?
Easter Bunny
February 10th, 2010
2:49 pm
Good pick Mark, I am with you on this one!
Tooth Fairy
February 10th, 2010
2:50 pm
Mark, excellent choice. I am flying to Vegas to thrown down on the Gamecocks. Thanks for the pick!
Tooth Fairy
February 10th, 2010
2:52 pm
Mark, flying back to Vegas I forgot to place my bet on the Gamecocks.
Thanks.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
2:52 pm
Good idea. Put me down for $10-spot on the Colts over the Saints.
Heavy Dawg
February 10th, 2010
2:53 pm
Well Mark, sky high told me that Saban says that Grantham could run his defense better than himself. I’m still waiting for the link myself. Otherwise, sky high is, like I said earlier, high. Or just delusional maybe, we’ll see.
Obama's Birth Certificate
February 10th, 2010
2:53 pm
Mark, I think I will be looking for a change in the SEC standings next year thanks to you!
Pot O' Gold at the End of the Rainbow
February 10th, 2010
2:56 pm
I called my bookie and I am putting all my gold down on the Gamecocks!
I hope you are right this time.
UA Alum92
February 10th, 2010
2:56 pm
Heavy Dawg, as to the debate about the better coach, I’m betting on the guy with the crystal football and the new statue.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
2:58 pm
HeavyDawg, 2:41
Where did I say Nick Saban “said” Grantham was a better defensive coach than him? Which post–be specific with the time?
Nick Saban thinks Grantham is better qualified to run his defense than himself. This is pretty obvious for 2 reasons:
1) Saban brings Grantham in to train Bama each year
2) Saban chose Grantham instead of Saban to run the defense at Miami
Nick Saban is thought to be the BEST DEFENSIVE MIND IN FOOTBALL. In 2009, he was the best in college. And he gets Grantham to teach his team how to play defense each year. AND Saban tried to hire Grantham to run his defense. Get it?
UA Alum92
February 10th, 2010
3:01 pm
If, again IF, SC beats UGA in Columbia then loses to Mallett’s Hogs the next week in Athens, how loud do you think the drumbeat for “Fire Mark Richt” will be coming out of the AJC? Mark, I’m pretty sure you and Jeff would be licking your chops!
JabboRockefeller
February 10th, 2010
3:02 pm
Y’all read the piece where Vick describes his lack of effort with the Falcons? I wouldn’t mention it if it didn’t piss me off to the extreme. It’s amazing they had to pay the louse all that bonus money…
He’ll NEVER redeem himself in my eyes, no matter what he does. He’s a sadist, sociopath, and psychopath, who didn’t spend LONG ENOUGH in a cage, where he belongs.
SimpleDawg
February 10th, 2010
3:05 pm
Gamecocks will be improved in 2010. They have a wealth of good young skill players. USC’s weak links are in the offensive and defensive lines. Garcia is a good QB, but not a great QB.
I still don’t think Marcus Lattimore will be the star that most recruiting gurus predict. He played on a team that had 4-5 players sign D-1 scholarships, and another 3-4 sign with smaller schools, in a state where having 1 player on your team sign D-1 is a big thing. Having seen Byrnes ( Lattimore’s high school ) over the past several years, very few of their D-1 players have had any impact at the collegiate level. Although Byrnes played in the toughest region of all classifications in SC, their main strength is their system and the feeder system that has players playing in the system for years before they ever get to high school. They do have some really good players, but the sum of the parts is better than the individual pieces.
The 2 Byrnes players with the best chance for impact in college are the 2 defensive ends, Miller and Willis, at Tennysee and UNC.
The Dawgs can very easily lose in Columbia in 2010. Georgia always gets USC’s best efforts, and playing them early in the season benefits USC more than UGA….and that may be an indictment of our preparation.
I still believe the Dawgs will give the Gators a run for their money in 2010…..but believing it doesn’t make it happen.
UA Alum92
February 10th, 2010
3:07 pm
sky high, Saban obviously believes Grantham is qualified to run his defense (key words being “his defense”) but to say more qualified than himself is a bit of a stretch. As HC, he doesn’t have time to manage the full time requirements of the DC. Come on, this is pretty obvious, no?
bruce mac
February 10th, 2010
3:07 pm
SOS, he don’t say that anymore. Now he say, AH OH, here come the Dawgs. You still livin in the 90’s man? I think SC can beat Dawgs but they are going to lose to Bama, Gators and TN and will not be a factor. Gators wil lose to Bama, LSU, and TN. Dawgs win the East with 1 or 2 losses.
Denver Dawg
February 10th, 2010
3:08 pm
hottest UGA game of my life? at USC in 1988…
WonderDawg
February 10th, 2010
3:10 pm
Don’t rub it in, SSlgator. You never know when Urban might quit ………..and not come back!
Herschel Walker could whip your ass right now at 47
February 10th, 2010
3:10 pm
Lamecocks= zzzzzzzz
wake me up when it’s time to fight again.
UA Alum92
February 10th, 2010
3:10 pm
LOL Denver Dawg! Columbia has to be one of the hottest places on the face of the earth! Then again, Tuscaloosa is not that far behind…
Herschel Walker could whip your ass right now at 47
February 10th, 2010
3:11 pm
lame *ocks = zzzzzzzzz
11Dawg
February 10th, 2010
3:11 pm
I’m so tired of people talking about how Carolina always falls apart at the end of the season. Look at their past few schedules! The only good team they ever play in the first half of the season is Georgia.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
3:11 pm
Word on Twitter is that Urban Meyer is interviewing a defensive coordinator candidate today.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
3:12 pm
Mark-
Why do I think Grantham’s better than Saban?
1. Saban finished #2 in defensive scoring in 2009, #4 in defensive yards–he can coach defense, was in the top 6 in 2008.
2. Saban knows defense.
3. Saban selected & coached Grantham firsthand and observed his understanding of defense.
4. Saban has observed Grantham over the years since he was with Saban from a stat perspective, turnaround perspective, and Pro Bowl perspective, also noticed how teams performed AFTER Grantham left. Before and after.
5. Saban gets Grantham to train his defense in the off-season how to play defense
6. Saban offered Grantham the job as defensive coordinator at Miami, when Saban could have elected to run his own defense. He chose Grantham OVER HIMSELF.
Mike Vick
February 10th, 2010
3:12 pm
So you don’t like me, JabboRockefeller?
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
3:13 pm
Whenever I think it’s hot in Cobb County, I look at the weather map and feel better. Because it’s always five degrees warmer in Columbia.
Tailback U
February 10th, 2010
3:18 pm
You are right Mark as far ast CTG goes and until he does something
noteworthy, he is just an unproven commodity whereas Saban has the
track record. But you amaze me with the this SC thing and as far
as Feldman goes , well lets’ just say I am not a big fan of his work
so his opinions rank pretty low on my scale. I say one more time
to you that the reason your thinking is faulty can be wrapped up in
one name Stephen Garcia. The guy is simply a loser I don’t care
how great the supposed talent . And QB play has never been more
important to success in college football than right now.
That’s why that while have great hopes for Georgia’s saeson I
know that the lack of a proven vet QB will probably cause some
pain in the upcoming season. But that being said I would not trade
our untested guys for a guy I know for sure cannot the job done.
But you insist in the pipe dream , at least you and Feldman can
take turns wiping the egg off each other’s faces next year.
UA Alum92
February 10th, 2010
3:18 pm
MB, that reminds me of a line from King of the Hill when Hank was laughing about his wife Peggy saying, “I remember when she first moved here from Montanta and thought 98 in the shade was hot.”
Dostoyevskiy
February 10th, 2010
3:19 pm
Feldman had 3 ACC teams ranked ahead of UGa (VaTech, Fl. State, UNC). I think the SEC ought to excommunicate that rascal. Blasphemy! Hell, UNC is a basketball school; Fl. State has gone down the tubes since it joined the ACC; Bama ?whooped up? on VaTech last year.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
3:20 pm
I expect Meyer to try and get an ACC guy from either Clemson or North Carolina. With Meyer’s future so uncertain, I don’t see a big name making the leap. Too risky.
knoxdawg
February 10th, 2010
3:21 pm
I can see where you are coming from in this article. 19 out of 22 staters back they should be the favorite to win SEC East. However, until somebody beats the Gators they will be the favorites and rightly so. Carolina does have a favorable schedule and the first half is easier than second half. Should be one heck of a game between Dawgs and Cocks in Sept. However, loser is not out of the race for the East, just got a little harder hill to climb!
Typical Blogster
February 10th, 2010
3:22 pm
FIRST. Ditto. Blah. Blah. Blah. Says it all.
Mark Bradley
February 10th, 2010
3:22 pm
Usually it’s Tennessee-Florida that is the early elimination game in the SEC East, but this year it could be Georgia-Carolina.
DirtyDawg
February 10th, 2010
3:28 pm
Thanks Bradley, we needed that. Now if SI will just pick Steve to return to being Superior then I know we’ll have it in the bag. Fact is Georgia’s been having trouble with South Carolina for as long as most of us have been around, at least dating back to 1959 where a tie with a multi-loss SC was the only blemish on an otherwise undefeated season, so this year won’t likely be any different. But at least now you’ve given us a reason to be optimistic.
WondreDawg
February 10th, 2010
3:29 pm
Off topic, but Mark what do you think about the Braves offering Damon, or are you saving that for another blog? Shultz is on the bandwagon …
sam
February 10th, 2010
3:38 pm
south carolina has a football team?
WonderDawg
February 10th, 2010
3:38 pm
knoxdawg, you’re right, it could be a 3 or 4 way tie for the east. I just hope Coach Richt comes out of his creative coma offensively this off-season and puts some new stuff in the playbook. Stuff like his first 2 or 3 years in Athens – downfield passing, no-huddle offense, just getting the ball in the hands of our playmakers like Green, Ealey, Brandon Smith.
Conyers Yellow Jacket
February 10th, 2010
3:39 pm
Mark: This Yellow Jacket fan thinks UGA will easily win the SEC East because of such an easy schedule compared to 2009.
jarvis
February 10th, 2010
3:43 pm
This is their year. Just like every other year.
jarvis
February 10th, 2010
3:45 pm
The real question is, “Who will write the South Carolina will finally turn the corner this year?” in 2011, 2012, and 2013.
I think Shultz is probably due for a turn. I don’t think he’s written it since 2005.
Cocky
February 10th, 2010
3:55 pm
sky high,
You seem slightly delusional about UGA Defensive staff. How can you put them in the upper tier of the SEC when they just got a new defensive staff? They haven’t even played a game yet and you think their awesome. Also, having a QB with no experience to start the year isn’t a good recipe for success. You make me laugh think UGA staff in ahead by a mile. I can’t wait for all you UGA fans to come to columbia and get your azzes handed to ya. Should of lost this year, but that’s how it goes. I bet all you UGA fans will be wishing you had Cox back once your inexperienced QB steps out on Williams-Brice.
Dawg 3/20
February 10th, 2010
3:57 pm
“lame *ocks = zzzzzzzzz”
Thats funny, too bad they were responsible for one of the biggest losses in UGA history in ‘07 which ended up costing them an SEC East Title and a possible national championship.
South Carolina 16 UGA 12
Spurrier
February 10th, 2010
4:00 pm
A moment in UGA history from 2007
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jdweiss/1420990124/
sky high
February 10th, 2010
4:12 pm
I agree, in the SEC East it will be South Carlina and Georgia in 2010.
Bama lost 9 starters on defense in 2009, so 2010 will not be their year either.
In 2011, Florida and Bama should be back.
skyhigh
February 10th, 2010
4:16 pm
I’m an idiot. I apologize but I just can’t help myself.
Buckhead Dawg
February 10th, 2010
4:18 pm
I always laugh when I hear the number of returning starters on a not good team. Weren’t these the same 19 guys that collectively contributed to the team sucking last year???
skyhigh
February 10th, 2010
4:19 pm
Florida actually has a lot of talent – more than anyone else in the SEC East – I just like to be an idot and claim otherwise.
sky high
February 10th, 2010
4:21 pm
Mark/AJC-
Can you please ban the guy who posted here at 4:16 posing as me.
That’s not what we’re about here.
Thanks.
skyhigh
February 10th, 2010
4:23 pm
Also, I like to whine a lot and act like a little baby. But heck, it’s what I am!
Leedawg
February 10th, 2010
4:27 pm
South Carolina will not win anything with Garcia at QB. He’s good for 2 losses all by himself. And HTF, please get back on the meds. No freshman will ever win the Heisman and he’ll be gone after his junior year.
Loran, Whatayagot?
February 10th, 2010
4:29 pm
Matk, they will have much better components next year than they have had. The most important component is missing and that is a reliable QB. Stephen Garcia is inconsistant, immature, and I would not be surprised if he was arrested partying too much in Columbia before a big game. He doesn’t impress me at all. So, no to Steve and Stephen.
Cocky
February 10th, 2010
4:30 pm
sky high,
It’s funny that even your fellow UGA fans think your crazy. I wouldn’t count out UF just yet. They also have a pretty good QB that should start next year. Correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t UGA lose quite a few defensive starter this year?
Gator Chomp Delusional Fan
February 10th, 2010
4:35 pm
Urban Meyer will spend the next 35 years coaching for the Florida Gators and we will win 17 Championships.
What? He’s never coached more than 5 years anywhere?
Yeah? Well, uhhhh, duhhhhh….
miles above you
February 10th, 2010
4:36 pm
Florida is loaded with talent, and this notion that they have inferior coaching is absurd. Further, this notion that Georgia’s new defensive coordinator is more qualified than Nick Saban is so outlandishly moronic it’s pathetic! If he is so well thought of, why was he Georgia’s fifth or sixth choice? And why was he a defensive line coach? Heck, by the sounds of it, he should be Georgia’s head coach instead. Or maybe he should take Saban’s job?
sky high is just that, he’s REALLY high.
sky high is DELUSIONAL
February 10th, 2010
4:36 pm
FACT: Florida has more talent than anyone else in the SEC East
FACT: Florida has the best head coach in the SEC East
FACT: Florida only lost one starter from their 2 deep OL and return 4 RB’s that cumulatively ran for 1965 yards in 09
FACT: Even though they lost Tebow Florida has a better QB situation than UGA or UT
FACT: Monte Kiffin IS a much better Defensive Coordinator than Todd Grantham with miles and miles longer on his resume than Grantham and his defense last season at UT went from a top 5 D to being ranked in the 20’s.
FACT: Sky high is a delusional moron with his rants and misguided homerism
sky high is DELUSIONAL
February 10th, 2010
4:39 pm
Urban Meyer won’t be leaving UF for at least another 6-8 years minnimum so I would quell all that wishfull thinking dog fans. Instead of PRAYING he leaves how about getting a head coach who can compete with him.
David
February 10th, 2010
4:40 pm
I’m a Dawg fan but we’re on our way down I’m afraid.
DawginLex
February 10th, 2010
4:44 pm
Denver dog,
I was in columbia in 1988. Todd ellis? It was hotter than blazes.
Went under the stadium and saw somebody get arrested for drinking booze. That was back in the day when they had the “judge” under the stands.
Football Fan
February 10th, 2010
4:47 pm
That’s one person agreeing with Bradley and 80,000 disagreeing.
Monticello Dawg
February 10th, 2010
4:57 pm
1. The Spurrier remark about 4-5 star players was made in the Goff era. Though Richt has not gotten anywhere near the five star players Florida, LSU, and lately Bama has, Meyer is the only SEC coach with a winning record against Richt. CMR is 3-1 against Bama.
2. Having a young quarterback is a concern, though Murray is a redshirt freshman and will have two spring practices under his belt. I have a feeling this kid is special.
3. About the defensive staff, sure they will be better in 2011, but does anyone not believe they will be significantly upgraded over the last few years? Couple an improved defense with a better offense, cut down on turnovers and penalties, and this team will be dangerous in 2010, and one of the best in 2011.
Dzerzhinsky
February 10th, 2010
5:03 pm
Well, if UGA finishes third behind Carolina, then maybe Richt can try firing Bobo and the rest of the offensive coaches and see if that does any good. That ought to get him at least another year.
pittSPURgh
February 10th, 2010
5:03 pm
As a lifelong Gamecock fan, I often feel as you do at this moment, Mr. Bradley. Obviously, that has led to much disappointment in my 37 years.
Still, I again hold out hope for something special “next year,” as we Gamecock fans often cite as “the one” that will mean most to our program. But things are set up nicely for us as we return so much and others — UGA included — have question marks in key places.
Also, Matthews is not gone. He will lead the Carolina D next year.
Another Dawg
February 10th, 2010
5:14 pm
South Carolina is ALWAYS overlooked because they ALWAYS fall apart at the end of the year and never address their ongoing concerns. When they had great playmakers (McKinnley, Rice) they had no QB. When they have a QB, they have no run game or no pass blocking. They always have a pretty good defense and they always come out of the gate strong (except, y’know, in that annual waste of a Thursday against NC State.)
I was in Williams-Bryce last year for the South Carolina-Ole Miss game, which was the most complete game they’ve played since beating UGA in 2007. They still struggled some and they definitely regressed over the course of the season. It never surprises me if USC upsets us with Spurrier, and likewise it never surprises me when USC tanks at the end of the year.
gamecock guy here
February 10th, 2010
5:16 pm
i love this about the UGA matchup this year:
a – in columbia
b – first road start and SEC tilt for your freshman qb
c – Mr. Spurrier will know how to exploit your new defensive scheme
d – first SEC game for new DC
e – UGA lost 2 best defensive players to the NFL
f – SC has 19 of 22 starters returning to a squad that lost on the last play of the game in Athens last year.
let’s go Cocks!
law dawg
February 10th, 2010
5:32 pm
Just because there’s more than one idiot in the pundit business doesn’t mean you’re stupid post has been validated. We certainly could lose to the Chickens,but they will fade as usual. They still have no depth.
GaGator
February 10th, 2010
5:35 pm
Mark,
Couldn’t agree more -this should be Spurrier’s best team and they will give everybody fits, even my Gators—–we are lucky to have them at home.
chin music
February 10th, 2010
5:37 pm
MB, in your next post do you mind predicting that johnny damon won’t sign with the braves? he’d be a great addition to the roster, and your mojo might be a big help in landing him. thanks in advance
winby1
February 10th, 2010
5:39 pm
I pull for the Gamecocks every year because I dislike Clemson fans so much but Garcia is the typical SC quarterback. He just can’t seem to get the job done at crunch time! SC players year after year make so many stupid mistakes that beat them and until that changes I don’t see them winning the east in the SEC!! If Lattimore can take the game out of Garcia’s hands then maybe SC has something. I just don’t think Garcia has the smarts!!
Will
February 10th, 2010
5:42 pm
This sky high character is a comedian. He doesn’t know much about football, but likes to pretend he’s in the know on everything.
UConn’s DB coach didn’t shut down USC. USC’s receivers had 9-10 dropped passes. They couldn’t handle the cold, which is no excuse. They should have been prepared.
Todd Grantham isn’t a better defensive coach than Nick Saban. He may do well at UGA, but there will be some lumps to swallow in changing to the 3-4 defense.
USC does not have the same offensive line. They have some guys coming in that they really like.
Florida will not lose five games.
Denver Dog
February 10th, 2010
5:50 pm
Tough to disagree Mark with the Dawgs losing at SC with a new QB. 8-4 for UGA maybe.
Dawg Colonel
February 10th, 2010
5:54 pm
How can Carolina do anything with their dismal recruiting record?
Everyone is ready to throw the Dawgs under the bus because the recruiting class droppped out of the top 10. Now suddenly the Gamecocks are SEC contenders.
Which is it? Recruiting doesn’t matter or Spurrier has just figured out how to do more with less?
sky high
February 10th, 2010
6:00 pm
It’s very simple:
Either Muschamp, Smart, Foster & Saban were all WRONG about Grantham, or the Gaor fans here are all RIGHT about Grantham.
I’m going with Muschanp, Smart, Foster & Saban.
Call me crazy.
Cocklover
February 10th, 2010
6:00 pm
USC will win the SEC east this year. Urban is the Fred Sanford of the SEC with his “Elizabeth, it’s the big one” routine and UGA has a coach who will be out the door by year end. UT just hired a loser who couldn’t put together a winning season.
Been There
February 10th, 2010
6:00 pm
South Carolina’s performance in the bowl game here in Birmingham was downright ugly. Yeah, let’s pick them as a frontrunner this season.
Gator Chomp Delusional Fan
February 10th, 2010
6:07 pm
Look, the Gator defense in 2010 will be better than Scott Lakotas of UConn.
What? South Carolina passed for 186 yards and 1 TD and 25% conv on 3rd downs against Fla and only 129 and O TD’s and 20% 3rd down conversion against Lakotas?
Uhhh, mmmm, duuuhh, what?
Cocklover
February 10th, 2010
6:09 pm
Gator Chump,
You forget Charlie Strong and Tardbow are no longer there. It is funny that you guys forget championships come in cycles and your time has passed.
C*cklover
February 10th, 2010
6:13 pm
Gator Chump,
You forgot that Charlie Strong and Turdbow are no longer there. Our coach is the one who made you who you are. What happens when Urban keels over or the story about his grad student mistress hits the press? You guys are toast
Phil
February 10th, 2010
6:15 pm
I love reading these threads – very entertaining.
To all those Garcia bashers out there …. the kid is just a rising redshirt junior. Sure, he has made plenty of mistakes – what young QB doesn’t? However, outside of Mallet (maybe), what SEC QB would you rather have for this season? He was terrific against UGA in Athens last year and every Dawg fan I spoke with afterwards acknowledged that.
You Dawg fans may not respect him, but that’s ok. He’ll be 1st or 2nd team All-SEC this year – mark my words.
DaWg
February 10th, 2010
6:19 pm
No one is better than Saban. Any one is better than Willie. Gratham may not be Saban, but just by being able to breathe, we are a better team.
Flushed out of the pocket
February 10th, 2010
6:28 pm
This will be the beginning of the end for CMR. A loss to the gamecocks then another beat down by Tenn and Florida will definitely put CMR on the hot seat. MARK IT DOWN !
OSCAR
February 10th, 2010
6:35 pm
149rd
Flushed out of the pocket
February 10th, 2010
6:36 pm
This game with the gamec0cks will be the beginning of the end for CMR.Next will be a loss to Tenn and another beat down by the gators. Can you say waterloo?
Gator Chomp Delusional Fan
February 10th, 2010
6:46 pm
The Gator defense will be a lot better than that new Georgia linebacker coach from Vandy, Belin. Please. Vandy’s awful
What? Florida rushed for less yards against Vanderbilt than Bama? Is that right? For real?
Uhhh, mmmm, duuuuhhhhh???
Gator Chomp Delusional Fan
February 10th, 2010
6:52 pm
Gator Nation will be better in 2010 with Addazio’s amazing offensive play calling and offensive line pass protection. We’re gonna chomp everybody.
What? The Gators went DOWN in offensive scoring by 8 points a game in 2009, sacks doubled, and the rushing game got worse too? No way? Come on now?
Ihhh, duuuhhh, mmmmm, whatever.
Steve Spurrier
February 10th, 2010
7:38 pm
Ellis Johnson is underrated. He’s the best D coordinator in the conference and has done great thngs (3rd in conference last year) despite crucial injuries (DT Robertson and MLB Paulk) and starting a freshman in the secondary. This year he is deep and talented. UGA won’t get 10 with their freshman QB. Someone said they thought Murray was special. There is no possible way of knowing. Cocks by 14.
Steve Spurrier
February 10th, 2010
7:50 pm
LOL about the Garcia criticism. He lit UGA up and was the 2nd leading passer behind Mallet. If special teams had played at all, USC would have won in a romp. Now he’s got a running game to compliment him. SC by 14…or more.
Ranking the SEC Defensive Staff's
February 10th, 2010
8:09 pm
In the SEC, Wins & Losses are predicted by defense.
Here’s what it looks like today:
#1 Georgia- Grantham–Lakotas–Gardner–Warren
#2 Bama- Saban
#3 LSU- Chavis
#4 South Carolina- Johnson
#5 Tenn- Wilcox
#6 Ole Miss- Nix
#7 Florida- Heater (Lost several key members of 2009 staff)
#8 Miss St.- Diaz
How Good is Garcia?
February 10th, 2010
8:18 pm
2009 was an off year for UGA QB-wise. We had a guy in his 1st year starting. But let’s compare the two in 2009 to see which team has the QB edge:
Garcia 55% completion 17 td’s 37 sacks 117 rating
Cox 56% completion 24 td’s 11 sacks 136 rating
I’d say if the Georgia QB beat the SC QB statistically in 2009, it will do the same in 2010.
miles above you
February 10th, 2010
9:07 pm
Some of you are don’t know your $%#$% from a hole in the ground.
uberVU - social comments
February 10th, 2010
10:30 pm
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by jeffjmanning: RT @MarkBradleyAJC: Bruce Feldman of ESPN.com likes South Carolina’s football chances in 2010. We know what happened when I said as much. http://bit.ly/dgRmIW…
Coastal Dawg
February 10th, 2010
11:52 pm
Logan Gray is a great kid. Important that he have confidence, but too bad he cannot see that a move now would give him a chance to play which I do not think he will get if we are to be successful in 2010.
Also, too bad no one had the foresight to play either one of these redshirts last year so one would have a little experience and they would be at different class levels. That way both could still expect to lead this team at some point in the future.
Relax Dawg Fans
February 10th, 2010
11:59 pm
Coastal, I think Murray spent most of last year with rehab and Mett was not ready to compete.
chg
February 11th, 2010
7:02 pm
Actually Mark, you would have probably done pretty well if you had bet the Gamecocks every game last year. They were 6-2 as dogs against the number. They won Ole Miss, Clemson, and NC State outright, and covered against UGa, Florida, and Bama.
Norwood is a big loss, but Cliff Matthews has the ability to be the same type of postseason award candidate and SR leader on D. The Gamecocks will have the two DT’s that missed the 2009 GA game, and the Dawgs could have trouble escaping Columbia with a win.
ronaldjc
February 14th, 2010
3:34 pm
LAST!