Updated: Georgia’s Malcolm Mitchell conflicted about future as ‘two-way’ player (with poll)
Adds comments from offensive coordinator Mike Bobo and defensive coordinator Todd Grantham . . .
Georgia's Malcolm Mitchell (26) continued to attend the Bulldogs' defensive meetings until the week of the Georgia Southern game. The question is whether he should attend them anymore going forward. (AJC photo by Bob Andres)
ATHENS – Georgia’s Malcolm Mitchell is one conflicted football player.
With the regular season and final exams in the rear-view mirror and a bowl game still a ways down the road, Mitchell has been able to reflect some on the “Great Experiment” that the 2012 season was for him. He went through spring practice and into the season expecting to be a two-way player. He said what came to pass wasn’t exactly what he envisioned, but neither was it anything approaching a disappointment.
In the end, Mitchell played the first four games as a cornerback and the last nine as a wide receiver. He never truly played both in one game, save for an occasional offensive play when he was playing defense. By the fifth game he was essentially a full-time receiver who merely attended defensive meetings. By Game 10 he quit attending defensive meetings altogether.
Loading ...All that is in the past. It’s what to do in the future that has Mitchell confused at this point. And as the No. 7 Bulldogs prepare for a Jan. 1 date against Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, Mitchell says he has no idea what the plan is.
“Nothing has been said about it, nothing has been brought up about it,” said Mitchell, who led the team in receptions with 40. “I’m loving what I’m doing now. I love what I did before. So whatever they want to do, it’s their choice. Whatever they need for the team.”
Mitchell stepped up for the Bulldogs when they needed him most. They were without two starting defensive backs — safety Bacarri Rambo for the first four games and cornerback Sanders Commings for the first two — due to disciplinary suspensions. The status of cornerback Branden Smith was unclear — also for disciplinary reasons –until preseason camp.
Mitchell, a 6-foot-1, 184-pound sophomore from Valdosta, started three of the first four games at cornerback while playing defense full time. He accounted for 12 tackles and 3 pass break-ups in that time. He also played an extremely limited number of offensive plays in the third and fourth games. He had a single catch in each, one for 49 yards and another for six.
After Commings and Rambo returned, Mitchell returned to playing offense full time. He had four catches against Tennessee and three against South Carolina before breaking loose for a career-best nine catches for 109 yards against Kentucky. He had the game-sealing touchdown catch in the fourth quarter against No. 2 Florida and became Aaron Murray’s go-to guy down the stretch. He finished with 572 yards and four touchdowns.
As for the two-way player distinction, Mitchell asks a good question: “When did I really do both this season?,” he said “I came in a ran one play and came out. I mean, is that really both ways?”
There’s a chance Georgia may need to tap into Mitchell’s versatility again next season. The Bulldogs lose their entire starting backfield to graduation.
There are candidates on campus to replace them and others on the way via recruiting. But what if the coaches deem Mitchell as a better alternative again?
“The possibilities are the same,” Mitchell said. “I still know the possibilities of doing it. I mean, it’s a huge opportunity to play both and I still stick to that. But is that something I want to continue to do? That’s something that just has to be figured out over time.”
Mitchell said he would need a more “stable” situation if he did it again. That is, how much he’d play each side would need to be more detailed up front.
Mitchell did make this declaration: He likes offense better. The ideal for him, he said, would be playing wide receiver full time while becoming a situational defensive player.
“If I had to pick between offense and defense, one or the other, I’m going to pick offense just because I love doing it,” he said. “Now if you say, can you do a little bit of offense and a little bit of defense? I want that. I don’t want to play full-time defense. I can make that statement. . . . I want to play what I’ve been playing because I love playing it.”
Offensive coordinator Mike Bobo swaid he doesn’t know what the plan is for Mitchell — “That’d be a question for Coach Richt, really; I couldn’t answer that” — but he has said from the outset he would prefer to have Mitchell as a full-time offensive player.
“I would, but we’ll do whatever we need to do as a football team,” Bobo said. “A lot of (Mitchell playing defense) had to do with our situation with suspensions on defense and depth. Hopefully that will be addressed and we can have him full time. But if Coach says he’s going to play both ways, he’s going to play both ways.”
Richt was unavailable for interviews on Monday.
Meanwhile, defensive coordinator Todd Grantham is taking the same tact, saying he’ll do “what’s best for the team.” But he did interject that he believes Mitchell’s up side as a full time defensive player could be through the roof.
“His length and his ability to play in tight coverage and his (ability to) transition allow him to play close to receivers and cover them,” Grantham said. “And he’s a physical guy who can tackle. All those things make him a premier corner. There’s no doubt in my mind he can be one of the best corners in the SEC.”
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153 comments Add your comment
icedawg
December 17th, 2012
2:52 pm
Mitchell’s willingness to pay both ways says a lot about his flexibility and desire to help the team. He is definitely a very good receiver. Hopefully that is where his focus will be.
Baddawg
December 17th, 2012
2:53 pm
First?
Bulldawg Charlie
December 17th, 2012
2:58 pm
We should ask GTBob. I hear he goes both ways.
JB
December 17th, 2012
2:59 pm
Dawgs have NINE DB’s committed coming in. Put him at WR FULL TIME please.
Sam
December 17th, 2012
3:00 pm
Just play wherever the coach tells you to play. If Mitchell doesn’t like that, perhaps he should transfer.
Bulldawg Charlie
December 17th, 2012
3:00 pm
It looks like Malcolm may be needed more on defense next year. But he seems to be more of a talent at WR. I blame Bobo.
Horned Frog
December 17th, 2012
3:02 pm
Since he is able to enter draft after next season, they need to play him mostly at position he’ll play in NFL…receiver.
Destin Dawg
December 17th, 2012
3:04 pm
DGD.. playing both ways will help in the NFL… Go Dawgs beat Nebraska !!!!
bill arp
December 17th, 2012
3:04 pm
He’ll be needed more at Corner, there’s no doubt about it. We’re still loaded at WR/FL. Even with T King and M Brown leaving. It’s a tough question….
I don’t think playing most of the time on offense and just coming in on situational defenses is an easy thing to do. I’d think it would be easier the other way around..
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
3:07 pm
OFFENSE
WIDE RECEIVER
DIFFERENCE MAKER
BEAT FLORIDA
CASE CLOSED
SC Dawg
December 17th, 2012
3:07 pm
If the young guns at Corner are not ready t play SEC ball when the sason starts let him play both ways. In fact for G-Day let him do both.
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
3:09 pm
NOTE:
Yesterday and today are prime examples of why we need an indoor practice facility.
Homer Gomer
December 17th, 2012
3:09 pm
Bulldawg Bob: I am ROFLMAO re: your comment abot GT Bob! Hilarious!
gary
December 17th, 2012
3:14 pm
Just keep him on the field. That much tallent should not be on the sideline for any play other than victory formation.
JB
December 17th, 2012
3:17 pm
Lex, seems like the Athletic Assoc. could borrow the money and make payments to build it with all the money they are saving on coach’s salaries ( excluding Grantham). We seem to collectively pay about a million less than the other “football schools” in the SEC.
Joey
December 17th, 2012
3:18 pm
Amazing that we have such a talented player, who could truely play on either side of the ball on Sundays in a couple yeats.
Hey MM, keep your skill sharp. It will only make your more valuable one day.
Go Dawgs.
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
3:18 pm
We have plenty of money. Just build the thing
Joey
December 17th, 2012
3:19 pm
….both skills….
Joey
December 17th, 2012
3:21 pm
Hope Michael Bennent recovers. We missed him in all the big games.
Joey
December 17th, 2012
3:22 pm
Lex, what is your opinion on the state of Fox’s program?
WDE
December 17th, 2012
3:23 pm
Well he is a DGD stating he is willing to play where ever needed…let the coaches evaluate the talent next year and if he is needed at a position play him there.
Tobias Funke
December 17th, 2012
3:25 pm
Perhaps he should focus on wide receiver. IMO, he was terrible on defense.
After watching all the jaw jacking db Malcolm did this season, one must conclude that he believes stopping a wide reciver after 15 yards is a really great thing. Someone should tell him that a first down is ten yards.
Another thing, this guy is a great talent. With that being said, some coach has got to make it very clear that his obnoxious bufoonery on the field, AFTER THE PLAY is getting old. Let your play speak for itself.
How many unsportsman like conduct penalties did he have this season?
some sense
December 17th, 2012
3:32 pm
Why is conflict and complaining coming up now? This is stuff we’re not used to hearing from Athens.
midland Dog
December 17th, 2012
3:35 pm
I agree, since we haven’t had to go through a lot of coaches like some programs, and we aren’t accused of playing players like Auburn, we do have plenty of money, so build the new facility and let it impress a lot of recruits and benefit UGA! (3rd most prosperous sports program!)
midland Dog
December 17th, 2012
3:36 pm
Michael Bennett is a beast!
Chris Mike
December 17th, 2012
3:46 pm
Keep him on offense.Even though he is a pro size corner, I think he lacks the pure instint to play at the next level. At WR he is a bit under sized, but he can make every play that you need.
Kingdaddy
December 17th, 2012
3:50 pm
It’s not about him, it’s about team …
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
3:52 pm
Joey
Mark Fox is done short of a miracle.
Year 4 in a watered down SEC and we won’t win 4 conference games.
We might get to 10 wins if we are lucky.
It’s time to go get a recruiter.
Go to Lexington and throw cash at Orlando Antiqua. He can flat our recruit, he will bring the dribble drive to Athens and we will be in the top 5 in the conference within 2 years.
Kingdaddy
December 17th, 2012
3:53 pm
He will excell no matter where you put h’m. Leave it to CMR …
Joey
December 17th, 2012
3:55 pm
Tobias, I’m pretty sure Mitchell’s only one was in Jax. And you should know lots of players on both sides could have gotten flagged that day – hell even one of UF’s coaches (S&C?) could have gotten one before the game.
I can’t stand the chest-beating stuff, but it definitely is part of the game today (thank the NFL) – I even saw a good bit of it from Bama in the SECCG.
That’s why I love it when guys like Jarvis Jones (and others) come along, make jaw-dropping plays, then go back to the huddle, or trot off the field, kinda like, “just doing my job.”
Vampire Bill
December 17th, 2012
4:03 pm
Doesn’t sound like he’s conflicted to me Chip, Says straight out what ever is best for the team. Good attitude and DGD
north georgia fan
December 17th, 2012
4:03 pm
Don’t limit the young man, didn’t seem to bother Champ Bailey.
Also, I like what he said: It’s just something that just has to be figured out over time.
I agree.
Joey
December 17th, 2012
4:04 pm
I thought it was taking too long, Lex. I really like Fox and was pulling for him, but I just can’t see where our team is improving. We gave Indiana and UCLA fits, but how can we keep losing to these little schools, over and over.
Plus, you know KCP will bolt after this season. Don’t blame him – he can practice his craft 8 hrs a day, instead of studying for class.
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
4:08 pm
The only hope Fox has for right now is to do things he will never do
Play all the freshmen
Play 4 guards
Bench the Southern Conference talent like John Cannon
Press and trap and shoot 3’s like mad men
He will never abandon the triangle even though we don’t have the personnel to run it.
I like Fox too. He handles himself well. He is losing on the recruiting trail too much.
We need a recruiter more than an x’s and o’s guy
Jim
December 17th, 2012
4:08 pm
He should be thankful for as much playing time that he got. If his buddies has not screwed up and caused the need for him on defense he would have rotated in and out or not got on the field. On Offense he would not gotten the reps he didn’t if we didn’t pose two WRs. He also could be like Richard Samuel. Careful what you wish for.
G
December 17th, 2012
4:11 pm
This is a no brainer he is a special wr
Joey
December 17th, 2012
4:16 pm
Oh I agree. I wonder how many profesional players Phil Jackson jettisoned from his teams over the years who couldn’t pick up the triangle offense?
And Fox is trying to get 19 year olds to perfect it.
He better do something – in a hurry. I hope he does.
Finchdawg
December 17th, 2012
4:16 pm
Damian Swann is a starting CB, and he is definitely coming back. Dawgs aren’t losing both starting CBs since Branden Smith is a backup in the base defense.
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
4:28 pm
Malcolm Mitchell has already had a great career GtBoob.
Your opinion is not wanted nor does it have any value.
We are all dumber for having read it.
You are awarded zero points
May God have mercy on your soul
'94 UGA Alumni
December 17th, 2012
4:30 pm
He’s clearly a WR and needs to stay there. I think we’ll be OK at CB with Swann and Dawson and the JUCO’s we are bringing in.
Poor GT Bob, he just has no clue
December 17th, 2012
4:33 pm
NFL is FULL of UGA Bulldogs.
Jarvis Jones gives Muschamp nightmares
December 17th, 2012
4:34 pm
We are NOT losing both starting cornerbacks. Swann has started over Branden Smith the last few games at cornerback. Smith started to begin the season, but Swann was getting a good bit pof playing time in the second half of the year as a true sophomore. I prefer Mitchell as a receiver, but if we wants to play some defense, that’s fine with me.
Jarvis Jones gives Muschamp nightmares
December 17th, 2012
4:38 pm
I think Georgia will let Mitchell play wherever he wants, but since he prefers offense that’s probably going to be where he will focus his time. Swann is coming back and Dawson has the potential to earn the starting job next season at the other corner spot. Plus, we’ve got several commitments from players who play cornerback.
Jarvis Jones gives Muschamp nightmares
December 17th, 2012
4:43 pm
Prospects committed to Georgia in the secondary:
CB Brendan Langley 6-1
CB Reggie Wilkerson 5-11
CB Shaq Wiggins 5-9 (visiting other schools)
We have one more player who is wanting to play corner, but his name escapes me.
We also have committments from at least three wanting to play safety.
Contractor
December 17th, 2012
4:46 pm
Simple answer, play him on offense. He has AJ Green type moves and speed that make him the most fluid wide receiver on the team. Georgia can get anyone in there to help cover receivers and even get extra help to one side, but you can only have one man catch the ball and can’t give him help in any way. It’s really simple, because he’s proven to be a homerun hitter for Georgia.
NoMoreRawDeal
December 17th, 2012
4:46 pm
If he’s willing and able to play both ways – and I think he is – then why not use him on O and D?
Oh right, because his coachs are Mike Bobo and Mark Richt. So he’ll be underutilized at both positions.
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
4:57 pm
40 catches is under utilized?
HMMMMM……………..
Joey
December 17th, 2012
4:59 pm
Sounds like you have all the answers, NoMoreRawDeal.
Put it on paper and send it to Mark Richt.
Richt will probably hire you immediately, what with all those big football ideas you got . . .
bosshawg
December 17th, 2012
5:12 pm
keep that attitude MM and you will go far team comes first everything else will take care of itself good luck man and go dawgs
a fan
December 17th, 2012
5:15 pm
What happen with Bobo and schools calling him about Head job? Did they get smart?
dagrapevine
December 17th, 2012
5:16 pm
rick tomberlin played malcome at corner his soph and jr years.rance gillespie moved him to wr his first year at valdosta and malcome’s sr year.gillespie says malcome can play where ever you put him,but he’s too explosive not to get in space at wr.
malcome was a quiet kid at valdosta not sure why he’s mouthy and exspressive after big plays now.he’s the perfect example of a team player and a great return man on special teams.
he loves being a dog,just ask him.
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
5:19 pm
a fan
Bobo is one of the best OC’s in the NCAA. Just because you can’t see it doesn’t change that. And yes he did get interest from schools about a HC job.
You must seriously be blind if you can’t see what the offense did this year. It will only be better next year
Some folks are too stupid to walk across the street without help
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
5:26 pm
Richard Samuel was a DGD but he did not have the athletic ability to get on the field at either LB, RB or FB. If he had the ability, he would have played.
MM is the best athlete on the team. He is an elite WR and KR. He is an average DB because he just hasn’t practiced his craft enough.
He is a difference maker on offense and special teams
BRYANT
December 17th, 2012
5:37 pm
Two yrs. ago Mitchell narrowed his college choices down to Al. & Ga. If he had chosen Al. he would be on the verge of getting his second ring. Also would be one more yr.away from cashing huge checks as a DB. Bet he wishes he could get a do-over. RTR
Bobo is Royalty
December 17th, 2012
5:37 pm
I need 84 more just like MM! I couldn’t get Isiah Criminal to do jack-sht last year but I want more just like Malcom!
GATA
December 17th, 2012
5:43 pm
Gonna need that lock down ability at corner in the SEC, so I’d keep him there primarily and mix in some plays on offense. No matter what, more of #26 on the field, the better.
hermdawg
December 17th, 2012
5:52 pm
gtbob, can’t you remember hines ward? played qback wr and rb in one season.
Moist Dawg
December 17th, 2012
5:53 pm
Play him like Charles Woodson and he will compete for a Heisman by the time he is done.
Bryant, nobody here cares about bama and some dead old shriveled up coach who used to look like a jacka$$ in his ridiculous hat.
hermdawg
December 17th, 2012
5:55 pm
it didn’t seem to end his fb career.
bigcalidawg
December 17th, 2012
6:02 pm
I was lookin forward to seein Trammel come in and make plays for the offense, but now the young man needs time to heal up. Perhaps if we sign Alvin K. We can continue to play him some at corner. Otherwise, we just need to pick a spot and let him settle.
tidog
December 17th, 2012
6:12 pm
The best player has to be the field the his designated position. Mitchell was a better corner than Swann and Sanders. Somebody needs to man up and do right by this young man so that he can develope into an excellent cornerback he’s destined to become. He’s confused because his leadership is confused. It makes no sense to get talent like Mitchell and the coaches can’t decide if he’s to play offense or defense. How about doing whats best for Mitchell and not the team.
ValdostaWildcat
December 17th, 2012
6:22 pm
Too bad the “brain trust” in Athens cant figure out how to use him. If you’re gonna use him at WB, youve got to throw the ball to him every now and then.
If not, play him at DB.
As it stands, he’s getting wasted. Shoulda went to Alabama.
rpollardrealtor
December 17th, 2012
6:25 pm
You know this is a team game, but I think it benefits Mitchell and the Team if they would let him know what they expect of him instead of leaving him in the clouds. First and foremost he needs to do what’s best for the team but also needs to think about where he will project in the NFL as well.
L5P Dawg
December 17th, 2012
6:30 pm
Wish Mitchell the best where he is at on the field. I just hope all the switching around doesn’t impact him negatively in terms of the NFL by not getting ample time to master one position.
Either way GO DAWGS………
Is out D ever going to be that good?
This team might have 8 players on D that see at least a couple of years in the NFL, yet we can’t stop the run. It is Grantham and the scheme, not the quality of players.
Gay dawg
December 17th, 2012
6:37 pm
Stay strong MM. I know what it feels like to be conflicted. Society wants you to be big strong defensive guy and you want to be a wide receiver.
rpollardrealtor
December 17th, 2012
6:43 pm
L5P Dawg,
Alabama’s RB and OL was just that dang good bro.
kral
December 17th, 2012
6:47 pm
I agree Gtee bobbie…kinda like how moving Hines Ward all over the place ruined his soon to Hall-FAME career
Chilidawg
December 17th, 2012
6:57 pm
I’d feel better if he did not return punts or kickoffs. He is a great receiver, but appears too much of a gambler for returning punts and KOs.
And Chip Towers...
December 17th, 2012
6:58 pm
…again tried to make something out of nothing – “Nothing has been said about it, nothing has been brought up about it,” said Mitchell.
I swear I would think Chip was a Tech guy if i did not know he graduated from UGA…
That’s twice in the last week he has done this, and at least 42 times since 2004, which is when I started paying attention to what he writes about UGA and its athletes…
Probably not, BRYANT...
December 17th, 2012
7:02 pm
…while it is true AL is playing for a second MNC, while UGA sits and watches, MM has played in 2 SEC championship games, and UGA lost both, yet that is still a pretty good stretch of games, and pretty good pub, too, especially since he plays two positions and does well as a receiver, and only so so as a DB – and from watching him, he may not be fast enough for the NFL as #1 receiver, but will be a great slot receiver in the mold of the guy at NE, Wes Welker…though not as fast as Welker…
L5P Dawg
December 17th, 2012
7:06 pm
rpollardrealtor
Yes they were, but TN and KY also ran for big yards.
Dawgdad (The Original)
December 17th, 2012
7:22 pm
Too much talent for this to ever happen, but Malcolm needs to be sure and avoid what happened to Richard Samuel. He can never develop fully, unless he has a full time position, and maybe then help out somewhere else. Hard to serve two masters.
james jones
December 17th, 2012
7:22 pm
what in the world is the point of this article other than to stir up a controversy thats not there!! The kid said that he loved what he was doing end of the story ( or in this case the non-story)
RED DOG 77
December 17th, 2012
7:28 pm
Well said, james jones…………..There is no story, leave the kid alone and let him play ball………….Find something else to waste ink on………………RED
mgdawg
December 17th, 2012
7:35 pm
While I prefer him at receiver, mainly because that is what he is best at right now, I do believe he has more upside at corner. He’s 6′1″, but he is pretty light. Look at the NFL, that is more the build of a corner then a receiver, especially when you are talking about elite WR. Truthfully, what’s best for him for the NFL would be to redshirt him a year and let him learn corner then play two years at corner. But that’s never going to happen, and it shouldn’t.
whiskey breath
December 17th, 2012
7:40 pm
I would say from experience, you guys have yourself’s a prima donna.
Thank goodness he didn’t go to Bama. This guy will be unhappy,
I will promise you. And when he does, remember WB said it.
RTR
rpollardrealtor
December 17th, 2012
7:45 pm
@L5PDawg,
Very true, however Dawgs played them before the Florida game when Shawn Williams called the Defense out for not playing to full speed and questioning their manhood. There was way to much talent on that defense with a great scheme to even let TN and KY in the game like the were which is what lead to Williams calling his own boys out. Defense played great the first half but that OL and RBs had holes you and I could run through. I can’t stand saying this but you just have to tip your hat to Bama. Dawgs played a great game and I for one and very proud of the way they played. We were in it the whole way to win it. My thought is the difference of that game was experience. Alabama has been there the past couple of years and we haven’t. I believe Richt, realizes we need to play more with a sense of urgency than laying back with no fire. Too much talent and some of the best coaches in the Nation for the Dawgs to of had the seasons they’ve been having. Having a player call each other out is what I think will be the difference of the Dawgs being on the fence to being an elite team. Eliteness is right around the corner. I’m only in my mid-20s but that was the best football game I have ever seen in my life and I’ve seen a lot of football games. Just too bad we had to lose.
45 ACP
December 17th, 2012
7:46 pm
Good problems and bad problems…this is a good problem.
rpollardrealtor
December 17th, 2012
7:50 pm
@DawgDad,
We all know how much of a DGD Samuel is… however he never had the talent Mitchell has…. If Mitchell can focus on one position, which he deserves, he will become a standout, elite player at whatever position he ends up at. I myself love defense more than offense, and think he can be a shutdown corner and a great corner in the NFL but he is a fantastic WR and deserves a chance to develop there if that’s where he feels most comfortable.
whiskey breath
December 17th, 2012
7:52 pm
None of you realize it, but Grantham is one of the best Defensive coaches in the nation.
I know that because he basically has saved zipper head’s job. I hope he does get hired away.
But you little mutts just don’t know anything about defense.There is a reason he is one of the
highest paid dc’s in the nation. But please keep giving him the credit for what goes wrong with Ga.
Keep on being Ga.
Gay dawg
December 17th, 2012
8:00 pm
When I played football my coach wanted me at tight end. I told him I was flattered but I clearly was a wide receiver. Spread out wide
whiskey breath
December 17th, 2012
8:04 pm
As far as paying players, we will find out about Ga shortly. If Foster goes to Ga, then don’t ever say
Ga doesn’t pay players. Foster doesn’t play for free. Auburn pretty well virified that.
whiskey breath
December 17th, 2012
8:11 pm
Gay Dawg is for real isn’t he Ga? Better you guys than us. Keep up the good work Gay.
DawgFan
December 17th, 2012
8:14 pm
All you guys bringing up Richard Samuel are delusional. I understand he is a great kid but a less natural football player I have not seen. I had him as one of he worst RB’s in the country as a Jr and it was a shame we had to play him so much. I am sure he played LB about the same. He had plenty of chances and was just not very good.
Mitchell excels everywhere we put him. He could probably play Center if needed.
Spoke
December 17th, 2012
8:20 pm
“Meanwhile, defensive coordinator Todd Grantham is taking the same tact…” You mean taking the same TACK. It’s a sailing expression.
Carry on.
bubba4dawgs
December 17th, 2012
8:35 pm
I have nothing but praise for all Valdosta players and Mitchell is no exception to that statement! He’s good no matter where he plays. I’m always glad to see a Valdosta player come to UGA as I know nothing but top notch players come from there. DGD, Malcolm Mitchell!!
BG
December 17th, 2012
8:54 pm
Mitchell is a DGD!
kral
December 17th, 2012
8:59 pm
wb believe also he is a good dEF. coor. but disagree with the saved job comment…unless you mean to keep it willie had to be fired..do not know and neither do you..and some think UGA would have done better or could do better if they would just hire someone else..easy to type hard to prove…but you bet if things got worse they wouldn’t mind clamoring for the next one to be fired..they have the right too..and that way they are never wrong
Jeff
December 17th, 2012
9:01 pm
The first line “Georgia’s Malcolm Mitchell is one conflicted football player,” left a bad taste in my mouth. For some reason I kept reading and found that it was just poor writing; that in fact Mitchell is a team player who was forced to declare which position he most wanted to play by a journalist desperate to find controversy where none existed.
Fire Richt
December 17th, 2012
9:03 pm
you guys are so stupid with the FIRT COMMENTS.
how about 73rd… just as stupid.. sheesh
kral
December 17th, 2012
9:10 pm
missed your point fired, but read my 8:59
kral
December 17th, 2012
9:15 pm
And oh by the way gaye dawg..you bring diversity to a sports blog but you often demean yourself..could mean you are not really gaye just having fun…like I said demeaning yourself…carry on
23 SEC Titles
December 17th, 2012
9:21 pm
Turned down a chance to play for the best DB Coach in America, period. Already missed out on some championship rings and could be one year away from tne NFL. Roll Tide, got 23 JAWJA?????
Chuck Oliver
December 17th, 2012
9:23 pm
Mark Richt has lost control.
kral
December 17th, 2012
9:24 pm
you just lost that db coach..defensive coordinator FSU..so he would not have gotten to play for him long
kral
December 17th, 2012
9:27 pm
you do not even know if he would played some wr at the 23 sec champs
Delbert D.
December 17th, 2012
9:27 pm
Take a poll of next year’s opponents, and I think they would much rather see Mitchell on defense. In no way is that a knock on him on defense.
Topp Dogg
December 17th, 2012
9:33 pm
GT Bob cannot answer he has his mouth full.
Bamafan
December 17th, 2012
9:39 pm
Last week the RB at UGA expressed his unhappiness. This week a receiver is “conflicted” about his role. Good grief, why the heck does CMR allow this crap in the media. Get control of your team!! that never, I mean never happens at Bama. Grow some coach!!!
kral
December 17th, 2012
9:41 pm
Lord thank you for albammer fans that point out UGA problems…and be with the pygmies in Africa
Clock the ball
December 17th, 2012
9:43 pm
Sounds like Mark Richt is conflicted on what to do.
kral
December 17th, 2012
9:47 pm
sounds like..smells like..or none of us really know…including the writer..well dang shouldn’t we..we are bloggers
Rick James
December 17th, 2012
9:48 pm
@GTBob
I think UGA is going to ruin Malcolm Mitchell’s career by just throwing him into every position they have a need for. He is smart for wanting to put an end to that.
——————————————————————————————————————————
Oh yeah Bob.The same way it ruined Champ Bailey.Go back to sleep.
Rick James
December 17th, 2012
9:55 pm
@GTBob
I mean’t his career after leaving UGA. It is pretty much over if UGA continues to move him around like he is Richard Samuel. Unfortunately for him he is stuck with a coach who thinks that is a good idea for some reason.
———————————————————————————————————————————
Once again Bob google Champ Bailey.But since you’re such a follower of Georgia football you already know he played both sides of the ball and is in his 14th season in the NFL.Richard Samuel has not been ruined by being moved around,He’s not as good as the Todd Gurley or any of the starting linebackers.And gladly CMR is not granting playing time based on seniority.But Samuel will get a shot in the pros as free agent.Now go back to sleep.
Baton Bob
December 17th, 2012
10:07 pm
Baton Bob goes both ways
Columbia SC Dawg
December 17th, 2012
10:09 pm
My thoughts concur:
DawginLex
December 17th, 2012
3:07 pm
OFFENSE
WIDE RECEIVER
DIFFERENCE MAKER
BEAT FLORIDA
CASE CLOSED
Vince Doodley
December 17th, 2012
10:40 pm
All you dawgs ought to really enjoy Orlando. After all, its only 4 yards from Miami!!!
Smitty
December 17th, 2012
11:11 pm
just like Hines Ward played all over the place and never had a good pro career…..had a great pro career
Fire Richt
December 17th, 2012
11:37 pm
Fire Richt. We have all these top recruiting classes and we still have to play a guy both ways? Maybe he can help run the tanning bed too.
aladawg
December 18th, 2012
12:27 am
Sam you sound like a moronic idiot from Alabama. Go back home to your wife er sister er wife whatever. I hope you don’t ever run for civil office.
Columbus
December 18th, 2012
12:42 am
@BulldawgCharlie@2:58pm…..love your comment. An instant classic!
Columbus
December 18th, 2012
1:08 am
Fire Richt you are an idiot. UGA might have good recruiting classes BUT over the last 3-4 years, Bama was better and they finished higher and were better…by 1 play. ALSO it toll almight Saban 11 years to win a NC….Richt was 1 play away in year 12 AND had the BEST team in America a few years ago BUT didnt get the chance Bama got last year to prove it…..ALSO took bear Bryant 18 years to win a NC…you would have fired him and most ALL other coaches because MOST of the BEST coaches in NCAA history took at least 14 years to win one….was Dan marino not a great QB because his teams never won the super bowl? Trent Dilfer did…so you say Dilfer was better than Marino….Richt is a GREAT coach. BAMA has had 3 #1 recruiting classes in 4 years and they have the BEST coach in college football(maybe the best ever). Bama SHOULD win EVERY year having the BEST recruiting classes and coach, not to mention legacy and tradition. UGA DROPPED when Bobo took over OC and play-calling in the big games….there have been growing pains with Bobo. There is NO problem at ALL WITH RICHT……IGNORANT HATER. UGA HAS NTO HAD THE TEAM NOR RECRUITS IN THE LAST 4 YEARS TO WIN, EVEN WHEN STAFFORD AND MORENO WAS THERE THEIR LAST YEAR UGA DID NOT HAVE THE TEAM TO WIN. YPU PROBABLY SEEN THE # PRESEASON RANKING AND THOUGHT THEY SHOLD HAVE WON….ANY FAN WITH A BRAIN KNEW UGA WAS NOT #1 BECAUSE THEY HAD A COUPLE SKILL PLAYERS. UGA HAS NOT HAD AN OL THE LAST 5 YEARS UNTIL THIS YEAR AND THEY ARE STILL VERY YOUNG BUT YOU THINK RICHT SHOULD BE FIRED FOR NOT HAVING AN OL FOR 4-5 YEARS? YOU NEED SOME WISDOM, SOME PERSPECTIVE….EVEN BAMA WOULDNT WIN WITHOUT AN OFFENSIVE LINE. MATTER OF FACT THAT IS HOW THEY WIN. OL AND DEFENSE…TAKE AWAY THEIR OLINE AND UH OH. DLINE TOO. RICHT IS THE BEST COACH IN UGA HISTORY AND YOU IGNORANTS STILL WANT HIM FIRED….BAMA WAS SUPPOSED TO BLOW UGA OUT, WAS FAVORED HEAVILY YET IF NOT FOR ONE PLAY, 1 TIPPED PASS, UGA MIGHT HAVE WON. HAD THE PASS BEEN INCOMPLETE UGA WOULD HAVE HAD 2 MORE PLAYS, HAD IT BEEN CAUGHT, UGA WINS BUT IT WAS TIPPED….THINGS HAPPEN. MAYBE YOU WOULD LIKE TO GOT THROUGH 3 OR 4 OR 5 COACHES WHO CANT BUILD NOTHING…..UGA HAS NEVER BEEN A TOP TIER TEAMMINUS EARLY 80′S AND RICHT IS TAKING UGA THERE. TO WHERE NO OTHER COACH IN HISTORY COULD CONSISTENTLY TAKE UGA….AMONG THE TOP 5 ELITE TEAMS EVERY YEAR….UGA IS IN THE TOP 3 THIS YEAR OUT OF 120 TEAMS AND COULD BEAT ANY OF THOSE 2….UGA WILL BE RIGHT BACK IN THE TOP 10 THE NEXT 5 YEARS STRAIGHT AND IN ANY GIVEN YEAR CAN WIN IT ALL THANKS TO MARK RICHT AND HIS LEADERSHIP AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT…..UGA HAS NEVER HAD THIS KIND OF CONSISTENCY OVER 12 YEARS IN THEIR HISTORY….TOOK VINCE DOOLEY 18 YEARS AT UGA TO WIN A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP, BEAR BRYANT 18 YEARS BUT HAD YOU FIRED THEM….AND HAD HERSCHEL NOT WALKED ON CAMPUS….HECK UGA ONLY WON 1 WITH HERSCHEL NOW THAT IS SAD. UGA IS GOING UP AND WITHOUT A HERSCHEL WALKER OR TIM TEBOW. THE FUTURE IS SO BRIGHT. BRIGHTER THAN EVER AND ALL BECAUSE OF ONE MAN IN HIS FIRST HEAD COACHING JOB..MARK RICHT. HE HAS BUILT SOMETHING THAT CA NBE BUILT UPON AND IT IS SOLID AND THE ONLY WAY IS TO HIGHER GROUND….YOU ARE BLIND. YOU ARE IMPATIENT. YOU OVERLOOK A LOT OF THINGSS AND EXPECT MORE THAN IS REASONABLE WHEN IT COMES TO DECIDING A COACHES VALUE AND PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE . UGA WILL WIN IT ALL WITH RICHT.
MARK MY WORDS YOUNGUN. NOW THAT I STRAIGHTEND YOU OUT, SEND ANOTHER TECH FAN WHO PRAYS EVERY DAY UGA WILL FIRE RICHT MY WAY….
I WILL ANSWER THEIR PRAYERS AND THE ANSWER IS RICHT ISNT GOING ANYWHERE SO….SINCE NEITHER IS PAUL JOHNSON SINCE YOU EINSTEINS GAVE HIM A LONG TER M CONTRACT YOU CANT AFFORD TO BUY OUT, RICHT WILL JUST KEEP ON BEATING YOU LIKE RAG DOLLS FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE AND ANY OTHER COACH YOU BRING IN NEXT….
RICHT IS GETTIGN THE JOB DONE….UNLIKE JOHNSON AT TECH AND MOST ALL COACHES AT ALL SCHOOLS!
Just In...........
December 18th, 2012
2:15 am
GTBob, What is it like going both ways?Are you a receiver, are a defensive back covering men!
gbal
December 18th, 2012
6:14 am
not an isue to be writting about its like chip is trying to stir something up here. You play where the coaches and team needs you.
SteelerFan
December 18th, 2012
6:32 am
The article mentioned the defensive backs are all graduating? Yeah right, there is a Santa Claus…they just don’t have any more eligibility would have been a better statement
SuperB
December 18th, 2012
7:20 am
Mitchell should play where the coaches want him to play to help the “team.”, and Chip Towers needs to quit cooking up these divisive articles– which only hurt UGA. This is two in a week!
I am through reading Towers’ “soap opera” articles. Some ‘journalist”
Say whut
December 18th, 2012
7:21 am
All you green-eyed Tekkies out there: You are about to finish 6-8, so blow off.
mike
December 18th, 2012
7:29 am
He needs to work on improving his pass catching skills and stop acting like he’s won The Super Bowl every single time he makes a play of ANY kind!
The Tide is Rolling and Nothing Can Stop It
December 18th, 2012
8:46 am
Hey pups,
Should Amari Cooper be suspended for abusing your backfield?
What he did was worse that Dial’s hit on Murray if you ask me.
NORCROSSDAWG
December 18th, 2012
8:52 am
HOPEFULLY MITCHELL OR ANYDAMNBODY WILL TEACH MARK RICHT HOW TO ‘SPIKE THE DAMN BALL”
The Tide is Rolling and Nothing Can Stop It
December 18th, 2012
9:15 am
RICHT IS GETTIGN THE JOB DONE….UNLIKE JOHNSON AT TECH AND MOST ALL COACHES AT ALL SCHOOLS!
Yea, you guys are a powerhouse alright!
Remember. The best you’ve had in 32 years…still can’t beat Bama
I would say start whining about oversigning again, but you’ve already signed 31 players, hypocrits.
32 years…
dawgfacedboy
December 18th, 2012
9:23 am
It won’t matter.The dawgs won’t compete for the East again for a few years so who cares?
Jim
December 18th, 2012
9:59 am
If bennett comes back full speed next year then put MM at corner— there is not much game experience in the Def. backfield with both safetys also gone. If Bennett not Ok–then WR makes a lot of sense.
evansdawg
December 18th, 2012
10:06 am
I cannot see this as being a big problem at all. As a matter of fact, its a good problem to have! Mitchell is a beast!
Stiffneck
December 18th, 2012
10:09 am
Need him at CB. Weak in this area. Swann has a ways to go. Mitchell can always get in on a few plays offensively as well.
shankit
December 18th, 2012
10:16 am
We shoulda kept Malcomn in Valdosta, VSU, he would
be a national champion today.
DawgNole
December 18th, 2012
10:18 am
Fire Richt
December 17th, 2012
9:03 pm
you guys are so stupid with the FIRT COMMENTS.
how about 73rd… just as stupid.. sheesh
_______________________
How about you learn how to spell. Sheesh.
Dawg Tired
December 18th, 2012
10:25 am
@BullDawg Charlie at 2:58PM on December 17, 2012 – Halarious!
Sowega Dawg
December 18th, 2012
10:26 am
Malcom is a Great Playmaker for the dawgs, but he is not a true WR he fits more on Defense as a Db/Fs. This is to be blamed on their recruiting/evaluation of ath’s. If malcom wants to go pro he is better suited as a DB. His fundamentals as a WR would make him a 3rd to 4th round pick but as a db he is a legit 1st rounder cause of his hgt and playmaking ability. Ga should play him both ways cause he does give their offense a much needed spark, that only a SOWEGA kid can, but for his future in the NFL play him as a Db!
shankit
December 18th, 2012
10:35 am
Sowega Dawg – Assume Sowega means South West Georgia.
Valdosta is not in Southwest Georgia, it is in South Georgia, middle
of the state. And apparently, you don’t know diddly about recruiting/
evaluation, watched Malcomn his senior season at Dosta, ask any
of our opponents that year if he is not a true WR.
Sgdawg
December 18th, 2012
10:37 am
What’s with bashing mm. Hes not complaining. Just stating he doesn’t know his role. Cmr doesn’t know Malcolm’s role. Needs to play ft defense and part time receiver. Got good receivers.
Sowega Dawg
December 18th, 2012
10:53 am
Malcom was one of the many SOWEGA ath’s, Ga landed 5 but so many slipped in that class of 2011. Ga landed Malcom Justin Scott-Wesley Sanford Seay Jay Rome and Ishah Crowell but missed Rashard Green and Jessie Atkins 2 of the Best offensive minded ath’s in Sowega. JSW was the fastest kid in Ga and grew up with Jessie Atkins and Sanford Seay in Camilla. Can you imagine 3 D1 wr’s growing up in the same small town. Atkins was the better out of the 3 but decided to go to a HBCU because of their engineering dept and he and his friends could continue to play together @ Albany State University. Ga has the tendency to only recruit the nothern part of Ga for offense that why they like a spark where as in FSU and FLA come right in and steal the best ath’s in the state. just check the roster. Right now their is a kid by the name of Jaquan Williams in Camilla that is the best playmaker since Greg Reid this kid is amazing if he was in a bigger school or the northern part of Ga everyone and their moma would be talking about him. A 2time allstate performer in football 4time allregion in region 1 REALLY people and Ga does not have him on their RADAR. SMH@UGA keep going in the Northern part of the state and you will keep coming up short as you did in the SEC championship. Another thing how in the world can you have the fastest man in the SEC on your team and you dont use him for even special teams, JSW is a 1st team SEC track performer as a Freshman! c’mon man you have to use all your talent, stop being so predictable UGA Malcom could have played DB as well as wr in the Championship Game he is their best cover corner but they went with Swann and got BURNT! UGA yall go get it eventually, the class of 2011 was the DREAM TEAM because he landed all those SOWEGA recruits but NOW you GOT to USE THEM! Everyone in this state know region 1 in any classification has the best ath’s, THOSE are the COUNTRY boi’s and they HUNGRY they grow up playing every sport and they rugged! Its no mistery why Russ Prohst came to SOWEGA this is where football LIVES and the best ath’s call home!
Sowega Dawg
December 18th, 2012
11:01 am
@shankit Technically it is in SOWEGA If you play in Region 1 you are in SOUTH GA/ SOWEGA and Malcom is not a wr but a ATH that knows how to play wr, thats what I said! If Malcom wants to go to the NFL he is better suited as a DB but since GA has NO spark on Offense they NEED him as a Wr but he is their best cover corner. Not bashing this young man he has tremendous talent and should have went to FSU like the other Valdosta/Lowdnes kids do to use his talents. UGA plays the good Ole boy system thats why they dont win the big 1
shankit
December 18th, 2012
11:25 am
@Sowega – Trying to recall a recent Valdosta player that went to
FSU, not Mitchell, not Rome, not Gilliard, and Josh Harvey Clemons played at Lowndes,
and new recruit Byrum, whose Valwood team won the state championship this year didn’t go to FSU, they all went with BoBo. Greg Reid, Lowndes, only one I can remember
in last five years to go to FSU.
Leroy
December 18th, 2012
11:31 am
Your role is not a BCS bowl lol…………
dawglova
December 18th, 2012
11:44 am
Mitchell is a better wr than corner…period. I think that experiment is over.Gotta alot of young talent coming in and already on the roster as well. As for Fox I believe he is a really good coach. The interest in bbal at UGA just has never been there. Even when Tubby, harrick and durham had good fun teams to watch they still only filled the Steg for games against UK, UF and big time out of conf teams. If Fox is left alone he WILL win in Athens. But its hard to recruit to a place that doesnt have a rich tradition like UK, UF recently and then you have THE Bball conferece next door with Duke and UNC. Not to mention you have teams like UCLA raiding the state and paying players to come west. Just to much for any coach not named Calapari, Pitino to get national kids to come to a school with no tradition in the sport. And I will be damned if I want either of those scumbags in atens NC rings or not. Fox will have a few good years and some lean years in between like every bball coach to ever reside in athens.
Erin "spike the ball" Murray
December 18th, 2012
12:04 pm
I am “conflicted” as well… how do I run a 2-minute drill ???
ORLANDO HERE WE COME!
Way all the White Women At Dawg
December 18th, 2012
12:12 pm
Malcome in the Middle stole my white girlfriend!
I cant sleep cus I should have spiked the ball dawg?
December 18th, 2012
12:15 pm
hey lets play wiffle ball kids!
Eddie Lacy 181 yds TJ Yeldon 153 yds rushing
December 18th, 2012
1:55 pm
Heck it don’t matter to us. Put him at defensive tackle or end or linebacker. From what we remember what the dawgs really need is defensive linemen and linebackers who don’t get flat ran over. Then again there is the consolation that they got ran over by 5 mack trucks.
Eddie Lacy 181 yds TJ Yeldon 153 yds rushing
December 18th, 2012
1:58 pm
What the heck? The dawgs already have 31 committed recruits? What was that the dawgs fans were whining about oversigning??? My my they are some hypocrites.
CoolBreeze
December 18th, 2012
2:49 pm
I don’t get why this is fodder for an article. Don’t players play where the coaches tell them to play (anymore) ?
Whiznot
December 18th, 2012
3:17 pm
Mitchell would be valuable either on offense or defense or standing on the sidelines so he could tell Richt when to SPIKE THE BALL.
Matt
December 18th, 2012
3:25 pm
Champ played 99% of the time on D. He came in for the occasional slant or bubble screen. Samuel could’ve been awesome if they would’ve just left him at 1 position. You said it yourself, he’ll get an opportunity in the NFL. Average players don’t get chances in the NFL.
In regards to moving Samuel around: YOu can’t get better at 1 thing if you are doing 3 things (LB, RB, FB).
Joey
December 18th, 2012
4:00 pm
Tomas Broun, I have given Richt fits over the years, but I just don’t get the bashing of UGA in the SECCG.
What I saw in that game, was Richt coaching the Dawgs to within 5 yards of beating the best team, who has the best D, the most depth, and the best head coach.
I have been a competitor in sports, and business, all my life, and I despise “moral victories,” and I’m not about to claim one now.
But I know a good bit about football, and I know the best (and deepest) team won in the Dome.
Sowega Dawg
December 18th, 2012
4:11 pm
Wow cant believe UGA how in the world can yall say Richt should be FIRED good ole boys!!!!! If anything your Offensive coordinator should be! Without Richt UGA is a 7-3 team yr in and yr out. Richt has changed the recruiting. If Ga would run the SPREAD they would win easy they have the ath’s they just play conservative. Give UGA to Spurrier and watch how fast he spreads the ball out. Ga had the best WR corps in college football this year and should have thrown the ball on Ala, like Texas a&m to win but Nope they stuck on Hershall and the good ole days they even started that dumb $hi* Gurshall REALLY man KEEP on UGA ALUMNI yall go be DEAD LAST. You LUCKY to get that 2011 class if you run Richt away YOU’LL NEVER WIN!!!!! BoBO is your problem and the dumb Alumni’s
DawginLex
December 18th, 2012
4:30 pm
Too bad, so sad
December 18th, 2012
3:22 pm
When you take the humiliating beatdowns by South Carolina and Alabama and add in the incredibly embarrassing loss to Iona, the dawggies will be in mourning for many months.
That is sooooooooooo sad.
****************************
What is so sad is that you are allowed out in public. You don’t have a fully functioning brain. Make sure you get an adult to hold your hand before you cross the street
DawginLex
December 18th, 2012
4:30 pm
sowega
Crack kills son
Get help
Joey
December 18th, 2012
4:57 pm
Sowega Dawg, so . . . Richt is great, but he is stupid to keep Bobo?
Joey
December 18th, 2012
5:21 pm
The truth is, Bobo is a fine OC. I believe better than he is able to show. It is OBVIOUS to anyone thinking clearly, if Richt didn’t like his playcalling, Richt would say on the head-set (that he wears when the O is on the field), no Mike, let’s step on the gas, let’s cut out this running stuff, let’s throw it 70 times, etc.
My point? Bobo has a damn boss.
I’ll tell y’all something that you better accept – Bobo ain’t interested in going anywhere.
When Mark Richt retires, Bobo will be UGA’s next head.
What do you think, Lex?
LogicalUS
December 18th, 2012
7:56 pm
Could Mitchell have been a good WR…who knows he is just another player shifted endlessly in hairbrain rash bright ideas from the UGA coaching staff.
Of course, in December they claim that he can play WR, but just wait till Fall Practice and the panic hits about the horrid returning 2013 secondary hits with games vs Clemson/SC coming up then will come the last minute rush of Mitchell back to save the secondary?
Of course, we can rely then on the local disneys to proclaim great move since Mitchell attended defensive meetings this fall.
aldogg2121
December 19th, 2012
9:18 am
Certainly Malcolm is a talented WR…maybe the best on the team. But I truly believe that his best bet for making it to the next level and playing in the NFL is on defense as a CB. He has exceptional ball skills and his physical attributes can make him a shutdown cover corner. Guys his size are a dime a dozen at WR…but guys with his size and athleticism at CB are few and far between. Someone needs to advise this kid accordingly. That being said, I hope he does whatever is best for this UGA team.
This much is clear: MM is a DGD.
Titletown USA
December 21st, 2012
1:51 pm
@shankit….Tyler Hunter and Telvin Smith are two standout players from Lowndes HS that went to FSU also.