Dawgs On Top

We took it on the chin...

2009-09-06T01:16:00.002-04:00

To all those Dawg fans out there calling for the heads of Mike Bobo, Joe Cox and Willie Martinez, let's take a step back. . .

Georgia went into Stillwater as underdogs for a reason. I have, and always will say this. The guys in Vegas (and wherever else lines are made) are very, very good at their job. They make money on "locks" and "hunches" every week because they study the facts.

So, lets look at the facts:

1. Oklahoma State was opening a new stadium.

+1 for OSU on emotional advantage.

2. OSU met Georgia at home in, what they claimed to be, the biggest game in the history of Poke football.

+1 for OSU emotional advantage.

3. OSU returns potential all-americans at QB, WR, LT, and RB.

-any questions? (see Robinson converting with his legs, Hunters explosiveness and Dez Bryant's mid-air catch in the endzone.

4. Georgia essentially opened the game with a first time starter at QB (coming off of the flu) and RB.

5. Our experienced offensive line is still unbelievably young.

6. Our defensive line in respected because we have a ridiculous DT rotation and a very very mediocre pass rush off the edge.

7. Our best linebacker is extremely talented but criticized for being undersized.

8. Our defensive backs are as athletic as any in the nation, but either inexperienced or chronically a step late.

9. Our offensive coordinator is still finding himself as a big time assistant.

10. Our biggest weapon is a type of player who NEEDS a quarterback who can augment his physical talents with an accurate and timely pass.

So, you take all of this and you understand why we were almost 7 point dogs to this team from Stillwater.

Did we drive down their throats to start the game? Yes.

Did we hold their vaunted offense under 30? Yes.

Is there a lot to be disappointed about? Yes.

We can be completely dejected by the loss (and I am) but I am also confident in the future because Joe Cox can't look much worse, we won't play a better triumvirate on offense all year, we are now battle tested (in week 2) and we have a chip on our shoulder for the rest of the year.

Demarcus Dobbs said this year's team was a brotherhood and I guarantee you that the brotherhood is pissed off to high hell right now. I see us losing 2 more games this year. One to a Florida team that is a perfect storm of recruiting talent and coaching and an LSU team that plays a brand of physical football that we are not quite ready for.

We end the season 10-3 with another bowl win in Orlando. The question is who will be leading us under center when we get there?

BTW, how will the BCS matchups look with Notre Dame, Boise State and a terrible Big East team receiving bids? Shoot me now.

Post G-Day...

2009-04-13T16:01:00.002-04:00

I will stick to my words. I think the Dawgs will be more that okay next year. Will we go undefeated? Probably not. Will we lose 6 games? Not likely.

Joe Cox will be everything you need in an SEC quarterback (though he may not be much more athletically). His energy on the field is evident along with his uncanny ability to lead his teammates. This program is in need of that emotional leader and Joe Cox may be that player.

Our offensive line and running backs will also be everything we need to get by. We probably won't have a 1,000 yard rusher but we most certainly won't be a pass-because-we-can't-run-it offense.

What I like is the return to discipline in between the white lines and a code of conduct off the field. This team has the potential to be everything we love about Georgia Football. Yeah, I loved Stafford's big time arm and Knowshon's highlight reel talent just as much as the next guy. To me, however, Georgia football has always been about a defense that wants to wear you out so our offense doesn't have to. A team that feels just as proud about dominating a game 16-3 or dominating it 50-10.

This team has the potential to be that type of good. Not Leinart-Bush Sportscenter good. Just solid-because-we're-good good.

Basketball Coaching Search Thoughts...

2009-03-28T01:43:00.003-04:00

1. Money talks- DE said money would not be a factor in bringing a coach to Athens. That means he is committed to bringing a coach in who (he believes) will lead the program to the next level.

2. Facilities are not a deal breaker- Yes, Stegeman is 40 some years old and only holds 10,000 people, but the place would be on fire if, for example, our "40 Minutes of Hell" was taking Kentucky to the woodshed on our way to the NCAA tournament. Also, if anything, a coach can use the gym for leverage as the negotiate a contract. Why wouldn't a coach say, "I agree to the terms of the contract as long as the proposed renovations are completed by 2011" ?

3. We don't want a coach who will simply bring more in-state talent to Athens- To me, the definition of a "home-run hire" is a guy who makes Athens an attractive city for players nationwide. Everyone knows that doesn't happen overnight, but Mark Richt would not have the success he has had without kids like Stafford, Moreno, Massaquoi, Owens, Weston, etc. (Sorry for the football reference but it is true.) Damon Evans knows this. Whether he is successful or not with the hire remains to be seen but I promise you he is looking for that program changing guy. The last thing he wants to do is settle for a Plan B.

4. Our program's prestige right now is not the limit- Just because we have yet to realize our potential as a basketball program does not mean we will not achieve elite status. Gonzaga, Arizona St., Virginia Tech, and Baylor are not historical basketball powers. Yet, with Mark Few, Herb Sendek, Seth Greenberg and Scott Drew all of these programs became "relevant" in the last few years. In basketball, a coach can make a significant difference in only a few years time. I understand it is an extreme example but where was Baylor's basketball program a few years ago? Again, Evans realizes the importance of the right hire.

All of this being said, it doesn't matter that Kentucky is looking for a coach or that Anthony Grant would sell his soul to be in Gainesville rather than Tuscaloosa. What matters is that UGA is committed to improving its basketball program (or so say the powers that be). We will see how serious Damon Evans was when he said "I'll say this: Our commitment and my commitment to build Georgia basketball is strong, and when I say strong, I'll add very strong onto that. We're going to go out and find the best possible person for this job. That may mean we commit more resources than we have in the past but we're not letting that hold us back from doing what we need to do to have a successful men's basketball program."

In 5 years, will top 100 recruits want to wear the "Mighty G"? Who knows?

I will say this, if we don't hire a man who sees that as a legitimate goal, Damon Evans did not do his job.

Go Dawgs!

I Like Predictions.

2009-01-09T13:23:00.003-05:00

So here's my prediction for next year.

Thanks to 24/7 for all their accomplishments and fine play over the past few years. We'll miss the devastating cuts, spinmoves and 75-yard outs.

In all honesty though, and I hope I'm not wrong on this, but I think the 2009 version of college football in Athens will be a return to football the way we like it.

Joe Cox, Logan Gray, Aaron Murray, Zach Mettenberger: whoever lines up under center will not be Matthew Stafford. We all know that. Will he make mistakes? Yes. Did Stafford inexplicably decide to throw a touchdown for the Jackets a few weeks ago? Yes. We will be ok. Our QB situation is far from the nightmare many Georgia fans are envisioning.

RB: Caleb King, Dick Samuel (although I'm not convinced he shouldn't line up next to Rennie), DJax, Carlton Thomas, etc.: These guys aren't Knowshon, but like I said about Stafford, who is? However, we do have a bunch of guys who can get the job done and an offensive line that won't make monumental mistakes. Hell, our offensive line may be one of the best in the SEC (if not the nation) next year because of our surprisingly youthful depth.

Getting Searels back will make this team one to be reckoned with. In the game of football, controlling the line of scrimmage can make a mediocre football team into a very, very good football team. We will dominate the line of scrimmage on the offensive side of the ball like a hard-nosed football team should.

On the defensive line, the possibility of Geno Atkins and Jeff Owens taking a play off to let someone better than them get some reps is not that far fetched. Unlike 2008, we will not have a porous run defense. Geno, JO, Kade and co. are simply too good.

Our linebackers and secondary need to step up. They will probably be better than 2008 if we find some semblance of a pass rush, but I would love to see more physical man-coverage and more fundamental tackling. If we tackle the way a Division I football player should tackle, we will see PPG and YPG stats back in the top 20 in the nation.

Special teams scares me. Walsh has a powerful leg on field goals but is somewhat inconsistent. Do we lack confidence in our athletes to the point that we cannot tell walsh to boom it down the middle on kickoffs. I promise our guys can tackle the opposing return man before the 40 yard line--we kicked the ball out of bounds and gave the other team 40 yards of field position what seemed like a dozen times this year. Our punt return is non existent because we are forced to fair catch nearly every punt. Even when we are not in punt block formation, there seems to be little to no effort in blocking.

We have an offseason fix our weaknesses and improve our strengths. We have an offseason for our players to stay out of trouble. We have an offseason to mold a new recruiting class into the future of the Red and Black.

Most importantly, I believe, we have an offseason out of the spotlight. We are not preseason number one and we are not home to current Heisman hopefuls. This team will have to get it done with defense, special teams and offensive execution.

I predict we will. Is it September yet?

Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?

2008-10-27T21:31:00.002-04:00

No it wasn't the Germans, or even the Japanese, that bombed Athens on the night of September 27th, it was the fighting Bear Bryant's, err, Nick Saban's. All seemed lost for dawgsontop after that pivotal matchup. Not only were we beaten in our house, we were down right trunk-stomped. Yea, yea we only lost by eleven, but at the time it seemed like eleventy-billion. I was nervous about unbeaten Vanderbilt coming into town and ruining homecoming once again. Boy was I wrong.

We didn't dominate fat Phil like we should have and we forgot how to get in the endzone against the nerds but we got exactly what we needed, W's. We once again had hope for the future heading into a tough matchup against the Tigger's in the earthquake zone. Then came the offensive explosion we have been waiting for. Fifty-two on LSU in Baton Rouge? Not sure but a quick check of my sources, a.k.a. my brain, and it reveals that has never happened before. What's that you say? Florida exposed them and dropped fifty-one in the process the week before? You're right, playing LSU in Gainesville is the exact same thing as playing in front of the drunkest people on the face of the Earth this past Saturday, besides me.

Hope? Maybe that's all we have right now. Penn State is a virtual lock to be undefeated come season's end. Texas has a great shot at getting in, even with a loss. They have played one of the most difficult schedules I have ever seen. That's not a lie. Oklahoma has a nasty offense, so does Texas Tech, Missouri and Oklahoma State. Get through that with only one loss and you still might be the best team in the country.

Oh yea, we also have a game to play this Saturday. I forgot about that. Florida has been steamrolling. Sixty-three on that Kentucky D? Sheeeeeeeeeeyat, could have been seventy-seven. I was once a college coach, I was awesome. I won thirteen straight National Championships with the dawgs. THIRTEEN! Yet no matter how sick nasty I was on playstation 2, I don't believe I scored 152 points over three consecutive SEC games (I probably did, I was super like nintendo).

So yea, maybe hope is all we have right now. But like my main man Andy Dufresne dropped some knowledge on that playa Red between the walls of Shawshank, I will now drop on you. Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.

My take on "where we go from here"...

2008-10-08T20:28:00.002-04:00

I'm worried. I have been worried since the opening kickoff and it took a embarassing first half against Alabama for me to admit the worry.

I thought we would be very good this year. Let me change that. I convinced myself we would be very good this year. I thought Stacy Searels would repeat last year's coaching job and the offensive line would mature in weeks. I thought our defensive line would step up and continue to surprise the nation--much like a high-motor David Pollack, hardwood recruit Quentin Moses, and undersized Marcus Howard did.

I thought our linebackers and defensive backs would be scary good. Rennie has flown around the field and shown Knowshon type excitement at times but it hasn't been enough. We have bent and broke as much in this young season as I thought we would all year.

I thought Matthew Stafford, MoMass, and Knowshon would be an unstoppable air and ground attack that would rival Fedex. So far, I have seen more "Draft Day 2" out of Stafford than "See you on Sunday". Don't get me wrong, the kid can play. He has all the physical tools. We've all agreed on that since he was a junior at Highland Park. But...I have yet to see the leader CMR talked about all preseason--the kid who will pull the team together and say "we will not lose today".

That is what we need as we enter the UT, Vandy, LSU, FLA gauntlet: we need the swagger the team played with last year. The swagger that had Georgia fans worried that, although we may have never lost again, we would have been compared to the U. We all wanted to be on ESPN everyday, we got there, and lost. Now what?

Fulmer's squad sucks this year. Flat sucks. They waxed us last year and have to come into Sanford after the Dawgs crapped the bed against a talented Alabama team. There is no reason we don't beat this team by 35. The restoration of confidence began in the second half of the Bama game and will continue against the Vols. Fat Phil may be Tony Franklin'd at halftime.

Vandy is another example of a new trend in college football. Well coached teams are beating the big boys because the big boys tend not to show up a few times a year. Vandy will not fly under the radar. We almost lost to them last year and though this team is young they do not forget that. Dawgs roll again.

LSU and Florida play this weekend. Watch closely. Georgia will finish in time for all of you to sit down and dissect both teams like I will. You will see two beatable teams playing each other. Two teams that compare very well to the Georgia team they play in the subsequent weeks.

For now I say the Bulldogsgo to bed November 1st with 2 losses. I hope I am wrong, but 1-1 right now with LSU and FLorida is a very acceptable proposition.

That is all. Athens Saturday.

Glory, Glory to Ol' Munson

2008-09-23T18:45:00.002-04:00

Well, it was bound to happen. I for one wish he could go out on top with this one coming up, but hey, sometimes you just have to call it quits when it's not happening.

I didn't grow up in Georgia or in the SEC. Hell, I barely knew about Georgia football until I started looking at schools for college. But if there was one thing I understood about the Dawgs, it was Larry Munson. Georgia isn't the only program to take notice to this fine man. He is a legend in the media world, and an idol in all of our hearts.

His greatest calls sit in my TV stand, his voice rings in my head, and his history will forever be in all of us.

Good luck, Larry. Thanks for supporting the Bulldog Nation for so many years.

Looking Ahead Before Looking Back

2008-09-21T20:14:00.003-04:00

Before we get to the good stuff from the weekend, lets get to the great stuff about next weekend.

We all know Nick Saban and 'Bama are coming on Saturday.

We all now know that ESPN's College Game Day will be in town broadcasting from around the stadium (more on several locations speculations later).

Now, reports are coming in about Mark Richt's press conference today. Per The Red and Black:

During his Sunday teleconference, Georgia coach Mark Richt announced that Saturday's game with Alabama will be a "blackout."

ESPN's College GameDay crew will also be making the trip to Athens for the 7:45 p.m. kickoff.

"The seniors asked me if we could black out the game and since it's not a day game where heat could be a factor we're going to ask our fans to black out the stadium again
our players will be wearing the black jerseys," Richt said.

OHHH mah gawd.

Not only will Game Day be in town for the first time in eleven years, we're continuing the tradition of the blackout. And what better time to do it? National media in the morning. Prime time coverage at night. First home SEC game. And against Nick Saban.

Not to mention The Tim Baldwin Foundation's annual Tim's Tailgate throwing down over on Bloomfield. Per the Tim's Tailgate Facebook group:

Come join us for the biggest tailgate of the year in Athens before the Alabama game. Stewart and Winfield will be playing. $15 in advance $20 at the door covers all you can drink beer and mixed drinks, and all you can eat catered food.

All proceeds go toward the Tim Baldwin Foundation which in the past have benefitted numerous charity organizations such as Camp St. Francis of North Georgia, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Home in Atlanta. Tim's Tailgate has been a huge success in the past and we only expect this year to be our best year yet!

Get your pom pom's and bourbon ready. This one could get ugly.

IS this the same old Dawgs?

2008-09-18T14:56:00.002-04:00

Jury's still out, but we got a big one Saturday.

The Spurriers made obvious some glaring deficiencies within our offensive and defensive lines. Is it time to panic? Certainly not. Just because we are making some changes on the OL this week doesn't mean the coaches are panicing either. Change is necessary for improvement and unless you missed last Saturday's scrimmage, change is a necessity. I firmly believe, as do the coaches, that we have the talent level on our roster to be one of the best OL's in the country. Keep tinkering and we shall see marked improvement.

As far as the DL is concerned I saw a stat today that made my frown turn upside down. Through 6 games last year we had 9 sacks. 9!!!! in 6 games against mostly weaker competition. We ended the season with 40 plus sacks. After 3 games this year we are ahead of last years pace with 6. I will admit that that is nowhere close to what it needs to be, but if we follow last seasons pattern we should start picking it up sooner rather than later.

Now on to Arizona St.

Boy are these boys going to be pissed, right? Coming off a loss to Grand Mama, Stacey "plastic man" Augmon and the UNLV Runnin' Rebels these fella's know they got something to prove. What? Wrong sport? You got me, Jerry Tarkanian's basketball rebels of the early 90's would possibly beat the 2008 version of the UNLV football team. This makes me wonder, how in the world did a top 20 team that could score on anybody lose to a team that got blasted by Utah (not too bad) and scraped by Utah State (horendous)? I'll tell you how, GEORGIA. I'm not saying they were looking ahead to the Dawg's coming to town, but they were looking ahead to the Dawg's coming to town.

They are saying this game is going to be played in Arizona but from everything I'm hearing on the radio and TV it might as well be the ol H E double hockey sticks. They're saying it's going to be 198 degrees out there. That's not Farenheight. No, not even Celsius. It's Kelvin. Do you know how hot that is? Well neither do I. I'm guessing just past smeltering.

If, and that is a large, bold and italicized IF, we can play up to our abilities, get pressure on Rudy and dominate in the run game, catch catchable balls and adjust to the heat, we will win. We will win big.

I'm saying we won't do all those things, but we will do enough of them to win.

Dawgsontop, 31-13.

Well, a Win is a Win...

2008-09-15T02:08:00.004-04:00

I haven't seen the game from the TV's perspective yet, but I can assure you that as sober as I may have been at the game, I've got a bad taste in my mouth.

And for several specific reasons.

While I am happy we escaped a very emotional battle in Columbia and very glad to see some strong points, there are a few glaring questions I have for this team. And unfortunately the bad may very well outweigh the good. I should probably wait to address my concerns until I watch the game from a different perspective (and mindset, for that matter), but here are a few things that immediately come to mind.

1. Mother f@$%ing dropped f#@%ing passes.

Sure, Stafford throws a laser. It's a heat seeking bullet traveling over the line of scrimmage. But my God, when it hits your hands when it really counts, it has to count. This is the f-ing SEC. This ain't no ACC. In my opinion, Chandler's first two dropped passes almost cost us the game. One was even a pivotal 3rd-down conversion that put us within scoring range in the first quarter, which would have given the entire team a confidence boost. Stuff like that puts the offense out of sync, and maybe gets into Stafford's head a little bit. If he can't rely on his tight end, a man that is supposed to be a consistent and stable option and the quarterback's best friend, it puts the quarterback in a difficult position. Stafford then feels that he has to rely on the power of his arm, maybe forcing a throw here and there or trying for the deep ball when it's not available. Durham probably shouldn't receive as much heat, as his ball, if caught, would have been a spectacular catch in the endzone in my opinion. Still, it did hit his hands, and we all know that if the ball hits your hands then...

2. The play of the defensive backs under pressure

For three quarters Georgia's defense was swarming. Save what appeared to be a beautiful ball delivered to the corner of the endzone from Smelley, Spurrier was throwing fits. Stephen Garcia had to be inserted several times to attempt to change the pace of the game. Nothing seemed to be going right for the SC offense. Rennie Curran and crew were swarming the field, attacking every player with the football. The rushing defense held the 'Cocks to under 2.0 YPC, an extremely valuable stat in SEC play.

But with 10 minutes remaining in the game, a 7 point lead, and the pressure on, they looked like dog crap. Slants, zone reads, screens, out routs... everything seemed to work. 6'5" TE Jared Cook seemed to be everything Tripp Chandler isn't - a match-up nightmare for the defense. He looked like an 8' tall superman, grabbing all sorts of passes and running all over the field. Moe Brown also found the holes in the defense all game for several big gains. Now I can understand a few break downs here and there from a defense, but it seemed like there was one every play in the last 10 minutes, whether it be a huge completion or a penalty (which is another story). If there is one thing that makes a team champions, it's their ability to shut down an opponent in crunch time. And this game didn't look good. Good thing Spurrier doesn't have a Matthew Stafford, or we would have been torched. A few bad throws by Smelley is what eventually won us the game.

3. The penalties

118 yards? That should be the total over at least two full games. Unacceptable. Practice tomorrow better not be fun, or we're going to continue to have issues. While there were a few phantom calls here and a few bad calls there, which you'll see every game, there were too many bad ones. And costly for that matter. 118 yards of penalties will not win you the game against the LSU's and Florida's of this world. Hell, may not even beat the Vandy's or Kentucky's. These issues should have been sorted out by now, which makes me wonder how much better it's going to get.

Now, I've got to be pleased with the way this team fought the emotional roller coaster. I have to be especially pleased with the play of Stafford, Knowshon Moreno, and A.J. Green. Stafford fought through four sacks and several dropped passes to deliver some great plays, including some incredible runs. Knowshon fought extremely hard and deserved every last inch of his yardage. A.J. Green continues to impress me with his downright God-given ability to go out and grab a football. Stafford's beautiful hook-up with Green for 39 yards in the first half saved us from a 3rd and 20 or so.

To continue on the A.J. Green note, him and MoMass absolutely deserve to and need to see the field more. No more of this rotation. Stafford seems to have a unique rhythm with these two, and they're the ones that have gone out there and made plays on a consistent basis. Michael Moore and Kris Durham have proved valuable, but Green and MoMass are the ones getting it done every chance they get. Keep them on the field for God's sake, let them get their touches and see the big plays increase.

Now that I've vented, it's time for some sleep. I still need to watch the film, but man were there some glaring issues in person.

Week 3 National Games of Interest

2008-09-11T10:45:00.002-04:00

Even though it may be a down weekend for marquee match-ups across the nation, save USC-Ohio State, there are still some nice games slated for this weekend. While the Texas - Arkansas barn burner has been delayed a few weeks, California goes coast to coast to visit Maryland, Nevada takes on its second straight Big XII team, UCLA takes on BYU, and Oklahoma returns to the Pacific Northwest to get shafted by more Pac 10 officiating when they take on the Huskies.

Here is a run-down of the weekend battles and my picks:

#13 Kansas Jayhawks at #19 South Florida Bulls
Friday, September 12 -- Tampa, FL -- 8:00 ET -- ESPN2
Spread: South Florida by 4

In an evening normally reserved for recruits, two marquee quarterbacks battle in Tampa in a battle of mediocre teams ranked 11-20. While America was introduced to a rejuvenated Kansas last year, Todd Reesing will attempt to make his name memorable while stating his case as a potential Heisman candidate while the nation watches. Matt Grothe isn't so bad himself, but his name called in NYC will be a stretch. In a game full of offense and some surprising special teams from Kansas, the Jayhawks fly home from Tampa victorious. Kansas 38 - South Florida 24

#23 California Golden Bears at Maryland Terrapins
Saturday, September 13 -- College Park, MD -- 12:00 ET -- ESPN
Spread: California by 10

Props to the ADs from Cal and Maryland for scheduling this match-up, but this weekend might not be all that they thought it could be. This game has lost some luster after Maryland's shaky start (a near-loss to Flacco-less 1-AA Delaware and a loss to Middle Tennessee State), while Cal is at a decent 2-0 and #23 in the nation. The spread may not be as generous as I think it should be, as the Bears travel a billion miles to simply conquer the Terps. Cal 41 - Maryland 13

#18 Brigham Young Cougars vs. UCLA Bruins
Saturday, September 13 -- Provo, UT -- 3:30 ET
Spread: BYU by 9

This is potentially the game of the weekend, other than USC-OSU. These two clashed last year in a Sun Bowl
game that saw BYU upset the Bruins on yes, a blocked kick. Kevin Craft comes in under center for UCLA as an unproven quarterback that could be what seems like the worst QB in the country or the best QB out there. Max Hall for BYU is very proven and a potential draft pick, already amassing 824 yards and 5 TDs. This game could go either way, and I think BYU's overrated ranking inflated this spread. In the end, the Cougars escape a close one at home. BYU 21 - UCLA 20

#16 Oregon Ducks at Purdue Boilermakers
Saturday, September 13 -- West Lafayette, IN -- 3:30 ET -- ABC
Spread: Oregon by 6

Oregon comes in boasting the nation's best offense over the first two weeks, imagine that. Purdue has only played once so far, trouncing 1-AA Northern Colorado 42-10 in the first week. While Purdue lacks a top tier defense, their offense can play with the best. The difference in this game will be the defense that steps up, as a turnover may decide this game. Look for the Ducks to escape this shootout with only a few pellets. Oregon 45 - Purdue 35

#3 Oklahoma Sooners at Washington Huskies
Saturday, September 13 -- Seattle, WA -- 7:45 ET -- ESPN
Spread: OU by 20

Bob Stoops takes his Sooners once again to the Northwest hoping the Pac 10 officials are more welcoming, especially after the scandal that affected the Huskies just last week. This game was surprisingly close a few years ago for a half, but then OU took over and dominated the Huskies. Jake Locker will put a scare on Stoops' defense for a few series, perhaps with a rushing TD, but the Sooners will adapt into the game and shut down the Tebow-like QB. The Sooners get another chance to flex their offensive muscles against an over matched opponent. OU 38 - Washington 17

#10 Wisconsin Badgers at #21 Fresno State Bulldogs
Saturday, September 13 -- Fresno, CA -- 10:30 ET -- ESPN2
Spread: Fresno State by 2

This game, along with the UCLA - BYU battle, has potential to make the off-week more exciting. Pat Hill has instilled a sense of superiority in the Valley, pledging to take on any BCS team no matter the year or where. This time he as a chance to knock of a big boy at home when the tenth-ranked Badgers come to town. The Bulldogs have their best squad in several years with Tom Brandstater under center and Ryan Mathews handling the rock. The potent Bulldogs offense comes with a defense that held Rutgers to only 7 points. On the other side of the ball, Wisconsin is 2-0 behind strong second half performances to put away Akron and Marshall with ease. The offense is secretly explosive with PJ Hill pounding the ball and a passing attack that can strike at any time. This time Vegas gets the line right, as the Bulldogs prove they are a legit BCS team. Fresno State 28 - Wisconsin 23

#1 Southern California Trojans vs. #5 Ohio State Buckeyes
Saturday, September 13 -- Los Angeles, CA -- 8:00 ET -- ABC
Spread: USC by 7.5

Now the game the world has been waiting for, the Collision in the Coliseum, the Fight of the Century, the Battle of the Immortals. The USC never-been-defeated-before Trojans take on the Ohio State all-and-mighty Buckeyes in a clash of gods. Only Mars, the god of war, knows whats in store for this epic intergalactic explosion waiting to happen. In all seriousness, this could be the game of the year. These traditional powers are once again in the top 5 and seeking what seems to be an annual birth in the title game, but the both paths to the championship runs through each other. I can see this game being an outright battle from start to finish, but it could also be pretty sloppy (i.e. OSU last week). While these teams match up so well, there are so many questions. Is Mark Sanchez the answer? Is Beanie Wells really hurt? Is Terrelle Pryor ready for the limelight? Tressel knows how to coach his squad into a marquee away game, a la Texas in 2006, but Carroll isn't so bad himself. There are so many ways this game can go, its a tough call. But based on the Buckeyes' performance last week and the location of the game, I'll take the Trojans to win big. USC 31 - Bucks 17

Top SEC games of the week and predictions to follow

"Same old Georgia"

2008-09-10T16:29:00.003-04:00

Is a phrase I heard numerous times today while driving around our great state of Georgia. Where was it coming from you might ask. From Heisman Trophy winner, MNC coach and downright blowhard Steve Spurrier himself. The Ol' Ball Coach has had it in for the Dawgs ever since DB Lynn Hughes housed one of his passes in 1966 to knock the ever-hated Gator's from the ranks of the unbeaten. Many years have passed since that fateful Fall evening and the rage and hate inside Spurrier for the University of Georgia has never subsided. Uncoincidentally, the feelings are mutual.

This quote came via the victorious coach after last season's debacle in Athens. Many fans, not including this one, believe that game cost us a shot at the National Championship. Whether or not you agree the feelings for Spurrier after last year's upset only grew darker and more overwhelmingly towards pure, unadultured hatred.

Heading into the 2007 matchup the Dawgs appeared to be unbeatable after having trounced overhyped Oklahoma State in the opener. Many UGA supporters, including this one, thought there was absolutely no way that we would not destroy the overmatched Fighting Spurriers, much less cover the -4 point spread. Well we didn't, ask my bookie.

Spurrier relayed his comments in the post-game interview, saying this was "the same old Georgia." Truth be told, it was. We have seen a number of uber-talented teams lose to inferior opponents not just during the CMR era but also under Donnan, Goff, Butts and even HOF Vince Dooley.

This year's clash involves two squads headed in seemingly opposite directions. South Carolina looked awful offensively against NC State and was outcoached, outplayed, outhustled and other out's I can't even think of in their loss to Vanderbilt. Georgia is coming off of a thrashing of CMU that saw our running game show it's brute force and breakaway wheels as well as an above average improvement in the passing game. Every sign is pointing towards a blowout in COLA town, a letdown here would probably ruin our chances at the MNC before the season really even gets under way.

Is this the "same old Georgia?" We will know Saturday evening. I for one am betting that it's not.

News and Notes Around the SEC

2008-09-08T11:36:00.004-04:00

It has been said that teams improve the most between week 1 and week 2. As we take a look around the SEC, how much did each team actually improve?

In Knoxtown, head coach Phil Fulmer had the weekend off, presumably spending the day "with his family, lounging around the living room and kitchen around the TV and a 'few' boxes of donuts and pizza," according to reports. Meanwhile, the rest of the Vols had the opportunity to sulk a little longer after a what-could-have-been on national TV last Monday. The actual on-field improvement will have to wait another week when the Vols take on the formidable Blazers of Alabama-Birmingham. Looks like the jury may have to wait until Florida.

"I regret to inform you, ..."

Not much more could be said in Fayetteville, where Bobby Petrino's 'revitalized' career is looking for any vital signs period. The Razorbacks are looking like the cellar of the SEC for the second straight week after surviving with a late Casey Dick touchdown strike followed by a missed 45-yard field goal attempt by a Louisiana-Monroe squad that no SEC team should schedule in the near future. Apparently Petrino's secretary didn't pass on Nick Saban's message where he left numerous words of advice and scouting tips on the Warhawks. The revitalization will be on hold for at least another week, as Bobby takes his Hogs down into Austin for a grudge match with Mack Brown and the Texas Longhorns.

Speaking of Saban, all is well in Tuscavegas after the Crimson Tide improved to 2-0 after "ripping" the Tulane Golden Wave. After the victory, Saban only had good things to say about his squad that needed two special team touchdowns to save them from a repeat of last year's bout with the aforementioned Warhawks. "The boys really played hard today, and they really showed how they could overcome a challenge from a formidable opponent," Saint Nick reported. What's next for Saban and the Tide? A nationally televised bout with the 'Toppers of Western Kentucky, followed by a trip into Arkansas to take on Petrino's new career (That is if he has not quit by then). I guess we won't really know how Crimson the Tide is until September 27th.

"Dear God, please guide me away from Rennie Curran"

Head coach Urban Meyer and his Florida Tebows have much to rave over in Gainesville after routing the "old" U, the one that used to reside in Miami but now apparently lives in the 'Ville. Tim Tebow's un-Godly performance should make the world forget the Heisman even exists. After Florida's reign over Miami, Brent Musburger reported in his post-game review that "Tebow is without a doubt the greatest specimen I've ever laid eyes on. The way his arm flexes when he throws, his eyes glisten when he scores, his calves flex when he gets sacked, he just makes me warm inside. Some even say his eyes are the sparkle of God. I've seen the light, and that light is coming from Mr. Tebow." Brent's jubilations are words the nation can share and cherish. Meanwhile, Mark May had similar words, while saying Knowshon Moreno's performance was "just so-so."

"Mommy, Mr. Steve hid my bottle of bourbon. Wait 'til he sees his car after the Vandy game..."

I'm not sure the Ol' Ball Coach even knew how to find his way back to Columbia after what happened at Vanderbilt. He didn't have much to say in the post-game press conference, but in his closing statements, Spurrier reported, "I sure hope Stephen Garcia is sober on Saturday." I think we all do, Coach.

Out in the plains, head coach Tommy Tuberville has "found the quarterback of the future." Tuberville went on to rave about his new guy under center, saying "he's got all the tools we need for a 9-4 season. He's sharp, makes minimal mistakes, and throws enough touchdowns per game to lead us to free chicken biscuits for a year from the kind people in Atlanta." After beating the new-look Southern Miss, the War Eagles travel to Starkville to take on Sly Croom's Mississippi State squad still trying to look past what happened in Shreveport in week 1.

As for the Dawgs in Athens, I think The Leap just about wraps that discussion up.

Don't Blink.

2008-09-07T10:38:00.002-04:00

Photo Courtesy ajc.com

The hype was bigger than ever. The media coverage was so plentiful that it was a bit tiring according CMR. Knowshon was dubbed as one of the nation's best running backs by analysts Mel Kiper and Todd McShay. For the first time in a long while, people were beginning to buy into the Herschel Walker comparisons. And that's when I heard it.

"You have no idea how good he's going to be this year," a certain football player told me.

My initial reaction? "What do you mean 'I have no idea?' He's going to be awesome. How can I 'have no idea?'"

My thinking was that even if #24 started the season slowly, he would avoid a sophomore slump simply because he has the energy and passion for the game to help him succeed.

That energy, passion and competitiveness is often misinterpreted as a cocky attitude by the casual viewer. However, KM has proven that his combination of skill, speed and energy is augmented by and unbelievable drive to make himself better than everyone else.

So don't blink. Don't miss a snap. Remember to DVR every game--even if it is Central Michigan--because you never know when "the leap" will happen. You never know when a play will occur that rivals Herschel's steamrolling of Bill Bates.

And remember, we have no idea how good he is going to be...

Top Gun has merits other than as a movie...

2008-09-06T04:34:00.002-04:00

I was forced to watch Top Gun earliar tonight. It's a great movie. Who doesn't like a sweaty Tom Cruise? Oh, that's right, I don't. My 4 year old cousin would bitch slap that dude. I once knew somebody that believed in scientology, he talked about it all the time and he loved it. Too bad for Oklahoma City Ted Kazinski was also crazy.

Great news for everyone else, watching Top Gun gave me a great idea. Who actually enjoys the song "Highway to the Danger Zone?" Nobody, that's who. Where are you going with this? You ask. This is where. Best new drinking game of 2K8. Watch Top Gun and every time the song comes on, take a shot. You won't be able to walk after the movie.

Believe me, Biff told me.

Is it just me...

2008-09-05T15:29:00.005-04:00

Or does new Republican Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin strongly resemble West Canaan Coyote's sex ed teacher Miss Davis

Yes Elliot, boner is good.

I'm a new contributor here at DawgsOnTop and I want to start out be letting it be known that at no time will my blogs be laced with either truth or fact. I would advise you to avoid believing everything that I post. Unless of course some of it is true, then you should definitely believe it. Following that gorilla math, believe everything I say, you don't want to be left in the dark.

This week our #2 ranked Dawgs take on the fighting Chippewa's of Central Michigan. Is it just me or does saying Chippewa make you want to punch Tim McGraw in the neck? Learn to sing a song, Indian Outlaw.

Big matchup for us as far as the defensive back 7 is concerned. CMU brings in Dan LeFevour, which of course is Spanish for "the Fever," and his 5,000 all-purpose yards and 50+ TD's from a year ago. Is it just me or didn't the Dawgs donkey punch the last QB we played with similar stats? (yes, that means you Tebow). Rennie Curran will hit LeFevour so hard he won't be able to do the rain dance at their next tribal meeting.

The Chippewa (watch it McGraw) starting defensive front averages a weight that comes in just under that of Manute Bol. They should offer Rosie O'Donnell, that is the only way to beef them up. Their OLB's weigh 190. Is it just me or did we just take a ride in the Delorean back to 1955? Fire up the Flux Capacitor, 1980 here we come (foreshadowing included).

The Dawgs will put on a performance that is worthy of a Mythical National Championship contender. Bombs away from Stafford as we continue to look for a consistent receiving threat and excellence from the D as we look to establish a dominant pass rusher. Late game vagumic pounding by our OL will once again give future Heisman winner Caleb King nice stats. The Fever puts some points on the board a la Georgia Southern in mop up duty but this game will be over by the 4th, which makes this years edition of the Dawgs different than year's past.

DawgsOnTop 45-17.

Believe me, Biff told me.

The Coverdores strike again...

2008-09-05T09:23:00.002-04:00

Well they didn't strike again because they've never really "struck" since before the Great Depression. But it was great to see the 'Ol Ballcoach lose for the second year in a row to a recently overacheiving Vanderbilt team.

The Dawgs rode the back of Knowshon Moreno and the leg of Brandon Coutu to squeak by with a victory in Nashville last season and it looked like South Carolina was going to pull off the same sort of win last night.

With two minutes left I was certain that Carolina would find a way to come back. I was mad at Spurrier and felt horrible for Vandy fans because it would be yet another loss they pulled from the jaws of victory.

Needless to say, the "Coverdores" hung on for the win and are a surprising 2-0 on the year (is there such a thing as a surprise 2-0?). The Gamecocks, however, will stumble back to that dump known as Columbia. They will have to deal with that oh so annoying fan base and the evil temptations of Stephen Garcia following the first of what may be many embarrassing losses this year.

You don't show you belong in the SEC East by losing to its bottom feeder Mr. Spurrier...because you, then, become the bottom feeder and everyone knows that bottom feeders don't "belong" with the big guns.

Go Dawgs and the heck with the Poor Man's Tim Tebow.

...

2008-08-27T22:27:00.003-04:00

There's nothing more to say than that I'm sick of Mark May and Lou Holtz after the first episode.

Dear ESPN,

You do not have to sell college football. It sells itself--especially when you pick two people who can speak about college football without obvious bias and can convey valid arguments. You can afford to find the best college football analysts. We deserve them.

-Fans

Week 1.

2008-08-25T20:21:00.004-04:00

I can almost smell college football: the greatest of all sports seasons. I can almost feel the excitement that will fill the air when I turn on my TV Thursday night to watch two teams I rarely root for.

The NCSU/USC game will have more meaning though this year as a fellow graduate of my high school will start at quarterback for the Wolfpack--giving him a 50% chance of taking the first college football snap I see as a college graduate. I hope he does very well, of course, and I hope he wins because I hate Steve Spurrier...ok, not only because I hate Steve Spurrier.

Because of Thursday's game, Saturday will come quicker. I will wake up hungover. There is no denying this fact. I will wake up hungover and I will wake up early (I'm one of those weird males who wakes up early on fall Saturdays the same way children wake up early on Christmas morning). I'll force down some sort of breakfast and I will start the festivities.

College Gameday, girls in their gameday attire and friends drinking liquor way too early in the day have become staples of college football when I'm in Athens. This year has added something different though. When the tailgates are put on hold as kickoff approaches, fans will enter Sanford Stadium. They will walk in the same entrances and sit on the same metal bleachers. There is something different though and I am going to be there because it isn't something one should take for granted.

The Silver Britches will leave the tunnel for the first time in a long time as the undisputed #1 team in the land. It might last a few hours, a few weeks, or a few months if we're lucky. Either way, seeing the Bulldogs as the #1 team will be added to my list of personal UGA football "I-was-there's".

All I can say is that this is a wonderful time to be a Bulldog fan. The stellar end to last year left the entire University with a sweet but slightly bitter taste in its mouth. We were better than we could have been but we could have been better than we were. Maybe every year gives us that taste in our mouths...

Unless this truly is the year the drill is finished...

---------------------------------------------------------------------

And another thing...

ESPN.com's Chris Low released his preseason all-SEC team today and only running back Knowshon Moreno made the team. I'm not going to say anything because he's a professional but I'd love to see Stafford, MoMass, Tripp Chandler, Geno, JO, Dannell, Rennie, Asher, Reshad or anyone else step up and prove some of media guys wrong. Or you know what. Even better, I hope a few rings and a crystal football fills the void left by a Chris Low snub.

How I Feel About this #1 "Mess"

2008-08-11T13:15:00.003-04:00

I'll start by saying that I completely agree with PWD at Georgia Sports Blog.

Plain and simple, an undefeated season is pretty much ruled improbable. It's the SEC, and especially in this day and age, anything can happen. We saw it last year with App State. They shocked the world. Georgia could shock the world just as much by going undefeated.

I say that because our schedule just plain sucks. Just when you thought playing Florida, Tennessee, Steve Spurrier, and Georgia Tech every year wasn't enough, you've got to slap on a trip out to Arizona State, a meeting with a revamped Alabama, a trip to the Plains, and a descent onto Bourbon Rouge. Tack on a Central Michigan squad, led by a poor-man's Tim Tebow in a Dan LeFevour, and you've got arguably the hardest schedule in the country.

He ain't Superman, but the dude can play.

All doubts aside, this team has the potential to do it. If Stafford can respond to all the hype, if Knowshon and Caleb can form a thunder-and-lightning type tandem, if the receivers can respond to all the doubt, if A.J. Green and/or Tavarres King make an impact beyond expectations, if the defense continues to grow with a great combination of speed, athleticism, and power, and Richt leads the team like we all know and believe he can, it can work. It can happen. From here on out, however, all those aforementioned scenarios have to play out to perfection. The question has moved from the potential to the will of this team. We know the talent is there. It just has to blend together methodically and thoroughly. Mohamed Massaquoi, Matthew Stafford, and Asher Allen are three guys among a handfull that I have faith in for leadership both on and off the field.

13-0 sounds mighty nice, almost too mighty. If this team can finish 12-1, it shouldn't have any problems getting a spot in Miami. I'm optimistic for 12-1. I'd be disappointed with 11-2 or 10-2, so there is a fine line where my expectations are drawn. I don't see a repeat of LSU happening for Georgia, especially with the influence of media darlings these days, which I feel we are not a part of.

It's time for the boys to let their play do the talking. Give 'em hell, you sons of bitches.

Go Dawgs!

What We Really Don't Want to See in 2008

2008-08-09T17:51:00.003-04:00

With the high temperatures of August come the wonders of a new season of college football. And with those wonders come expectations of what to see, which we have already previewed, and what not to see.

These lists can be extensive. They can be demeaning. They can be very biased. Here at DawgsOnTop, we frankly don't even care what you think.

So, to follow up our What to See, here is our list of Top 10 What Not to See in 2008...:

10) An empty seat in Sanford Stadium

We are preseason #1. Unless there is a death in your family or someone offers you $2,000 for your ticket, your seat better not be empty. I take that back... your seat better be empty, but the area immediately in front of it better be occupied by a loud, rambunctious, drunk, and standing Dawg fan. Yes, Mr. Adams, drunk. Noise people, noise.

9) More Big-10 love

Yes, I saw that OMGZ!#@ Michigan totally beat Florida n their bowl game!!! Ohio State was in da 'Ship!!

I don't care. Florida wasn't that good, especially their defense. Ohio State got waxed for the second straight year. It seemed like all of last season, the "experts" believed the Big-10 was a challenging foe for the SEC, maybe even better. But we all know true football isn't played up north.

8) A healthy season for Percy Harvin

He hasn't had one yet, and he is more important to his team than ever. He is that type of guy that can change the game in a matter of seconds, and we can only expect more in his third year. Hopefully those expectations will fall short... That being said, we don't want to see an unhealthy season for any of the Dawgs. (Note: this is all in good fun. Kind of.)

7) Any more arrests

I swear, the whole team should be locked away in the states if one more athlete gets arrested for having a BAC of .183. All jokes aside, the team does need to stay out of trouble and the media's spotlight.

6) Mark May

"With my top 5, I have Georgia at #4 and as my team that is most at risk for a disappointing season. On the outside looking in, I see Pittsburgh making a strong push for a Top 25 spot and in contention for the Big East."

Anything else, Mr. May?

5) A loss to an overwhelmingly under underdog.

As much as I love a great upset, I hate them. Especially when my team is on the receiving end. App State's victory over Michigan was priceless. Losing to Vandy again at home is not.

4) A "darkhorse" Heisman Trophy candidate

There are darkhorses, and there are "darkhorses." Noel Devine, Jeremy Maclin, A.J. Green... those are darkhorses. I don't care if DeSean Jackson returned 2 punts for touchdowns. I really don't care how many touchdowns Colt Brennan threw in OT to beat Louisiana Tech or San Diego State. And I know this shouln't be a factor, but I do care that Tim Tebow only won 9 games. Just a thought...

3) A deserving team shut out of the BCS National Championship game

I hate to say it, but the '07 Dawgs team was a South Carolina game away from the title game. Did we deserve it? No, probably not. Did we deserve a shot? Maybe. Fool on you, BCS. But no one wants to see a repeat of 2003.

2) Tim Tebow accepting a second Heisman Trophy

True, he may be damn near Superman for Florida's offense, but he only won 9 games last year. True, his numbers are hard to ignore. But a repeat year is far-fetched, as is an East title. Tennessee has the Gators at home looking for revenge, Auburn would love another bite of Gator tail at home, and, of course, the #1 Dawgs meet them in Jacksonville. Look for a few more tears out of Timmy, either in his Crocs or cleats.

1) A two-week campaign party thrown by ESPN endorsing a single (or multiple) candidate(s) for a seat in Miami

Anything else need to be said about that?

Once again, I would like to add that here at DawgsOnTop, we love to joke around about these sorts of things, even if we are completely serious and mean everything we say.

Go Dawgs!

Here we go again...

2008-07-31T18:27:00.006-04:00

So I was sitting in the Richmond International Airport enjoying a few brews by my lonesome while I waited for my delayed flight to take off and I realized that August was only hours away. So clearly I decided it was time for me and my colleagues to fire up the engine on the old blog again.

We've suffered like you have suffered. We've endured like you've endured. We continue to anticipate like...well, you get the picture.

Anyways, I've resorted--like many college football fans--to searches of youtube and scrolls through sports channels in search of anything college football to quench my obsessive thirst until I can watch a live game in a few weeks.

As we know you're in need of some action much like we are at DawgsOnTop, we're going to provide a series of lists for you to read, analyze and respond to over the next few lists in order to distract you from your withdrawals for even a few moments.

Today we offer up a list of 10 things we can't wait to see this fall...:

10) A perfectly executed option...it's not only for the video games.

Even if it is Georgia Tech... but a Logan Gray-Knowshon hook-up to change the pace of a game would be nice. Super nice.

9) Notre Dame's first loss...anyone else think it will be early?

Watch closely to the ClausenGate... if he gets a suspension, the Irish's luck will be sorely affected.

8) College GameDay...never is a daytime television show more welcomed.

Now lets hope Mark May chills out his hate... but thats unlikely.

7) A Knowshon Moreno cutback and/or spin move...

Pick up your jock? or your TV remote for those at home?

6) The first meaningful Thursday night game...helps tide us over until the real game(s) on Saturday.

Anyone else find it interesting that a traditional SEC school like Auburn has elected to play a few days early?

5) Rivalries. They define college football.

Army-Navy. Notre Dame-USC. Oklahoma-Texas. Ohio State-Michigan. Get the idea?

4) Alabama v. Clemson...love them or hate them these teams meet early in the year and are both programs full of big names, pride and tradition.

Some other great out of conference match-ups include Ohio State v. Southern Cal, Auburn v. West Virginia, Oklahoma v. Washington, and of course Georgia v. Arizona State.

3) Heisman darkhorses

Noel Devine, anyone?

2) Uga VII...a tradition continues.

VII should be as fierce and feisty as ever.

1) The Battle Hymn solo in Sanford Stadium. If you don't know about it, learn.

Just thinking about it sends chills.

Man who else is ready?

Not The Time To Be a Sports Fan.

2008-07-20T21:46:00.002-04:00

The ESPYs are on TV. The Braves are losing the the Washington Nationals what seems like daily. Pool and Poker are dominating my ESPNs. This is miserable.

The only relief I find is in the occasional college football replay on TV and the thought of First Friday and the Dawgs leaving the tunnel for the first time this fall.

Dawgs On Top has been slacking recently but so has the sports world. Let's face it, we're all chomping at the bit for fall Saturdays to return.

They can't come soon enough.

Tech's Summer Blues Continue

2008-07-01T00:53:00.001-04:00

This time, it's not news of another transfer, but it may turn out to be one...

Redshirt freshman cornerback Jerrard Tarrant of Carrolton, Georgia has been suspended indefinitely by Georgia Tech head coach Paul Johnson. Tarrant is facing rape charges following an incident in April in the Tech dorms. Coach Johnson is awaiting word from the judicial system until he makes his final decision.

Tarrant was in contention for not just time on the field as a special teamer, but a starting position on defense. Obviously this is a blow to the Tech program, but in light of recent events, its just the next incident of the week.

What's next for the Techies? A loss to Perriloux and the 'Cocks of Jacksonville State? I’ll bet something happens before that.

Uga VI.

2008-06-28T12:27:00.000-04:00

Rest in Peace. Damn Good Dawg.

Now That Emotions Have Settled.

2008-06-27T18:55:00.002-04:00

After a morning flight from Omaha and a night on the town in Athens with several Georgia baseballers, it's time for our season wrap-up.

To start, I'd like to send out a congratulations and thank you to the team and the Georgia baseball program for the amazing season they put together in 2008. Though second place hurts now more than last years season did, the memories we forged throughout the spring on Kudzu Hill will last a lifetime.

We will remember Gordo, Peisel and Matty O for all of their contributions over the years and are eternally grateful to the team for the way they embraced our antics in right field. Though the players and their families have thanked us numerous times, we cannot emphasize enough how much they did for us as Bulldog fans and eventually as friends.

Omaha did not pan out the way we had hoped but the Dawgs exceeded expectations and brought the Red and Black to the forefront of the national baseball scene. They are understandably upset about the loss Wednesday night to Fresno but being one win away from a national title is nothing to hang one's head over.

To avoid a rambling and drawn out post, I'll leave it at that. It was a great season and it was a lot of fun.

Here's to continued success at Foley Field and elsewhere on campus like we experienced in the "Year of the Bulldog" 2007-2008.

Go Dawgs!

...

2008-06-25T12:58:00.003-04:00

Not much to say about last night. Similar to the super regionals against NC State, the Dawgs should look past this middle defeat to overcome the wiry bats of the other Bulldogs.

We'll be there watching.

Poythress, Bulldogs Highlighted

2008-06-22T19:51:00.003-04:00

ESPN has published a story written by Curt McKeever, a reporter for the Lincoln Journal Star, that talks about Georgia's success in the College World Series and highlights Georgia's Rich Poythress. Check it out, its a good read. Hopefully the last line of the article becomes true...

Dawgs In CWS Finals

2008-06-22T15:32:00.002-04:00

The Diamond Dogs' bats came alive once again, storming in 10 runs against a solid Stanford team. Georgia got ahead early and never looked back, staving off a late Stanford rally to close the game 10-8. The Dawgs' second win over the Cardinal earned them a spot in the finals of the CWS, a best-of-three series which starts Monday. The opponent will be decided tonight at 7:00 ET on ESPN Classic when the Tar Heels of UNC take on the Bulldogs of Fresno State. Sort of an interesting move by ESPN, but I'm sure the overall delay of the weekend had something to do with the TV selection. How cool would a "Battle of the Bulldogs" series be between the 8th seeded Georgia and an unseeded Fresno State? I feel like ESPN would love to spin this as much as possible, favoring the Cinderella Fresno State over us in a heartbeat. That being said, I would rather play the Bulldogs, simply because I'm concerned about a balanced UNC team seeking their first National Title. But we'll see what happens tonight. Go Dogs?

Some More Omaha Photos

2008-06-19T21:30:00.003-04:00

Go Dawgs!

The 'Blatt

Fan Zone

13th Street

Just some photos I managed to capture the morning after the first win.
It was early, so they're aren't many fans yet, but add about 50,000
people and you've got it. Well, not really, you have to go still. With
the one of the neighborhood street, image those all around the stadium
with people welcoming you into their yards for a mere few dollars.

Go Dawgs!

I'll Second That

2008-06-19T20:44:00.002-04:00

If you've never been to Omaha... go to Omaha.

If you've never seen the College World Series... go to Omaha.

If you've never seen Baseball Heaven... go to Omaha.

If you don't like college baseball / baseball period... go to hell. And that's not Omaha, that's in or around Gainesville, Fl.

But in all honesty... Omaha is more than you can imagine. The sheer rush you get while driving around that hill westbound on I-80 on your way out of Iowa (or, the newest addition to the Great Lakes), makes it worth it alone. Add to that a hundred thousand fans, a stadium as legendary as Uga, a steak town, a neighborhood that just screams "welcome," and locals who are calling you in with open arms, and you're in heaven my friend. I'm telling you, simply incredible. I don't think I said a word for the first 30 minutes we were parked in our tailgate spot. That tailgate spot happened to be the back yard of someone's trailer, but hey, $5 and a 10 minute walk? I couldn't ask for more, especially while drinking with the fellow Right Field Guys and the guys from the Left Field Lounge, some of the biggest Dawg fans around.

I was in Heaven, and I hadn't even been inside the gates of the stadium.

Standing in the ticket line a few hours later, my knees trembling in excitement and my hands sweating in anticipation, I realized that I had died and was born again. Well, that born-again feeling actually happened when I stepped into Section E. Just look for the time when your jaw hits the concrete at your feet, and that's when you'll feel it too.

At that point, I didn't care who won really. I didn't really care who was playing, either. I was just glad to be there, experiencing a slice of Heaven. So if you ever get the chance, go. No, actually, I don't care if you have the chance or not. Forget summer school. Take off from work. Spend the few hundred you have in your wallet. Make the trip. It will change your life.

Photos Again!

2008-06-18T11:25:00.003-04:00

More More More...

Photos!

2008-06-18T11:13:00.003-04:00

More photos from the weekend!

More Pictures from Omaha!

2008-06-18T10:47:00.003-04:00

Ok. So I can only add 5 photos to a post. I'll be adding them throughout the day.

When College Baseball Fans Die...

2008-06-17T22:40:00.004-04:00

...they go to Omaha. Or so I'd like to believe.

My friend Alex and I made the trek to Omaha last Friday morning with some fellow Dawg Fans. The group was a motley crew fused together by our love for Georgia baseball and the trip marked a historic unification of the "Left Field Lounge" and the "Right Field Guys" as we've recently been titled.

We arrived Saturday morning after a night in St. Joseph's, Missouri and were greeted by several players at their (and our) hotel in Omaha. Though our room was not ready immediately, we made ourselves at home without hesitation.

We checked our bags and made our way to Famous Dave's for a bite to eat before heading out in search of an illusive tailgating location. If you have yet to make the visit, Rosenblatt Stadium is set on the ledge of a grass hill in a residential neighborhood outside of the city's downtown.

For five dollars, we parked in a field behind a local home and promptly started the festivities. Little did we know the Bulldogs would make the trip worthwhile less than 5 hours later. The team won its opening game over the CWS's #1 seeded Miami Hurricanes with late inning heroics and impressive bullpen performances by Alex McCree, Dean Weaver, and Joshua Fields.

Sunday morning came after a night on the town in the Old Market District. I looked at Alex and mumbled, "I can't believe we beat the Hurricanes" and without hesitation he agreed.

The Dawgs had one foot in summer vacation and wood-bat leagues when they trailed Louisville in Athens a mere two weeks before. Now they sat--with Stanford--atop Bracket 1 in the famed 'Blatt.

The day passed oh so quickly as we relived the day before with players, their parents and other Bulldog faithful. By 7pm, the only thing left to do was eat dinner and sport our red and black around town for another night. So, as we were in Omaha, we went out for a steak that lived up to its billing with several of the players and their families.

This experience alone made it a trip for the ages. Rarely does a fan get to spend quality time with the individuals who perform on athletic stages such as the one in Omaha. We told some of our stories and heard even more of theirs. We described our emotions during the regional and super-regional rounds and they let us into their world as Division I baseball players.

Monday evening and our victory over Stanford will go down as a memory to share with the grandkids. We sat with friends and guests of the team behind the Georgia dugout and we were amazed at the way Omaha had embraced our Bulldogs.

It is Rosenblatt tradition to measure the support of each team before the game. The announcer came over the loudspeaker and explained the tradition before asking, "so let's hear it from our Stanford fans...". Applause and cheers scattered from around the stadium before the announcer asked for the same from the Georgia fans.

Standing, the Georgia section around us exploded in yells and applause. Suddenly, however, our noise merely served as motivation for the baseball fans who chose Georgia as their team for the evening. Several players told us after the game that they would remember that moment for the rest of their careers.

--before going on further I should explain that our matchup with Miami won the hearts and support of Nebraska fans in the stadium. One yearly visitor to Rosenblatt stated it best when he told me, "we don't really hate Miami...we just want them to lose every time they take the field." Alex and I joked about football rivalries and how they never died. This fact played out in our favor in Omaha.

We as Georgia fans now sit back in Athens with our Diamond Dawgs in the drivers seat. They are 2-0 with fresh bodies for their Friday evening matchup against the winner of the Miami/Stanford game Wednesday night. The way our pitchers are throwing and our bats seem to hit at opportune times, it will be a challenge for either of those teams to beat us the necessary two times in order to send us packing.

I'll leave you with two challenges:

1. Make it to Omaha for the CWS once in your life whether UGA is playing or not.

2. Tune in (in person or on TV/Radio broadcasts) Friday to see this team in action. They truly are making a magical run.

Above are some photos I took throughout the trip. There will be more to come later in the week but these are the only ones on my computer at the moment.

Go Dawgs!

As the Counting Crows put it...

2008-06-12T20:38:00.002-04:00

Omaha! Somewhere in middle America...

I'm headed out to the CWS in the early morning Friday in my effort to push the Diamond Dawgs onto a championship before my days as an undergrad are over in a few weeks. A friend and I will be meeting DallasDawg out there for what is sure to be an amazing experience--win or lose.

Keep our blog close as we will hopefully be updating ya'll on our excursion all weekend long. If not, I'll be back Tuesday with a full recap...

Here's to big steaks, too many corn fields and a Bulldog national title.

If Only We Had the Weekend On Tape...

2008-06-09T22:27:00.002-04:00

As everyone should know by now, the Georgia Baseball team advanced to the College World Series in Omaha Sunday afternoon with a 17-8 victory over the North Carolina State Wolfpack.

What you may not know is the story from my end. John Kaltefleiter and Chip Towers (of the Athens Banner-Herald and the AJC, respectively) did their best to summarize our antics on Kudzu Hill and we appreciate their efforts.

It should go without saying that the past two weekends combined to become perhaps my favorite memory as an undergraduate student at UGA. The madness that was the party in my backyard will forever mark my time in Athens and we owe the team, the fans, the administration and probably the police for all of their support these past few weeks.

We're working on our plans to Omaha right now so hopefully we'll see you out there for a Bulldog run to the title...

Go Dawgs!

Oh, That Other Stuff...

2008-06-09T20:46:00.002-04:00

Amidst all the excitement from the baseball team's playoff dominance, several things slipped my attention. Until now.

For one, our star fullback Brannan Southerland will miss 16 weeks after he underwent surgery on his ailing ankle. The stress fracture didn't respond well to the initial process, and he had no choice but to be subdued under the knife again. The way I see it, we should be just fine. With the exception of Carolina, our first four games (within the 16 weeks) are against teams that Shaun Chapas and Fred Munzenmaier should be able to handle. Munzenmaier will be suspended for the first two, but Chapas has proven he can handle the offense enough to cover Georgia Southern and Central Michigan, not to mention run a little bit of it as well. Munzenmaier will bring size when he comes back for the South Carolina game and should be able to contribute. So, while I am concerned about Southerland, I am optimistic that we'll be just fine. Perhaps Bobo's revamped offense will stress less on power and more on speed and redirection, so we may not need to worry at all. But come the Alabama and Tennessee games, Southerland better be back. Those are going to be dogfights, and his motor, size, and experience will be needed badly.

While the impact isn't as glaringly obvious, Perno's Diamond Dogs took several blows to next season and beyond. Not only did the two-sport star Xavier Avery get yanked in the 2nd round, but the top two pitchers in the class were also selected, both by the Braves. The Bravos must have a thing for trying to take Bulldog pitchers. Georgia Sports Blog has more info on that impact and also on the hope that still remains.

Looking forward, however, there is still plenty of promise for both teams. Football should be preseason #1. Baseball should continue to roll in Omaha. The recruiting classes for both are stacking up well, and it looks as if Perno can overcome the fallacy of the MLB draft.

CWS Online

2008-06-09T18:55:00.002-04:00

The fine folks behind the NCAA Men's College World Series have put together a very nice and very useful website as a guide for the teams and their fans. The website includes ticket info, the schedule, stadium info, things to do in and around Omaha, and the history of the great, classic event. All the info you should need is seemingly there.
Go Dawgs!

Hello, Omaha

2008-06-08T22:07:00.004-04:00

The Dawgs stomped the Wolfpack for the second time this weekend with a 17-8 stomping in Game 3 to steal the envelope for an invite to Omaha, Nebraska for the College World Series. Gordon Beckham hit two homers today to tie the Georgia baseball record of 51 career homers, held by former Bulldog great Josh Morris. Congrats, Gordo, and thankfully you have the chance to crack the record for your own.

There is nothing like being in Omaha on a warm summer day to watch some great college baseball. It's been years since I've been up there to see the facilities, but I never caught a game. I know a few are working on plans to get up there, and I will be as well. This team has a legit shot as they are hitting on all cylinders, almost everyone is healthy, and the bats are smoking. This should be quite the ride.

The AJC has a few victory photos here.
Georgia Sports Blog has some Omaha 2008 merch for sale here, as well as a sharp new header.
ESPN has a pretty good blog rolling that is covering all the action nationwide here.

Go Dawgs!

Baseball Team Thanking Right Field Crew on YouTube

2008-06-05T22:46:00.001-04:00

More Baseball Tidbits

2008-06-05T21:49:00.004-04:00

As mentioned earlier, our very own Gordon Beckham and Joshua Fields have been selected in the first round of this year's MLB first-year draft, as they were selected 8th and 20th overall. Fields has recently been named the top closer of the year after his stunning season where he accrued 16 saves, captured the SEC all-time save lead, and pitched 56 strikeouts, not to mention his amazing 0.0 ERA streak. Beckham is looking for a trophy of is own as he awaits the final tallies of the Golden Spikes Award, similar to football's Heisman Trophy.

Silently, however, another Bulldog was chosen in the second round of the draft, 50th overall. That other Bulldog, Xavier Avery, may never even put on the "G" and run out onto Foley Field. Or Sanford Stadium, for that matter. The two-sport athlete signed his letter of intent earlier this year to play both football and baseball, a la Israel Troupe, for the Bulldogs. As good as he would have looked in the Red and Black, it appears he will be donning the orange and black for the Baltimore Orioles instead. 50th overall out of high school is too promising for a young man with a bright future to hold out on the opportunity. Sure, we all feel that a college education is key these days, but with his talents and promise, we all hope he'll do just fine.

In other news, Georgia Sports Blog has a great article on the Wolfpack and their bullpen and starting pitching rotation that sounds quite formidable. As hot as our bats are right now we will hopefully be fine, but the 'Pack should pack a punch at the mound.

DawgBone.net also has a handful of good baseball news about Gordo, Fields, Avery, and the upcoming weekend.

And remember, first pitch for the weekend series is tomorrow, Friday, at 12:00 pm. If you can't make it like me, you can catch it on ESPN. We know their presence will be known in and around Foley, but hopefully ESPN gives a shout out or two to the right field brew crew up there at the Greenhouse and Brickhouse.

Dawgs set to face the Wolfpack...

2008-06-05T17:27:00.003-04:00

On the eve of Georgia's Super Regional matchup with the North Carolina State Wolfpack, the Diamond Dawgs should be riding high.

The team completed an impressive string of 4 wins with an 18-6 drubbing of Danny Hall and his Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Georgia's bats heated up and the team was rewarded for impressive pitching performances by Nick Montgomery, Will Harvil and Alex McCree.

As for this weekend, the Diamond Dawgs will bring their renewed confidence into a home matchup with a talented Wolfpack squad. The boys from Raleigh come in boasting an impressive pitching rotation and skilled bullpen.

However, the Dawgs should take advantage of their hot bats and their own pitching prowess to take down the 'Pack. In addition, two high profile baseballers should be playing without MLB draft pressure following Gordon Beckham's (#8 Overall ChiSox) and Joshua Fields (#20 Overall Seattle Mariners). Look for both to contribute in the continuing thrill-ride that is Georgia baseball.

We'll be providing updates and tidbits throughout the weekend and will hopefully wrap it all up with details about our trip to Omaha.

Go Dawgs!!!

Doesn't Need Words

2008-06-04T00:37:00.005-04:00

In between the turning around to relieve myself off my great seat, on the couch jacked up on multiple stages behind the fence in right field, I got to be apart of what seemed at times to be like a Georgia football game. The only thing is that it was in my back yard at Folly Field, not a few yards down the street and in another couple of months at Stanford Stadium. I can not say enough good things about the baseball team this year and what they have given to us this spring. It was great to finally help them out when we had chance to, by blaring whatever annoying song we could find when Tech made an error or to playing the walk up songs for all the batters on our beloved team. The players coming to bow after the game was unbelievable and could not be explained, you had to be there to understand the feeling that I felt and know that others felt. We will all be there again in full force Friday at noon with, at least I know I am, skipping class to do it all over again until someone tries to stop us. Don't worry we can take a few noise violations to keep it going a little longer, even when you know who comes. So if anyone can come support are Dawgs please do, because as you can tell a start time at noon on a Friday is awful for fans, but thats not going to stop us.
Go Dawgs!!!

Sorry, Mikey, but...

2008-05-29T11:19:00.004-04:00

... Athens is hosting a night game. Ha. I'm sure ole Mr. Adams loves this one. ESPN has confirmed to the Athens Banner Herald that the network has chosen the Alabama Crimson Tide @ Georgia Bulldogs game slated for September 27 th at Sanford Stadium. And with the selection comes a 7:30 pm kickoff time that excites everyone, except for, of course, the prez.

How can you not like a night game when everyone is that much more drunk? Aren't the fans more rowdy and loud? Doesn't it make for a better atmosphere? Oh wait, who am I kidding. Of course it doesn't...

Well anyway, with the Tennessee Volunteers game still to schedule, perhaps we can have TWO games after 1:00. Hey, I'm all for a racoon-eyes sunburn, but let's be serious. With the promise of this year's team, I wouldn't be surprised to see the stadium like it was last year for the Auburn game at least twice this year. But that comes at a price... a 3:30 or later kickoff time. Come on, Adams, let the kids have their fun. Sanford Stadium will be rockin' all night.

The ABH also reports that Raycom Sports, formerly Lincoln Financial Sports, has reported an upgrade to (gasp! Don't say it!) High Definition (wooooahh, preeeetttyyy), which some people are starting to dub HD (or something like that. I don't know... never heard of it).

In related news, the big whigs of the conference and each school have been holding meetings down in Destin, Florida to discuss an SEC TV network similar to that launched by the Big 10 last year. I hate the Big 1(1), but I think they finally had a good idea. An SEC network only means more televised games and matches for sports like tennis, gymnastics, golf, and baseball, the sports that don't get enough credit from ESPN and the likes. Hey, maybe even the lacrosse or hockey teams can make it...

See Also:
Georgia Sports Blog - ESPN confirms plans to televise Georgia vs. Alabama

Dawgs snag national seed and are set to host...

2008-05-26T23:12:00.004-04:00

The Georgia Baseball team started the week after a disappointing showing in Hoover with a bang with the announcement of the top 8 national seeds for the 2008 NCAA college baseball tournament.

The Bulldogs grabbed the #8 spot despite losing 4 of their last 5 games. Georgia will host the Athens, Ga Regional site Friday through Monday. The regions other teams are rival Georgia Tech, Louisville and Lipscomb.

Here's the schedule for the week:

2008 NCAA Baseball Athens Regional
Friday, May 30

Game 1: Lipscomb vs. GEORGIA, 3 p.m. ET
Game 2: Georgia Tech vs. Louisville, 7 p.m. ETSaturday,
May 31

Game 3: Loser of Game 1 vs. Loser of Game 2, 3 p.m. ET
Game 4: Winner of Game 1 vs. Winner of Game 2, 7 p.m. ET
Sunday, June 1

Game 5: Loser of Game 4 vs. Winner of Game 3, 2 p.m. ET
Game 6: Winner of Game 4 vs. Winner of Game 5, 6 p.m. ET*
Monday, June 2 (*If Necessary)

Game 7: Winner of Game 6 vs. Loser of Game 6, 7 p.m. ET

More updates as the week progresses.

We're Sorry

2008-05-21T18:33:00.003-04:00

... for the light posting. The fallout from exams, graduations, and the start of summer is finally coming to an end. Some of us are back home, some are still holding down the fort in Athens. Soon we will cover the SEC baseball tournament, recap the baseball team's regular season, direct praises to the golf and tennis teams, and start the football season preview. Once again, sorry for the light posting, but it's about to pick back up. Go Dawgs!

Another notch on the belt...

2008-05-12T01:26:00.002-04:00

...what belt? We don't wear any belts?

That is, except the co-SEC east football notch, basketball SEC championship notch, Gymnastics national championship notch, and men's tennis SEC championship notch...

Oh and add to that a regular season SEC champion notch in baseball!

This part of the blog is biased for us at Dawgs on Top. Not because we love everything red and black, but because we hold the Georgia baseball team dear to our hearts. Two of us were lucky enough to live in the houses on the top of Kudzu Hill in the right outfield of Foley Field. They are lovingly known to the Athens public, television commentators and Jeff Dantzler as the "green house" and the brick house.

We came into the season with high expectations for this year's squad. Not because Dave Perno loves winning big every other year. Not because we saw the SEC in a down year. Not even because we returned national player of the year candidate Gordon Beckham and "let's start up the bus" closer Joshua Fields. For some reason, we looked at the lineup and felt like Beckham, Fields, Peisel, Demperio, Poythress, Olsen, Cerione, Fuller, Allen, and the veteran pitching staff could once again bring glory to the Diamond Dawg program.

We knew we would find out quickly what the Dawgs were made of with early series against nationally respected Arizona and the defending national champs, Oregon State. And yet, after a disappointing 2-4 start against these ballclubs, we still saw some potential.

Ok. We saw a lot of potential.

Gordon Beckham was a bright spot. He was at the top of the Rivals.com power rankings for middle infielders and coaches across the country were claiming he saw the baseball like one looked at a beach ball. Little did they know that he would enter Tuesday's game against rival Georgia Tech with 22 HRs (leading the nation). Little did they know that Josh Fields would be working with a sub-1.00 ERA (and an SEC leading number of saves).

The squad left that tough opening stretch only to win their first 6 conference series, including sweeps over talented Kentucky and South Carolina teams. Georgia won with pitching when it was needed, hitting when it was needed and even the heroics of Beckham when he was needed.

So, UGA entered its series in Nashville with a lead in the SEC that needed only wins in 2 of the 3 games to lock up the regular season title and after a disappointing loss on Friday, the team looked poised for a late-season letdown. Saturday and Sunday, however, provided perfect examples as to why this team may be bound for even greater glory. A 4-2 win and a 12-10 win both locked up the regular season title and showed that the Dawgs can pull it of from the mound and the dish.

We're not saying that Georgia will claim a top 8 national seed, walk through the SEC tourney, or make magic happen in Omaha, but we want every casual Georgia baseball fan out there to know that these kids are for real. They perform when they need to and think that they can play for anyone.

Georgia plays GT at the Ted (Turner Field in ATL) Tuesday and host Alabama in Athens on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Show them the support they deserve because they truly are fun to watch and you may witness some of the magic two of the best players in UGA history have been creating all year long.

From Dawgs on Top to the 2008 Georgia baseball team, congratulations on the regular season title and good luck this week. We'll be out there loud and proud.

Fear the Megaphone.

What Happened, Techies?

2008-05-07T11:46:00.004-04:00

So everyone is going bananas about the NCAA's release of the academic progress ratings (APR) released the other day, and I noticed something interesting...

All of you know how annoying the Techies are. All I've heard about since I got to UGA is how we stink at everything, from life to academics. I have honestly and seriously heard a Tech fan tell one of my friends that he should study hard because one day he will need a good job and GT alumni look down upon bad grades coming out of UGA. It was kind of hard for us to reply, because I mean let's be honest with each other, we're not nerd majors. I'm sorry that you graduated from Tech, but please, we're not coming to you, the executive VP of the engineering department, looking for a job. We're actually coming to your company, looking to be your CEO. Not only that, but we may even own that company. Looking to you for a job? Ha!

I bring that story up because in the new APR list of scores, someone's football team comes in at #34 overall, and someone else's football team ranks around #64.

Of course, your immediate reaction was to put GT ahead of UGA right? Not so fast my friend. UGA's cumulative score came out at a 965, while Tech averaged a whopping 951. What's going on over there guys? Everyone leaving for the NFL? Your argument for rigorous academics will get a laugh in the face because schools like Penn, Stanford, and Duke all scored over 25 points higher than you. Academics shmacademics. You also better keep your coaching staff on a leash if you want to improve these numbers, because let me tell you, if your coach can smoke pot and drink and drive, your kids will to. Have fun with that one.

I will also note that UGA lined up 5 spots behind Notre Dame, 7 ahead of the Gaytors, and, surprisingly to me, 17 ahead of Vanderbilt.

Also See: Bein' 34th ain't all bad (Gridiron Gate)
APR numbers released (GB Blog)
Official UGA Release (GeorgiaDogs.com)

Dawgs take 2 out of 3 from Ole Miss...

2008-05-04T21:41:00.003-04:00

The Georgia baseballers returned to their winning ways this weekend with another SEC series victory. Using wins on Friday and Sunday, UGA maintained a 3 game lead in the Southeastern Conference. The boys in red and black left the weekend with increased offensive output coming from the bottom of the lineup (Demperio, Cerione, and Lyle Allen all with HRs Sunday). However, Mike Demperio left the game after a terrible collision as he hustled towards first base while trying to beat out a throw. He will get an MRI tomorrow and we hope the speedy second baseman comes out of it with a positive report.

On a slightly different note, Joshua Fields' streak of innings without an earned run ended on Sunday. Fields didn't cut his hair while the streak was intact and we imagine he will sport a new hairstyle in the near future. With that in mind, we here at "Dawgs on Top" thought we'd provide a few suggestions...

1. Josh could sport the "Dos Cinco" mohawk?

2. Does Carlos Valderrama need explanation?

3. This would make him even more unhittable...

3. Or this?

4. "High and tight, no sideburns no mistakes"

5. Is this even allowed?

6. Or he could leave his coiffe the way it is and cruise around campus like our man P. Swayze.

That's all I've got. The Dawgs play the 'Nerds from GT on Wednesday before a huge series next weekend in Nashville. A couple of wins would hopefully lock up a national seed. Let's hope whatever hairstyle Josh chooses helps the team continue their impressive season.

We're all for equal opportunity but...

2008-04-30T22:00:00.006-04:00

(Photo courtesy washington.edu)

...when will college football's postseason stop expanding. I'm not talking about the BCS right now, and apparently neither is the BCS committee. Unfortunately, I'm speaking of the Postseason Football Licensing Subcommittee and their decision to add two more bowl games to the schedule next year. The Congressional Bowl and the St. Petersburg Bowl will be played in relatively large markets and may be economically viable, however I already get sick of mediocre football during the holidays.

At this rate, teams will stop celebrating the concept of "making a bowl game" because any .500 team will be in a bowl. 71 teams reached bowl eligibility last year and the creation of two new bowl games will provide a grand total of 68 teams with postseason invites. Don't get me wrong, I love bowl season and rarely peel myself away from the TV during the holiday games. However, games already exist between teams that are barely mediocre. Why do we need two more?

The Big East has 7 tie-ins for its eight team league. While leagues of twelve teams like the ACC and C-USA now have 8 and 6 tie-ins, respectively. So you're telling me that everyone in the Atlantic Coast Conference but Duke, Virginia, NC State and Maryland could go bowling? Or that I have to name 7 bowl-worthy teams in the Big East (um Syracuse and Pitt please...)?

Next thing we know, we'll be watching the 'Ol Ball Coach Bowl in Columbia, SC between two "vastly underachieving teams with brilliant coaching minds". I know it's a cheap shot but its not that far from reality (they did finish 6-6 last year after losing their last 5).

So that's my rant for the day. I'll leave the BCS and the Bob Costas debacle to my fellow bloggers.

Evaluating the NFL Draft - Part II:The Tweeners

2008-04-29T22:50:00.004-04:00

As we move on in our three-part series, let's explore some teams who had some interesting drafts that could go either way. These teams had some questions going in, and still have some questions going out. What should we make of these teams?

The Tweeners:

St. Louis? – I was close to putting these guys in the L column. What held me back was the overwhelming promise and potential Chris Long carries with him. Long has all the fundamentals down and is a balanced rusher. He lacks elite speed or strength, but he is a smart rusher who can run sideline to sideline. Simply a pure football player. Adding to that, I think the Rams got steals in CB Justin King out of Penn State and WR Keenan Burton out of Kentucky, both taken in the 4^th. The Rams don’t have to overpay either of the two, allowing a grace period where the two can be groomed into elite players at the next level. Both have the potential, but only time will tell. However, what knocks the Rams down are their other choices. WR Donnie Avery in the second round? I think there were a few other winners available here at the same position. Avery has elite mobility and speed, but there are too many question marks. OT John Greco won’t make an immediate impact, and neither will OG Roy Schuening. LB’s Chris Chamberlain and David Vobora are excellent options in the seventh round. Both have assets of their own, and can be developed over time.

Atlanta? – Is Matt Ryan the answer at quarterback? That is the major question here. I do not doubt his physical skills as a passer nor his playmaking ability in the clutch (a la at Virginia Tech), but he simply threw too many INTs in college to make me believe in him as an NFL kind of guy. 31 touchdowns is an impressive number in the ACC, but 19 interceptions is just average at best. Sam Baker should pan out, but he needs to develop his run blocking skills. WR Harry Douglas out of Louisville is quick and a great route runner, but he doesn’t have the top end speed to run away from DB’s. I also obviously like the selection of hometown player Thomas Brown for his quickness, agility, and raw power, but does he have the durability to play in the NFL? Questions like these also hold true for the rest of the players taken. Will Curtis Lofton continue to overcome his size to be an effective linebacker? Will Chevis Jackson’s experience as an SEC corner be adequate enough to overcome his lack of elite speed? Will Kroy Biermann make a smooth transition to OLB from defensive end? There are just too many questions you could ask about this draft class. But in the end, you cannot be measured until there are results.

Cincinnati? – Keith Rivers is a polished OLB ready for the NFL. Pat Sims could also make an immediate impact at DT, but he lacks consistency and stamina. Cincy took a few more shots at defensive players, picking a second DT in Jason Shirley, a safety in Corey Lynch, and another OLB in Angelo Craig. Cincy’s defense has been their downfall the past few years, so any help is help. There are several questions about each of these three, but they all have upsides that could pan out. Matt Sherry adds depth at the TE spot with his receiving abilities and mismatch capabilities. Perhaps the most surprising move is drafting three WRs. Is Cincy preparing to move on without Chad Johnson? It would appear so with picks of Jerome Simpson, the tall, speedy receiver out of Coastal Carolina, Andre Caldwell, a speedy guy with good YAC potential out of Florida, and Mario Urrutia, the tall Red Zone threat out of Louisville who has great hands. But the main question is, are these picks adequate enough to make up for the losses of Chris Henry and Chad Johnson? Carson Palmer hopes so.

New England? – It is obvious what the Pats were after in this one. With Asante Samuel gone and the linebacker corps aging, New England specifically targeted cornerbacks and speedy linebackers. All three of the linebackers drafted have great speed and all project as outside linebackers. Jerod Mayo (thank God he’s gone) out of Tennessee should make an immediate impact, and Shawn Crable from Michigan and Bo Ruud out of Nebraska could soon follow. All three have experience at big schools in big conferences, and all three have pretty good skill sets. The Pats also addressed their CB needs with Terrance Wheatley out of Colorado and Jonathan Wilhite out of Auburn, two more big-school big-conference players with speed. But other than Mayo, do all these guys have what it takes? Big time schools don’t always translate into big time plays at the next level. Another issue with this draft class is NE’s third round pick of quarterback Kevin O’Connell out of San Diego State. Who saw this one coming? O’Connell has a solid skill set, but he is too highly inaccurate to make an impact in the NFL. Besides, doesn’t some guy named Tom Brady or something play under center? Wasting a 3^rd round pick on this guy is a little too much for me. Perhaps Bill sees something I don’t…

Buffalo? – Buffalo got three players they needed, two of which could make an immediate impact. Cornerbacks Leodis McKlevin and Reggie Corner have the speed to stay with receivers and both are very athletic. James Hardy fills a need for a top-end, tall WR who can make catches in traffic and has quickness. But other than those three, the rest of the picks are all potential hit or misses. I see a few position changes and no other outright players, other than maybe Xavier Omon, the RB out of Northwest Missouri State. He is a big back who can make the first cut, which can be a nice complement to Marshawn Lynch, but don’t expect a Brandon Jacobs. If some of these other guys can produce above expectation, huge props to the Bills scouting and draft teams. But at the same time, if they turn out to be flops, I don’t think many people will notice.

Detroit? - …didn’t draft a WR in the first round? Times really are changing in Detroit. Godser Cherilus is a gifted run blocker who has the abilities and frame to develop into a good pass blocker as a right tackle, but Jeff Otah was a better selection. Jordon Dizon’s size will be under a lot of scrutiny, but he possesses the speed and coverage ability to be an effective OLB. He is also a gifted tackler and can react quickly. Kevin Smith may turn out to be the best RB in this class. I love his style. He is a big back who isn’t the fastest, but he is quick to the hole and has good vision. It isn’t easy to run for 2,000 yards in a single college season, I don’t care who you are. Andre Fluellen out of Florida State is a potential steal in the late third round at the DT position. But the rest of the picks, with the exception of Army’s feel-good story in Caleb Campbell, are undersized at their positions. Can they overcome their small frames to compete in the NFL?

A few reasons we're glad to be Bulldogs...

2008-04-29T22:04:00.002-04:00

1- Our mascot has never been killed by its son. As random as that sounds, UNC-Chapel Hill's mascot Rameses XVII was mortally wounded by the horns of its own son, Pablo. The blue-horned ram died at the age of 8 following an injury sustained while butting heads with its son. When the football team needed overtime to beat Duke last year we thought things couldn't get any worse.

2-We made it through the spring with not only our starting QB but his backup too. Both of UCLA's top two signal callers went down in consecutive plays during spring practice last week. Patrick Cowan will miss the entirety of the 2008 campaign with a torn ACL while Ben Olson suffered a broken foot that will keep him out of action for 6-8 weeks. When it rains it pours Mr. Neuheisel...good luck with the Men of Troy.

3-We aren't subjected to a Paul Johnson system overhaul. It blows our mind that some Tech fans are so excited about the upcoming season. Yeah Paul Johnson is a great game coach and knows the "triple option flexbone" offense better than just about anyone, but will it work in the ACC? Or more important for Tech fans, will it work against Georgia? We won't go as far as to say that he will never be successful, but he won't do it until he gets the recruits he needs in the program. With the transfer list at 4 and climbing, we don't see the new coach winning the instate recruiting battle anytime soon. So, GT will look like a juiced up high school team with a dominant defensive end (Michael Johnson) in the fall and may not improve until Johnson hits the road.

4-We get to watch the best players in the country week in and week out. It's fine. You don't have to believe me. Just ask Todd McShay. His mock draft for '09 slots 7 SEC athletes in his top ten drafted while his first round includes 13 from the best conference in football. Stafford, Moreno, Tebow and Harvin aren't even guaranteed to leave early so we may get to watch these highlight makers for more than another season. Add to that list the UGA players we see getting drafted at some point in the next few years: Brannan Southerland, Reshad Jones, Asher Allen, Jeff Owens, Kade Weston, Geno Atkins, Caleb King, AJ Green, MoMass, and Trinton Sturdivant just to name a few. Considering this list there has never been a better time to catch a game in Sanford Stadium or make a trip to the Cocktail Party.

Five More Dawgs Make the Cut

2008-04-29T05:49:00.001-04:00

Following up the article on the drafted Dawgs, five more former Georgia football players have signed free agent contracts.

Going back to what I said before, I mentioned seven former Dawgs in the 2008 class that had the potential of getting picked up. So far, I am 5/7, but 0/2 on the guys that I thought had an outside chance. Those two, RB Kregg Lumpkin and OLB/DE Brandon Miller have both been offered free agent contracts by the Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Falcons, respectively. Lumpkin fits into Green Bay’s running scheme, and his power and abilities as a role runner should work out for the Packers. Brandon Miller may be a bit of a stretch to make the Falcons, but the chance is his to take.

The three others earning contracts are S Kelin Johnson with Seattle, WR Sean Bailey with Kansas City, and C/G Fernando Velasco with Tennessee. As I mentioned earlier, these three possess several traits that will allow them to achieve some success at the next level. I don’t see any of these three missing cuts with the teams they have signed with.

We wish all these guys good luck at the next level.

With that being said, this year, the graduating seniors and departing juniors overall as a class did not rate as high as the classes in previous seasons under Mark Richt.

This means two things that actually aren’t bad at all. For one, these guys were great roll players at the college level. Similar to David Greene’s current situation, these guys left Athens as great system players that excelled under Richt. This doesn’t mean they are bad players, it just means they don’t quite fit into every scheme at the next level. Therefore, their draft status takes a hit, but their opportunities continue through the free agency process. Teams can get a feel for these system players, and if they fit, they can and will contribute. Most of these players can compete at the right level. It just takes a little bit of luck in finding the team that wants them. The most important thing coming out of this situation, however, doesn’t have anything to do with this class. It has to do with the classes behind them. A team that goes 11-2 and wins a BCS bowl has talent. NFL Draft-type talent. If none of the departing players were drafted in the first four rounds, what does that say of 2008’s team? Loaded. Not to take anything away from the departing guys, because many of them had huge impacts, but next years team and the following classes are that much better. If anything, we should be happy that no player from last year’s team cracked the first four rounds. That means we have plenty more guys that are that caliber. They’re just back for more.

Evaluating the NFL Draft - Part I: The Losers

2008-04-28T23:45:00.000-04:00

While we’re still in the aftermath of the draft, why not stretch into the NFL perspective and do a little rating? As there are every year, there were some obvious winners and losers of the 2008 draft. Teams look to draft both immediate needs and potential players that can be groomed into superstars of the future. The importance of the NFL draft can never be undermined. It is the one time where the NFL comes together to wheel-and-deal and select their future legends—and soon-to-be busts. So who won and lost this past weekend? In this three part series, let’s start with the latter.

Losers:

Chicago Bears – Got off to a bad start by not selecting the top two tackles in the draft. Chris Williams out of Vanderbilt is not a bad choice by any means, but his run-blocking skills have been questioned and he wasn’t the highest rated tackle available at the time. They had a few decent selections in Earl Bennett, Marcus Monk, and Matt Forte, but none are home run hitters that can alleviate the problems under center. Which brings me to… For the 3^rd year in a row, the Bears did not select a QB. They had their chances, and several QBs this year would be an upgrade from Grossman or Orton. Neither have shown what it takes to be an elite QB, and you have to wonder what the deal is in the Windy City.

Tennessee Titans – Taking an unproven RB out of a mid-major conference? Questionable. Selecting your third RB in the top three rounds for the third year in a row? What the hell? Alright, on the Titans’ defense, Chris Johnson is a favorite of mine. He’s tall, very fast, and a playmaker. But he played at East Carolina so he hasn’t had a chance to prove himself against elite players week in and week out. If this was their guy, you have to assume they could have waited and made some trades in the 2^nd or even 3^rd round. To add to that, they selected two DE’s from another mid-major school and a school I didn’t even know existed, much less had football. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of small-school guys that come into the bigs and make an impact. But I’m not a fan of selecting three all before the end of the 4^th round. To top it off, the Titans didn’t nab an impact receiver that Vince Young needs.

Washington Redskins – Most experts out there haven’t been down on the Redskins’ draft picks. I’m not either, they’re all quality players. But come on, let’s put all our eggs in one basket, why don’t we? Second Round recap: Pick 3 – Devin Thomas, WR. Okay, nice choice. Good receiver, great upside. Pick 17 – Fred Davis, TE. Decent tight end who is athletic, but isn’t an overwhelming blocker nor the fastest guy out there. Still, he’s a pretty good fit. Pick 20 – Malcolm Kelly, WR. Tall, good speed, good hands, good upside. Wait, didn’t we just say that, 17 picks ago? I’m aware that the ‘Skins had been seeking someone for Jason Campbell to throw to, but 3/3 in the second round? Come on! Don’t you have Santana Moss, Chris Cooley, Antwaan Randle El, and a few good young guys? Don’t you have some other needs, like at safety or linebacker? Maybe an elite pass rusher?

Seattle Seahawks – I love Owen Schmitt. I wanted the Cowboys to draft him bad. I also love Brandon Coutu, not only because he went to Georgia but because he is a great kicker that can deliver in the clutch. But Seattle wasted an early pick on Lawrence Jackson, the defensive end out of USC, picked a TE in John Carlson out of Notre Dame who had a very weak combine, a long snapper, and a small RB in Justin Forsett who lacks top end speed to get it done at the next level. Seattle has some pressing needs at WR and several positions on defense, and none were addressed with the exception of DT. Red Bryant out of A&M is a potent run-stuffer, but lacks pass-rushing capabilities.

Houston Texans – Duane Brown won’t be the answer at OT. He lacks an overall blocking ability, but he is athletic. It will take him some time to adjust to the power of DE’s at the next level. It will also take time for Antwaun Molden, the CB prospect out of Eastern Kentucky. He played at a very small school that had a simple scheme, so his transition into the NFL will take a lot of teaching and practice. He has the skill set, but not the experience to make an impact immediately. Slaton is a steal, because his quickness will prosper in the zone blocking scheme in Houston. Dominique Barber, brother of Marion Barber III, might turn into a sleeper at the safety position due to his physical style and aggressiveness, but he doesn’t have elite speed or great coverage skills. Other than those two, I don’t see much improvement. LB Xavier Adibi out of Virginia Tech is a strong player, but his lack of an initial burst will hurt him severely. All in all, there are no impact players in this class. Houston is still a growing franchise, and they need all the help they can get in the draft.

Four Dawgs Drafted

2008-04-28T00:17:00.004-04:00

At the conclusion of the 2008 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, four former University of Georgia football players had found new homes.

Marcus Howard, who really turned it on and showed his potential the second half of the 2007 season, got the party started in the 5th round. With the 126th overall pick, the Indianapolis Colts selected the speedy OLB. While Howard may be undersized, he sure can make up the difference with his uncanny quickness and explosiveness for his position.

Eleven picks later and into the 6th round, the Atlanta Falcons selected RB Thomas Brown. Brown, a small but physical tailback, is quick on his feet and a solid pass blocker. He will serve as a nice complement to the physical Michael Turner as another Jarius Norwood-type back. While it may take some time to crack into the lineup, Brown will be an effective and useful runner in the future.

With the 222nd overall pick, the Chicago Bears nabbed the mammoth OG/OT Chester Adams to help add depth to the line. Adams provides versatility, as he played heavy minutes as both a guard and a right tackle for the Dawgs.

To round off Georgia's drafted alumni, Brandon Coutu was drafted 235th overall by the Seattle Seahawks. Aside from a booming leg and spot on accuracy, Coutu provides the ability to hit clutch field goals from distance. The ice in his veins will benefit the Seahawks, and the cold weather shouldn't be a factor for the All-American place kicker. He could make the biggest immediate impact of any of the drafted rookies out of UGA.

Congratulations, guys. Good luck on the next level. You guys all have promising careers ahead.

For those who didn't get drafted, there are several players who have a lot of potential to hit the free agency market as undrafted rookies.

Center Fernando Velasco is an intangible type player who brings hard work, determination, and leadership to the table. He also provides some versatility with his size and experience as both a guard and a center.

Safety Kelin Johnson has decent size, great enthusiasm, and good game speed, but needs some work on his quickness and coverage abilities. He would be a great practice player who can contend for a spot in the lineup on several teams.

WR's Sean Bailey and AJ Bryant also have shots at a spot on several teams due to their playmaking abilities and raw talents, respectively. Bailey, however, lacks ideal speed for a 6'0" receiver and Bryant has faced numerous injuries throughout his college career.

Thomas Flowers excelled throughout his career at Georgia as both a CB and a return man. He has decent size (5'10", 190) and elite speed (4.41) to play at the next level, but his durability is in question and his past character issues could pose a problem. He is a dangerous return man and could be a good role player on special teams.

While RB Kregg Lumpkin and OLB/DE Brandon Miller contain the physical sizes and experience to play at the next level, their lack of speed at their positions really hinders what impact they could have in the NFL. Lumpkin could be a good role runner, but he has durability issues. Brandon Miller is versatile at either OLB or DE, but he lacks that aggressive first and second step off the line. They have a chance, but cracking Sunday lineups will be tough for these two if they don't get faster.

Good luck to all these guys looking for a spot as undrafted free agents. They all had solid careers and each provide something an NFL team could use.

Aaron Murray Highlight Video

2008-04-26T13:57:00.001-04:00

Yeah, he's good.

Un-Four-Gettable

2008-04-26T13:16:00.003-04:00

Suzanne Yoculan has led our Georgia Gym Dogs to their fourth consecutive national championship at Stegman Coliseum on The University of Georgia's campus. The Gym Dogs posted a score of 197.450, barely edging out Utah's 197.125. Stanford, Florida, LSU, and Alabama finished off the field of six.

Georgia, with the victory, tied Utah with nine overall national championships. The Gym Dogs' fourth consecutive comes just one short of Utah's record five straight national championships in the early 80's.

For four seniors on the squad, Nikki Childs, Audrey Bowers, Katie Heenan, and Megan Dowlen, their memories of UGA will be filled with All-American honors and national championships. And for those returning, hopefully they will be in a class of their own when they hit the floor next year looking for UGA's 5th consecutive and record 10th overall national title.

Congradulations, girls. We'll watch you next year as you go for 5. And for you four seniors, good luck moving on to bigger and better things. Your skills and importance to the Gym Dogs squad will be missed.

(Thanks for Images to GeorgiaDogs.com)

Aaron Murray says, "Dawgs on Top"...

2008-04-24T11:37:00.003-04:00

The University of Georgia got its 9th commitment for the class of 2009 this morning in Aaron Murray. The Elite 11 QB will certainly end up being one of the class's headliners.

Like I said yesterday, the class will be small in numbers but has the potential to be one of the most talent-loaded classes in Richt's tenure.

Let's hope Richt, Garner, Bobo and the rest of the staff keep the good times rolling.

Will a Murray Commitment Come?

2008-04-23T20:07:00.003-04:00

Tune in tomorrow if QB commitments strike your fancy...

Aaron Murray is one of the top QB prospects in the country and he will be making his public commitment Thursday morning. The 6'1'' quarterback out of Tampa will most likely choose between Florida and Georgia. This pickup could be huge for both schools as it is assumed thata number of players will follow Murray's decision as far as schools go. For example, UF and UGA are both pursuing Orson Charles and he is said to weigh Murray's choice heavily in his decision process. As much as we hate Florida, it has made the long off-season more exciting with the heated recruiting war between the two staffs.

Georgia will bring in a limited class next year due to scholarship availability, but Murray could be another step in making the small class one of the nation's finest come signing day '09.

News and Notes Around the SEC

2008-04-22T18:49:00.003-04:00

As spring practices are winding down across the country, teams still seem unsure about themselves. From College Park, PA to Atlanta, GA to Ann Arbor, MI, teams are trying to cope with coaching changes (or lack thereof), new offenses, new schemes, new personnel, and new players. This spring isn't boding as well for many teams as those schools had hoped, but for some, spring practices have been relieving. USC has found their quarterback, people in Husker nation love Bo Pelini almost as much as Alabama loved Saban a year ago, and rants about Jimmy Clausen's skills are reappearing. For the SEC, the up-and-down summer hasn't been much different.

In Columbia, Steve Spurrier can't stand the play of his quarterbacks. In the spring game, the QBs managed to throw 8 INTs, even without Stephen Garcia's shenanigans. Spurrier is so frustrated that he has even turned over some of the playcalling duties to his son.

In Lexington, the huge void left behind by Andre Woodson will remain that way. Even though the QB roster is deep, Rich Brooks has come out of spring with just as much doubt as he did going in. Chris Pulley and Mike Hartline continue to show progress, but neither are showing the upper hand.

The new starter in Knoxtown has already hit his first road bump of 2008. The Vols' slated starting QB Jonathan Crompton underwent "successful" elbow surgery to clean up the joint. Crompton is expected to be back by June workouts, but you can never feel good about elbow surgery for your starting QB. In other news, Fulmer is telling his kids to calm down off the field. I'm sure that will work.

Some interesting news out of Gainesville. Urban Meyer has instructed Tim Tebow, do-it-all Everythingback, to pass more and limit his carries. This is interesting, considering Tebow made up about 75% of Florida's offense last year, Emmanuel Moody continues to struggle grasping the new offense, and Percy Harvin recovers from heel surgery.

In Tuscavegas, Alabama head coach Nick Saban is griping again. Saban, a very credible and successful recruiter, is complaining about the NCAA's new rule change prohibiting coaches from visiting high schools in the month of May. For once in my life, I may agree with the Sabanator. With the way recruiting is nowadays, recruits are continually committing early, forcing coaches to recruit early. The month of May comes at a pivotal point in this new-age recruiting process, the month just after spring practices rap up and coaches have a chance to have some face time with prospects.

Some bad news coming out of Fayetteville. Transfer QB Ryan Mallet is out for a while with a thumb injury. Although he can't play this year, it sets him back from learning the new intricate offensive scheme owned by Bobby Petrino.

Not sure which town they call home, but the guys that cover Auburn sports on Track Em Tigers have given some respect to the Dawgs, calling them 2008's media darling. As bad as it seems, its relieving in the sense that the media is finally giving us some respect. And as dangerous as it may seem, Coach Richt is working his magic, keeping the team focused on the task at hand - beat Georgia Southern. One game at a time, boys.

For all of SEC country, check out Paul Westerdawg's article on 2008's SEC schedules over at Georgia Sports Blog.

Also, on the homefront, two UGA students have started their own company called Heisman Gear, with Playboy's pre-season All-American Knowshon the centerpiece of their new product lines.

Top 10 Draft Picks?

2008-04-19T16:17:00.005-04:00

As the Bulldogs left the field at Alex Box Stadium on the LSU campus, a new legend walked with them.

Joshua Fields, pitching extraordinaire, closed the Dawgs' 6-3 victory over the Tigers. The save brought his tally to 34 for his career, both a Georgia and SEC record. His close came after another great outing for Trevor Holder.

As Fields' ERA remains at 0.0 and his flow continues to grow, we must ask the question: how high will this guy go in the draft? As the world becomes familiar with Gordon Beckham's striking features and manly, swift swing of the bat, Fields is climbing the draft boards as well.

So how high can these two superstars go? Top three rounds? First round? Top 10? As Beckham gathers mid-season POY honors and Fields' golden locks continue to flow, I'm starting to believe first round isn't out of the question. Hell, Top 10 even sounds about right. Then again, I'm a blogger, not a Yankees director of scouting.

Keep up the good work guys.

ETSU Gives Scare

2008-04-15T20:44:00.002-04:00

East Tennessee State busted out to an 8-1 lead early in tonight's ballgame in Athens. The Bulldogs bounced back with eight unanswered runs, the final run scored by Gordon Beckham on a wild pitch in the bottom of the ninth. The UGA bullpen held the Bucs in check after the early offensive outburst.

Georgia plays at Foley Field in Athens again tomorrow against Georgia State. GSU brings a 4-game losing streak to town and will try to snap the Dawgs 4-game winning streak.

**In completely unrelated news, ESPN.com is reporting that Tiger Woods underwent knee surgery today and will miss a minimum of 4 weeks (including next month's Players Championship). Tiger certainly didn't look like Tiger on Sunday in Augusta so the surgery can't be too much of a surprise. Hopefully he'll be back for the U.S. Open and for the game's sake we hope he's on the first page of the leaderboard when he next wears his red shirt on Sunday.

Can't Give Them Anything Nice...

2008-04-15T11:10:00.003-04:00

Remember being little and wanting to use a glass instead of a plastic cup? Your mom wouldn't let you take the glass because you were sure to break it. Then you finally get your hands on it only to drop it on the floor...

A similar scenario seems to have played itself out in Gainesville where the Gators 2006 championship trophy was broken by an unknown culprit. The ball was shattered outside of Urban Meyer's office during a construction project. I know they'll get a replacement within 90 days because they had insurance but are you kidding me? Ever seen the youtube video of Billy Donovan dropping the crystal basketball? Two fumbles and two broken crystal balls. Hell of a track record if you ask me.

Let's hope Coach UM keeps the fumbles coming in the fall. We don't care if its Moody, Rainey or a gimpy Harvin...just keep putting the ball on the deck.

Cracking the Top 10

2008-04-14T14:44:00.002-04:00

Just a quick FYI, the Bulldogs baseball team broke into the top ten in the most recent Collegiate Baseball Newspaper poll. The team will take their new #7 ranking into their two non-conference games this week before traveling to Red Stick where they will play three with the Bayou Bengals.

SEC Streak Continues For Diamond Dawgs

2008-04-13T18:47:00.002-04:00

#11 Georgia faced # 9 Kentucky in Athens this weekend for a 3-game set and closed out the sweep Sunday afternoon. The Dawgs moved to an impressive 23-12 overall record and a 12-3 record in the Southeastern Conference.

The team rode an impressive outing by Trevor Holder on Friday into the weekend and saw a significant improvement in offensive production on Saturday before completing the sweep Sunday in a heated 6-4 ball game.

From our biased perspective, Perno and his squad seem to be the class of the Eastern Division--if not the conference--at this point. Certainly, there is ample time for a number of teams to change the current pecking order with several big SEC series remaining in the season. It does bode well for UGA, though, that their pitching staff can keep them in a game as equally as their offensive weapons.

As far as a star watch would go, Gordon Beckham and Joshua Fields lived up to the hype this weekend. Beckham hit .500 for the series and Fields was overpowering Friday and Sunday while keeping his season ERA at 0.00. The team also received significant contributions from Ryan Peisel, Matt Olson, and Rich Poythress while Lyle Allen, Bryce Massanari and Matt Cerione all tallied several hits.

Catch the team in action Tuesday at 5pm when they take on East Tennessee State. They have been putting on a good show for their increasing crowds.

News and Notes Around the SEC

2008-04-09T13:07:00.003-04:00

Knoxtown: The "Lady" Vols have won their 8th national championship. ESPN is calling Candice Parker one of the greatest of all time, comparable to some legendary players that I've never heard of before.

Gainesville: WR/RB/Everything guy Percy Harvin has undergone career-ending heel surgery. I say career ending because heel surgery sounds pretty serious. If this guy is already having this much trouble, his career won't be as promising as it should be.

Bourbon Rouge: The Tigers' national championship squad made a trip to D.C. to be honored / party with President George W. Bush. And apparently, Prez was surprised that Les Miles forgot his hat. Ryan Perrilloux was allowed to make the trip, coming after Les Miles found any way possible to get him reinstated to the team starting after the spring game. Seems to me that LSU is willing to ignore murder to keep this guy on the field.

Tuscavegas: The guys at Roll Bama Roll have some good notes on spring ball. In other news, Coach Saban has hired some additions to his staff. Apparently there wasn't enough firepower on the field.

Cashville: The Vandy baseball team, who I expected to make waves nationally and contend for the SEC championship, is apparently having some problems.

The interesting thing out of Auburn has been the fact that nothing is being talked about. I'll look into that one...

Dawgs' Win Streak Ends

2008-04-08T19:47:00.002-04:00

The Georgia baseball team dropped its matchup with Winthrop today 5-1. Though Winthrop jumped out to an early lead, they were unable to end the scoreless inning streak of the Georgia bullpen. The Dawgs, however, were cold at the plate all day and could not cash in when runners did reach safely. In addition, the Diamond Dawgs seemed to catch a number of bad breaks including an Winthrop infield hit that rolled off of the third base bag and another broken bat.

This most recent broken bat has us wondering where Nike messed up. They provided the team with bats to start the year that broke at least twice. The new shipment of bats--including the sharp all-white bats--have broken 2 or 3 more times in the past few weeks. We imagine Coach Perno is losing all patience with the equipment given the importance of every at-bat in SEC play. One bad bat is understandable but they are aluminum and should rarely break (if ever).

Georgia travels to Atlanta for a matchup with the Yellow Jackets of Georgia Tech tomorrow before returning this weekend for a 3 game home stand with the Kentucky Wildcats. With such an important week ahead, we're almost glad the team struggled today. The team should be fired up for the next 4 and we'll bet Perno is already on the horn to Nike headquarters.

Happy Masters week from all of us.

Busy Weekend Schedule on Tap

2008-04-04T13:57:00.004-04:00

This is probably the best weekend of the semester. How about a little baseball? Why not a little football? Maybe some golf? Robert Earl Keen is in town? I hope my bank account has enough cash to fund all that booze.

Anyway, for those who will be in town this weekend, and there will be a lot, here is what is in store for you:

Today:
Georgia Baseball vs. South Carolina Gamecocks - Foley Field @ 6:30

Tomorrow:
Tim's Golf Tournament - 8:30 am shotgun start - weather permitting
Georgia Football Annual G-Day Spring Game - Sanford Stadium @ 2:00 pm
Georgia Baseball vs. South Carolina Gamecocks - Foley Field @ 4:00 pm
Robert Earl Keen Live - Georgia Theatre @ 8:00 pm

Sunday:
Georgia Baseball vs. South Carolina Gamecocks - Foley Field @ 2:00 pm

I expect to see everyone there. The 'Cocks come into town ranked #9 in the country, so the Dawgs need all the support they can get.

Clean Sweep

2008-04-03T10:33:00.003-04:00

The Diamond Dawgs completed a two game sweep of the Clemson Tigers last night with a 6-4 victory in th road portion of the schools' home and home series. The Dawgs pulled out the important win on the back of first basemen Rich Poythress and centerfielder Adam Fuller--both with home runs.

Yours truly made the trip to Clemson for the game and we were surprisingly impressed with the gametime atmosphere. We definitely recommend a visit if you haven't ever made it to a game at Doug Kingsmore Stadium. The tailgate atmosphere outside is a sight to behold and the fans were generally welcoming. That comes of course with the exception of a few drunk old rednecks who questioned the size of our bank accounts. They also made fun of us for getting a degree soon. Oh and apparently every road in Georgia is dirt. Whatever.

Anyway, Josh Fields was throwing heat in the 9th to seal the deal. He continues to impress. The Dawgs needed those two games to boost their confidence for the 3-game home stand this weekend. Clemson was a great team, but South Carolina should be much better. Had the Dawgs dropped one to Clemson, they would be facing a lot of pressure this weekend.

Bulldogs Overcome Ugly Uni's

2008-04-02T00:19:00.002-04:00

The Clemson baseball team rolled into town tonight with a number of rowdy fans and some exceptional uniforms.

Note to any team out there: Orange jerseys, purple lettering and numbers, and white pants with some interesting stripes are probably the awesomest uniforms I’ve ever seen. I don’t think I’ve ever considered puking so often in a given span of time.

Clemson’s pitcher also showed up tonight, hurling the rock 45 times in two innings and allowing 5 runs. Although 4 out of the 5 were unearned, he still didn’t put his team a good position.

Full analysis and recap to come tomorrow.

Herschel for Heisman?

2008-04-01T10:48:00.004-04:00

Is it true? The #34 may once again sprint out of the tunnel donning the silver britches? As collegefootballnews.com reports, Herschel Walker has decided to use a remaining year of eligibility to help lead the 'Dawgs to another national title.

The loophole is simple. Herschel left the Dawgs with a year of eligibility left. He went on to sign a contract with Donald Trump's USFL that dealt with dollars and cents, revoking his remaining eligibility. However, not long after, the USFL was taken to court and the league disbanded. Herschel went on to play in the NFL, receiving cash payouts for his years of service. You would think this would automatically refute any comeback... but there's always a catch.

Since Herschel's original contract was forfeited by a disbanded USFL, it leaves the keyhole for a return to UGA. After all, the man still wants his degree.

Glory, Glory to ol' Herschel

The April Fool's Day article sure does make us think about the old days but we believe the current Georgia Bulldogs are poised for their own glory. Our minds are completely content with KM24 in the backfield for the fall with his Texas gunslinging QB.

So to all of you gullible people out there, the Herschel article is a joke. Fake. False. Funny.

Happy April Fool's Day to all

News and Notes Around the SEC

2008-04-01T01:22:00.006-04:00

It's spring season, and spring practices are underway across the country.

Spring is a time for early enrollees and underclassmen to take reps, show their skills, and gain some experience. It's also a time for seasoned vets to work on their dynamics, develop new leadership skills, and work on the playbook. Spring is a time for a team to grow forward as a new unit.

Lately it's also been a time for kids to let loose a little, wave a few guns, flaunt some cash, drink some Hennessey.

Over at Tennessee, players are getting arrested for driving Phil Fulmer to Waffle House late-night while intoxicated. Someone should remind Phil that Gumby's delivers until 4 am.

Tuscavegas continues to blow up. Apparently Saban decided it was probably better if his players exhibited some ferocity off the field so it translated into the games. He also instructed them to not accept cash from boosters and steal some from students instead. Hey, getting cash in $26 increments is much less noticeable to the NCAA, right?

Spurrier continues to look away and scratch the university's collective backs. Garcia continues to grow his hair to try to fool the cops into thinking that he's a 55 year old druggie hanging around downtown (you're not in Athens, buddy). A few others are being slapped with disorderly conduct and battery charges left in right, presumably while hanging around 5 Points (no, the Columbia one).

Fayetteville is having a few domestic issues with a certain linebacker who decided to rack up two felonies and a false imprisonment charge. For some reason I kind of expected that after learning about Darren McFadden's domestic conquers.

In Starkville, players are having target practice too close to residence halls. They are also concentrating on how they can be brutally terrible at moving a pigskin in the forward direction.

Athens of course is not innocent. And of course, all of the incidents somehow involve a road. DUI's, pedestrians in the roadway, bad registration, wrong directions on one-ways... when will it ever end? Seems like they should just drive their scooters on the sidewalks and no one will ever say anything. They should also keep the fact that they play football from their potential arresting officers.

Other than that, it sounds like the Dawgs are going to have one hell of a receiving corps. Mohamed Massaquoi and Kenneth Harris seem to be the two earning starting roles, with Kris Durham making a serious bid. Tavarres King seems to be too skinny, but continues to make plays in practice.

Someone get that guy some fries with every meal, please?

Everyone is still waiting on AJ Green, but we can't forget guys like Tony Wilson, Demiko Goodman, and Walter Hill. Wilson and Hill, a redshirt freshman, have been getting rave reviews from players and coaches, but Wilson suffered an ankle injury and will be out for the G-Day game. Goodman has been working out with the track team, which only means speed, speed, and more speed.

Be sure and check out G-Day on Saturday to catch all these athletes in action. Should be a preview of what we can do in the air, which I have high hopes for. The game should also be a showcase for our improving offensive line, with young guys like Ben Jones and Justin Anderson on the rise. Caleb King will make his debut as the highlighted tailback, and Richard Samuel and Dontavius Jackson will show what they can do.

This guy just wants some red meat. He don't need no veggies.

Try and make the game. It should be exciting. Kickoff is at 2 pm, and tickets are only $5 for adults, $3 for children, and free for students, so there aren't any excuses. If you can't make it, the game will be televised on CSS.

Images - Thanks to GeorgiaDogs.com

South Carolina's New Man

2008-03-31T18:26:00.003-04:00

ESPN.com reports that Western Kentucky basketball coach Darrin Horn will leave the school to take over the same position at South Carolina.

Horn, who is only 35, succeeded current Bulldogs coach Dennis Felton and has amassed a 111-48 record in his five years at WKU.

We'll see how this one works out for South Carolina. The last guy to leave WKU for the SEC struggled mightily in his first few years, only to save his job with a miraculous 4-game run in the SEC Championship. The one thing going for Horn, however, is his most recent success. He led his Hilltoppers to the Sweet 16 this year, overcoming a 5th seed in Drake with a buzzer-beater and another surprise in San Diego.

By bringing this kind of resume to South Carolina, Horn may have some added weight with recruits. We all know basketball recruiting is nothing like football recruiting, and one year can make the difference for a program.

We wish Coach Horn well, but not too well. We're the team on the rise in the SEC East. Hopefully, anyway...

Opening Day 2008

2008-03-31T16:54:00.004-04:00

Spring is in the air. The smell of freshly cut grass, beer, hot dogs, and peanuts linger. New tickets are ordered, old gloves are dusted off, new stadiums are opening, old allegiances are being revived.

That's right, its time for Major League Baseball.

Find your favorite ball cap. Give your jersey a good dry-clean. Loosen up the arm. Let's play ball.

Busy Week in Athens, Ga

2008-03-31T16:16:00.005-04:00

For those of you that care, this week is a big one for two of UGA's most popular men's teams. The baseball squad opens up a 5 game home stand while the footballers close out spring practice on Saturday with the annual G-Day game.

The baseball team is coming off an important road series win over Mississippi State and the five games this week are crucial to their conference and national goals. They have been led by National Player of the Year candidate Gordon Beckham and his 15 home runs. The team has already endured a very challenging schedule but the road does not get easier from here.

The football team has been the talk of the nation since its improbable finish last year. Still, questions remain regarding the O-line, a backup for Knowshon, the receiving corps, and a potentially lights out defense. The G-Day game is important...just not that important. Trust me, questions will be lingering up until the first few weeks of the season and very few will be answered on Saturday(if any at all). Nonetheless, we are still excited about CK, TK, Richard Samuel, the always elusive Kris Durham, and the rest of the team on Saturday.

So...If you find yourself in or around Athens this week or weekend. Check out one of the many sporting events going on around town.

Baseball-

Tuesday v. Clemson 7:06 pm

Wednesday @ Clemson 7:15 pm

Friday v. South Carolina 6:30 pm

Saturday v. South Carolina 4:00 pm (changed due to G-Day game)

Sunday v. South Carolina 2:00 pm

Football-

Saturday, April 5... G-Day Game @ Sanford Stadium 2:00 pm

Certainly there are other teams in town this week, but we will be found at the aforementioned so they are clearly the most important.

Are You Serious?

2008-03-31T15:53:00.005-04:00

As I was sitting at the bar last night our topic of conversation went to the one, Steve Spurrier, and how great his abilities to keep players on his team no matter what happens. This kid is turning into the John Daly of football with his problems just compounding, not for being unlucky but for being in the best words a "moron". Thing is I like John Daly. His offenses as follow,

1st offense- charged with drunkenness and failing to stop for a police officer
2nd offense- arrested for malicious injury to personal property
3rd offense- cited for underage drinking

This is where we get to the part where I tell you he is still not kicked out of the university and can play starting in August if he stays out of trouble (Huge "If" in that equation). This is almost as bad as LSU, but that is another topic for another night of drinking. The fact that this kid has been arrested three times and cited another, which is four times in trouble with law in matter of year for those slow ones, is unreal that he has not been expelled from school. I have no problem for drinking and getting caught it is the risk you take, but to get caught because you were rude to a police officer and then two-weeks later you get caught keying your professor's car because you got a bad grade, come on I fail tests on a weekly basis, but do you know what I do? I go out and get obliterated to the point I can't remember my name much less a test score. Then the latest two crimes consisted of setting off a fire extinguisher and causing damage to the university. I can't say that I have not tried this, but I will say that I did not stand around to tell the police the words that might have come out of Garcia's mouth which went some what along these lines,

'Officer I swear there were sparks but then I think I lost control after I sprayed the entire hallway and found the other extinguisher and did it again.'

Someone along the education level of Garcia would probably said this after he realized that he needed to leave the spot of the crime. But even with all of this, Spurrier must think he is the next Joe Namath to keep him through all of this, my personal opinion is he looking like our very own Quincy Carter or even better with his legal problems a repeat of Blake Mitchell, saw how that worked out for them. Although if he came to The University of Georgia he would have been expelled last year after the professor incident. I just want to know how you can keep a kid on the football team and in a school like South Carolina after someone gets arrested four times and damages school property. The school then goes and says that Garcia is a good kid and he regrets what he has done, but did he regret what he did after he was caught drinking the last time he then went on the damage the hall way with a fire extinguisher. I take what is coming out of the kid's mouth with a grain of salt and so should everyone else at the University if they don't want this to get any worse then it is.

Sonny Did What?

2008-03-31T15:52:00.003-04:00

I don't very often read the student newspaper for reasons ranging from not attending class, to just not totally agreeing with the very bias views that they some times have, but today was an exception. I couldn't help but notice an article about, our not so loving of a republican governor Sonny Perdue. The article went along the basis of stating that he would not allow the people vote for their own right to allow Sunday sales of alcohol, you got love those fun loving Baptist. I understand his views of him not drinking on Sunday, but just because he would rather sit and watch our beloved Falcons lose on Sunday, sober, from his nice governor's mansion doesn't mean I shouldn't be able to watch them heavily intoxicated from my home, instead of having to drive to a bar and risk getting a DUI, which good ole Sonny feels like will increase with the ability to go to a gas station, buy your beer, drive home sober and then drink. Some times he just needs to think before he speaks, because after another season like last year he is going to want to start getting drunk on Sundays too.

New Team Member

2008-03-31T15:47:00.002-04:00

Yes, we're young. But we're expanding our base by including another young writer from the blog Anything But That. He brings in insightful rants and raves about various topics, and we hope you enjoy his unique perspectives on things that range from futbol to Tila Tequila.

Tuberville Must Have Left That Part Out

2008-03-30T23:29:00.006-04:00

Apparently Tommy Tuberville didn’t relay the message to Auburn’s University Program Council.

Soulja Boy Tellem, the ATL rapper known as that guy that sings Crank Dat (Soulja Boy), will open for headliner Akon at Auburn University’s 2008 spring concert.

Hahahaha.

Memo to the Council: Isn’t Crank Dat that one song where Tuberville lost his virginity to 92,746 people at the same time? That one where my dad drunkenly tried to do the dance that goes along with the song on the steel bleachers in the student section, just like everyone else around? The one where every Auburn football player looked like they had just found out they got their girl pregnant?

Apparently War Eagle/Tiger/Plainsmen didn't get enough of the rapper during the blackout in Sanford Stadium. I hope the concert goes over well. I'm sure people will be pleased.

Watching Paint Dry

2008-03-30T22:36:00.004-04:00

Caught the end of Mississippi State's spring game before the Georgia baseball game on CSS. The overtime walk-off touchdown gave the maroon side a stunning 6-0 victory. Leave it to Sly Croom to entertain his loyal following with what he called, "...a pretty good day." He added that he just wanted to come out of the game healthy. With such a lack of offensive production I'd say the team looks anything but healthy. The spring game explosion comes after the handgun incident resulting in two players' dismissals. It's sad considering I'd root for Sly over every other coach in the SEC West (not necessarily him as much as my distaste for Saban, Tuberville, Miles, Petrino, and the Nuttjob).

Odom's Love Life

2008-03-30T22:18:00.001-04:00

Testing?