Aaron Murray: Change A Few Plays And "...Our Season is Completely Different"

In a one-on-one interview with Matt Murschel of the Orlando Sentinel earlier this week, Aaron Murray spoke about his progress over this past spring, what he will need to work on this summer, and what he hopes to see happen in 2011.

From some of his statements, it's clear that he is still bothered by how everything turned out (6-7 overall record, losing to Central Florida in the bowl game, etc.), but you also get a sense that's he's feeling good about Georgia's potential in 2011—if everyone is one the same page.

He says his biggest goal this summer is to "...work on my timing with my receivers.  We’ve got a lot of new guys out there...but not a lot of guys with experience."

That's not exactly news to those who follow the team closely. With the departure of A.J. Green, junior Tavarres King steps into the role of Georgia's No. 1 receiver and, with only 47 receptions in his three year career, he's a No. 1 of a different collar. By contrast, Chad Bumphis of Mississippi State had 44 receptions in 2010, as a sophomore, on a team that ran the ball nearly three times as much as it passed.

So, to say that King has a bit more work to do in the experience department is an understatement.

That said, last season was his most productive one to date (27 receptions, 504 yards, and three touchdowns) so there is reason to be optimistic that the transition will go well.

As for Murray's options beyond King, there is no denying that Orson Charles is that guy. Richt has been vocal about Charles' place in the offense and he hasn't been shy about calling the tight end his "best receiver". So, look for him to get a lot of reps this summer in anticipation of his increased role.

One thing is certain, Murray won't be sneaking up on defenses this season and he knows it. He took one heck of a beating last year, thanks in large part to an offensive line that didn't seem to play consistently, and he's added a few more pounds to his frame (about 10 to be exact) in order to "...be able to endure a bit of the punishment". Although, most fans will be hoping that he won't see the turf nearly as much in 2011 as he did in 2010 (25).

On the other hand, from an armchair point of view, many are just hoping to see Murray stay focused for all four quarters. 

Murray, admittedly, had some mental lapses in the 2nd and 3rd quarters of games last year and that often led to negative lulls in the offense. But, with a year under his belt, perhaps he will be able to correct those inconsistencies and play more evenly across the board.

Overall, Murray looks to be confident that a lot of the mistakes of 2010 can be forgotten in 2011, if the team does what it's supposed to do on the field—play well every second, of every down, of every game.Said Murray,

"...Every week is going to be to the end, it’s going to come down to the fourth quarter. That was our biggest problem last year, just not finishing off games. Maybe three or four plays every game you go back and change and our season is completely different. So, just come in with a mindset that it’s going to be a long year and you are going to have to mentally prepare yourself for 13-to-14 games and you have to mentally prepare yourself that you are going to play every play of every one of those games."

His statement echos a common sentiment that has been heard a good bit around Butts-Mehre this off-season—from Joe Tereshinski Sr. to coach Mark Richt—the hard line is Georgia just didn't finish games last season and that played the biggest role in a most every one of their losses.

If that is the case, Georgia's players are doing all they can to not make those same mistakes twice, especially with jobs and reputations so firmly on the line, and that motivation is hopeful to continue this summer when the new class comes to town.

Related articles

• Aaron Murray, tactician (blutarsky.wordpress.com)
• One potential plus about Aaron Murray... (blutarsky.wordpress.com)

Georgia Bulldogs: Is Washaun Ealey's Release Really A Surprise?

Photo Credit: Brant Sanderlin/AJC

It has been announced that Georgia Bulldog running back, Washaun Ealey, has been granted an unconditional release by the team—he will finish his career elsewhere.

Now, raise your hand if this news surprises you.

Okay, raise your hand if you truly saw Washaun Ealey playing any significant downs for the University of Georgia football team in 2011.

I'm willing to lay a bet down that not many of you raised your hand because, to be quite honest, the surprise would have been if Washaun Ealey made it through the summer based on some of Mark Richt's comments last month at a Bulldog Club gathering in Augusta, GA.

Said Richt, at that time, "Washaun has a ways to go still to show me that he deserves to start or even play right now..."

Does that sound like a guy who's in a hurry to bring back a kid who has been, for the last 12-16-months, displaying less and less interest in wearing a Bulldog uniform? Let's face it, Ealey wore out his welcome a long time ago and, I'll go on record and admit, I'm not so sure how much a pulled hamstring had to do with his lack of carries this past spring.

It has long been rumored, although not confirmed, that Ealey wasn't happy with the new attitude being promoted and enacted at Georgia (mostly from the strength and conditioning aspect) and he wasn't buying into the program that new strength coach, Joe Tereshinksi was selling. It was for that very reason he was given an indefinite suspension this past February.

If we assume the latter is all true, then Ealey's release was not only a matter of time, but a necessary evil as there is no place for that level of dissension on a team that is already heading into a tenuous 2011 football season.

That said, there will be even more pressure for new recruit, Isaiah Crowell, to be all he can be—now—as the depth chart at tailback just got real thin, real fast.

Hopefully Mr. Ealey can find what he's looking for at another institution. He's clearly got a lot of talent, but he'll need to mature a bit before he can reach his max potential.

Related articles

• Georgia Bulldogs reinstate Washaun Ealey after 2-week-plus ban (sports.espn.go.com)
• Put on notice (blutarsky.wordpress.com)
• Lingering hamstring issue to sideline UGA's Ealey for spring game. (collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com)

Georgia Bulldogs Offer 2012 Prospect Dillon Lee

Whenever you mention the Georgia Bulldogs and Dillon Lee in the same sentence, most people only have one thought: why hasn't Georgia offered him yet?

Well, finally, after it seemed Georgia would let this top in-state product get away, they extended an offer to the stud linebacker prospect from Buford High School in Buford, GA.

Lee is 6'4", 220, and seems tailor made for the 3-4 defense. He moves well, has great presence in space, and uses his hands well—he's played tight end and could play there at the next level depending on his college choice. Personally, I feel he'll make his living on defense as an outside linebacker as he has too much defensive upside.

He's a big hitter who knows how to get into the backfield and lay out a guy.

With such a late offer by the Bulldogs, most would assume that Mark Richt's bunch are well out of the race, but that doesn't seem to be the case. Lee is reportedly adding Georgia to his list of finalists and will be considering them as a possible destination in 2012—although most still feel he could land in Tuscaloosa with the Crimson Tide (FSU is also a real possibility).

One thing is certain, Lee looks like he's ready to be a big time ball player at the next level.

Georgia Bulldogs Flashback: April 28, 1997 Sparked A Return To Glory

April 28, 1997 was a dreary, wet, and somewhat cold day in Athens, GA as the Georgia Bulldogs competed in the annual G-Day Game before a crowd of less than 10,000. Those faithful fans braved both the elements and low expectations to see what might be in store for the 1997 version of their football team—a team that was coming off a 5-6 season and hadn't completed a winning one since 1994.

To say that people weren't expecting much was an understatement—bowl eligibility would have been a nice surprise.

The game ended up being an entertaining one—at least from an offensive standpoint—as the Red team clobbered the Black team 41-10 in a contest which saw 100+ yard rushing efforts from both Robert Edwards and Patrick Pass.

Edwards looked much improved from 1996. A season in which he seemed to struggle with ball control and didn't produce as many yards or as much excitement as many felt he might (Hmmm, a running back with a fumbling issue who is seeking redemption after a disappointing season? I smell a trend here). Patrick Pass offered a nice counter to what was shaping up to be a fine rushing attack.

On defense, sophomore Champ Bailey took advantage of his phenomenal ball skills and wowed the crowd by grabbing two of the team's four interceptions. It was very clear after that performance that Bailey was a star and Donnan let it be known that Bailey would see both sides of the ball that season—offense and defense.

At quarterback, Mike Bobo held a slight edge over redshirt freshman Mike Usry, but it was by no means a comfortable one. Donnan felt that Bobo's experience would be his biggest asset and Bobo's play that day at least offered a glimmer of hope for what was to come (12 of 17, for 157 yards, and two scores), but the crowd ran hot and cold on him all day—cheering when he made big plays, but booing when he failed to capitalize on others.

Imagine that, Bobo was a polarizing figure even back then—very interesting.


Bobo's response to the boo birds was classic, said the embattled QB at the time "...I don't worry about the fans. They're not out there playing, they're not out there practicing with me every day like my teammates. I want to do well for my teammates and my coaches and that's it".


This Georgia team was aiming to be something special in 1997 as they finally seemed to be heading in the right direction under head coach Jim Donnan.


That season did end up being just what the doctor ordered for Donnan's Dawgs as the team ended the year with a record of 10-2, including a big SEC win over the Florida Gators (the team that demoralized them by 40 points the year before), a Top 10 finish in both the AP and Coaches Polls, and a comfortable Outback Bowl victory over Wisconsin (33-6). 

It was a season to remember in Athens. Here's hoping the same type of resurgence is in store for 2011.

VIDEO FLASHBACK: Odell Thurman Runs A Loooonnnnngggg Way

The 2003 Auburn Tigers came into the year ranked in the Top 10 and poised for a run at the National Championship. However, after opening the season with two road losses* to USC and Georgia Tech, respectively, it seemed that the Tigers may have been given a little bit too much respect by the pollsters.

While they quickly recovered from the stumble—winning their next five games in a row—by the time they met up with the Georgia Bulldogs in Sanford Stadium, they were losing steam fast as they'd lost two of their last three games—including a heartbreaking 20-24 loss to Ole Miss in Auburn—and were trying desperately to get back on the winning track.

Georgia, coming off their first SEC Championship in 20 years, was enjoying their resurgence in the SEC as a perennial contender—under the leadership of third-year head coach Mark Richt and defensive coordinator Brian Van Gorder—and entered the contest ranked No. 7 in the nation, with a 7-2 overall record.

Considering the history of this rivalry, the average football fan would have thought Georgia's chances were pretty good coming into the contest—after all, they were playing this game at home. However, the truth of it was, Georgia hadn't beaten Auburn, in Athens, since 1991, and had only accomplished the feat three times in the previous 14 meetings at Sanford. It wasn't exactly a sure thing for Georgia.

However, the offense didn't need to be great on this day, as it was all about the defense. The Dawgs held the Tigers to 259 yards of total offense and put the kibosh on their stud tailback, Carnell Williams holding him to 45-yards on the day.

That said, the most memorable defensive play of the game came in the fourth quarter when linebacker Odell Thurman collected a tipped Jason Campbell pass in the Auburn endzone, and ran it back for 99-yards and the score—sealing the deal on a 26-7 Georgia Bulldogs' victory.




*The Auburn/USC match-up was played in Atlanta—a neutral site.

Georgia Bulldogs: Tight End Is The New Wide Receiver

In case you missed the bulletin, A.J. Green is gone. No longer will No. 8 traverse the fields of Sanford Stadium, and while there is currently not a guy on the Georgia Bulldogs' roster who seems ready to step into Green's huge shoes—have no fear—the tight end could be back in style again.

While a plethora of questions are worthy of conversation where the wide receiving corps is concerned—can Tavarres King be effective as a No. 1, will Marlon Brown or Rantavious Wooten ever become legit, is Michael Bennett the sleeper of the SEC this season—there seems to be little of that wondering going on where the tight ends are concerned. As a matter of fact, the only question that seems to keep cropping up is whether or not Aaron Murray will be able to air it out enough to keep his plethora of ends happy?

We start, of course, with Orson Charles who has been beastly since his arrival on campus in 2009. He has rarely disappointed, but you get the feeling that the best is still yet to come with this young man. Perhaps in his second season catching footballs from best friend, and former Plant High teammate, Aaron Murray, we will finally see him reach his full potential.

Next up is Aron White who, at 6'4", 239, is one of the smallest tight ends on the depth chart, but who has continually made his presence felt on the field during some of the more crucial downs. He's been hampered a bit by an injury this spring but, as the senior leader of this group, what he offers in poise and experience far outweighs his stat line which, given the lack of attention this position has been  given over the years, is still impressive.

Arthur Lynch looks like he's ready to make a difference on the football field this season as well. The redshirt sophomore gained better than 20 pounds this past offseason, and has looked solid in drills thus far. Lynch has always been lauded for his great blocking ability—a trait that will always get you on the football field for Mark Richt—but he has the potential to be every bit as useful as a pass-catcher. Look for him to step it up this season.

Finally, there's Jay Rome—who isn't even enrolled yet. You can expect to see him get a better than average shot at early playing time in 2011. He's got the size, the speed, the build, and the potential to make a nice contribution for the Bulldogs if placed in the right offensive situations.

There's no doubt that Georgia will be looking for playmakers this year and, as already mentioned, the wide receiving corps could use a boost with both Green and Durham now gone. It wouldn't surprise me to see one of these guys, perhaps Charles or White, step onto the football field in a hybrid role to fill in the blanks—particularly Charles who is known to get loose in the middle of the field to make the big play.

If offensive coordinator, Mike Bobo, can FINALLY see fit to open up his playbook to include more offensive sets for his talented tight ends, perhaps the obvious void in the receiving corps won't seem nearly as daunting.

Georgia Bulldogs Recruiting: 2012 ATH Prospect Josh Harvey-Clemons

Josh Harvey-Clemons is a 6'5", 205 lb, ATH (athlete) prospect out of Valdosta, GA. He has split time between both the wide receiver and outside linebacker positions at Lowndes County High School.

His speed, size, and ability to get to the ball make him an intriguing option for either offense or defense, but Georgia is looking to make him a defensive weapon, specifically at linebacker—where the Bulldogs are hoping to add more depth in 2012.

Harvey-Clemons is a dynamic edge rusher who uses his speed, size, and great instincts to get into the backfield and disrupt quarterback play. He plays with focus and discipline on the football field and has the ability to lay down those bone-jarring hits when given the opportunity. He's a force to be reckoned with on either side of the ball and should be very good at the next level—with the right coaching.

Currently, depending on what you read, Georgia is in the lead race for Harvey-Clemons as he has, apparently, developed a close relationship with Todd Grantham. That said, it's a long way to February, and Harvey-Clemons could just as likely end up at FSU—a school that has built up a very strong relationship with the Lowndes County coaches over the years (landing such players as Greg Reid and Telvin Smith)—or Florida (the first school to offer him)

Both the Seminoles and the Gators want to make Harvey-Clemons a wide receiver at the college level.

Either way, Harvey- Clemons is an exciting player to keep on your radar as the march towards Signing Day 2012' continues.

It's Nice To See Jared Lorenzen Is Still Keepin' It Real...Real Big

Back in the day when the Georgia Bulldogs played the Kentucky Wildcats—post Tim couch, pre Andre Woodson—they had the displeasure of going up against Jared Lorenzen (AKA, pillsbury throwboy and the round mound of touchdown). He had a big arm, attached to a big body, and most Georgia players found his cushy mid-section was quite the bouncy house as they often just ricocheted right off him.

Well, Lorenzen is still finding an avenue for his God-given talents as a member of the Northern Kentucky River Monsters of the Ultimate Indoor Football League (UIFL), and while he's not nearly as dangerous now as he was back when he played at the University of Kentucky, he's certainly keeping that figure right where he wants it.

Here's a shot of Mr. Lorenzen as he looks today at a svelte 6'5", 290 (photo courtesy of NationofBlue.com):

Jared should seriously consider moving his talents to the offensive line. Wow...that's one biiiiigggggg dude.

Keep doin' your thang, Jared—nobody does it better.

Georgia Bulldogs: 2012 DL Prospect Jordan Watkins

The Georgia coaching staff hasn't been resting on their laurels since landing one of the top recruiting classes in the country this season, they are fully focused on keeping that trend going for 2012, and Jordan Watkins is the latest defensive prospect to get a nod from Mark Richt and Co.

Watkins is 6'5", 260, and is an absolute beast off the line. He has a great nose for the ball and moves well for his size. He's likely not done developing yet, but he's certainly capable of playing at either  defensive end or defensive tackle at the next level.

Said Watkins about the offer from the Bulldogs, "An offer from Georgia gives me three things as far as my family is concerned. I can stay close to home, which my mom would probably be happiest about with all of this. It is a great place to play football, and it is a great place to go to school for four years" (Kipp Adams, Rivals.com). 

If Georgia can put together a winning record this year, and make it back to a respectable bowl, you have to like their chance to stay in the hunt for Watkins. 

You can find out more about Georgia's latest target here ($$$) if you are a subscriber, but one look at his video and it's clear the kid has the potential to be a monster:




Watkins touts 29 offers as of today, which includes several other SEC schools—Tennessee, Florida, South Carolina and Alabama among them.

He totaled 61 tackles (13 tfl) and 6 sacks as a junior.

Georgia Bulldogs: Wherefore Art Thou, Jakar Hamilton?

Photo Credit:AP/JOHN AMIS

Jakar Hamilton...remember Jakar Hamilton? He was the stud JUCO defensive back who was supposed to make the Georgia Bulldogs' secondary come alive in 2010.

However, instead, Hamilton is best remembered for two things—one of which isn't very good—a 17-yard interception return for a touchdown in his season-opening debut, and an ill-advised decision to lend a license-less Washaun Ealey his Chevrolet Impala.

When Hamilton first arrived on the scene, he had Georgia fans salivating at the prospect of his, possibly, being the 'next' Greg Blue or Thomas Davis—legendary safeties from the Mark Richt era—who were known for laying thunder and lightning on opposing players.

Hamilton was going to be the difference and the defense, particularly under the new 3-4 of Todd Grantham, was going to be a much better unit in 2010. 

So, what happened to all that promise Hamilton displayed in the early-going? How did he go from potential stud to disappointing dud in the span of just a few games? Was it the sudden change in the level of competition? Did the playbook overwhelm him? Is he playing the wrong position?

All of the above are possibilities.

Hamilton's looked confused more times than not, and it was clear that he was not used to being "blown up" by the bigger, more physical, receivers of the SEC as a JUCO standout. There was a definite learning curve for him coming from Georgia Military College, but he's been slower to catch on to than some of his counterparts—Alec Ogletree in particular—and that meant seeing him fall victim to a steady regression in 2010. 

Perhaps a change in position is best for Hamilton (there have been discussions that he could be more comfortable at cornerback). The defensive responsibility that comes with the safety position, particularly in Georgia's 3-4 scheme, may simply be too much for Hamilton to overcome.

At the same time, you hate to see him waste away on the bench when he, at least physically, appears to have so much potential. 

Hopefully, as Hamilton enters his senior season, he is able to find his mojo again and make a genuine contribution. He may no longer be the 'Hitman' that he imagined himself to be, but he's definitely capable of being a good football player if he can just find his groove in this defense.

Imagine What Herschel Walker Could Have Done If...

Imagine what Herschel Walker might have done if he had been fully aware during his 1982 season at Georgia. Check this excerpt taken from an article written by Sam Friedman of newsminer.com,

Herschel Walker has said he doesn’t remember winning college football’s highest individual honor because of mental illness.

Walker, who went on to play in the NFL and compete in the Olympic in two-man bobsled, suffers from Dissociative Identity Disorder — formerly known as multiple personality disorder. As a result, he has said he does not remember the entire 1982 football season when he won the Heisman Trophy for the University of Georgia Bulldogs.

Read more: Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Heisman Trophy winner to speak with soldiers on Fort Wainwright

1982 was Walkers last season with the Georgia Bulldogs, and he tallied 1,752 yards and 6 touchdowns that year—he won the Heisman that season and then made the jump to the USFL—and he essentially admits to doing so on auto-pilot.

Talk about impressive.

(h/t GADawgyDawg)

Georgia Bulldogs: Aaron Murray Is The Starting QB—No Question

Photo Credit: BRANT SANDERLIN/AJC

There will always be naysayers where Aaron Murray is concerned, but those people obviously didn't see how well Murray played in 2010. The redshirt freshman showed poise beyond his years and showcased a bevy of skills that even the coaching staff could not have expected.

So, when this article was published, questioning whether or not Georgia should "sit or start" Murray in 2011, I found myself intrigued as to what a non-Bulldog fan had to say on the subject. Below are the only two reasons this writer has for sitting the tough, young man from Tampa.

#1. Lack of Size

Murray measures in at 6'1" and 209 pounds. He needs to add a little weight to help endure some of the sacks he takes. Murray was sacked 24 times and suffered a number of hits during the 2010 season. Until the Georgia Bulldogs' offensive line improves, Murray should expect to have pass-rushers in his face at times.

His lack of height also occasionally leads to passes batted down at the line of scrimmage.

Okay, it's true that Murray is not the prototypical height and size of a pro-style quarterback, but that is not the only characteristic that goes into a quality starter.

There are plenty of 6'3", 225 lb, signal-callers that don't have the poise, pocket presence, or leadership ability that Murray displays on the football field and those are the intangibles that matter—every bit as much as the physical attributes.

Oh and, FYI, the nation's leading passer last season was shorter than Murray—Bryan Moniz. It also seems safe to assume that Boise State wouldn't trade their quarterback for  all the tea in China either. Kellen Moore clocks in at 6'0".

The point is, size doesn't always matter.

Furthermore, his lack of body weight is less important, where sacks are concerned, than Georgia's need to get their offensive line in order.

Murray didn't miss one game last season, despite being knocked on his backside better than 20 times. Even more, the anemic running game, the absence of playmakers in the receiving game (particularly in A.J. Green's absence), and the inability of the coaches to loosen the reigns as the season progressed, all played a hefty roll in Murray's inability to succeed in the win-loss column.

#2. Record

Murray was only able to produce a 6-7 record on the year and 3-5 record in Southeastern Conference play. While Murray's performances were decent, he wasn't able to lead the team to a winning record.

The fact that Murray was unable to "lead the team to a winning record" wasn't all on him. Poor playcalling, unfortunate turnovers, and defensive lapses in the secondary played key roles in losses at South Carolina, at Mississippi State, at Colorado, at Florida, and versus Arkansas—only one of those losses could, arguably, be attributed to Murray's play—he threw an ill-advised interception against Florida that led to the game-winning play in overtime.

If Georgia had taken care of business, on both sides of the ball in every one of those games, that 6-7 record might easily have been 10-3 or 11-2 (7-1 or 6-2 in the SEC).

Murray's lack of a winning record isn't all on him and there is no question that 2011 should be better for the Georgia Bulldogs—if Mark Richt and his staff can right the ship on both sides of the football field.

Georgia Bulldogs: John Jenkins Signs With Georgia, Fills Key Need (VIDEO)

The Georgia Bulldogs finally have the main piece to the 3-4 puzzle in nose guard John Jenkins, the 6'4" 353-pound JUCO prospect from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College chose Georgia over Florida because, in the end he "...felt they [Georgia] really needed me. Everybody else said they needed me, too, but at Georgia it just felt right. It felt like home."

And need him they did.

Todd Grantham has long looked for a player to fill-in the spot known only as the "nose"—a player who could both eat up space and create rushing lanes off the edge for the defensive ends to run through. If Jenkins is anything like advertised, he fits that bill and then some. 

Here's some video of Big John—the 26th and final commitment for 2011:

Jenkins is No. 95 in the video, but is expected to wear No. 6 (yes, that's not a typo) for the Georgia Bulldogs in 2011. 

Related articles

• JUCO defensive tackle Jenkins picks Georgia (sportingnews.com)

Georgia Bulldogs: Who Will Step In At Fullback In 2011?

In the excitement for what should be a tremendous signing day for the Georgia Bulldogs, there seems to be one question that has yet to be answered—who will take over the starting position at fullback?

Both Shaun Chapas and Fred Munzenmaier are gone, leaving a huge void at a position that has historically been very important at Georgia—particularly where the running game is concerned. Is there a guy who has the ability to block, run, catch, and bulldoze his way into the endzone from inside the five—as needed?

The natural candidate, of course, has to be Bruce Figgins.

Georgia has an embarrassment of riches at the tight end position and with Jay Rome entering a depth chart that already includes Orson Charles, Aron White, and Arthur Lynch, Figgins will need to move to another spot if he expects to see the field at all this season.

If he does, he's definitely has the most potential of the guys currently on Georgia's roster. He's spent a lot of time in this offense, and has always been a stellar blocker. His pass-catching skills won't leave you in awe, but he's definitely capable of making a play or two if needed.

He would be choice number one, in my opinion, and I expect to see him making a go of it this spring. 

Aside from him, there is Alexander 'Zander' Ogletree, a 2010 special teams stand-out. He played the position in high school and has a frame similar to that of former fullback Jeremy Thomas. However, it remains to be seen if he has the ability to do more than just be a lead blocker. Can he catch the ball, is he capable of running with it in a short-yardage situation? Can he run routes, if needed, and make a play 8-10 yards downfield?

These are all questions that need to be explored in his case because none of us have seen him outside of special teams.

It will be interesting to see what Georgia does at fullback in 2011 because it cannot be overstated enjust how important that spot has been during coach Richt's tenure. He's been blessed to find talents like Verron Haynes (walk-on), J.T. Wall (walk-on), Brannan Southerland, and Shaun Chapas over the years, but this season there is no one waiting in the wings to become "that guy" and that has to be cause for some concern.

What say you?

Georgia Bulldogs: Will They Be As Good In 2011 As Auburn Was In 2010?

Let me be the first to say this: when E$PN personalities talk, I rarely listen. In my very humble opinion, E$PN is a spin factory and most of what they say is driven by an agenda—a network agenda—to bring in more ad dollars, more reader subscriptions, and more viewers.

Now, they aren't alone in that respect, many of today's networks operate in that way, but E$PN is the big daddy of them all, and that makes them a little easier to criticize.

That said, this response by Bruce Feldman, to the following question was intriguing. Here is the question and the answer in their entirety—well, in the most complete form one could get them in without paying for more:

From mattplanet: What impact do you think these latest big recruits will have in improving the Georgia Bulldogs' chances in the SEC East next year?

This "dream team" plan at UGA of bringing together many of the top local players seems to be working out great. Landing five-star DE Ray Drew is a big addition to a defense that needs help. Drew, by most accounts, has the tools to be an impact guy for the Dawgs in their 3-4. Jay Rome, the nation's top tight end, is a guy who can block and catch and should team well with speedy Orson Charles. Malcolm Mitchell, the nation's No. 7 WR, won't be A.J. Green, but his outstanding speed and ball skills will only make their passing game more dangerous. Now, if they can reel in Isaiah Crowell, the country's top back, that could take even more pressure off of quarterback Aaron Murray and pump some much-needed juice back into the Bulldogs run game.

While it's easy to see this 2011 class shaping up to be something special, it isn't the first time that Mark Richt will have had a good class. Prior to 2009, Georgia was often in the Top 10 or Top 15 for recruiting some of the best prospects in the nation—both in and out of the state.

That said, the question isn't what this "dream team" will do for Georgia, but what Georgia will do for this "dream team".

Crowell will be an important part of the puzzle, but Caleb King was every bit that part four-years ago was he not? One player can bring hope, but none offer a guarantee. Shoot, not even Vince Dooley could have told you how good Herschel was going to be when he got to Georgia.

It's a crap shoot and nothing is a given.

The point is this: the success of this recruiting class, on the field, has as much to do with the coaching as it does the players, and no one knows, as of right now, if the coaching will be exponentially better, the same, or worse.

Everything is a work in progress and this Georgia program is no different. There are still many questions that will need answering before long—strength and conditioning cannot be the only piece of the puzzle in need of replacing or tweaking.

Is Georgia capable of making the kind of turnaround in 2011 that Auburn did in 2010? Absolutely, but lets not put the cart before the horse just yet.

What say you?

Georgia's Offer To Quintavious Harrow Comes With Or Without Isaiah Crowell

When the news broke that Mark Richt had "suddenly" extended a late offer to Carver-Columbus linebacker, Quintavious Harrow—who also happens to be a good friend of Isaiah Crowell—it became easy to make the assumption that this was a last-ditch effort by Georgia to lock-in Crowell.

Crowell, off to Tuscaloosa to visit the Tide this weekend, is still set to announce his decision on National Signing Day. He is fluctuating between Alabama, Auburn, and Georgia, and it's anybody's guess what school he will choose on February 2nd.

However, the chances should markedly increase in Georgia's favor now that they've offered his friend, right? After all, isn't that how it works? Sign the brother, friend, cousin and you lock in the highly-touted recruiting prospect.

It worked with Alec Ogletree (Georgia signed his brother, Zander) and they've made concessions for Nathan Theus (hoping it leads to a commitment from his brother John)—at least that's what we have been led to believe.

Well, I'm not about to say I know the intentions of this coaching staff where Georgia's recruiting process is concerned, but I do know this:

• Georgia is thin at linebacker—Montez Robinson, Demetre Baker, and Marcus Dowtin were all released from their scholarships in 2010—and both Darryl Gamble and, possibly, Justin Houston will be gone in 2011. While Harrow doesn't have the body of an SEC linebacker (5'10, 190lbs), perhaps he gives the defensive staff the flexibility they need to make adjustments and plug holes now that key skill players have left the program.

• Scott Lakatos likes size and speed. Watch the film on Harrow (offered below), he was one of the quicker bodies in that Carver-Columbus secondary, and he is a solid tackler.

• Harrow has always been on Georgia's radar. He was in attendance at Dawgnight last year—along with Isaiah Crowell, Gabe Wright, Xzavier Dickson, and Damian Swann—he didn't just appear overnight.

• Harrow is a good player, but only recently qualified. His lack of offers has more to do with academics than talent.

All that said, the mere thought that Richt has suddenly gotten into the business of bringing in friends just to lockdown a premier talent is really a bit much. Even if true, Jarvis Jones (who transferred in last season) was already a major pull for Crowell—he said as much himself—so there was no need to arbitrarily offer Harrow if he wasn't a good fit.

Remember, last year, Georgia passed on quarterback Nash Nance—even though it meant losing his good friend Da'Rick Rogers to their SEC rival. Even more, people seem caught up in Harrow's lack of offers. Take a look back at both Michael Bennett and Hutson Mason, neither were getting much recruiting love from until late in the game—that means nothing.

In the end, if Crowell signs with Georgia, it's doubtful that Harrow will have much, if anything to do with it. Crowell will go wherever he pleases, and you can be sure that the coaching staff is well-aware of it.

On the other hand, if you still believe that this is just a desperate ploy by coach Richt to gain ground on a guy they have a better shot at losing late, than landing early, well, that's your prerogative. We'll all just have to wait and see.

Until then, here's some video of Georgia prospect, Quintavious Harrow. You be the judge—is he a potential loss of a scholly or a potentially solid player?

Georgia Bulldogs: Mark Richt Has Faith, But How Many Still Have Faith In Him?

If you're a Georgia Bulldog fan, it's not likely to have escaped your attention that Auburn's Gene Chizik became yet another SEC coach to win a national title in under five-years.

Believe and say what you will about Cam Newton, and the dirty NCAA, the fact remains, Auburn has a recent national championship to brag about and Georgia does not.

Gene Chizik, booed by Auburn fans a mere three seasons ago, has a Sears Trophy and a Heisman winner on his head coaching resume.

Mark Richt has????

And it's not just Chizik that boils you. It's the departed Urban Meyer (won two titles in five years), the fiery Nick Saban (won a title in his third year), and the gunslinging Les Miles (won a title in his second season). All won the big one within a short period of time.

And Mark Richt has????

Yet you are told to have faith that Richt's time will soon come.

Well, it's tough to have faith when you're losing players left and right— Justin Houston and Brandon Boykin could follow A.J. Green to the NFL, Darryl Gamble is gone, and both Marcus Dowtin and Nick Williams (sleeper talents to start 2010) are transferring—and necessary staff changes take so long to get made—the offensive coordinator is still...coordinating.

Your faith will only take you as far as your ability to overlook certain truths and, for a great many, that truth is this: Mark Richt's window to win a national championship has closed.

Does that mean McGarity should have dumped him after the bowl game? No, not in my opinion.

In truth, McGarity has done the right thing in allowing Richt this one last season to show what he's made of.

If 2011 proves mediocre, then he's out and McGarity has had more time to evaluate the program as well as identify possible candidates for the future.

He's just being sure all of his bases are covered.

In the meantime, one can only trust in the possibility that 2011 holds a better outcome.

It's all or nothing next season for Georgia football, under coach Richt, and faith or no faith, we are all hoping for a miracle.


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NFL Draft: Can Cam Newton Play His Way Into The No. 1 Spot?

Andrew Luck has made the decision to return to Stanford for his senior year—forget the money, give him the degree—good for him. However, that now means the Carolina Panthers have a decision to make about which player deserves to be taken No. 1 overall.

Enter Cam Newton—playing in the Fiesta Bowl this Monday night—is it possible that if he performs well in that game, he'll be able to vault himself into the No. 1 spot on draft day?

The problem won't be his resume. He's clearly proven himself to be a great talent, and a game-changer, but is he technically sound enough to be a starter in the NFL from day one?

He hasn't taken many snaps from under-center this season, at Auburn, and that gives some pause when considering his overall ability to execute a pro-style offense at the next level.

Even so, his athletic ability and instincts with the football would make him the type of quarterback that the Panthers—especially if both DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart remain healthy—could use to bolster their stagnant offense.

Carolina needs a spark now more than ever, and if Newton decides to leave early—which many assume he will—there is little reason to doubt he won't be taken in the first round, possibly in the Top 15.

So the only question is his worthiness as a possible No. 1.

If Carolina decides Newton is too great a risk, they could always look to A.J. Green (the star wide receiver for the Georgia Bulldogs)—who has remained mum on his future—but is also thought by many to be on his way to the NFL.

Carolina's current star receiver, Steve Smith, is as unhappy with the direction the team has gone in of late, and the thought of him being in a Panthers uniform much longer looks to be a long shot. Green is projected to be a phenomenal pass-catcher at the next level, and could step into the role of the Panther's number one guy at wide receiver—should Smith exit this year or the next.

The sleeper in this could be Nick Fairley, the big-time defensive tackle out of Auburn.

The Panthers need a guy who can make opposing quarterback's nervous and help neutralize the run game—Fairley could be that guy and he would be a welcome addition to a defensive line that has a lot of nice pieces, but lacks that one explosive piece to complete it.

Carolina has a decision to make about their future, starting with the head coach, and with Luck out of the equation, that future just added a few more question marks.

Related articles

• Andrew Luck returns to Stanford (profootballtalk.nbcsports.com)
• Andrew Luck skipping NFL draft, will return to Stanford Cardinal (sports.espn.go.com)

Georgia Bulldogs: Richt's 'Dream Team' Takes A Direct Hit

When four-star DE, Xzavier Dickson, spurned the Georgia Bulldogs in favor of the Crimson Tide, panic attacks broke out across the state as Bulldog fans began picturing a 2011 class minus all of it's dream prospects.

Recruiting pundits, beat writers, and casual observers—read non-supporters—began readying fans and followers alike for the probability that this one decision, by this one kid, was the one domino needed to start the downward spiral of the football program, led by Mark Richt, at UGA.

The message was today it's Xzavier Dickson and Quan Bray, tomorrow it will be Ray Drew and Isaiah Crowell. Either way, Georgia's goose was already cooked for 2011, and beyond, as the likes of Tennessee, South Carolina, Auburn, Alabama, and Florida would begin snatching the state's best away from the home team—setting football in Athens back for the next decade.

Well, forgive me for saying so, but why should this one kid's decision be any more important than that of Jay Rome, Isaiah Crowell, or Damian Swann? Dickson would have been a great get and it would have been lovely to see him filling out the depth chart at Georgia, but the fact that he won't be suiting up for Todd Grantham shouldn't mean the football program is done.

In fact, according to the Rivals100, Georgia already has the best defensive end in the state—Sterling Bailey. Last check, Dickson didn't even make that list—just saying.

Furthermore, the very notion that Quan Bray, the other supposed prospect that kicked Georgia to the curb last night, was ever solid to the Bulldogs is erroneous. Bray was, largely, felt to be an Auburn lean.

Georgia made a play for him and they lost. It's that simple.

He didn't spurn the Bulldogs, he went with his initial choice—which was ALWAYS going to be Auburn.

Should Georgia be locking down the state? Yes, but it's foolish to expect they will sign every four- and five-star player that comes through the door. Big time prospects have the option of going wherever they like. They know it and many of them will take the opportunity to spread their wings—at other schools.

Georgia cannot get them all.

That said, they still have to nail a high percentage of the best this state has to offer and, so far, they've locked down seven four-star guys for this class. That's as many as LSU and Auburn, and more than South Carolina, Arkansas, and Tennessee.

If they can close out strong by snagging Damian Swann, Isaiah Crowell, Jay Rome, and—maybe—Ray Drew, this is still going to be one of the best classes in the SEC.

Georgia still has plenty of fish in the sea, they just need to close strong.

Related articles

• Georgia Bulldogs coach Mark Richt to devote more 'study' to football (sports.espn.go.com)

Georgia Football: Richt Feels Like A "First-Year" Coach Again

Mark Richt's 8:30 A.M. press conference revealed a little and a lot about how he plans to approach the 2011 football season.

When asked about staff changes, he said there would be none,

“I’m not saying I’m taking over as the [offensive] coordinator or anything like that,” Richt said. “Mike Bobo is the coordinator; Mike Bobo is the quarterback coach, and Coach [Stacy] Searels is the running game coordinator. And they have done a great job . . . so I have confidence in those guys.

That quote says two things to you as a fan, 1) he knows that both Stacy Searles (offensive line coach) and Mike Bobo (offensive coordinator) are under serious fire after the Liberty Bowl loss, and 2) he's still too stubborn to make any real changes.

Now, the one thing that most of us armchair coaches and athletic directors hoped to see from Richt as he approached 2011 is a willingness to see the problems and make the changes necessary to correct them.

How is keeping the status quo the right thing to do?

Richt also stated that Greg McGarity put changes in place that would allow him [Richt] to focus more on the business of football,

I’m going to have the ability to have the time it takes to truly study the game of football, the trends and what’s going on, so a higher percentage of my time is going to be able to be used for that, which is exciting to me.”

While it's nice to know that coach will be getting back to the business of being a coach and not an administrator, you have to wonder why he didn't do that prior to now.

This isn't Georgia's first disappointing season under Richt—just losing one—you mean he didn't see a need to delegate those (i.e. academic liaison and mentor) duties before?

Let's be honest, It's tough to understand changes coming if no changes are being made. Right now 2011 looks a lot like 2010—something no one wants to see again soon.

And, quite frankly, it's becoming alarmingly clear that Richt and McGarity are placing all their bets on what JoeTereshinski—the new head of strength and conditioning—will be able to do with the much-maligned program.

That's a big bet to make in just one offseason.

On the flip side, perhaps Richt is just playing his cards right by not announcing any big changes on offense or defense. Georgia stands a chance at landing a pretty good recruiting class in 2011—barring any staff changes—and what good would it do to announce the firing of your OC and your line coach less than three weeks before signing day?

There's the slimmest of possibilities—because most of us know Richt doesn't operate in that manner—that this is all politics.

We'll see what the immediate future holds, but right now, there isn't much reason to stand up and cheer.







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