Glory To Ole Georgia | A Georgia Bulldogs Chise

[Nash]

Disappointment In Athens: The 2008 Season

Final Record: Overall: 10-3; SEC: 6-2

Team Captains: WR Mohamed Massaquoi | FB Brannan Southerland | DT Corvey Irvin | SS Andrew Williams

Team|Score|UGA Record
Georgia Southern Eagles|45-21|(1-0)
Central Michigan Chippewas|56-17|(2-0)
at South Carolina Gamecocks|14-7|(3-0)
at Arizona State Sun Devils|27-10|(4-0)
Alabama Crimson Tide|30-41|(4-1)
Tennessee Volunteers|26-14|(5-1)
Vanderbilt Commodores|24-14|(6-1)
at LSU Tigers|52-38|(7-1)
Florida Gators|10-49|(7-2)
at Kentucky Wildcats|42-38|(8-2)
at Auburn Tigers|17-13|(9-2)
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets|42-45|(9-3)
Michigan State*|24-12|(10-3)

*2009 Capital One Bowl (Orlando, FL)


Stat Leaders
Passing: Matthew Stafford (235-383, 25 TDs, 3459 YDs, 10 Ints)
Rushing: Knowshon Moreno (250 Att, 1463 YDs, 16 TDs)
Recieving: Mohamed Massaquoi (58 Rec, 920 YDs, 8 TDs)


This was supposed to be the year. Finally, Georgia would win the national championship under Mark Richt. Everything was in place, a star quarterback and running back. A proven wide receiver along with the 2nd best newcomer in A.J. Green, one of the best offensive lines in the country, and an attacking defense that had future NFL players all over.

For whatever reason, the team never clicked. Yes, they had injuries (22 season ending injuries) and yes they had a hard schedule (#1 SoS) but there was very few points in the season where you thought this team was the real deal.

The offense and defense both showed signs of greatness, just never at the same time.

By the end of the year, the team's defense fell apart and the offense was nonexistent at key moments.

Early on, Georgia struggled to close out games. Allowing Georgia Southern and Central Michigan to make scoring runs to end the games.

As the season progressed, it seemed like the team got worse every game. The team had no discipline and looked unfocused. They won simply on talent in most games or the season could have been much worse.

The team was one of the most penalized teams in the nation and it killed them.

The record doesn't tell the story on this season as they never beat a great team and got blown out in the two biggest games of the season along with losing to Georgia Tech.

Best Moment: Arizona State Game. For the first time in the season, the preseason favorite looked like a contender. In the first time Georgia headed West of the Mississippi, Georgia dominated the Arizona State Sun Devils 27 to 10.

Knowshon Moreno had a big game with the first two touchdowns of the game and 153 yards. He jump started his Heisman campaign with the famous leap into the endzone.

The game was also Freshman A.J. Green's breakout game at Wide Receiver in which he had 8 receptions for 159 yards and a touchdown.

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Best Moment II: LSU Game. The last two times Georgia played LSU, they had blown them out. Still, the Tigers were a different animal at home in Baton Rouge. Georgia took the crowd out early as linebacker Darryl Gamble intercepted the pass from Jarrett Lee and returned it for touchdown on the first play of the game.

Georgia's offense started the game on fire scoring on the first two possessions to jump out to a 28 to 7 lead in the 2nd quarter.

However, Georgia's defense fell apart allowing the Tigers back into the game.

The Bulldogs were still too much as the game turned into a shootout and the game was finally out of reach after Darryl Gamble returned another interception for a touchdown to make the score 52-31.

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Best Moment III: Capital One Bowl: Michigan State Game. After the Georgia Tech loss, most fans didn't want the season to continue. The team seemed to quit and after giving up 409 rushing yards to Georgia Tech, fans feared what the nation's top rusher Javon Ringer would do.

Over the break, however, the team finally got healthy and they shut down Ringer to only 55 yards rushing. Even though the Dogs contained the Spartans top offensive player, the game was still in doubt until late.

The beginning of the game started in horrible fashion as Stafford struggled to start game making the halftime score 6-3. Bulldog nation was calling the game a disgrace and wanting Stafford to be benched saying that he only cared about the NFL and he had clocked out mentally.

However, Georgia came out in the 2nd half a different team. Stafford and Moreno put on a show and Georgia went on to win 24-12 in a dominant performance.

Worst Moment: Alabama Game. Coming into the game, there might not have been a more hyped game in the last decade. Two top five teams colliding in Athens on ESPN's College Gameday. It was also a Blackout and the atmosphere was like no other.

Instead of a classic, Georgia got embarrassed on national television. The whole country watched as Alabama ran all over the Dawgs to a half time score of 31-0.

Even though Georgia made a comeback in the 2nd half, most of the nation had already stopped watching and the reputation of Georgia was forever tarnished.

The game seemed to destroy any of Georgia's confidence and swagger it had had from the year before.

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Worst Moment II: Florida Game. Even after the Alabama game, the goal of an SEC Championship was still intact. Georgia had just beaten LSU at Baton Rouge and it seemed as if they had regained their confidence.

Once again, the hype was growing for the game in Jacksonville especially after Georgia's dance to start the game.

"That wasn’t right," Meyer said in the book, which was written with sportswriter Buddy Martin and was written before the season. "It was a bad deal. It will forever be in the mind of Urban Meyer and in the mind of our football team. We’ll handle it and it’s going to be a big deal."

And handle it they did, the game was over as soon as Brandon Spikes flattened Moreno in the backfield. The floodgates opened and the rout was on.

Florida turned a 14-3 halftime lead into 49-3 lead behind Tim Tebow and a dominating defense.

To make the game even more embarrassing, Meyer called timeouts at the end of the game and continued to pass and run the score up at the end of the game.

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Worst Moment III: Georgia Tech game. All season, fans had made fun of Tech's gimmick offense and how it wouldn't work in "big-time" football. Even as the season fell apart, fans looked forward to beating down Tech in the final game.

This looked to be coming true as Stafford had 300+ yards and four touchdowns in the first half. The Dawgs went to the locker room up 28-12.

However, Tech quickly erased the lead and took a 35-28 lead just 8 minutes into the 3rd quarter.

Georgia continued to battle but eventually lost after Roddy Jones broke for a 54 yard touchdown run with four minutes left.

Tech rushed for 409 yards on the game and most of it came in the 2nd half as Georgia's defense fell apart. Missed tackles and missed assignments occurred on every play as Tech beat Georgia for the first time in eight seasons.

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Biggest WTF Moment: Late in the third quarter of the Georgia vs. Central Michigan game, UGA running back Knowshon Moreno breaks loose for a 29 yard run highlighted by a leap over Central Michigan's Vince Agnew

Team Highlights:

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Honors:
SEC Players of the Week: TB Knowshon Moreno, LB Rennie Curran, WR A.J. Green, OT Clint Boling, TB Knowshon Moreno, TB Knowshon Moreno, LB Darryl Gamble, C Ben Jones, WR A.J. Green
First Team All-American: TB Knowshon Moreno (AFCA)
Second Team All-American: TB Knowshon Moreno (W. Camp, AP)
Freshman All-American: WR A.J. Green (Sporting News)
First Team All-SEC: TB Knowshon Moreno (Coaches, AP), LB Rennie Curran (Coaches), OT Clint Boling (AP), WR Mohamed Massaquoi (Coaches), WR A.J. Green (AP)
Second Team All-SEC: QB Matthew Stafford (Coaches, AP), WR Mohamed Massaquoi (AP), WR A.J. Green (Coaches), LB Rennie Curran (AP), FS Reshad Jones (AP), P Brian Mimbs (Coaches, AP)
Coaches All-SEC Freshman Team: OT Justin Anderson, OG Cordy Glenn, C Ben Jones, WR A.J. Green, DT DeAngelo Tyson, PK Blair Walsh
Academic All-SEC: Geno Atkins, Drew Butler, Shaun Chapas, Joe Cox, Ricardo Crawford, Matthew DeGenova, Jonathan DeLaureal, Kris Durham, Bo Fowler, Ty Frix, Andrew Gully, Wes Jacobs, Andrew
Jensen, Andrew Johnson, Ben Jones, Jeremy Lomax, Mohamed Massaquoi, Brian Mimbs,
Casey Nickels, Christian Norton, Joshua Sailors, Richard Samuel, Brannan Southerland, Matthew
Stafford, Trinton Sturdivant, Kade Weston, Aron White, Charles White, Antonio Wilson.
Academic All-District: FB Shaun Chapas, WR Kris Durham
2008 Senior Bowl: WR Mohamed Massaquoi, DT Corvey Irvin
East-West Shrine Game: LB Dannell Ellerbe
SEC Good Works Team: WR Mohamed Massaquoi


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[Nash]

Richt Advises Uneasy Fans: Just Watch Aaron Murray’s Tape

ATHENS, Ga. — Most people who follow Georgia football had figured since the end of last season that Aaron Murray probably would be the Bulldogs’ starting quarterback in 2010. What no one figured, of course, was that his competition would dissipate as it has.

But with Zach Mettenberger dismissed from the team and Logan Gray shifting part-time to wide receiver, Murray seems suddenly solidly entrenched as the Dogs’ 2010 quarterback.

“We’re thinner at QB than we expected to be at this time,” coach Mark Richt told a Bulldog Club gathering this week, “but if you want to feel good about it, just go back on the Internet and do a little search on Aaron Murray and watch Aaron’s high school tape. And I think you’ll get just as excited as you were the day he . . . committed to Georgia.”

Richt has said that Murray, a redshirt freshman, would have been No. 1 on the post-spring depth chart even if Mettenberger had not been kicked off the team, and Gray’s desire to play wide receiver seems to speak volumes about how he saw the chances of surpassing Murray at quarterback this summer.

In high school in Tampa, Murray was a Parade Magazine All-American and MVP of the prestigious Elite 11 camp for the nation’s top quarterback prospects. But fresher on Georgia fans’ minds is his underwhelming performance in the G-Day spring game.

Richt seemed to be trying to ease those concerns during the Bulldog Club meeting at the Walnut Creek Shooting Preserve near Macon this week.

“His skill set -– you would take Aaron Murray every single year that you are recruiting a quarterback,” Richt said. “He’s got a very quick release. He’s an accurate passer. I know in the G-Day game he wasn’t super-accurate, but you got to admit we threw a lot of very low-percentage balls that day. He’s an accurate passer.”

Murray will be the only newcomer on an offense that returns starters at the other 10 positions. He’ll have the luxury of an experienced line, two talented tailbacks and one of the nation’s top wide receivers.

Murray “is to the point, in my opinion, where he just needs to play,” Richt said in an interview. “The biggest thing for him is to understand that you don’t have to do anything spectacular. You don’t have to put the team on your shoulders. You’re not required to carry this football team. You’re required to do your job. And part of your job is to not try to be a hero.

“My biggest thing is: Don’t turn a bad play into a catastrophe. If it’s a bad play, throw it away, take a sack, whatever you got to do.. . . Let’s not be flippant or casual with that ball.”.

Georgia committed 28 turnovers (17 interceptions thrown and 11 fumbles lost) last season and had an atrocious turnover ratio of minus-16 (28 lost, 12 gained). Richt calls turnover ratio the most important statistic in football.

“If we just turn that around, we win a minimum of 10 and probably 11 games [last season],” he said. “So we got to get better at that.”

That will require forcing more opponent turnovers, which is up to Todd Grantham’s defense, and protecting the ball better on offense, which starts with Aaron Murray.

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[Nash]

Phil Steele Names Five Bulldogs Preseason All-Americans

ATHENS, Ga. — Five Georgia football players have been named to Phil Steele’s 2010 preseason All-American teams while 14 have been named to the publication’s All-Southeastern Conference preseason squads.

Junior flanker A.J. Green (Summerville, S.C.) and junior punter Drew Butler (Duluth, Ga.) highlighted the list after being named First Team All-Americans. Junior placekicker Blair Walsh (Boca Raton, Fla.) was named to the Second Team, senior offensive tackle Clint Boling (Alpharetta, Ga.) was included on the Third Team and junior kickoff returner Brandon Boykin (Fayetteville, Ga.) was placed on the Fourth Team.

The Bulldogs also had six players named to the All-SEC First Team. In addition to Green, Boling, Boykin, Walsh and Butler, junior outside linebacker Justin Houston (Statesboro, Ga.) was also named to the First Team.

Junior linemen Ben Jones (center) (Centreville, Ala.) and Cordy Glenn (offensive guard) (Riverdale, Ga.) joined sophomore tailback Washaun Ealey (Stillmore, Ga.) on the Second Team.

Sophomore tight end Orson Charles (Tampa, Fla.), senior offensive guard Chris Davis (Jefferson, Ga.), junior inside linebacker Marcus Dowtin (Upper Marlboro, Md.) and Boykin, this time as a cornerback, were named to the Third Team. Redshirt sophomore free safety Bacarri Rambo (Donalsonville, Ga.) was Georgia’s sole honoree on the Fourth Team.

Georgia is one of five teams with at least two players named preseason First Team All-Americans. Georgia and Alabama each have two players on the First Team and are the only two SEC teams with multiple players. North Carolina and UCLA leads the way with three players each on the First Team.

The Bulldogs and the Tide also lead the conference with six players on the All-SEC First Team. Georgia and Florida top the league with 14 players listed on all four preseason teams combined.

Phil Steele’s 2010 Preseason All-American Teams

First Team
WR – A.J. Green, Georgia
P – Drew Butler, Georgia

Second Team
K – Blair Walsh, Georgia

Third Team
OT – Clint Boling, Georgia

Fourth Team
KR – Brandon Boykin, Georgia

Phil Steele’s 2010 Preseason All-SEC Teams

First Team
WR – A.J. Green, Georgia
OT – Clint Boling, Georgia
KR – Brandon Boykin, Georgia
LB – Justin Houston, Georgia
K – Blair Walsh, Georgia
P – Drew Butler, Georgia

Second Team
RB – Washaun Ealey, Georgia
C – Ben Jones, Georgia
OG – Cordy Glenn, Georgia

Third Team
TE – Orson Charles, Georgia
OG – Chris Davis, Georgia
LB – Marcus Dowtin, Georgia
CB – Brandon Boykin, Georgia

Fourth Team
S – Bacarri Rambo, Georgia

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[Nash]

Rock Bottom: The 2009 Season

Final Record: Overall: 8-5; SEC: 4-4

Team Captains: QB Joe Cox | WR Michael Moore | DT Jeff Owens | LB Rennie Curran | CB Prince Miller

Team|Score|UGA Record
at Oklahoma State|10-24|(0-1)
South Carolina|41-37|(1-1)
at Arkansas|52-41|(2-1)
Arizona State|20-17|(3-1)
LSU|13-20|(3-2)
at Tennessee|19-45|(3-3)
at Vanderbilt|34-10|(4-3)
Florida|17-41|(4-4)
Tennessee Tech|38-0|(5-4)
Auburn|31-24|(6-4)
Kentucky|27-34|(6-5)
at Georgia Tech|30-24|(7-5)
Texas A&M*|44-20|(8-5)

*2009 AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl


Stat Leaders
Passing: Joe Cox (185-331, 24 TDs, 2584 YDs, 15 Ints)
Rushing: Washaun Ealey (125 Att, 728 YDs, 3 TDs)
Recieving: A.J. Green (53 Rec, 808 YDs, 6 TDs)


It seemed as if the nightmare of the 2008 season just carried over to 2009. The team had the same exact problems, plus many more new ones.

The overall defense seemed to continually worsen every game and the offense was either hit-or-miss.

Not only was this the worst season in Richt's history as coach, it was also one of the most embarrassing.

After having numerous players leave early to the NFL draft, new players were going to be the star players and expectations were high. Joe Cox was the ultimate leader and the whole team saw his as the captain.

However, no matter how good a leader Cox was, he simply wasn't a SEC-level quarterback. He struggled all year long.

It took the team over half the year to finally find the tandem of Caleb King and Washaun Ealey to replace now Denver Bronco Knowshon Moreno.

However, the one thing this season did do was build for the future with young players getting lots of playing time and excelling in the oppurtunity.

Best Moment: Arkansas Game. After looking sub par in the first two games of the season, Georgia finally showed potential of having an amazing offense. Young players made big plays all over the game and showed fortitude battling back from a 21-10 deficit early in a hostile environment.

Joe Cox had his best game by far with 18 completions on 25 throws for 375 yards and five touchdowns. Richard Samuel had 117 rushing yards. A.J. Green had 137 receiving yards while four different players caught a touchdown pass.

Georgia simply out scored the high flying Razorback offense, scoring on 7 of the final 10 drives.

Best Moment II: Georgia Tech Game. The picture above is the iconic image as center Ben Jones retaliated to the incident where Tech players cut some of the famous Hedges around the field and put them in there mouth. Jones decided he should put some of the Tech field in his mouth as he walked to get back at them.

This whole game was about revenge, about sending a message.

While Georgia was suffering through its worse season under Richt, Tech was enjoying their best season since 1990. They were the best team in the ACC and the Dawgs would not have superstar A.J. Green (out with injury). Add in the fact that the Jackets had ran for 409 yards in Athens the year before, many weren't expecting this to be close.

However, running back duo Caleb King and Washaun Ealey wanted to show that they still controlled the state. To prove the point, they both wrote "I RUN THIS STATE" on their arms and eye blacks.

And run they did. Washaun Ealey carried the ball 20 times for 183 yards. Caleb King joined in with 170 yards on 18 carries and a pair of touchdowns.

It was complete dominance on the ground and Georgia's defense also contained their offense enough as the Dawgs spoiled the Jackets best season in over two decades.

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Best Moment III: Independece Bowl: Texas A&M Game. After firing all but one defensive coach, most wondered how the defense would look as Garner and Richt coached the defense.

Well if it was a test, they passed with flying colors. Going against one of the best offenses in the nation, the Dawgs held them to 20 points.

This game was won however with special teams as Georgia forced a blocked field goal, a muffed punt, and a blocked punt. Also, Georgia returned a kick for touchdown.

Georgia came back from down 7-0 to lead 44-14 until the Aggies scored late to make the score closer.

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Worst Moment: Florida Game. It wasn't that bad because of the final score. Yes, it was bad, but almost every fan knew it was coming.

However, it was disappointing because one decision seemed to turn the fan base's thoughts on Mark Richt into a lost cause.

After continually getting worse the last three years, most fans were skeptical about Richt but still had faith we could return to 2002-2005 level of football.

Leading up to the game, Richt had said "he would have something to motivate the team." Unfortunately that "thing" was new jerseys that were not only hideous but also in the worst time possible. Georgia fans were still reeling from the embarrassment of the Alabama Blackout and didn't want to see new jerseys for a while.

Also, it seemed as if Richt was desperate and believed they would help the team. In one single decision, the perception of Richt completely changed.

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Worst Moment II: LSU Game. In a hard fought game, Georgia finally took the lead 13-12 with 1:09 on an amazing catch by A.J. Green. The crowd went crazy but the roar quieted quickly as the ref flagged Green for "excessive celebration."

It was a horrible call and it would cost Georgia the game as it gave LSU great field position to win the game. A couple plays later, LSU did just that with a 33 yard run by Charles Scott.

Worst Moment III: Tennessee Game. This game wasn't just a blow out, it was a straight up beatdown. How bad was it? I'll put it this way, Georgia never got inside Tennessee's 40 yard line.

Georgia scored off of interception returns and kickoff returns. When that is your offense, you are in trouble.

The Bulldogs only had 241 total yards while the Volunteers dominated on offense... with one play over and over.

Georgia fans have nightmares of the bootleg roll out to the right as Tennessee ran this play numerous times, all with positive results.

One of the worst quarterbacks in the SEC, Jonathon Crompton, had 20 completions on 27 attempts for 310 yards and four touchdowns.

Worst Moment IV: Kentucky Game. This game meant more as UGA VII died the week of the game. This game was supposed to be the tribute to the deceased mascot.

It started this way as Georgia dominated the first half up 20-6.

However, on the first play of the 2nd half, Branden Smith fumbled the opening kickoff and the downfall was on. Kentucky scored the final three scores to battle back to a 34 to 27 win.

To make it worse, Georgia dominated the game, out gaining the Wildcats by 200 yards on offense.

The game was over as Joe Cox had a meltdown for the ages to end the game, turning the ball over on 3 of the final 4 possessions.

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Biggest WTF Moment: After Georgia's Rennie Curran tips a Stephen Garcia pass to help the Georgia Bulldogs beat the South Carolina Gamecocks 41-37, two Georgia State Patrol Troopers guarding Steve Spurrier do the victorious fist bump.

Team Highlights:

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Honors:
Ray Guy Award (Nation's top punter): Drew Butler
Freshman All-American: TE Orson Charles
First Team All-SEC: LB Rennie Curran (AP, Coaches), P Drew Butler (AP, Coaches), WR A.J.Green (AP, Coaches), OT Clint Boling (AP), WR A.J. Green (AP)
Second Team All-SEC: OT Clint Boling (AP), PK Blair Walsh (AP, Coaches), DT Geno Atkins (AP, Coaches), DE Justin Houston (AP, Coaches), C Ben Jones (Coaches)
Coaches All-SEC Freshman Team: TE Orson Charles, DE Montez Robinson
AFCA National Good Works Team: DT Jeff Owens
Academic All-SEC: Cameron Allen, Taylor Bradberry, Drew Butler, Shaun Chapas, Joe Cox, Ricardo
Crawford, Matthew DeGenova, Trenton Dittmer, Kris Durham, Bryan Evans, Ty Frix, Chad Gloer, Jackson Griffith, A.J. Harmon, Dontavius Jackson, Andrew Jensen, Andrew Johnson, Ben Jones,
Kevin Lanier, Dallas Lee, Jeremy Longo, Zach Mettenberger, Aaron Murray, Casey Nickels, Craig Sager, Josh Sailors, Jordan Stowe, Trenton Turner, Jason Veal, Brandon Wheeling, Aron
White.
Academic All-District: P Drew Butler
2009 Senior Bowl: DT Jeff Owens, DT Geno Atkins


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[Nash]

Five Dawgs Who Could Surprise

By: David Hale

ATHENS, Ga. — Georgia announced it had placed five players on Phil Steele's All-America teams and 14 on his All-SEC teams. That's a pretty impressive tally, putting the Bulldogs on par with reigning national champ Alabama.

But while having 14 players make Steele's All-SEC teams, here's my question: Could there be more by season's end?

With that said, here are five players who didn't make Steele's preseason list who I think could turn into All-SEC caliber performers by year's end.

5. Branden Smith. If things fall right, Smith could find his name on the All-SEC teams twice at year's end. He's in line to earn a significant amount of time at corner -- and possibly the starting job -- and as a five-star recruit with blazing speed, there's no reason to think he won't develop into a legit playmaker. He could also end up returning punts this season and, if he avoids the fumbling problems he had last year, could turn in a Brandon Boykin-esque performance.

4. Akeem Dent. Last year was a lost one for Dent, but he made some nice strides in 2008 and appears to be fully healthy for 2010. He's the veteran leader of the linebacking corps, and he'll be counted on heavily in Todd Grantham's 3-4 defense. If he can turn in the type of senior season he's capable of having, that would be huge news for both Dent's future prospects in the NFL and for Georgia's defense as a whole.

3. Tavarres King. Perhaps Kris Durham should be here instead. Or maybe Marlon Brown or Rantavious Wooten. But someone is going to be the beneficiary of all the attention A.J. Green gets, which means there will be plenty of opportunities for another WR to step up and turn in a strong season.

2. Abry Jones. Any kid that impresses Rodney Garner within a few weeks of arriving on campus as a true freshman has to have something going for him. Jones is strong and fast and could be a force as a pass rusher in the 3-4. How well he holds up against the run as part of the new-look D line will likely be what defines his sophomore campaign, but the potential is definitely there.

1. Cornelius Washington. Justin Houston's inclusion on Steele's first-team All-SEC list was well deserved, but Washington -- the other starting OLB -- is going to be given a chance to shine this year, too. For one, his skill set makes him a perfect fit at OLB, whereas he was a bit out of place in the more traditional DE in a 4-3. Secondly, Houston had such a strong 2009 season that he'll have to command more attention from the opposition, which could help free things up for Washington. The sophomore showed flashes last season, had an excellent G-Day performance, and I'll be shocked if he doesn't become a consistent threat as a pass rusher in 2010.

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I should probably also include Caleb King on this list, but I'm guessing Phil Steele essentially flipped a coin on Georgia's running backs and went with Washaun Ealey as his rep. Odds are only one of the two will make an All-SEC team, but the chances are strong for either one. And, if by chance both prove to be All-SEC worthy by year's end, there's probably a good chance Georgia will be playing for an SEC title, too.


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Georgia's Ten Most Gut-Wrenching Losses Under Mark Richt Part One

Over the past ten seasons, the University of Georgia has had a lot of success under Head Coach Mark Richt. The Bulldogs have brought home championships, and have competed at a very high level.

Unforunately, like any football team, the Dawgs have also been victim to gut-wrenching losses. The kind of losses that cause true fans to crawl under a rock and mourn for a week, a year, or maybe forever.

This article ranks the top-ten most heartbreaking losses endured by Bulldog Nation under Mark Richt.

10. 2008: Florida 49, Georgia 10

This game was none other than a complete demolition.

What started as a 14-3 deficit for the Dawgs quickly evolved into a 49-10 beatdown at the hands of the hated Gators.

Matthew Stafford threw three interceptions, Knowshon Moreno lost a fumble, and Blair Walsh missed two field goals in the 39 point defeat which was and is the worst loss (point-wise) under Mark Richt.

Georgia had hoped to win the SEC East, but it all came to a end as Florida won for the 16th time in the last 19 meetings.

To make matters worse, Urban Meyer decided to call two timeouts in the final 44 seconds of the game.

No. 9 2008: Alabama 41, Georgia 31

College Gameday, National TV, Sanford Blackout... the Dawgs can't possibly lose a game with this setting, right? Wrong.

Bulldog Nation is reminded of the shocking 41-31 loss to Alabama in 2008 every time ESPN shows highlights of the Crimson Tide.

Georgia entered the match-up with an eleven-game win streak and was ranked third in the country. What was supposed to be a statement game turned into a reality check for Georgia's players and fans.

Alabama jumped out to a stunning 31 point lead before halftime (assisted by Georgia penalties that extended their drives).

Georgia fought back in the second half, but it was already over by then.

No. 8 2004: Tennessee 19, Georgia 14

The third ranked Bulldogs strutted into this game with a 17-game home win streak, a victory over defending SEC Champions LSU, and were looking to take control of the SEC East.

However, throughout the game, the Bulldogs were unable to run the ball successfully. They also had 82 yards worth of penalties and a missed 29 yard field goal.

With one second left in the game, on the Tennessee 19, Georgia had a chance to win the game, but David Greene threw an incompletion which handed the Volunteers their first victory over Georgia since 1999.

No. 7 2006: West Virginia 38, Georgia 35

Surprisingly, home-field advantage in the Georgia Dome and a great second half effort were not enough to help Georgia overcome a 28-0 deficit in the 2006 Sugar Bowl.

West Virginia and running back Steve Slaton gave the Georgia defense fits throughout the game. Slaton was unstoppable as he ran for 204 yards (a Sugar Bowl record) and three touchdowns.

Despite 14 points off of two Georgia fumbles, the Mountaineers allowed Georgia to get within three twice during the second half.

Early in the fourth quarter, though, West Virgina converted a 4th-and-6 which led to a 38-28 lead for the Mountaineers with eight minutes to go, eventually sealing the Bulldogs' fate.

No. 6 2006: Vanderbilt 24, Georgia 22

On this fateful day, historically weak Vanderbilt upset the historically powerful Georgia on homecoming. It was a two point loss that left the entire Bulldog Nation dazed and confused.

It was a two point loss that made a four point loss to Kentucky later in the season look reasonable.

Coming off a beatdown by Tennessee, Georgia lost to Vanderbilt on a 33 yard field goal with two seconds left. It was a loss that could have gone the other way if Georgia had made a 37 yard field goal and converted a two point conversion with five minutes remaining.

What make this loss even worse are two stats: The Bulldogs lost to Vanderbilt for the first time since 1994; and they lost to an unranked team for the first time since 2002.



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Georgia's Ten Most Gut-Wrenching Losses Under Mark Richt Part Two

Over the past ten seasons, the University of Georgia has had a lot of success under Head Coach Mark Richt. The Bulldogs have brought home championships, and have competed at a very high level.

Unforunately, like any football team, the Dawgs have also been victim to gut-wrenching losses. The kind of losses that cause true fans to crawl under a rock and mourn for a week, a year, or maybe forever.

This article ranks the top-ten most heartbreaking losses endured by Bulldog Nation under Mark Richt.

No. 5 2009: LSU 20, Georgia 13

Up until this point, both Georgia and LSU had their struggles.

At No. 4, LSU was looking to solidify itself as a top ten team. At No. 18, Georgia was looking to get the win that would boost them to yet another ten-win season.

Overall, this game was not hard to watch. Georgia found its running game, and seemed to be in it up until the end. Late in the 4th quarter, AJ Green caught an amazing touchdown pass that gave the Bulldogs a 13-12 lead, and sent Sanford Stadium into an absolute frenzy.

In the heat of the moment, Green drew a phantom excessive celebration penalty that will go down as one of the worst calls in Georgia football history.

On the ensuing kickoff, the penalty, along with poor coverage, gave the Tigers outstanding field position which led to a game-winning touchdown run by Charles Scott.

Poor officiating, poor tackling, and missed opportunities resulted in a heartbreaking for the Bulldogs.

No. 4 2009: Kentucky 34, Georgia 27

Last season, 14 second-half points off turnovers resulted in Kentucky's first win Between the Hedges in 32 years.

Despite a 20-6 halftime lead and gaining over 200 more total yards than Kentucky, Georgia could not hold on as it committed four turnovers and dropped to a miserable 6-5 on the season.

The Bulldogs had a chance to tie the game twice in the final two and half minutes, but a Washaun Ealey fumble at the one yard line, and a Joe Cox interception helped the Wildcats upset.

If you have never heard utter silence, you should have been in Sanford Stadium November 21, 2009.

No. 3 2005: Auburn 31, Georgia 30

If the Bulldogs had not won the SEC title in 2005, this easily could have been the No. 1 gut-wrenching loss under Mark Richt.

Two minutes left in the fourth quarter, 4th down-and-10, and up by two, the Bulldogs had this one in the bag.

But Auburn had other plans.

The Tigers converted the fourth down by completing a 62 yard pass to the Georgia three yard-line, and ran down the clock to hit a game-winning field goal.

The No. 9 Bulldogs walked off the field in shock after a one point loss to the hated Auburn Tigers.

No. 2 2002: Florida 20, Georgia 13

The 2002 loss to the Florida Gators is one that no Georgia fan ever wants to relive.

As if losing to the hated Gators were not enough, the Bulldogs also lost a shot at an undefeated season and a National Championship.

On this day, the Florida passing attack was seemingly unstoppable as Rex Grossman threw for 339 yards. Georgia was 0-13 on third down conversions, and led 13-12 in the fourth quarter.

After allowing a Florida touchdown, the Bulldogs had one last chance to tie the game with 2:23 left in the game. David Greene threw a pass to Terrence Edwards at the Florida 30, but on a day that was anything but lucky for the Bulldogs, Edwards proceeded to drop the pass.

After the game, Jon Stinchcomb, in tears, stated, "It's real unbearable. For the rest of our lives, all the seniors will know they never beat Florida."

No. 1 2008: Georgia Tech 45, Georgia 42

Here it is: The most gut-wrenching loss under Mark Richt.

In a season where nothing went as planned, the Bulldogs came into this game with hopes of having back-to-back 11 win, 2 loss, Top 10 seasons. Georgia also had the chance to tie Georgia Tech for the longest win streak in the series at eight games.

The first half started off predictably as the Bulldogs built themselves to a 16 point lead. However, Georgia's defense was pitiful and Georgia Tech's offense was ready to explode.

GT came out and dominated the third quarter. The Yellow Jackets finished the game with 409 rushing yards, and a three point victory over their arch-rivals.

The players took twigs from Sanford's hallowed hedges, and fans gave Bulldog Nation hell for the next 365 days.

What started out as a season destined for glory, ended with a loss to a team that had become irrelevant over the past seven years.

That is why the 2008 loss to Georgia Tech is the most heartbreaking.

Although I am focusing on the negative now, Part Three will be highlighting the biggest wins under Coach Richt.



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Position Preview: Quarterback

Going into the 2010 season, if there is an offensive position with a question mark, it is the quarterback position.

It can be the difference between an SEC Championship or a season like last year.

Last year, 5th year Senior Joe Cox was supposed to be the ultimate leader and bring Georgia football back to prominence. However, he just did not possess the talent necessary for SEC football. He threw 17 interceptions which was the most in Georgia history since 1984.

With Cox out, most fans were already penciling in Aaron Murray to win the starting job. Murray is the ultimate leader like Cox, he was known to study game films as if he was the starter last year even though he was redshirted. He was always paying attention and even helped transfer the playcall to the field by doing hand signals.

Unlike Cox however, Murray has the ability to compete. He was the number two quarterback coming out in 2008 behind Matt Barkley (USC's starting quarterback) and most believed he was the better of the two. He won the top quarterback award at the Elite 11 Quarterback camp.

His biggest strength is accuracy and mobility. He is great at throwing on the run and expect Georgia to run the shotgun more with Murray in.

Although short in stature, he has a huge heart and passion for the game. This was shown in his Senior year in High School when he broke his ankle late in the regular season. However, he came back in the playoffs, and led his team to a State Championship.

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The backup for Murray, will be Logan Gray. Gray was an above average prospect coming out of Missouri and was known for his speed. He helped the team any way he could: punt returns, kick coverage, trick play, he did it all.

However, in doing so much, he never truly developed quarterback skills. He still checks down to the flats way too often and defenses can read his eyes.

The worst example of this is the Florida game where Gray threw one of the worst interceptions ever to Brandon Spikes.

After realizing he was not going to start this year, Gray flirted with the idea of transferring to a smaller college to be the Big Man on Campus. However, he decided against it and is rumored to be moving to Wide Receiver this season.

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The main competitor for Murray, was Zach Mettenberger. Mettenberger was also a big time recruit and had been starting to get a feel for the quarterback position. He was however, suspended for a game for an undisclosed crime over his Spring Break in Remerton, Georgia.

The suspension ruined almost all his chances to be the starter until the annual G-Day Game (spring game) where Mettenberger put on a show and was by far the best quarterback on the field that day.

However, a week later, Mettenberger was dismissed from the team as the crime committed earlier became a sexual assault charge.

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The last quarterback in Hutson Mason, a true freshmen from Lassiter, Georgia. He wasn't originally going to be offered by Georgia but after rumors of Gray becoming a receiver arose, he was given a scholarship.

Mason had a superb Senior season where he threw 54 touchdowns.

Don't expect Mason to see the field though unless the injury bug hits Athens this year.


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Cuff's Speed Wows Coaches
By: Wayne Grandy

ATHENS, Ga. — Vance Cuff always had plenty of speed and had been clocked at 4.35 as a SuperPrep All-American cornerback and wide receiver at Colquitt County High in 2006.

That time had dropped to 4.28 after he got to Georgia, where he has played cornerback the last three seasons.

But Cuff wanted to drop that time even more his spring when he prepared for his two runs at Georgia’s “mini-combine.”

His first attempt produced an outstanding 4.27, but his reaction was, “That’s all I’ve dropped it in a year?”

His second run was better.

Much better.

With Bulldogs head coach Mark Richt looking on and confirming the time, Cuff ran an attention-getting 4.24, the fastest time ever recorded by a Georgia football player.

When his name was posted atop the list of former Bulldogs whose times he had surpassed, it was hard not to be impressed.

“There was Champ Bailey, Terrence Edwards, Fred Gibson,” Cuff said. “Those are guys I looked up to as a kid.

“It hasn’t soaked in yet.”

Cuff has been back in his hometown for the month of May, spending plenty of time with his mother and visiting with friends.

He also gets up every morning and goes to Snap Fitness, where he works out, getting ready for his senior season. He reports Thursday and summer workouts begin Friday.

The 5-11, 177-pounder wants to continue the work that led to Richt to calling him “the best of the corners in the spring.”

One of his biggest concerns this off-season has been to improve his hip flexibility and is planning to take some yoga classes in Athens.

Cuff is still looking for his first career interception and is expected to get plenty of opportunities at boundary corner. He will play on the short side of the field.

“I’ll play man-up on the Z receiver,” he said. “That’s where you want to be. You have their best receiver. I love that position. It’s so fun.

“But I’ve got to keep working. I just want to make some plays.”

Cuff appeared in nine games and made one start last season for the Bulldogs. He was credited with 21 tackles, including eight against Kentucky. He got his first career start in the victory over Georgia Tech.

But he missed four games with a sprained knee and hopes to be able to stay healthy for his final season of eligibility.

And he will play for a new defensive coordinator and secondary coach this season.

Cuff said he likes the style of play used by both coordinator Todd Grantham, who went to Athens from the Dallas Cowboys, and position coach Scott Lakatos.

“I love Coach Grantham,” Cuff said. “He is deep into it.

“He reminds me of Coach (Dextra) Polite (his seconary coach at Colquitt County High). He wants the ball. He wants you to go get the ball.”

Cuff said the new defense under Grantham and Lakatos suits his style of play.

“This is the style I was recruited to play,” he said. “I just need to go out there and react and make plays.”

Last week, Cuff conducted a camp at the Moultrie YMCA for young players, showing them ways to improve their speed and agility and appeared to enjoy the interaction with the youngsters.

“I know when I was a kid, I would have loved having something like that,” he said.

After his outstanding career at Colquitt County and signing with Georgia, Cuff was unsure about when he would get go to Athens.

There was some uncertainty about whether some of his high school courses would be approved by the NCAA Clearinghouse.

Those problems were resolved, and he remembers the support he received during that time not only from the Georgia football staff, but also from the university’s administration.

And he made the most of his time at Georgia, both in the classroom and on the field.

Majoring in housing and consumer economics with a minor in property management, Cuff made the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll and the Dean’s List for the summer semester.

He was on track to graduate in December, but when he decided to add the minor, it moved his graduation up to next May.

Cuff says he hopes to play well enough to be invited to the NFL Combine next year, but if not, he will leave Georgia armed with a degree.

Asked about his decision to accept the football scholarship at Georgia, Cuff said, “It was a great decision. It’s worked out perfectly.”

He said he runs into a number of former Colquitt County High classmates in Athens, including Tyler Mobley, Matt DeMott, Michael Murray, Marshall Faircloth and Bulldog divers Hannah Moore and Owen Blank.

And he is aware that current Packer offensive tackle Xzavier Ward has a scholarship offer from Georgia. The 6-foot-7, 260-pounder has a number of others as well.

“I told him that’s a big decision and it’s decision you have to make,” Cuff said. “But I know we’d love to have him.”

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Position Preview: Running Back

Going into last year, the Bulldogs were expecting a dynamic duo at the running back position. However, that duo was not King and Ealey; it was Richard Samuel and Carlton Thomas.

Samuel had all the raw talent in the world. He was the fastest back, he was the strongest, and just ran the most powerful. He was lacking three necessary traits though: field vision, balance, and ball security. Samuel would more likely run straight at a defender than through the gaping hole. You touched him, he fell to the ground. You touched him hard enough, the ball would be jarred loose. Samuel slowly was phased out of the offense and is now a linebacker for the defense (he was a 5 star recruit at linebacker in high school).

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The other back expected to make an impact was Carlton Thomas. Thomas was a quick scat back that with his small height (5'7") would be hidden behind our offensive line. He was by far the most talked about going into preseason and did not disappoint in the Spring Game.

However, with his small size comes the prone to be injured and fumble. Although he never looked bad in game time, he was simply too small for SEC football as he fumbled often.

However, after putting on weight, Georgia fans expect Thomas to make some big plays at running back and punt returner this year and could potentially make the duo a trio by the end of the year.

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Now on to the duo of running backs that will lead Georgia's offense: Caleb King and Washaun Ealey.

King coming out of high school was supposed to be the next big back coming out of Athens. He dominated every Gwinnett County (SEC football recruiting hot bed) High School football team coming out of Parkview High. He rushed for the most yards in state history (yes, more than Herschel Walker) his Junior Year and then his Senior year transferred to GAC, a private school that was a football powerhouse. However, he broke his tibia during the season.

As a freshmen at Georgia, he didn't look anything like the superstar back in high school. He was timid, afraid to make cuts, and avoided contact. He just lost the feel for the game it seemed and was obvious he wasn't the same back he was in high school before the injury. However, he continued to get playing time until he missed a key block in the Florida game where he didn't play for the rest of the season.

Over the offseason, he worked on his pass blocking and kept telling everyone he felt healthy for the first time since his Senior year. However, those rumors faded quickly as reports of fatigue in his hamstring came out. King missed the first part of the season, and finally was healthy for the LSU game.

However on just his 8th carry, he broke his jaw and received a concussion.

King continued to run and eventually became healthy and had a breakout season. His best game was the Georgia Tech game in which he ran for 170 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries. King finished the year with the most touchdowns (seven) and the second most rushing yards.

Look for him to build on last season as he becomes healthier and more comfortable behind a dominant offensive line.

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The latter of of the duo is Washaun Ealey. Coming out of Emanuel County Institute, a small high school in Georgia, Ealey was one of the most talked about recruits in Georgia. He set the Georgia high school single season record with 58 touchdowns in 2007 and finished his high school career with 8,108 rushing yards and a state record 133 touchdowns, 22 more than the previous record.

Ealey wasn't looked for anything as a freshmen but as he started to play in the LSU game, more and more Georgia faithful started to compare him to previous back Knowshon Moreno. They had similar sounding first names, both wore the same number (24) and both played with a similar passion for the game.

Also, like Moreno, Ealey was flat out good. In just seven games, he ran for 728 yards and three touchdowns. Every game seemed to be better than his last game and expectations are sky high for the Sophomore this year.

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The darkhorse for some playing time behind King and Ealey is Dontavius Jackson. He struggles to stay healthy (only appeared in one game last year), but when healthy, watch out.

He looked superb at the end of the game against Vanderbilt and in this year's Spring Game. If he can stay healthy, then expect him to make his way into some playing time.

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Position Preview: Wide Receiver

Just a few years ago (I'm talking to you 2006), this position was a weakness on the team. Dropped passes, missed assignments, and many other failures occurred regularly.

Now, the position is one of the biggest strengths on the team.

The corp has star power in A.J. Green, and overall depth with a blend of different styles. They can go for a bigger style receiving group by playing A.J. Green (6'4), Kris Durham (6'5), and Marlon Brown (6'5), or they could try to go to a speed group by playing A.J. Green (4.37 40 Yd dash), Tavarres King (4.37), and Rantavious Wooten (4.38).

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You can't mention Georgia without talking about A.J. Green. Green is widely considered to be the best wide receiver in the nation. He blends height (6'4"), speed (4.37 40 Yd dash), hands, and route running.

He is almost a Randy Moss clone as he can outjump you and outrun you and is nearly unstoppable when healthy.

In fact, before being injured in the Florida game, Green was averaging nearly six receptions, a hundred yards, and a touchdown a game. However, injuries ended an amazing season as he missed the last two games of the regular season with an AC Sprain (same injury as Sam Bradford).

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The real question for this position is who will line up opposite of Green. It could be one of numerous players but the leader right now is Tavarres King.

King, a hometown hero, is a speed demon mixed with fantastic route running. In fact, Georgia coaches regard him as one of the best route runners they've ever coached.

King started last year and he posted 18 catches for 377 yards (yes, an average of 20.9 yards per catch) and a touchdown.

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The dark horse for the second starting spot is Kris Durham. Durham has been a solid player for the Dawgs for many years and it seems as if many people forget that he is still on the team because he missed all of last season with a torn shoulder. However, he received a medical redshirt as a Senior.

Durham, is a big guy (6-5. 209 lbs) and deceptively quick. He is also a big play receiver and in 2008 had 13 catches for 199 yards and a touchdown.

In this year's Spring Game he caught three passes for 54 yards.

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Another candidate is Rantavious Wooten. Wooten was a prized recruit and put together a solid freshmen season 10 receptions and 197 yards with two touchdowns.

He is a quick receiver and has a knack for making a key catch at big time situations. He was clutch but his body size (5-10, 170 lbs) is more conducive to the slot receiver.

No matter where he plays, he is going to make some key plays in Athens this season.

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The player that could have a huge breakout season this season is Marlon Brown. If that name sounds familiar, its because he was one of the biggest recruits just a season ago.

However, he came in and needed to adjust to SEC football. Playing at a little school in Tennessee, Brown only needed to know two routes (streak and screen) to dominate. When he came into Athens, he struggled to pick up the playbook and routes.

Coach Mark Richt put this perfectly saying in high school he was a "man among boys" and now he is playing against other men. However, after a season at Georgia, reports are that Brown has improved greatly and could be a huge playmaker this season.

At 6'5, he blends power and physicality which is the perfect counter to Green's style. He plays very similar to Anquan Boldin of the Baltimore Ravens.


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Position Preview: Tight End

If in the last decade USC is Running Back U, Ohio State is Wide Receiver U, and Miami is Defensive Back U, then Georgia is Tight End U.

"It's just the tradition that started when Coach Mark Richt got here," Martrez Milner said. "He gets the ball to the tight end."

Every year it seems Georgia has an amazing tight end. From Randy McMichael to Ben Watson to Jermaine Wiggins to Leonard Pope, talent has never been missing.

This year is no different as UGA is absolutely loaded at tight end with quality and quantity.

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Georgia will use two tight end formations so the first starter for the Bulldogs is Aron White. White started 12 games for the team in 2009 and recorded 13 receptions for 198 yards and 4 touchdowns.

His highlight of his career is the bowl game last year where he was named the Most Outstanding Offensive Player after his two touchdown performance.

White was injured early on in his career but is a good combination of a blocker and receiving threat.

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The other starter could end up being All-SEC if all things go right in Orson Charles.

Charles was the third leading receiver on the team as a true freshmen with 374 yards on 23 receptions and three touchdowns.

He is a physical specimen with the size of a tight end (6-3, 230 lbs) and the speed of a wide receiver. If you were to compare him to an NFL player, Antonio Gates comes to mind. He was often lined up wide last season to spread the defense out and be a nightmare problem.

Charles quickly earned the Bulldogs nation heart even before he stepped onto campus when in a recruiting visit to Florida, he accidentally dropped their 2006 National Championship Trophy causing it to shatter.

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An unknown for the position is sophomore Arthur Lynch. Lynch is massive at 6'5, 250 lbs and is already one of the top blockers at the position. In fact, he played in 11 games last year just because he made an impact in the running game.

However, after a season, he might have become a receiving threat too as he caught two passes for 51 yards and a touchdown. He also looked noticeably quicker while running routes.

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Finally, the darkhorse at the tight end position is Bruce Figgins. Figgins started 24 games in 2007 and 2008 but was suspended for the first half of the 2009 season and then after being injured to end his season, he received a redshirt.

Now after White and Charles both had spectacular seasons last season, Figgins is buried in the depth chart.

Figgins is by far the best blocker of the group and could quickly work his way into the rotation again this season.

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Position Preview: Offensive Line

Finally, barring injury, is the year the Georgia Bulldogs have been waiting for in the offensive line.

Everyone is relatively healthy after years of the injury bug. Now, the Georgia line has experience and incredible depth. With all five starters and three key backups (all who have started numerous games in multiple positions) returning, the Dawgs look to finally have the success the team has shown in spurts the last couple of years.

This line goes back to 2007 where injuries and youth led to multiple freshmen (three) having to start on the offensive line. The line gelled and behind Knowshon Moreno rushed for 177 yards per game. The star of the line was freshman Trinton Sturdivant who showed true NFL potential at left tackle.

In 2008, Georgia lost two starters and then lost Sturdivant to a torn ACL in the opening game against Georgia Southern. This made the line incredibly young once again with two sophomores and three freshmen making the offensive line. Likewise, the numbers dropped significantly to 148 rushing yards per game. However, it gave young players valuable playing time.

Last year, all five starters returned in addition to Vince Vance (6 starts until injured) and Trinton Sturdivant giving it the potential to be the best line since 2005. Unfortunately, Sturdivant tore his ACL once again in the opening game against Oklahoma State. In addition, right tackle Josh Davis missed the first six games with injury. Still, the line improved to 161 rushing yards per game. The real strength of the line was in protection though where they led the SEC with only 12 sacks allowed. The numbers however, are very misleading because once Josh Davis returned, they averaged 243 rushing yards per game.

This year, the line is finally healthy and ready to unleash hell on the SEC. It has quality and quantity and was ranked the top offensive line in the country by Phil Steele.

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The success of the line starts with the center Ben Jones. The junior is a fiery competitor who is now famous for the eating of Georgia Tech's grass after last year's win. He was a little disappointing last year just because of his spectacular freshmen campaign.

His best moment came in his freshmen moment when matched up against Mount Cody of Alabama. It was his sink-or-swim moment early on and he definitely passed the test. Jones should atleast be on the 2nd Team All-SEC team by the end of the year.

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Perhaps the most talented player for the Dawg's line is Clint Boling. He might just be the most versatile linemen in the nation and that is what has NFL scouts drooling.

He started in all 13 games last year but played the first 6 games at right tackle, then he made a start at right guard vs. Vanderbilt, and then started the final six games at left tackle.

He is incredibly gifted and once he moved to left tackle, the running game was dominant. He is predicted to be 1st Team All-SEC at left tackle and 3rd Team All-American.

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On the opposite side of Boling is junior Justin Anderson. Anderson is finally entrenched at right tackle since Boling's move.

Last year, Anderson started five games and looked solid in his time.

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The interior of Georgia's line is a major strength with two solid guards.

The first guard is Cordy Glenn. Glenn is very mobile for his size (6-5, 330 lbs) and versatile is similar to Boling in which he spent time at right guard and left tackle before starting the last eight games at left guard.

Glenn is a major force in the toss sweep running play and Georgia runs it often to take advantage of his mobility on the pull. He is predicted to finish 2nd Team All-SEC.

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At right guard is Chris Davis. Davis is much smaller than Glenn (6-4, 295 lbs) but is also very versatile. He started the first seven games at left guard before moving to right guard for the final five games.

Davis is a lock for the offensive line however and is seen as a leader after starting all but one game going into his senior season.

He is predicted to finish 3rd Team All-SEC.

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The Dawgs' however go eight deep on the line and the first backup is Josh Davis. He will mostly play at right tackle and has seen starting experience having started the final six games last season.

Even if he doesn't start, he will definitely appear in most games as his talent is too good to leave off the field.

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The second backup is Tanner Strickland. Strickland was a prized recruit and had seen tons of game time through special teams and other opportunities. Last year, he was making a push to start at left guard before he tore his Labrum lifting weights in the off-season.

The injury caused him to miss the entire season, but luckily he was able to earn a redshirt giving him two more years of eligibility.

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The final person is the wildcard of the entire offensive line. When healthy, he is the best player on the line. The problem is, however, that he hasn't been healthy in two years. The player of course is Trinton Sturdivant.

Sturdivant was named to the Freshmen All-American team in 2007 after putting together a remarkable season. He started all 13 games and helping the Dawgs' finish 2nd in the nation. NFL scouts were salivating at his talent and athletic ability and he was considered a lock for a first rounder.

However, in off-season drills in 2008, he completely blew out his knee causing to miss the entire season. It was a huge blow to the offensive line and the team struggled. Sturdivant was bound and determined to make it back for the 2009 season however. He recovered from a year and a half long injury in just ten months to make the start at left tackle last season against Oklahoma State.

Unfortunately, that start turned into a nightmare as on the opening drive, he tore all the ligaments in his knee again. He was once again out for the season and now many fans consider what is left for him.

He has once again returned healthy and as a redshirt Junior, still has some time to fight his way back into the starting depth chart. But the question is, what talent does he have now? Is he the same mobile big ugly that created havoc in 2007? Or is he a shell of his former shelf after two major surgeries? The answer to these questions will soon be answered and if he can return to previous form, he could lift the line even more to unthinkable heights.

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[Nash]

Position Preview: Defensive Line

Probably the second most important position behind only quarterback is the defensive line. After losing four key contributors and changing defensive schemes, nobody really knows exactly what to expect or who will play in fact.

For the Dawgs' to be successful this year, this line will have to step up and make huge plays for the team.

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One of the only known starters is DeMarcus Dobbs. Dobbs played defensive end in the 4-3 but always was too big to be a real contributor. However, after making the switch to a 3-4, the 274 pounder is the perfect size at the position.

Dobbs is a playmaker that can move generally well for his size and in fact returned an interception over 70 yards for a touchdown in 2008.

Dobbs contributed some last year with 20 tackles and a couple of sacks.

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Lining opposite of Dobbs should be sophomore Abry Jones. Jones was a huge recruit a couple of years ago and is also perfect size for a end in the scheme (6-3, 290 lb).

He was recruited to be a defensive tackle but is now too small to play that under Grantham. However, he has plenty of quickness to move over this season.

Last season, in minimal game time he had eight tackles and a sack.

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At nose tackle should be DeAngelo Tyson. Tyson lacks the ideal size (6-2, 294 lb) but has enough strength to play at the position.

In 2008, Tyson was named to the Freshmen All-SEC team after recording 11 tackles and five quarterback hurries.

In 2009, Appeared in 13 games recording 12 tackles and five quarterback pressures. The reason his numbers didn't improve as much as they could have is mainly due to game time. He was playing with three now NFL defensive tackles in Jeff Owens, Geno Atkins, and Kade Weston.

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A true sleeper for the nose tackle position is Kwame Geathers. Although Grantham has shown he can use an undersized player here and excel in Jay Ratliff of the Dallas Cowboys, he would still prefer a massive player here. His defense is similar to Alabama's or New England's and their system is effective because of Mount Cody and Vince Wilfork.

Well, Geathers is already 6'6" and 326 lbs as a redshirt freshmen. He seems like the perfect fit size wise for the 3-4 defense.

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Backing up Abry Jones could be senior Brandon Wood. Wood is low on production but he never quite fit into the 4-3 scheme. The move to the 3-4 could be a big plus for him.

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[Nash]

Position Preview: Linebackers

The last couple of seasons, this unit has been a weakness on the defense. However, even after losing tackling maching Rennie Curran, the position should improve dramatically.

This is mostly due to coaching. Under former Defensive Coordinator Willie Martinez, the players were taught to just play defense passively and react to the other team. Now under linebackers coach Warren Belin, the players are taught to attack attack attack. Blitzes will come from every angle and this group should finally become the aggressor.

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The best player in the linebacking unit wasn't even a linebacker last year. But don't sleep on former defensive end Justin Houston. Houston's size is perfect for the outside linebacker position and should excel.

Last year, Houston was 2nd Team All-SEC after a season of 7.5 sacks which was 2nd most in the SEC. This year he could be an even bigger force and is predicted to finish 1st Team All-SEC.

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With most of the attention going to Houston off the edge, the other side will be crucial to continually get pressure. This responsibility is given to Cornelius Washington, otherwise known as "The Freak."

And a freak he is, at 6'4", 260 pounds, he still runs a 4.29 40 yard dash time (2nd best on the entire team). Washington also ran a 10.8 100m in the state track competition as a senior in high school. In addition, he has a ridiculous 38 inch vertical jump (2nd highest on team), and can bench 225 pounds 26 times (6th best on team). All of this from another converted defensive end too.

So everyone knows how athletic Washington is, now it just needs to show up on the field on Saturdays in Athens. Last year, opposite of Houston on the line, he had four sacks as a freshmen.

Expect his production to increase astronomically as teams focus on Houston.

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At inside linebacker expect one starter to be Marcus Dowtin. Dowtin only started in four games and played most season with a club on his hand. Still, he was third on the team with 57 tackles. He is a solid player for a Junior and could explode in the right situation.

He is predicted to finish 3rd Team All-SEC by Phil Steele and this is a real possibility.

Expect Dowtin to blow up this season.

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The final starter of the front seven should be Senior Akeem Dent. Dent is very talented and has been either very productive or horrible. In 2008, he had ten tackles against Alabama and last year he had eleven against rival Georgia Tech.

He has good speed and could should again see some increase in production under good coaching.

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The biggest question mark in the group is definitely Richard Samuel. Samuel was the starting running back last year for the first five games before slowly being faded out of the rotation.

He was big, fast, strong, just overall extremely athletic. The problem was he had no balance and would much rather truck people as hard as possible than run into the hole. So what do you do with him?

Luckily, Samuel was a 5-Star Linebacker in high school so Richt decided to move him to his old position in the offseason. Samuel has regained his fundamentals and could be an absolute force if this works.

It is almost as if Georgia gained a 5-Star recruit in him this offseason.

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Another player that should see the field somehow is Darryl Gamble. Gamble started eleven games last year and recorded 47 tackles including a season-high nine against South Carolina.

Gamble is most known for returning two interceptions for touchdowns against LSU in 2008. The first came on the opening play of the game where he read the quarterbacks eyes and met the ball before the receiver could.

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Backing up Houston on the outside should be prized recruit T.J. Stripling. Stripling needs to put on some weight but his speed is remarkable off the line and should be a force in a couple of years.

He reminds some scouts of a young Michael Johnson of Georgia Tech and should play on coverage teams and as a pass rusher on third downs as a true freshman.

The earlier he is able to put on weight, the sooner he will be an every-down starter. Stripling has the makings of a multiple all-league performer.

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[Nash]

Position Preview: Cornerbacks

Their is no doubt the Dawg's have the top tier talent here at corner, the question is the depth of the group.

The main loss in the group from last year was Prince Miller and it wasn't like Miller was a world beater. The main weakness other than depth at this position is youth. It is very young with new players being thrust into action.

However, the removal of Willie Martinez along with the hiring of former UCONN defensive back coach Scott Lakatos should make the group fundamentally sound. Lakatos has a reputation as being one of the best in the business bringing the Huskies' pass defense to being one of the best in the nation.

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The potential star/star in the making of the group is junior Brandon Boykin. Boykin is a freak of nature with the best broad jump on the team (11’ 4.5”) to go along with a 41 inch vertical. He is also a monster in special teams where he returned an SEC record three kickoffs 100 yards for touchdowns.

Boykin started 12 games with 54 tackles, six pass break-ups and three interceptions.

Boykin has shown the potential to be the next great corner for the Dawgs.

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The "best" corner on the team as of the Spring according to Lakatos however was unknown Vance Cuff. Cuff was a better fit for an attacking defense but struggled under Martinez's bend-but-don't-break defense.

However now he might finally live up to his potential as a Senior.

The biggest number that stands out with him is the eye-popping 4.24 40 yard dash time he posted in the Spring. The time was the fastest in Georgia Football since former corner Champ Bailey.

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The probable nickel corner is Branden Smith. Smith was a huge recruit a couple seasons ago and did not disappoint in his Freshman year.

Smith only made 14 tackles but that was mostly because nobody threw at him. He locked down the slot receiver and could move to the far boundary corner this year if necessary.

He is a known play maker who plays on offense and special teams too giving a full impact. Georgia tries to implement him in numerous ways because he is scary quick. His most memorable play was again South Carolina. He looked like a shot out of a cannon on a reverse. Youtube it, believe me, you won't be disappointed.

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A player that could excel in the new defense is sophomore Sanders Commings. Commings has the size (6-2, 214 lbs) to be a physical force at corner in the 3-4.

He played in every game last year and saved his best for last. In the bowl game, Martinez and all but one defensive coach had been fired so the lone defensive coach called the plays and wanted a physical defense.

Commings had three tackles and his first career interception in the game.

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Two corners who could potentially work their way into the rotation are redshirt freshmen Jordan Love and junior Jakar Hamilton.

Love was one of the top corners in the 2008 recruiting classes but needed a redshirt last year.

Hamilton was one of the best Junior College players last year and is an extremely hard hitter. In fact, his nickname is "The Hitman." Hamilton's natural position is safety but moved to corner because of lack of depth.

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[Nash]

Position Preview: Safeties

Just like the cornerback position, the Georgia Safeties have talent, just not a lot of depth. If healthy, they have the potential to make one of the best secondaries in the nation. The tricky part is if or when players get banged up.

Last year, the safeties were incredibly disappointing. Reshad Jones had all the physical tools to be an All-American but was more concentrated on getting the "big hit" rather than the smart play. Opposite of him was Bryan Evans. Evans played corner his Junior year and was often the target for quarterbacks. However, his Senior year, Richt decided he would be better fit for safety. Well... he was not. It was just as bad but he continued to play for an unknown reason.

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The best safety on the team is by far Bacarri Rambo. Not only does he have the best name, he has the most talent. In limited time last year (he should have played MUCH more), he made 25 tackles, five pass break-ups and two interceptions as a redshirt Freshman.

Expect his numbers to blow up now as a starter and a year older. In fact, Rambo is predicted to be an All-SEC candidate at safety.

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Lining opposite Rambo is the real question. Some people think it will be Junior College transfer Jakar Hamilton. Hamilton is a big time hitter and could be the physical force the Dawgs need in the secondary.

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Another candidate is true freshman Alec Ogletree. Ogletree was a huge recruit and has tons of potential. He is infamous for his high school career as he singlehandedly beat the top team in the state and one of the best in the nation (Grayson High) in the State Playoffs. He had two interceptions, an unbelievable one handed touchdown catch, and he blocked the would have been game-winning kick at the end of the game.

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A player that when healthy is Quintin Banks. The problem is he is never healthy. He has battled injuries his whole career so don't expect him to be any different this year.

However, if he was, he could be a real difference maker.

Still, Banks has only appeared in five games in the last two years so it is doubtful.

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[Nash]

Georgia AD Damon Evans Arrested For DUI
Mark Schlabach | ESPN.com

ATHENS, Ga. -- University of Georgia athletic director Damon Evans was arrested Wednesday night in Atlanta on suspicion of DUI, Georgia State Patrol spokesman Gordy Wright told ESPN.com Thursday.

Wright said a state trooper pulled over Evans' 2009 BMW and detected an odor of alcohol in the car. Wright said the trooper administered a field sobriety test and placed Evans under arrest on charges of DUI and failure to maintain lane.

Wright said Evans later refused to take a Breathalyzer test at an Atlanta jail.

Wright said a passenger in Evans' car was also arrested. Wright didn't have the identity of the passenger and didn't know why the passenger was arrested, and said the information wouldn't be available until an incident report was completed later Thursday.

A person at the Atlanta Pre-Trial Detention Center said Evans was released from the facility early Thursday morning.

Evans, who was named Georgia's athletic director in 2003, couldn't immediately be reached for comment.

A Georgia spokesman said the school was aware of reports of Evans' arrest. Evans and Georgia officials will appear at a press conference on campus Thursday evening.

Evans was only 34 years old when he was hired to replace longtime Georgia athletic director and football coach Vince Dooley, who was forced out after a contentious contract dispute with school president Michael Adams.

Evans has been honored multiple times by Street and Smith's Sports Business Journal and was named one of Sports Illustrated's "101 Most Influential Minorities in Sports."

In 2009, he was named The Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year for the Division I Southeast Region.

Evans, who played wide receiver at Georgia from 1988-92, received a five-year contract extension in February that raised his annual salary to $550,000. His new salary was set to take effect on Thursday.

At the time the school's athletics board awarded Evans a new contract, Adams told reporters: "He's already become a nationally recognized figure in athletics, and we are fortunate to have him. I think he's done an extraordinary job. ... And there's not been a whiff of impropriety during that six-year period. If you're the president of an institution, that means a whole lot."

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[Nash]

More Details Come Out From Evans' Night
Dean Legge | dawgpost.com

ATHENS, Ga. -- An incident report filed by the Georgia State Patrol describes the allegations against Damon Evans in detail.

According to Georgia State Patrol Officer M. Cabe, Evans had a slow, mumbled speech pattern and watery and bloodshot eyes and a strong alcoholic breath the night of his arrest. The arresting officer alleges that Evans “kept his left heel on the ground almost the entire test, even after instructed him to approximately 6 inches off the ground.”

After pulling Evans over, Cabe alleges that Evans “fumbled through his cards and dropped some of the items before giving me his license. I also noticed that the subject (Evans) had a red pair of lady’s panties between his legs.”

Cabe then stated that Evans told him that he’d had “a couple of drinks”, but that he “felt pretty good.” Cade then states that he repeatedly told the passenger, Counrtney Fuhrmann, “not to get out of the car again” after she had done so many times before. Cabe then reports that he was instructing Evans when Fuhrmann “began yelling out the driver’s side window. Ms. Fuhrmann got out of the car again. I told Ms. Fuhrmann to get back into the vehicle, and that if she got out again, I would place her under arrest.”

Cade then stated that Evans told him that Fuhrmann “was only trying to protect (Evans).” Moments later, according to Cade, Fuhrmann left the car once more. The officer then place her under arrest.

Cade then stated that Evans told him that: “I have a young lady, and she is intoxicated and I am just trying to get her home. I apologize, and don’t want to use my influence but she is trying to protect me.”

Cade then alleges that when he tried to place the Georgia AD under arrest that Evans “pulled away from me and kept trying to turn around.” Cade then states that Evans refused to “a request for his breath.”

Then, according to Cade, Evans said: “I am not trying to bribe you, but I am the Athletic Director at the University of Georgia.” Cade said that Evans then started to cry. “I didn’t think I was that drunk,” Evans said according to Cade.

Cade then asked about the red panties. He said Evans replied: “She took them off and I held them because I was just trying to get her home.”

Cade then said Evans said he understood what was going on, but stated: “I don’t want to use who I am, but I would just like ask that you take me to a Motel.” Cade then reported that Evans said: “We go though life and we all drink and jump in a car. I felt I was good, but maybe not. But I am not trying to bribe you, but is there anything you can do without arresting me?”

Evans denied a relationship with Fuhrmann, Cade said. Cade then stated in his report that Fuhrmann was upset with Evans “because he was going to get off and she was not.” Cade then said Evans asked if he could write a warning, but the officer refused.

Cade, in his report, then says he asked Fuhrmann “how long they had been seeing each other”. He said Fuhrmann replied: “only a week or so.” She then said, according to Cade, “it will be erased because he is the Athletic Director at UGA, and he had that power.”

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[Nash]

Evans' Contract Could Be Costly
Dean Legge | dawgpost.com

ATHENS, Ga. --The contract stipulates that Adams does have the ability to remove Evans at any time, and without cause, but that action would be costly – perhaps potentially costing the University $2,950,000 if Evans remained unemployed until 2015 and did not agree to a settlement.

Also, it appears Adams would have a difficult time firing Evans and keeping all of the money due because the president would have to fire the AD “with cause”. The DUI Evans is accused of may or not be legally considered “with cause” depending on a court’s interpretation of language included in the contract.

Still, Evans seems to have, at a minimum, broken with the sprit of the contract with his recent behavior. In the first paragraph of section 2.01, regarding “Employment”, Evans agreed “to give (his) best efforts, and loyalty to the University and to act at all times on and off campus with appropriate recognition for the fact that the reputation of the University also depends in part on public respect for and approval of those persons associated with its athletics programs.”

Dawg Post obtained Evans’ new contract through a Freedom of Information Act request. The contract was signed on April 14th and lays out compensation for Evans as well as Adams’ options should he choose to discipline or even terminate the AD.

Evans agreed to a contract that is set to terminate on June 30, 2015. He and the University may negotiate a new contract as early as July 1, 2014. According to section 4.01 of the contract, it is “anticipated” that Evans will make $550,000 this fiscal year; $570,000 next FY; $590,000 in FY 2013; $610,000 in FY 2014; and $630,000 in the final year of the contract.

Evans is entitled to “two full-sized automobiles for business and personal use” for himself and his immediate family. He also receives an annual allowance of $800 for “gas, maintenance and insurance incurred in operating the automobiles.” Georgia also pays for all country club expenses “and costs associated with using the membership excluding one-half monthly dues.”

Evans is due a $15,000 bonus per year for any year in which Georgia ranks “in the top one-third of the Graduation Success Rate in the Southeastern Conference as determined by the NCAA.” The Bulldogs’ GSR was second best in the SEC for the last academic year.

According to section 4.03 (d) of the contract, Evans is due a longevity bonus of $100,000 “within 30 days after July 1, 2011.” If Evans stayed on until July 1, 2015 he would be due another longevity bonus of $250,000 .

TERMINATION:

There are multiple scenarios for termination or even suspension without pay in the contract, but none of them specifically include dismissal for being arrested for DUI.

Termination for Cause

Section 5.01 (b) (3) may be the most likely clause that would allow Adams to fire Evans “for cause” for the matter in Atlanta the night of June 30th, but that seems unclear – or even unlikely given recent court interpretations of language used in the contract.

The contract states that Evans can be terminated for “conviction of (Evans) of a felony or a crime of moral turpitude.” Even if Evans is convicted of the DUI he is accused of, that alone would not be cause for termination per the contract “for cause” as a DUI under Georgia law is not considered a felony.

A crime of “moral turpitude”, according to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, does not include driving under the influence, but that may be left up to a court to decide.

Termination without Cause

Georgia may end the contract, according to section 5.01 (c), “without cause and for its convenience prior to its expiration”. If Adams and the University were to do so, they would have to give Evans 30 days notice.

He would be entitled to “liquidated damages”, as laid out in section 5.01 (d), which would only include the “base salary for the remainder of the term of the Agreement then in effect.” The payments from Georgia to Evans would be made monthly. If he Evans is dismissed before July 1, 2011 he would not be eligible for the $100,000 or $250,000 longevity bonuses included in the contract.

If Evans was terminated without cause he would be able to retain health insurance through Georgia, but he would have to pay for the costs out of pocket. He would not be entitled to any bonuses or vehicles from Georgia.

Section 5.01 (d) also states: “the parties further agree that the payment of such liquidated damages… shall constitute adequate and reasonable compensation to (Evans) for the damages and injuries suffered by (Evans) because of such termination by the Association.”

But the contract requires that if Evans is terminated without cause that he must “make reasonable and diligent efforts to obtain equivalent employment.” Once Evans gets a new job Georgia’s “obligation to pay the full amount liquidated damages… shall be reduced by the amount of the minimum guaranteed annual salary” of the new job.

Suspension for Criminal or Other Charges

Section 5.01 (h) allows for Evans to be suspended, but only for “indictment or information being filed against (Evans) charging a felony”.

Termination by Athletic Director

Evans, who didn’t not resign Thursday and said he hadn’t thought of resigning, is allowed to leave his post according to section 5.01 of the Agreement. If Evans changes his mind, he must give Adams 30 days written notice. If he terminated the contract in that manner Evans would be due no money.

However, the contract seems to address any obligation Evans would have to Georgia if he terminated the Agreement predicated on the assumption that he would be leaving for another position… not if he just decided to quit:

“Because of the difficulty of quantifying these damages, (Evans) hereby agrees that he, either personally or through his then-employer, will make a lump sum payment equal to one half of one full year of his then current Annual base salary (e.g. $550,000 in 2010) to the Association… which is the parties reasonable estimation of the Association’s loss if (Evans) terminates the contract prior to June 30, 2015.”

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