It's the Sunday after college football's opening Saturday, which means it's time for second guessing, ridicule and unqualified analysis. We have a lot to cover.
First off, the No.1 Georgia Bulldogs opened their season against Georgia Southern in Athens. First off, let me just say that the tailgating scene on North Campus looked more like a big-time SEC game than a season opener against a FCS Subdivision team.
The pregame festivities were pretty much the same as last season. The most interesting part was probably the introduction of "Loran's Best", or Uga VII as he's known to Dawg fans. After a solemn video montage in honor of Uga VI, we witnessed what was called (and I can't make this up) a "transfer of power." Uga VII was officially the new mascot and proceeded to pass out on a giant bag of ice for most of the game.
The game itself went much as expected. Georgia scored on their first posession and several posessions after that. AJ Green made a solid debut, including an acrobatic touchdown grab from Joe Cox. Knowshon Moreno battle cramps on his way to three touchdowns. Matthew Stafford was extremely sharp as he racked up 275 passing yards. Unfortunately, all was not well for the Bulldogs. Defensive tackle Jeff Owens left the game in the first quarter with a knee injury. Early indications are that Owens' injury could be season-ending. That would be a tough loss for Georgia, as Owens was a key member of that thinning Bulldog D-Line. The Dawgs will be without DT Kade Weston until at least the South Carolina game, so it will be interesting to see how they handle the loss of Owens. Overall, Georgia did a solid job of taking care of an inferior opponent. From a fan's standpoint, the game was absolutely miserable due to the fact that it was roughly 140 degrees Between the Hedges.
Missouri and Illinois met in St. Louis for one the day's other big games. Apparently, neither team's defense got the memo, as the Tigers and Illini combined for 93 points. Weren't we supposed to believe that Gary Pinkel's Mizzou defense was much-improved to match his high-powered offense? Apparently not. Mizzou did manage to outslug the Illini and keep their hopes of a national title in tact.
One of the themes of Saturday was the ACC proving it is nowhere near the level of the SEC, Big 12, Pac-10 or apparently, Conference USA. Lou Holthz's son Skip's Eastern Carolina opened their season with an upset of No. 17 Virginia Tech in Charlotte. Remember, VT was picked to finish near the top of the ACC, if not win the conference. USC traveled to Charlottesville for an aboslute slaughtering of Virginia. Mark Sanchez and Joe McKnight carved up the Cavs for 52 points. Of course, USC is one of the best teams in the nation. On the other hand, Virginia put up about as much of a fight as Verne Troyer would against Chuck Lidell.
The icing on the ACC's giant cake of failure took place in Atlanta, where No. 9 Clemson met No. 24 Alabama. Clemson was the popular pick to win the ACC and contend for the BCS title. Alabama was picked by most to finish third in the SEC...West. What occured in the Georgia Dome was a mid-level SEC team laying the wood to the ACC's best, as Bama drubbed the Tigers 34-10. Tommy Bowdon dug himself a nice hole early by giving the game's first carry to a true freshman because he had promised it to him during recruiting. Of course, the kid fumbled and Clemson found themselves down 10-0 very quickly. A 10-0 deficit is hardly a death sentence, except Clemson decided not to fight back. Tommy Bowdon wowed the nation by orchestrating the Tigers' annual choke job in the first game of the season. John Parker Wilson looked extremely sharp, proving that lush, fluffy bangs don't affect a quarterback's ability to thread the needle.
Remember folks, this was a middle-of-pack SEC team that beat Clemson (granted, Bama may turn out to be a lot better than we thought and Clemson could be a lot worse). That would be the equivalent of Georgia Tech, North Carolina or Maryland beating Georgia, Florida or LSU by three touchdowns. In other words, it would never happen. The ACC may soon find itself fighting the WAC and Big East for credibility.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Time to tee it up
As I predicted, Paul Johnson's Triple Option Death March to the Endzone offense was unleashed last night with devestating effectiveness. Georgia Tech destroyed the fourth best team in Alabama to a tune of a 41-14 beating. Jacksonville St. looked utterly defenseless, as Josh Nesbitt and Jonathan Dwyer combined for 172 rushing yards. The rest of the country might as well call it a season because let's face it; Georgia Tech is unbeatable.
Thursday's other big matchup featured South Carolina and NC State in a nauseatingly ugly football game. Even with the help of several pitchers at Broad Street Bar and Grill, I couldn't enjoy this one. Tommy Beecher seemed to have trouble remembering which color shirts his receivers were wearing, as he threw three picks in the first half. Luckily for the Cocks, Chris Smelley came off the bench to ensure that Steve Spurrier started the season with a win for the 16th straight year.
Now that the Thursday night appetizers have been downed, we can turn our attention to Saturday's main course. The Friday night before a football game in Athens is a time to get absolutely nutty, and so far, the city seems fairly ready to let loose tomorrow. Unfortunately, I will be "getting nutty" while covering Athens Christian School's season opener at Oglethorpe County High School. Madness. Rest assured, I'll be making up for it at tailgate time tomorrow.
The Dawgs take the field against their distant, more gnat-infested cousins from Statesboro. Anything less than a three-touchdown win would be a disappointment for the No. 1 team in the land. Really, I hope to see Coach Richt keep the playbook relatively simple and let superior talent take care of business. Hopefully, this game will give Richt a chance to evaluate the depth he has. I wouldn't mind seeing steady doses of Caleb King, Richard Samuel and the seemingly endless supply of receivers on the roster. Also, let's not forget that Uga VII will make his much anticipated Sanford Stadium debut. The 3-year-old, 57-pound son of Uga VI should receive the loudest cheer of the day for someone not named Knowshon.
Opening day is definitely a thrilling time of the year. Sundresses galore. A number one ranking. Bourbon. All should contribute to a great day in the Classic City, followed by a hazy night. Look for Georgia to send the Eagles back to the Boro after beating them 41-13.
Not surprisingly, the biggest college football game in Atlanta this weekend doesn't involve Tech. Clemson and Bama meet in the Georgia Dome for a huge ACC-SEC matchup. Alabama fans may or may not have awarded themselves their 33rd straight preseason National Title, while Clemson fans are wondering if their best team in years is good enough to overcome Tommy Bowdon's coaching. James Davis and CJ Spiller are the most dynamic rushing duo in the country, and Cullen Harper is becoming a bona fide college QB. But Alabama has a quarterback with a superior haircut in John Parker Wilson. Wilson will now how have true freshman man-child Julio Jones to throw to. Clemson has ACC and BCS Title aspirations, so a loss here will have the folks at Auburn-With-A-Lake lighting their torches and sharpening their pitchforks. I can't decide if it would be funnier to see Clemson or Bama lose this one, but I'm leaning towards Clemson. Either way, Tigers edge Bama 24-17, proving that Nick Saban is in fact not the Bear.
As much as I'd like to pretend that I care, Missouri's matchup with Illinois really doesn't matter to me. I do enjoy watching Mizzou's offense though. Jeremy Maclin is a gamer and Chase Daniel was as good as they get last year. Mizzou has more to lose in this one, so I see the Tigers winning this one by at least 10. You pick the score.
As a bonus, I'll throw out a pick for the much-anticipated Athens Christian-Oglethorpe County matchup that I'm being forced to attend. Neither team figures to be very good this year, but I've seen Athens Christian play a couple more times than Oglethorpe. Look for Eagles quarterback Ty Beacham to lead Athens Christian to a win. Frankly, I don't care what the score is, as long as the game is over in time for me to get back and down a few drinks before I get to bed.
Sleep tight football fans. Obviously, I won't be posting tomorrow. Look for some kind of recap on Sunday to talk about what we saw on Saturday.
Thursday's other big matchup featured South Carolina and NC State in a nauseatingly ugly football game. Even with the help of several pitchers at Broad Street Bar and Grill, I couldn't enjoy this one. Tommy Beecher seemed to have trouble remembering which color shirts his receivers were wearing, as he threw three picks in the first half. Luckily for the Cocks, Chris Smelley came off the bench to ensure that Steve Spurrier started the season with a win for the 16th straight year.
Now that the Thursday night appetizers have been downed, we can turn our attention to Saturday's main course. The Friday night before a football game in Athens is a time to get absolutely nutty, and so far, the city seems fairly ready to let loose tomorrow. Unfortunately, I will be "getting nutty" while covering Athens Christian School's season opener at Oglethorpe County High School. Madness. Rest assured, I'll be making up for it at tailgate time tomorrow.
The Dawgs take the field against their distant, more gnat-infested cousins from Statesboro. Anything less than a three-touchdown win would be a disappointment for the No. 1 team in the land. Really, I hope to see Coach Richt keep the playbook relatively simple and let superior talent take care of business. Hopefully, this game will give Richt a chance to evaluate the depth he has. I wouldn't mind seeing steady doses of Caleb King, Richard Samuel and the seemingly endless supply of receivers on the roster. Also, let's not forget that Uga VII will make his much anticipated Sanford Stadium debut. The 3-year-old, 57-pound son of Uga VI should receive the loudest cheer of the day for someone not named Knowshon.
Opening day is definitely a thrilling time of the year. Sundresses galore. A number one ranking. Bourbon. All should contribute to a great day in the Classic City, followed by a hazy night. Look for Georgia to send the Eagles back to the Boro after beating them 41-13.
Not surprisingly, the biggest college football game in Atlanta this weekend doesn't involve Tech. Clemson and Bama meet in the Georgia Dome for a huge ACC-SEC matchup. Alabama fans may or may not have awarded themselves their 33rd straight preseason National Title, while Clemson fans are wondering if their best team in years is good enough to overcome Tommy Bowdon's coaching. James Davis and CJ Spiller are the most dynamic rushing duo in the country, and Cullen Harper is becoming a bona fide college QB. But Alabama has a quarterback with a superior haircut in John Parker Wilson. Wilson will now how have true freshman man-child Julio Jones to throw to. Clemson has ACC and BCS Title aspirations, so a loss here will have the folks at Auburn-With-A-Lake lighting their torches and sharpening their pitchforks. I can't decide if it would be funnier to see Clemson or Bama lose this one, but I'm leaning towards Clemson. Either way, Tigers edge Bama 24-17, proving that Nick Saban is in fact not the Bear.
As much as I'd like to pretend that I care, Missouri's matchup with Illinois really doesn't matter to me. I do enjoy watching Mizzou's offense though. Jeremy Maclin is a gamer and Chase Daniel was as good as they get last year. Mizzou has more to lose in this one, so I see the Tigers winning this one by at least 10. You pick the score.
As a bonus, I'll throw out a pick for the much-anticipated Athens Christian-Oglethorpe County matchup that I'm being forced to attend. Neither team figures to be very good this year, but I've seen Athens Christian play a couple more times than Oglethorpe. Look for Eagles quarterback Ty Beacham to lead Athens Christian to a win. Frankly, I don't care what the score is, as long as the game is over in time for me to get back and down a few drinks before I get to bed.
Sleep tight football fans. Obviously, I won't be posting tomorrow. Look for some kind of recap on Sunday to talk about what we saw on Saturday.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
LPGA sets new standard
The LPGA Tour quietly made headlines this week by adopting a policy that forces players with at least two years of experience to pass an oral examination of their English skills or risk having their tour card indefinitely suspended.
This policy is newsworthy for several reasons:
- The LPGA Tour thus becomes the first American sports league to mandate that its players pass an examination demonstrating their verbal skills of the host country.
- The policy is considered by some as a backhanded attempt to keep the growing number of South Korean players (45 on the LPGA Tour, which represents the strongest contingent of foreign-born players) off Tour, and it could inherently be considered both discriminatory and xenophobic.
- And the policy also -- either intentionally or unintentionally -- sets the precedent that to play golf professionally in the United States, you need to be "Americanized," or at least possess the ability to communicate with other players, tour officials, sponsors and fans.
The LPGA Tour is right, and quite frankly, I'm surprised it took this long to enact a policy. This regulation is both progressive and much-needed, considering the sport's desire for a superstar whose marketability matches her talent, and considering there are 121 international players on Tour from 23 different countries.
On Tuesday, when the policy was first reported, LPGA Tour officials billed this new policy as a necessary step in a player's professional development.
Think about it: If you can't form a coherent thought in another language in two years, you're just not trying. Seriously. And that's all the Tour is asking these players to do -- make an effort, take a class (though it won't pay for it) and finally begin interacting with the players and officials you're constantly surrounded by.
The Tour isn't asking players to recite a Edith Wharton novel by heart or form a sonnet, it's merely asking them to be effective in a social setting, such as a Tuesday Pro-am. These businessmen pay upwards of $3000 a week to play and talk with tour pros, and when all the "professional" can utter is a broken sentence that lacks conviction, it sends the wrong message. And trust me, after covering the Tour for four months last year, this is an incredibly image-conscious tour.
The new policy could be considered discriminatory, though Tour officials dispelled the notion that it was aimed at the rapidly-growing South Korean population.
A full-time interpreter would have sufficed. But what message does that send? That to be a part of this tour -- and this country -- you just need to smack a golf ball around in the fewest number of strokes and neglect all the other responsibilities that come with being a professional athlete, all because you don't have the proper training? Come on.
The whole "the golf ball knows no nationality" rationale is no longer relevant in this day and age. There are more responsibilities than that -- to the tour and its oft-maligned reputation, and to the fans.
When this story first broke, some were quick to point out that no such policy exists in Major League baseball, which is dominated with international players. Good point, even though it lacks relevance. Baseball players, working in the ultimate team-game environment, don't need to fulfill the same media or public relations duties.
An example:
If you want a quote from Braves shortstop Yunel Escobar, who speaks very little English, you have three options: You can approach him yourself, knowing that the quote you're about to get may or may not be printable; you can talk to other people in the organization, his manager, other players; or you can ask for a translator.
If you want a quote from Eunjung Yi, who finished in a tie for 11th at last week's Safeway Classic, you're SOL. Trust me. I tried last year. But you've still got to approach her because you need something if she's in contention. You're just likely to leave with an empty notebook.
Foreign players can transform their speaking abilities -- but only if they work at it. Take Se Ri Pak, the most defining example. She's one of the most elegant speakers the Tour has, taking on the role as country ambassador in recent years.
It took a while before she developed the confidence to speak English in front of a group. Today's players have time, too. But if they don't demonstrate the intiative and desire to conform to the professional standards that the Tour has set here, they'll be out of a job by the end of next season.
This policy is newsworthy for several reasons:
- The LPGA Tour thus becomes the first American sports league to mandate that its players pass an examination demonstrating their verbal skills of the host country.
- The policy is considered by some as a backhanded attempt to keep the growing number of South Korean players (45 on the LPGA Tour, which represents the strongest contingent of foreign-born players) off Tour, and it could inherently be considered both discriminatory and xenophobic.
- And the policy also -- either intentionally or unintentionally -- sets the precedent that to play golf professionally in the United States, you need to be "Americanized," or at least possess the ability to communicate with other players, tour officials, sponsors and fans.
The LPGA Tour is right, and quite frankly, I'm surprised it took this long to enact a policy. This regulation is both progressive and much-needed, considering the sport's desire for a superstar whose marketability matches her talent, and considering there are 121 international players on Tour from 23 different countries.
On Tuesday, when the policy was first reported, LPGA Tour officials billed this new policy as a necessary step in a player's professional development.
Think about it: If you can't form a coherent thought in another language in two years, you're just not trying. Seriously. And that's all the Tour is asking these players to do -- make an effort, take a class (though it won't pay for it) and finally begin interacting with the players and officials you're constantly surrounded by.
The Tour isn't asking players to recite a Edith Wharton novel by heart or form a sonnet, it's merely asking them to be effective in a social setting, such as a Tuesday Pro-am. These businessmen pay upwards of $3000 a week to play and talk with tour pros, and when all the "professional" can utter is a broken sentence that lacks conviction, it sends the wrong message. And trust me, after covering the Tour for four months last year, this is an incredibly image-conscious tour.
The new policy could be considered discriminatory, though Tour officials dispelled the notion that it was aimed at the rapidly-growing South Korean population.
A full-time interpreter would have sufficed. But what message does that send? That to be a part of this tour -- and this country -- you just need to smack a golf ball around in the fewest number of strokes and neglect all the other responsibilities that come with being a professional athlete, all because you don't have the proper training? Come on.
The whole "the golf ball knows no nationality" rationale is no longer relevant in this day and age. There are more responsibilities than that -- to the tour and its oft-maligned reputation, and to the fans.
When this story first broke, some were quick to point out that no such policy exists in Major League baseball, which is dominated with international players. Good point, even though it lacks relevance. Baseball players, working in the ultimate team-game environment, don't need to fulfill the same media or public relations duties.
An example:
If you want a quote from Braves shortstop Yunel Escobar, who speaks very little English, you have three options: You can approach him yourself, knowing that the quote you're about to get may or may not be printable; you can talk to other people in the organization, his manager, other players; or you can ask for a translator.
If you want a quote from Eunjung Yi, who finished in a tie for 11th at last week's Safeway Classic, you're SOL. Trust me. I tried last year. But you've still got to approach her because you need something if she's in contention. You're just likely to leave with an empty notebook.
Foreign players can transform their speaking abilities -- but only if they work at it. Take Se Ri Pak, the most defining example. She's one of the most elegant speakers the Tour has, taking on the role as country ambassador in recent years.
It took a while before she developed the confidence to speak English in front of a group. Today's players have time, too. But if they don't demonstrate the intiative and desire to conform to the professional standards that the Tour has set here, they'll be out of a job by the end of next season.
The most wonderful time of the year
For those of you struggling through a Braves-induced coma, it's time to wake up. I know, watching the Braves continue to go through the motions as they hobble towards the finish line is disheartening, but fear not. Tonight, at long and glorious last, the 2008 college football season will begin when NC State visits Darth Visor and the Poultry in Columbia.
While the game itself is about as exciting as a lecture on tax forms, it's still football on TV. South Carolina looks to finally become relevant in the SEC East, while NC State hopes to become relevant for a reason other than Chuck Amato looking like some sort of crazed personal trainer. The Cocks' defense is stout, led by defensive end Eric Norwood and linebackers Jasper Brinkley and Rodney Paulk. Whether or not they have someone who can get the ball to talented wideout Kenny McKinley is another story. Quarterback Chris Smelley's play often matched his surname last year, while freshman Stephen Garcia has spend more time going through court papers in the off season than the playbook. Either way, an early loss would be devastating to the Gamecocks. NC State, on the other hand, is one of those teams that just doesn't matter to me. They aren't even a factor in the ACC, which means they are slightly less important than the Athens-area high school teams I will be covering Friday night. Take Spurrier and Co. by 10 in this one.
Speaking of Gamecocks, let's not forget that Paul Johnson and the greatest offense ever devised by humans makes its long anticipated debut on The Flats as the Jacksonville St. version of the Gamecocks take on the Jackets tonight as well. Besides the unveiling of the Jackets' fashionable new mustard-yellow uniforms, the Ramblin' Wreck will also roll out the triple option for the first time. Josh Nesbitt can be electrifying if he can hang on to the ball, which was a difficult proposition for him last season. With running backs Jon Dwyer and Roddy Jones, Johnson's offense is sure to lead Tech to 500 yards a game and a BCS Title this year. Or that's what you would think if you have been drinking the Johnson koolaid all summer like most of the Tech faithful. Don't overlook Jax. St., led by LSU castoff Ryan Perilloux. Perilloux famously proclaimed that he would win four Heisman Trophies upon his arrival in Baton Rouge as a freshman. So far, our tally has him at zero. Regardless, he's talented enough to give the Jackets trouble, but look for Johnson's juggernaut of an offense to go 1-0 to start the year.
PS....Did I mention that Paul Johnson's offense could score touchdowns if the defense had 22 players? It's that unstoppable. I mean, it worked at Navy!
While the game itself is about as exciting as a lecture on tax forms, it's still football on TV. South Carolina looks to finally become relevant in the SEC East, while NC State hopes to become relevant for a reason other than Chuck Amato looking like some sort of crazed personal trainer. The Cocks' defense is stout, led by defensive end Eric Norwood and linebackers Jasper Brinkley and Rodney Paulk. Whether or not they have someone who can get the ball to talented wideout Kenny McKinley is another story. Quarterback Chris Smelley's play often matched his surname last year, while freshman Stephen Garcia has spend more time going through court papers in the off season than the playbook. Either way, an early loss would be devastating to the Gamecocks. NC State, on the other hand, is one of those teams that just doesn't matter to me. They aren't even a factor in the ACC, which means they are slightly less important than the Athens-area high school teams I will be covering Friday night. Take Spurrier and Co. by 10 in this one.
Speaking of Gamecocks, let's not forget that Paul Johnson and the greatest offense ever devised by humans makes its long anticipated debut on The Flats as the Jacksonville St. version of the Gamecocks take on the Jackets tonight as well. Besides the unveiling of the Jackets' fashionable new mustard-yellow uniforms, the Ramblin' Wreck will also roll out the triple option for the first time. Josh Nesbitt can be electrifying if he can hang on to the ball, which was a difficult proposition for him last season. With running backs Jon Dwyer and Roddy Jones, Johnson's offense is sure to lead Tech to 500 yards a game and a BCS Title this year. Or that's what you would think if you have been drinking the Johnson koolaid all summer like most of the Tech faithful. Don't overlook Jax. St., led by LSU castoff Ryan Perilloux. Perilloux famously proclaimed that he would win four Heisman Trophies upon his arrival in Baton Rouge as a freshman. So far, our tally has him at zero. Regardless, he's talented enough to give the Jackets trouble, but look for Johnson's juggernaut of an offense to go 1-0 to start the year.
PS....Did I mention that Paul Johnson's offense could score touchdowns if the defense had 22 players? It's that unstoppable. I mean, it worked at Navy!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Top Games of 2008: Game 2
Yesterday, I went over the biggest out-of-conference game of the year. Ohio State's visit to the Coliseum to play USC has national title implications, and should be an early treat for college football fans.
We won't have to wait too much longer for another round of marquee games, as September 20 has a few. No. 5 Florida travels to Knoxville to take on No. 18 Tennessee. A win by the Vols could mean that there's more than two teams in the race for the SEC East. However, a Tennessee loss could signal the start of the Vol Nation's yearly hunt for Phillip Fulmer's head on a platter.
Georgia travels west of the Mississippi River for the first time in decades, heading to Tempe to face Dennis Erickson's No. 15 Arizona State team. The Bulldogs hope to remain on track for the BCS Title race, while the Sun Devils look to prove that that Pac-10 matches up with the SEC. An Arizona State win would be a major coup for the often-ridiculed Pac-10.
While these games are sure to get most fans fired up, the game I'm most looking forward to will take place on the Plains of Alabama, where two sets of Tigers will play to likely decide who will move on to the Georgia Dome in December for the SEC Title game.
Sept. 20: No. 7 LSU @ No. 10 Auburn Auburn, Alabama
Why to watch: You mean besides the fact that for whatever reason, this always seems to be one of the most entertaining games of the season? How about last year's game? When we last saw these two teams, Les Miles was developing his legendary alter ego, "The Gambler," and LSU pulled out a 30-24 victory on their way to the BCS Title.
Trailing 24-23 with just over three minutes to play, LSU drove down the field behind seemingly ninth-year senior Matt Flynn. With time winding down, Miles opted to take a shot at the end zone instead of lining up for what would have been a 39-yard field goal for the win. Flynn threw a 22-yard fade to Demetrius Byrd, and sending Tiger Stadium into a bourbon and jambalaya-induced delirium.
Auburn will be testing their new spread offense against an extremely stern test. Sophomore Kodi Burns takes over for human pinata Brandon Cox at quarterback for the Plainsmen, while academic All-American Brad Lester (insert laughter here) looks to make the most of the newfound space he has to operate in. Think of him as the poor man's Percy Harvin.
Lining up against them will be a pair of absolute beasts in senior defensive linemen Kirston Pittman and Tyson Jackson. The LSU defense will have to perform at a high level because the Bayou Bengals' offense is in for an overhaul. Harvard transfer Andrew Hatch looks to fight for snaps at quarterback with freshman Jarrett Lee. Neither inspires much fear. They will have shifty tailback Keiland Williams to hand off to, although they'll miss the most electrifying white tailback in recent history, Jacob Hester.
The winner of this game has the inside track on the SEC West title. In fact, it seems as though the winner of this game always ends up playing for the title.
Why else?: Both teams have stingy defenses and offenses that could still be struggling to find their rhythm. In other words, we may see a 7-3 ballgame in this one. With that being said, it seems every time people expect a low-scoring game, we end up with a 35-34 thriller. Either way, anytime you can get two of the most smug looking coaches in the SEC locked up, it makes for interesting sideline facial expressions.
We won't have to wait too much longer for another round of marquee games, as September 20 has a few. No. 5 Florida travels to Knoxville to take on No. 18 Tennessee. A win by the Vols could mean that there's more than two teams in the race for the SEC East. However, a Tennessee loss could signal the start of the Vol Nation's yearly hunt for Phillip Fulmer's head on a platter.
Georgia travels west of the Mississippi River for the first time in decades, heading to Tempe to face Dennis Erickson's No. 15 Arizona State team. The Bulldogs hope to remain on track for the BCS Title race, while the Sun Devils look to prove that that Pac-10 matches up with the SEC. An Arizona State win would be a major coup for the often-ridiculed Pac-10.
While these games are sure to get most fans fired up, the game I'm most looking forward to will take place on the Plains of Alabama, where two sets of Tigers will play to likely decide who will move on to the Georgia Dome in December for the SEC Title game.
Sept. 20: No. 7 LSU @ No. 10 Auburn Auburn, Alabama
Why to watch: You mean besides the fact that for whatever reason, this always seems to be one of the most entertaining games of the season? How about last year's game? When we last saw these two teams, Les Miles was developing his legendary alter ego, "The Gambler," and LSU pulled out a 30-24 victory on their way to the BCS Title.
Trailing 24-23 with just over three minutes to play, LSU drove down the field behind seemingly ninth-year senior Matt Flynn. With time winding down, Miles opted to take a shot at the end zone instead of lining up for what would have been a 39-yard field goal for the win. Flynn threw a 22-yard fade to Demetrius Byrd, and sending Tiger Stadium into a bourbon and jambalaya-induced delirium.
Auburn will be testing their new spread offense against an extremely stern test. Sophomore Kodi Burns takes over for human pinata Brandon Cox at quarterback for the Plainsmen, while academic All-American Brad Lester (insert laughter here) looks to make the most of the newfound space he has to operate in. Think of him as the poor man's Percy Harvin.
Lining up against them will be a pair of absolute beasts in senior defensive linemen Kirston Pittman and Tyson Jackson. The LSU defense will have to perform at a high level because the Bayou Bengals' offense is in for an overhaul. Harvard transfer Andrew Hatch looks to fight for snaps at quarterback with freshman Jarrett Lee. Neither inspires much fear. They will have shifty tailback Keiland Williams to hand off to, although they'll miss the most electrifying white tailback in recent history, Jacob Hester.
The winner of this game has the inside track on the SEC West title. In fact, it seems as though the winner of this game always ends up playing for the title.
Why else?: Both teams have stingy defenses and offenses that could still be struggling to find their rhythm. In other words, we may see a 7-3 ballgame in this one. With that being said, it seems every time people expect a low-scoring game, we end up with a 35-34 thriller. Either way, anytime you can get two of the most smug looking coaches in the SEC locked up, it makes for interesting sideline facial expressions.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Getcha' popcorn ready
I just got back from my first day of class here in Athens, which means one thing: two weeks until kickoff. The college football season begins next week, and expectations here in Athens couldn't be higher. Needless to say, any Georgia football game will be a big deal here this season.
But I'm a college football fan, not just a Georgia fan. I enjoy watching games from across the country, although I have a little bias towards the SEC.
With that being said, I've come up with the five games from around the NCAA that I am most looking forward to in 2008. I included only one Georgia game, but I'm pretty sure this one would be on anyone's list. I'll post one game a day for the rest of the week.
Let me know what you think. Which games are you most excited to see?
Sept. 13: No. 2 Ohio State vs. No. 3 USC Los Angeles, California
Why to watch: Two perennial title contenders lock up on the left coast for what could be an early elimination game for one of these teams. USC finished 2007 with authority, crushing Illinois in the Rose Bowl. Meanwhile, Ohio State fans were drowning themselves in Pat O'Brian's Hurricanes, as their beloved Buckeyes fell to LSU in New Orleans for the second consecutive BCS Title Game loss to an SEC team.
The Trojans will see how new quarterback Mark Sanchez handles an early test against a strong Buckeye defense. Tailbacks Joe McKnight and Stafon Johnson combined for close to 1,300 yards last season. It will be interesting to see if Arkansas transfer Mitch Mustain gets a crack at running Pete Carroll's offense early in the year.
In addition to that defense led by 2007 Butkus Award winner James Laurinaitis, the Ohio State offense should be formidable behind Heisman candidate Beanie Wells. The Buckeyes are in position to run the table in the Big 10 yet again, so this game figures to be the only thing standing between them and another crack at the crystal football. The loser of this game may be knocked out of the BCS Title picture before the leaves start to change.
What I want to see: Besides the fact that the actual game might be one of the best of the year, it's worth watching to see if Buckeye coach Jim Tressell's stylish red sweater vest will hold up to the balmy September temperatures in L.A.. That iconic piece of knitted wool glory, combined with a mass exodus of pale midwesterners to Los Angeles should make for great television.
Stay tuned for my next must-see game of the year, which should be up tomorrow.
But I'm a college football fan, not just a Georgia fan. I enjoy watching games from across the country, although I have a little bias towards the SEC.
With that being said, I've come up with the five games from around the NCAA that I am most looking forward to in 2008. I included only one Georgia game, but I'm pretty sure this one would be on anyone's list. I'll post one game a day for the rest of the week.
Let me know what you think. Which games are you most excited to see?
Sept. 13: No. 2 Ohio State vs. No. 3 USC Los Angeles, California
Why to watch: Two perennial title contenders lock up on the left coast for what could be an early elimination game for one of these teams. USC finished 2007 with authority, crushing Illinois in the Rose Bowl. Meanwhile, Ohio State fans were drowning themselves in Pat O'Brian's Hurricanes, as their beloved Buckeyes fell to LSU in New Orleans for the second consecutive BCS Title Game loss to an SEC team.
The Trojans will see how new quarterback Mark Sanchez handles an early test against a strong Buckeye defense. Tailbacks Joe McKnight and Stafon Johnson combined for close to 1,300 yards last season. It will be interesting to see if Arkansas transfer Mitch Mustain gets a crack at running Pete Carroll's offense early in the year.
In addition to that defense led by 2007 Butkus Award winner James Laurinaitis, the Ohio State offense should be formidable behind Heisman candidate Beanie Wells. The Buckeyes are in position to run the table in the Big 10 yet again, so this game figures to be the only thing standing between them and another crack at the crystal football. The loser of this game may be knocked out of the BCS Title picture before the leaves start to change.
What I want to see: Besides the fact that the actual game might be one of the best of the year, it's worth watching to see if Buckeye coach Jim Tressell's stylish red sweater vest will hold up to the balmy September temperatures in L.A.. That iconic piece of knitted wool glory, combined with a mass exodus of pale midwesterners to Los Angeles should make for great television.
Stay tuned for my next must-see game of the year, which should be up tomorrow.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Welcome!
Welcome to the dawning of a new era in the sports blogosphere! Off the Record was created by two journalism students at the University of Georgia, with the intent of providing slightly biased and occasionally humorous commentary on the wide world of sports.
We will obviously have somewhat of a focus on our local teams here in Georgia, as that is what we are around all the time. But when a national story merits our attention, rest assured we will tackle it.
There are countless places on the net to get sports news. We are not stupid enough to think we can replace them. But what we hope to do, is provide our opinions and spark some debate about the sports-related topics that are important at the time.
The most important thing to remember about Off the Record, is that we probably know more than you. Or at least we think we do. So don't be afraid to comment on a post and prove us wrong.
If you have any thoughts or ideas as to what you would like to see on here, feel free to let us know. Keep checking back often and we hope you enjoy!
We will obviously have somewhat of a focus on our local teams here in Georgia, as that is what we are around all the time. But when a national story merits our attention, rest assured we will tackle it.
There are countless places on the net to get sports news. We are not stupid enough to think we can replace them. But what we hope to do, is provide our opinions and spark some debate about the sports-related topics that are important at the time.
The most important thing to remember about Off the Record, is that we probably know more than you. Or at least we think we do. So don't be afraid to comment on a post and prove us wrong.
If you have any thoughts or ideas as to what you would like to see on here, feel free to let us know. Keep checking back often and we hope you enjoy!
Why Glavine will mercifully retire
Tom Glavine's season is over, and so perhaps is his career. A meeting later this week with renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews will either confirm or refute that, but in the meantime, let us consider why the Braves would be better off if the 42-year-old left-hander retires.
First, a brief synopsis:
Attempting to shore up a mangled rotation last November, the Braves made a modest gamble and signed the free agent Glavine, who had never endured a stint on the disabled list during 21 seasons with Atlanta and New York. He figured to be a dependable middle rotation starter, a veteran who could win 15 games but would more likely log a bunch of innings. You still can't fault the Braves there.
But fittingly, those fanciful notions quickly died. Three starts into the season and Glavine was shelved with a strained right hamstring. It was a minor inconvenience, a 15-day setback.
More troubling was his return -- no life on his fastball, no location with his changeup. After he returned from the DL on April 29, Glavine went 2-1 with a gaudy 5.56 ERA. It was during this less-than-impressive stretch that he revealed he was battling elbow discomfort, pain that knocked him out of a June 10 start and sent him on a two-month rehabilitation.
With Glavine out of the rotation, the Braves were forced to depend upon youngsters Charlie Morton, Jo-Jo Reyes and Jair Jurrjens, each of whom had less than one year of major-league experience.
Morton, 24, has shown potential, but he has already been plagued by rookie inconsistencies and meager run support; Reyes, 23, was shipped to Triple-A Richmond for the rest of the season because of an erratic fastball; and Jurrjens, 22, has since taken the reins of the Braves' rotation after learning Tim Hudson will miss the rest of this season and most of 2009 because of Tommy John surgery.
But neither Morton, Reyes nor Jurrjens have either the experience or presence of Glavine, who was signed to a one-year, $8 million deal in the offseason to produce results -- not nostalgia.
But there comes a point when a team must cut its losses and look toward the future. The Braves are at that point.
If Glavine's balky elbow has only a partially torn flexor tendon (as originally diagnosed) and is not in need of elbow ligament transplant surgery, he says he will attempt to rehabilitate the rest of this year and should be ready for Spring Training. If he needs Tommy John surgery, and the 12-to-16-month rehabilitation that follows, he's not coming back.
It shouldn't matter to the Braves.
They were 3-10 in his starts this season, including five consecutive losses to end the year. Glavine pitched into the sixth inning in less than half of his starts, a modest output considering the bullpen's relative exhaustion this season. And he will turn 43 before the 2009 season starts, which should be enough to make Braves fans queasy considering the amount of discomfort he is currently experiencing with his elbow.
But perhaps more disconcerting was Glavine's rehabilitation. Before he began a two-start rehabilitation assignment with Class A Advanced Myrtle Beach and Double-A Mississippi, Glavine threw a simulated game at Turner Field, during which he said he threw his fastball with more zip than he had in two years. He allowed three runs on seven hits in nine innings during those two rehab starts, and told Braves officials that he felt great, that his fastball was a few ticks above what it was in May, when his velocity began to suspiciously dip.
So, what happened? He barely touched 82 mph in his start Thursday against the Cubs, ironically the same team that knocked him out of his last start, on June 10. Sore afterward, incapable of moving his elbow the next day, and thus he's shut down for the rest of the season.
Face it: The Tom Glavine Experiment failed. Miserably. With globs of money to spend during free agency, the Braves don't need his services any longer. And believe it or not, they can go out and chase the likes of CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets, two pitchers who will command expensive, multiyear contracts that the Braves can afford.
A young core has already been put in place, and they should no longer feel an obligation to have Glavine pitch in a Braves uniform as long as he maintains a desire to. They afforded Glavine an opportunity this year, and it just didn't work out.
Regardless of what Andrews finds in Glavine's elbow this week -- the original flexor-tendon tear or something more severe -- it shouldn't matter to the Braves. They don't need him.
First, a brief synopsis:
Attempting to shore up a mangled rotation last November, the Braves made a modest gamble and signed the free agent Glavine, who had never endured a stint on the disabled list during 21 seasons with Atlanta and New York. He figured to be a dependable middle rotation starter, a veteran who could win 15 games but would more likely log a bunch of innings. You still can't fault the Braves there.
But fittingly, those fanciful notions quickly died. Three starts into the season and Glavine was shelved with a strained right hamstring. It was a minor inconvenience, a 15-day setback.
More troubling was his return -- no life on his fastball, no location with his changeup. After he returned from the DL on April 29, Glavine went 2-1 with a gaudy 5.56 ERA. It was during this less-than-impressive stretch that he revealed he was battling elbow discomfort, pain that knocked him out of a June 10 start and sent him on a two-month rehabilitation.
With Glavine out of the rotation, the Braves were forced to depend upon youngsters Charlie Morton, Jo-Jo Reyes and Jair Jurrjens, each of whom had less than one year of major-league experience.
Morton, 24, has shown potential, but he has already been plagued by rookie inconsistencies and meager run support; Reyes, 23, was shipped to Triple-A Richmond for the rest of the season because of an erratic fastball; and Jurrjens, 22, has since taken the reins of the Braves' rotation after learning Tim Hudson will miss the rest of this season and most of 2009 because of Tommy John surgery.
But neither Morton, Reyes nor Jurrjens have either the experience or presence of Glavine, who was signed to a one-year, $8 million deal in the offseason to produce results -- not nostalgia.
But there comes a point when a team must cut its losses and look toward the future. The Braves are at that point.
If Glavine's balky elbow has only a partially torn flexor tendon (as originally diagnosed) and is not in need of elbow ligament transplant surgery, he says he will attempt to rehabilitate the rest of this year and should be ready for Spring Training. If he needs Tommy John surgery, and the 12-to-16-month rehabilitation that follows, he's not coming back.
It shouldn't matter to the Braves.
They were 3-10 in his starts this season, including five consecutive losses to end the year. Glavine pitched into the sixth inning in less than half of his starts, a modest output considering the bullpen's relative exhaustion this season. And he will turn 43 before the 2009 season starts, which should be enough to make Braves fans queasy considering the amount of discomfort he is currently experiencing with his elbow.
But perhaps more disconcerting was Glavine's rehabilitation. Before he began a two-start rehabilitation assignment with Class A Advanced Myrtle Beach and Double-A Mississippi, Glavine threw a simulated game at Turner Field, during which he said he threw his fastball with more zip than he had in two years. He allowed three runs on seven hits in nine innings during those two rehab starts, and told Braves officials that he felt great, that his fastball was a few ticks above what it was in May, when his velocity began to suspiciously dip.
So, what happened? He barely touched 82 mph in his start Thursday against the Cubs, ironically the same team that knocked him out of his last start, on June 10. Sore afterward, incapable of moving his elbow the next day, and thus he's shut down for the rest of the season.
Face it: The Tom Glavine Experiment failed. Miserably. With globs of money to spend during free agency, the Braves don't need his services any longer. And believe it or not, they can go out and chase the likes of CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets, two pitchers who will command expensive, multiyear contracts that the Braves can afford.
A young core has already been put in place, and they should no longer feel an obligation to have Glavine pitch in a Braves uniform as long as he maintains a desire to. They afforded Glavine an opportunity this year, and it just didn't work out.
Regardless of what Andrews finds in Glavine's elbow this week -- the original flexor-tendon tear or something more severe -- it shouldn't matter to the Braves. They don't need him.
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