It's Homecoming in Athens on Saturday as for only the third time in program history, a ranked Georgia team will face a ranked opponent for homecoming, this time Vandy.
Vandy showed the world last week how real it really is. Yes, this team has only one loss. But, Georgia should have the talent to win this game easily. Be wary of the 12:30 start. But hey, they can't play any worse than they have at night on ESPN can they?
Georgia really came out and made a statement early against Tennessee, and I feel this is imperative again. Georgia must control the line of scrimmage. Simply put. The offensive line showed great improvement against the Vols; now, just continue to grow.
Vanderbilt has a tough secondary, so Matthew Stafford must take better care of the ball than he did against UT. That's really what Vanderbilt does. The 'dores wait until you make a mistake, then pounce on it. They have trailed in every game this year, they are just able to take advantage of turnovers. Outside of that secondary, Georgia is better and more talented at every position.
Georgia needs to establish a solid running game, come out and make a statement early, and gain momentum by getting a still sleepy homecoming crowd into the game. Vanderbilt's offense is dreadful, so I am interested to see how the Georgia defense stacks up to this. Defensively, Vandy isn't too shabby, but they haven't seen an offense like Georgia's, one that is the tops in the SEC.
Vandy also hasn't really beaten anyone. Sure they beat a ranked Auburn team that frittered that game away in the second half, but Auburn isn't looking like they are scoring any touchdowns anytime soon.
History says Georgia sleepwalks through this game and plays down to Vandy's level, which this year isn't too far down. But, Georgia has the athletes and motivation to really bust it open. Vandy is the top team in the east right now, and with a win Georgia could control its own destiny. The Tennessee game should have been much worse than what Georgia put up offensively.
I will go somewhere inbetween.... Georgia moves to 6-1 and can control its own fate in the eastern division race with a 31-17 victory. Everyone have fun on homecoming!
Go Dawgs!
Chili
Friday, October 17, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
26-14
Georgia did what it needed to do on Saturday and essentially covered the spread.
This came could have been much, much worse than it was. AJ Green dropped a wide open pass in the end zone, Stafford (who had only threw one interception before this game) threw two interceptions in the red zone (both leading to Tennessee scoring drives) and the offense bogged down and had to settle for field goals.
On paper, this was an utter domination. The only time Tennessee had any offensive consistency was after the Georgia turnovers. Otherwise, I saw improvements in areas where improvement needed to be seen. The offensive line grew up a bit on Saturday. The defensive line got pressure on Stephens and kept him on his toes. The run was shut down completely. The pass coverage was improved. So, things are looking better for Georgia has Vanderbilt comes into town this weekend for homecoming at 12:30.
Injuries keep piling up for this team, and Vince Vance is done with a knee injury. He's out for the season, and Georgia loses another offensive lineman. Georgia needs to take care of business this weekend against Vandy and they will control their own destiny in the SEC East. After the performances of Vandy, LSU, Kentucky, Auburn, and Tech, all teams on Georgia' s schedule look beatable from here on out.
It's time to man up, finish the drill, and prove the rankings were legit.
ChiliDawg
This came could have been much, much worse than it was. AJ Green dropped a wide open pass in the end zone, Stafford (who had only threw one interception before this game) threw two interceptions in the red zone (both leading to Tennessee scoring drives) and the offense bogged down and had to settle for field goals.
On paper, this was an utter domination. The only time Tennessee had any offensive consistency was after the Georgia turnovers. Otherwise, I saw improvements in areas where improvement needed to be seen. The offensive line grew up a bit on Saturday. The defensive line got pressure on Stephens and kept him on his toes. The run was shut down completely. The pass coverage was improved. So, things are looking better for Georgia has Vanderbilt comes into town this weekend for homecoming at 12:30.
Injuries keep piling up for this team, and Vince Vance is done with a knee injury. He's out for the season, and Georgia loses another offensive lineman. Georgia needs to take care of business this weekend against Vandy and they will control their own destiny in the SEC East. After the performances of Vandy, LSU, Kentucky, Auburn, and Tech, all teams on Georgia' s schedule look beatable from here on out.
It's time to man up, finish the drill, and prove the rankings were legit.
ChiliDawg
Friday, October 10, 2008
Tennessee Preview
Well, it's been a long week, with Communication Law dominating me and a History midterm this morning.
All are behind me now, and we will turn our attention to tomorrow's match-up with the Volunteers.
Here's what I think about the game: Just like in 2005, Tennessee is a few plays from being pretty decent. Offensive struggles have been there, but Nick Stephens seemed to play well against UNI, despite the offense putting up shoddy offensive numbers overall. A loss in overtime to UCLA, a game that Tennessee could have easily won, and a fumble at Auburn have hurt this team.
Tennessee's strength is the offensive line, which could give Georgia fits. Tennessee hasn't allowed very many sacks, which doesn't bode well for Georgia's lack of pass rush, especially with Rod Battle being in a limited roll. But, the rush game hasn't gotten going for UT, which I find surprising. With Dannell Ellerbe not playing, hopefully this trend continues. Georgia has shut the run down very well.
Defensively, Stafford needs to continue to protect the ball, like he has all year. Kid has only given up 1 INT all season. Much, much better game management from Staff. He will have to protect the ball this week as super stud Eric Berry will be prowling in the secondary. Berry is only one season and five games into his UT career, and he's already 8th on UT's all time interception yards list. Impressive.
UT has shut the run down pretty well, as they have the 4th best run defense in the SEC, as well as the 4th best pass defense. That makes them the best defense overall. Tennessee's defense has kept it in games.
For Georgia, you just have to hope the offensive line has come along a bit. Make holes for Knowshon and Caleb, give Stafford time to throw, and things should be ok. Stephens making his first road start could be interesting. Last time this situation played out for UGA, Tennessee won in Athens in 1992. Typically, you wouldn't expect a guy making just his second career start and first on the road to play super well. I think Tennessee runs the ball alot. Give Stepens the chance to be successful and not make mistakes to take the Vols out of the game. UT has three very talented backs, so let them do the work. But, Georgia's pass defense has been porous at best, so Stephens could have success if he gets time.
The Vols come in somewhere around a 12.5-13.5 underdog. I think Georgia should win by two touchdowns, but this game could be a little tougher than people are thinking. Some are thinking UGA cakewalks, but I think Tennessee will come to play. They always bring it against UGA. Georgia should be angry and humiliated after the Alabama debacle, so they should be ready to play. The past two seasons should be motivation enough. Plus the off week was huge. Georgia is 10-2 after an off week under Richt. The injuries are a bit concerning, but Georgia should take care of business.
ChiliDawg
All are behind me now, and we will turn our attention to tomorrow's match-up with the Volunteers.
Here's what I think about the game: Just like in 2005, Tennessee is a few plays from being pretty decent. Offensive struggles have been there, but Nick Stephens seemed to play well against UNI, despite the offense putting up shoddy offensive numbers overall. A loss in overtime to UCLA, a game that Tennessee could have easily won, and a fumble at Auburn have hurt this team.
Tennessee's strength is the offensive line, which could give Georgia fits. Tennessee hasn't allowed very many sacks, which doesn't bode well for Georgia's lack of pass rush, especially with Rod Battle being in a limited roll. But, the rush game hasn't gotten going for UT, which I find surprising. With Dannell Ellerbe not playing, hopefully this trend continues. Georgia has shut the run down very well.
Defensively, Stafford needs to continue to protect the ball, like he has all year. Kid has only given up 1 INT all season. Much, much better game management from Staff. He will have to protect the ball this week as super stud Eric Berry will be prowling in the secondary. Berry is only one season and five games into his UT career, and he's already 8th on UT's all time interception yards list. Impressive.
UT has shut the run down pretty well, as they have the 4th best run defense in the SEC, as well as the 4th best pass defense. That makes them the best defense overall. Tennessee's defense has kept it in games.
For Georgia, you just have to hope the offensive line has come along a bit. Make holes for Knowshon and Caleb, give Stafford time to throw, and things should be ok. Stephens making his first road start could be interesting. Last time this situation played out for UGA, Tennessee won in Athens in 1992. Typically, you wouldn't expect a guy making just his second career start and first on the road to play super well. I think Tennessee runs the ball alot. Give Stepens the chance to be successful and not make mistakes to take the Vols out of the game. UT has three very talented backs, so let them do the work. But, Georgia's pass defense has been porous at best, so Stephens could have success if he gets time.
The Vols come in somewhere around a 12.5-13.5 underdog. I think Georgia should win by two touchdowns, but this game could be a little tougher than people are thinking. Some are thinking UGA cakewalks, but I think Tennessee will come to play. They always bring it against UGA. Georgia should be angry and humiliated after the Alabama debacle, so they should be ready to play. The past two seasons should be motivation enough. Plus the off week was huge. Georgia is 10-2 after an off week under Richt. The injuries are a bit concerning, but Georgia should take care of business.
ChiliDawg
Monday, October 6, 2008
I've Been Mourning
Well, I said I would do better, then I promptly took a week off. School has kept me busy, but Georgia's performance against Alabama didn't really give much to write home about. Don't get me wrong, they fought back in the second half, but it never was really as close as they score may indicate. So I took the week to mourn the funeral. lol.
Now, a week off has hopefully refreshed the Dawgs and prepared them for the Volunteers of Tennessee. Georgia was beaten up pretty badly in the 'Bama game, so hopefully many of those injuries have healed and the boys in Red and Black are ready to go. Game time is 3:30 this Saturday on CBS.
I will go ahead and state that this week is pretty busy for me in terms of class work. Communication Law dominates my life right now, and I have a History midterm on Friday. So if things are somewhat slow for a Tennessee game week, I apologise. Know that I am trying to keep this thing as fresh as possible, and that UGA is keeping me quite busy.
More later.
ChiliDawg
Now, a week off has hopefully refreshed the Dawgs and prepared them for the Volunteers of Tennessee. Georgia was beaten up pretty badly in the 'Bama game, so hopefully many of those injuries have healed and the boys in Red and Black are ready to go. Game time is 3:30 this Saturday on CBS.
I will go ahead and state that this week is pretty busy for me in terms of class work. Communication Law dominates my life right now, and I have a History midterm on Friday. So if things are somewhat slow for a Tennessee game week, I apologise. Know that I am trying to keep this thing as fresh as possible, and that UGA is keeping me quite busy.
More later.
ChiliDawg
Friday, September 26, 2008
It's almost here
Thursday is behind me (thank goodness, I'm glad to have a test and communication law logs completed, as well as the 11 pm sports show). Friday is here and with it all her glory. The excitement of the game is right here.
Big news last night, as USC was toppled by Oregon State. The Beavers have become USC's bugaboo in recent history. USC was flat outplayed, no question about it. For as amazing as USC has been under Pete Carroll, they somehow always find a way to lose to a much inferior opponent. That's very perplexing. Maybe they read into their press clippings too much? Maybe it's just that hard to bring it mentally every single week. Now, what looked to be the most dominant team of the season could be out of the national title hunt. Still a long ways to go, but there are still a lot of quality teams that have not lost or only have one loss. But things will be shaken up before it's all said and done. USC is the media and ESPN darling, so if any team can come back, it could be them.
Georgia now sits primed to reclaim the top spot in the polls if they can Finish The Drill against Alabama. Oklahoma could get a test from TCU, and that game will be very interesting.
For now, class calls. I hope to do a game prediction later today.
1 more day...
Big news last night, as USC was toppled by Oregon State. The Beavers have become USC's bugaboo in recent history. USC was flat outplayed, no question about it. For as amazing as USC has been under Pete Carroll, they somehow always find a way to lose to a much inferior opponent. That's very perplexing. Maybe they read into their press clippings too much? Maybe it's just that hard to bring it mentally every single week. Now, what looked to be the most dominant team of the season could be out of the national title hunt. Still a long ways to go, but there are still a lot of quality teams that have not lost or only have one loss. But things will be shaken up before it's all said and done. USC is the media and ESPN darling, so if any team can come back, it could be them.
Georgia now sits primed to reclaim the top spot in the polls if they can Finish The Drill against Alabama. Oklahoma could get a test from TCU, and that game will be very interesting.
For now, class calls. I hope to do a game prediction later today.
1 more day...
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
(even more) Motivation
Well, as I’m sure many have noticed, Alabama’s strength and conditioning coach gave Georgia a bit of bulletin board material when he told his team in practice that Georgia was wearing black on Saturday because “they are going to a mother f-ing funeral.”
Guess what? I agree. Those wearing black at a funeral are usually doing the burying. So sure Alabama, we are wearing black on Saturday for a funeral, and we are the undertaker.
I don’t think this will have too much of an impact on Saturday’s game. With Gameday being here for the first time since 1998, a primetime and nationwide audience on ESPN, the blackout, and two undefeated and top 10 teams going at it, I think Georgia will be plenty motivated. Plus, add in the retirement of Larry Munson, the “funeral” statement, as well as all day to tailgate, and emotions will be ready to boil over come kickoff time.
Apparently some Alabama fans are planning to wear white to the game. Go ahead. Georgia doing the black out is part of what makes college football so much fun, so Alabama fans wearing white just adds to that.
I’m definitely excited about the weather as well. At last glimpse, the low could drop into the high 50s Saturday night, while the high Saturday will be around 72 with a mix of clouds and sun. It will be a great day to be outdoors for sure. Campus certainly has had a fall feel about it, a feeling that those who love college football and this time of year anticipate throughout the summer. That crispness to the air is a much desired break from the oppressive heat that late August can bring to Athens. At any rate, it makes me able to walk across campus with a heavy book bag without needing a shower afterwards, or looking like I just took one, usually a combination of the two.
Keep counting down the days, Dawg fans. Saturday is almost here, and it’s going to be an epic day.
3 more days…
Guess what? I agree. Those wearing black at a funeral are usually doing the burying. So sure Alabama, we are wearing black on Saturday for a funeral, and we are the undertaker.
I don’t think this will have too much of an impact on Saturday’s game. With Gameday being here for the first time since 1998, a primetime and nationwide audience on ESPN, the blackout, and two undefeated and top 10 teams going at it, I think Georgia will be plenty motivated. Plus, add in the retirement of Larry Munson, the “funeral” statement, as well as all day to tailgate, and emotions will be ready to boil over come kickoff time.
Apparently some Alabama fans are planning to wear white to the game. Go ahead. Georgia doing the black out is part of what makes college football so much fun, so Alabama fans wearing white just adds to that.
I’m definitely excited about the weather as well. At last glimpse, the low could drop into the high 50s Saturday night, while the high Saturday will be around 72 with a mix of clouds and sun. It will be a great day to be outdoors for sure. Campus certainly has had a fall feel about it, a feeling that those who love college football and this time of year anticipate throughout the summer. That crispness to the air is a much desired break from the oppressive heat that late August can bring to Athens. At any rate, it makes me able to walk across campus with a heavy book bag without needing a shower afterwards, or looking like I just took one, usually a combination of the two.
Keep counting down the days, Dawg fans. Saturday is almost here, and it’s going to be an epic day.
3 more days…
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Thanks, Larry
While we all saw this coming, it is still a shock. The longtime voice of Georgia football, Larry Munson, called it quits on Monday. Larry’s health had declined in recent years, and his on air performance had certainly suffered. Larry stopped traveling to road games last season and planned to do only home games again in 2008, but he has said the Central Michigan game will be his last. The road game team of Scott Howard and Eric Zeier will finish out the season.
While I’m sure more will come, I want to say, as a future broadcaster myself, I admire and respect Larry immensely. Many can remember where they were and what they were doing when Larry made a trademark call or called a big moment in Georgia football history, and I am no different. Thanks for the memories, Larry, as well as the inspiration to chase a dream. Best of luck to you in retirement, and I hope you enjoy your time off with lots of fishing and movie watching.
4 more days…
While I’m sure more will come, I want to say, as a future broadcaster myself, I admire and respect Larry immensely. Many can remember where they were and what they were doing when Larry made a trademark call or called a big moment in Georgia football history, and I am no different. Thanks for the memories, Larry, as well as the inspiration to chase a dream. Best of luck to you in retirement, and I hope you enjoy your time off with lots of fishing and movie watching.
4 more days…
Monday, September 22, 2008
It's about to get dark
I will give some quick thoughts on Arizona State before I delve into the epic day that will be Alabama.
Overall, Georgia accomplished what it needed to in the desert. They got an impressive win, showed signs of improvement, and didn’t get too banged up. Knowshon added another highlight to his ever growing highlight reel. The game wasn’t really as close as it could have been. Pressure was finally put on the opposing quarterback. The kickoff coverage is looking better. Georgia still showed some signs of red zone troubles, but that’s something that can improve, and I believe it will once Brannan Southerland returns to the offense. He will be back on special teams for Saturday, but it looks like he won’t go full force until Tennessee. Penalties were atrocious, but not all were Georgia’s fault. The Pac-10 officiating crew had a say in many of those.
This Saturday could possibly be one of the most epic days in Georgia football history. Think about everything going on: ESPN College Gameday returns for the first time since October of 1998. According to Paul Westerdawg, this is only the ninth time in program history that two top 10 teams will battle in Sanford Stadium. ESPN will broadcast the game under the lights and primetime at 7:45, so the whole country will be watching. With the 7:45 kickoff, tailgating will be rocking in Athens. I remember the feeling in 2006 before the Tennessee game. There was certainly an electric vibe in the atmosphere. And let us not forget, Coach Richt has asked for a blackout.
I have had mixed feelings on the use of the black jerseys, but I am starting to come around. I have held fast to the notion that they aren’t very special if Georgia wears them very often, say once a year. It becomes expected, and they lose their magic. But, the initial feelings and excitement from the Auburn game last year can’t ever be duplicated. That was a special moment, but it can’t always be that way. If the players want it, then do it. I still hope it isn’t used too many times, though. The Notre Dame Green jerseys are very special, no matter when they are wore. They seem to be more of a surprise when they wear them, but even when it hasn’t been a surprise, the fans love it. Saturday’s game will be epic for several reasons, so cementing the moment with the blackout is cool. And again, the players want it.
Alabama will travel well, and their fans will be jacked up. I have been critical of the noise level in Sanford in the past, especially from the Student Section. One thing I do hope to duplicate is the noise from the Auburn game last year. What a very, very wild place. I implore everyone to get in their seats early. I want Sanford to be a zoo when Brook Whitmire announces to the masses that it’s Saturday night in Athens.
I’ll try to post some more thoughts through the week about what’s up in Athens.
5 more days…
Overall, Georgia accomplished what it needed to in the desert. They got an impressive win, showed signs of improvement, and didn’t get too banged up. Knowshon added another highlight to his ever growing highlight reel. The game wasn’t really as close as it could have been. Pressure was finally put on the opposing quarterback. The kickoff coverage is looking better. Georgia still showed some signs of red zone troubles, but that’s something that can improve, and I believe it will once Brannan Southerland returns to the offense. He will be back on special teams for Saturday, but it looks like he won’t go full force until Tennessee. Penalties were atrocious, but not all were Georgia’s fault. The Pac-10 officiating crew had a say in many of those.
This Saturday could possibly be one of the most epic days in Georgia football history. Think about everything going on: ESPN College Gameday returns for the first time since October of 1998. According to Paul Westerdawg, this is only the ninth time in program history that two top 10 teams will battle in Sanford Stadium. ESPN will broadcast the game under the lights and primetime at 7:45, so the whole country will be watching. With the 7:45 kickoff, tailgating will be rocking in Athens. I remember the feeling in 2006 before the Tennessee game. There was certainly an electric vibe in the atmosphere. And let us not forget, Coach Richt has asked for a blackout.
I have had mixed feelings on the use of the black jerseys, but I am starting to come around. I have held fast to the notion that they aren’t very special if Georgia wears them very often, say once a year. It becomes expected, and they lose their magic. But, the initial feelings and excitement from the Auburn game last year can’t ever be duplicated. That was a special moment, but it can’t always be that way. If the players want it, then do it. I still hope it isn’t used too many times, though. The Notre Dame Green jerseys are very special, no matter when they are wore. They seem to be more of a surprise when they wear them, but even when it hasn’t been a surprise, the fans love it. Saturday’s game will be epic for several reasons, so cementing the moment with the blackout is cool. And again, the players want it.
Alabama will travel well, and their fans will be jacked up. I have been critical of the noise level in Sanford in the past, especially from the Student Section. One thing I do hope to duplicate is the noise from the Auburn game last year. What a very, very wild place. I implore everyone to get in their seats early. I want Sanford to be a zoo when Brook Whitmire announces to the masses that it’s Saturday night in Athens.
I’ll try to post some more thoughts through the week about what’s up in Athens.
5 more days…
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
What else did you expect?
Ok, it has been a while since I've written. Actually, it's been a very long time. But spring finals, two Spanish classes in the summer, an internship, a job, and starting the fall with classes and an internship will do that do you. So I'm going to try to get back into the groove of things and make this blog something decent.
A lot of people are upset over the South Carolina game (I'm not calling them USC. They aren't USC, plus the name "USC" is copyrighted by Southern Cal. For the same reasons, they aren't Carolina to me. "Carolina" is trademarked by North Carolina. Plus, those two schools have had success. What has South Carolina done? Exactly.)
As I have learned studying history and living life, those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it. The South Carolina matchup is always a tough one for Georgia. South Carolina (I'm not calling them the Cocks either) really gets up for this game each year, and even more so now with S.O.S. at the helm.
Many will cry that UGA is the #2 team in the country, that they should beat South Carolina easily. Well, such is not the case, and anyone who expected otherwise, as one wise fan put, "still has the price tag on their UGA shirt." First, they are South Carolina, and that will make it an absolute fist fight. Second, it is a SEC game. Each and every game, especially this year, will be an all out assault. Look at the early season success of Ole Miss and Vanderbilt for evidence. Granted, we don't really know how good some of these teams are until the competition steps up (i.e. Kentucky). Nor do we know how bad some teams are (i.e. Mississippi State, Arkansas). Auburn will find out exactly how far along that spread offense is this weekend as the Fightin' Tigers from LSU come calling to The Jungle at Jordan-Hare. Auburn's defense is unbelievable, but the offense has been sluggish at best. This will be a defensive battle at its best.
Georgia made enough mistakes on Saturday to keep South Carolina in the game. Most of those mistakes are simple, mental mistakes that should be easily corrected. Gamecock quarterback Chris Smelley played a whale of a game. He was the South Carolina offense as Mike Davis was smothered by the UGA run defense. We'll see how much has been improved upon Saturday when the Dawgs head west to defend the honor of the SEC against Pac-10 heavyweight Arizona State. Was the loss to UNLV simply ASU looking ahead to Georgia, or is it a sign of things to come? Was ASU maybe just a bit overrated in this offseason? All will bear fruit on Saturday evening in the desert.
That's all for now. I plan to get back to this again soon.
ChiliDawg
A lot of people are upset over the South Carolina game (I'm not calling them USC. They aren't USC, plus the name "USC" is copyrighted by Southern Cal. For the same reasons, they aren't Carolina to me. "Carolina" is trademarked by North Carolina. Plus, those two schools have had success. What has South Carolina done? Exactly.)
As I have learned studying history and living life, those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it. The South Carolina matchup is always a tough one for Georgia. South Carolina (I'm not calling them the Cocks either) really gets up for this game each year, and even more so now with S.O.S. at the helm.
Many will cry that UGA is the #2 team in the country, that they should beat South Carolina easily. Well, such is not the case, and anyone who expected otherwise, as one wise fan put, "still has the price tag on their UGA shirt." First, they are South Carolina, and that will make it an absolute fist fight. Second, it is a SEC game. Each and every game, especially this year, will be an all out assault. Look at the early season success of Ole Miss and Vanderbilt for evidence. Granted, we don't really know how good some of these teams are until the competition steps up (i.e. Kentucky). Nor do we know how bad some teams are (i.e. Mississippi State, Arkansas). Auburn will find out exactly how far along that spread offense is this weekend as the Fightin' Tigers from LSU come calling to The Jungle at Jordan-Hare. Auburn's defense is unbelievable, but the offense has been sluggish at best. This will be a defensive battle at its best.
Georgia made enough mistakes on Saturday to keep South Carolina in the game. Most of those mistakes are simple, mental mistakes that should be easily corrected. Gamecock quarterback Chris Smelley played a whale of a game. He was the South Carolina offense as Mike Davis was smothered by the UGA run defense. We'll see how much has been improved upon Saturday when the Dawgs head west to defend the honor of the SEC against Pac-10 heavyweight Arizona State. Was the loss to UNLV simply ASU looking ahead to Georgia, or is it a sign of things to come? Was ASU maybe just a bit overrated in this offseason? All will bear fruit on Saturday evening in the desert.
That's all for now. I plan to get back to this again soon.
ChiliDawg
Friday, April 11, 2008
My respect just went up +10
The AJC has an article today about this new Larry Munson bobblehead that is being created by Rob Ellis. Larry has requested that all proceeds from the little broadcasters be donated to the Noah Harris Memorial Scholarship Fund. The seven inch tall figure will give you some of Larry's most infamous calls at the flick of a switch.
Noah Harris, a former UGA cheerleading captain and UGA alum, passed away from injuries recieved in Iraq in 2005. He was 23. Harris hails from my hometown of Ellijay. His death really shook our small mountain town and I'm very glad that UGA has taken steps to memorialize this true American hero. He joined the Army after the September 11th attacks in New York, telling his father that people “must serve some higher purpose than yourself in life.”
Noah was unbelievably selfless. He was known for carrying bullets in one pocket, and beanie babies for the Iraqi children in another. I was involved in a few activities with Noah's mother, Lucy, back when I was a student at Gilmer High, where she teaches. She is an amazing individual. Seeing the kind of individual that she and her husband Rick are, it is no wonder that Noah was such an amazing person and a valued member of the UGA community, as well as our great nation.
Larry Munson, who already holds my personal admiration due to his talents as a broadcaster, has just earned my admiration as a great person. When Noah passed away, football coach Mark Richt, head swimming coach Jack Bauerle, UGA spirit coordinator Shelly Korpieski, Munson, and his fishing buddies were all instrumental in getting the scholarship endowded. It takes $150,000 to get the scholarship endowded, and sources involved say they are still well short.
I would greatly encourage you to pick up a bobblehead if you can. An extra donation to the fund would be greatly appreciated by the Harris family.
God Bless the fine people on this campus. Damn good Dawgs, that's all I can really say.
Here's the link to the AJC story:
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/uga/stories/2008/04/11/munsonbobble_0412.html
ChiliDawg
Noah Harris, a former UGA cheerleading captain and UGA alum, passed away from injuries recieved in Iraq in 2005. He was 23. Harris hails from my hometown of Ellijay. His death really shook our small mountain town and I'm very glad that UGA has taken steps to memorialize this true American hero. He joined the Army after the September 11th attacks in New York, telling his father that people “must serve some higher purpose than yourself in life.”
Noah was unbelievably selfless. He was known for carrying bullets in one pocket, and beanie babies for the Iraqi children in another. I was involved in a few activities with Noah's mother, Lucy, back when I was a student at Gilmer High, where she teaches. She is an amazing individual. Seeing the kind of individual that she and her husband Rick are, it is no wonder that Noah was such an amazing person and a valued member of the UGA community, as well as our great nation.
Larry Munson, who already holds my personal admiration due to his talents as a broadcaster, has just earned my admiration as a great person. When Noah passed away, football coach Mark Richt, head swimming coach Jack Bauerle, UGA spirit coordinator Shelly Korpieski, Munson, and his fishing buddies were all instrumental in getting the scholarship endowded. It takes $150,000 to get the scholarship endowded, and sources involved say they are still well short.
I would greatly encourage you to pick up a bobblehead if you can. An extra donation to the fund would be greatly appreciated by the Harris family.
God Bless the fine people on this campus. Damn good Dawgs, that's all I can really say.
Here's the link to the AJC story:
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/uga/stories/2008/04/11/munsonbobble_0412.html
ChiliDawg
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Race for Research
This is completely un UGA related, but this is a cause that means a lot to me. My hometown of Ellijay has had several cases of battles with brain tumors. My uncle currently suffers from one, as well as a high school senior at my alma mater, Gilmer High. Very rarely will I post un UGA related posts, but I feel this one deserves some press. Please read the following from my cousin, and consider this date for your summer plans. Feel free to contact me for more information.
Thanks,
ChiliDawg
Hi Everyone,
Well we are little over three months away from the 9th Annual Race for Research to benefit brain tumor research. For the past nine years the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation has hosted the 5k race and 2k walk with all money raised going to fund research to find a cure for brain tumors. Last year the race raised over $250,000 which was presented to four brain tumor researchers, two doctors at Emory and two at Duke were awarded last years grant.
Brain tumor research is especially close to mine and my family's heart since my dad was diagnosed with Glioblastoma (GBM) on January 31, 2008. Just a couple of weeks after dad's diagnosis Justin Elliot a senior at GHS was diagnosed with GBM and just days after Justin's diagnosis Eugene Young was diagnosed with GBM. Also there is Ethan Jones, a 6 year old little boy who has been fighting Medulloblastoma since February 2007.
If you are interested in joining our team of walkers we would love for you to join us.Below is the information for the walkDate: Saturday July 12, 2008Location: Atlantic Station, in AtlantaTime: 6:30 - 7:15 am number pick up (This time may change)Race Time: 7:30 am (This time may change)Entrance fee: $20If you would like to join us or have any questions please feel free to contact me at mrs_amandasmtih@yahoo.com.
Thanks to everyone!
Amanda Buffington Smith
Thanks,
ChiliDawg
Hi Everyone,
Well we are little over three months away from the 9th Annual Race for Research to benefit brain tumor research. For the past nine years the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation has hosted the 5k race and 2k walk with all money raised going to fund research to find a cure for brain tumors. Last year the race raised over $250,000 which was presented to four brain tumor researchers, two doctors at Emory and two at Duke were awarded last years grant.
Brain tumor research is especially close to mine and my family's heart since my dad was diagnosed with Glioblastoma (GBM) on January 31, 2008. Just a couple of weeks after dad's diagnosis Justin Elliot a senior at GHS was diagnosed with GBM and just days after Justin's diagnosis Eugene Young was diagnosed with GBM. Also there is Ethan Jones, a 6 year old little boy who has been fighting Medulloblastoma since February 2007.
If you are interested in joining our team of walkers we would love for you to join us.Below is the information for the walkDate: Saturday July 12, 2008Location: Atlantic Station, in AtlantaTime: 6:30 - 7:15 am number pick up (This time may change)Race Time: 7:30 am (This time may change)Entrance fee: $20If you would like to join us or have any questions please feel free to contact me at mrs_amandasmtih@yahoo.com.
Thanks to everyone!
Amanda Buffington Smith
Sunday, March 30, 2008
UGA athletics: weekend of 3-28
Somewhat busy weeekend of athletics for Georgia.
First, congratulations to the Gym Dawgs for winning the SEC Championship at the Gwinnett Center, in front of a record crowd. The beautiful ladies in red and black have maintained their number one standing after losing star Courtney Kupets earlier this season to injury.
Other impressive items worth mentioning: Cassidy McCombs becomes the SEC Freshman of the Year, Suzanne Yoculan becomes the SEC Coach of the Year, and Katie Heenan becomes the all time leading scorer in Gym Dawg history.
Congratulations to these fine individuals for their accomplishments, as well as a congratulations to the team. This is Georgia's 16th SEC Championship. Very impressive.
Come home to Athens, girls. A potential 4-peat awaits.
Other items worth mentioning:
-UGA wins the Southern Equestrian Championship
-UGA softball picks up two wins over Arkansas
-Sophomore Chris Hill moved up to number 4 on Georgia's all-time top-10 list in the javelin as he won the event at the Yellow Jacket Invitational in Atlanta on Saturday
-As of press time, UGA baseball had split 2 games over Mississippi State. Friday's contest was lost by the (good) Dawgs in 10 innings. UGA then won 5-1 on Saturday. Georgia is playing one of (if not) the toughest schedule in America. The team seems to be doing really well, especially offensively. The one weakness is the bullpen, which has had moments of flirtation with not holding leads late in games. This problem is much improved over the same issue that plagued the team last season.
-Sebastien Rouault and Chris Colwill recorded 2nd place finishes as UGA set 2 school records on Friday at the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championship. Great job on the silver guys!
It's great to be a Georgia Bulldog!
Chili
Update: The baseball team won on Sunday to take the series against Mississippi State, the softball team swept Arkansas, and both the Mens and Womens tennis teams won their events.
Go Dawgs
First, congratulations to the Gym Dawgs for winning the SEC Championship at the Gwinnett Center, in front of a record crowd. The beautiful ladies in red and black have maintained their number one standing after losing star Courtney Kupets earlier this season to injury.
Other impressive items worth mentioning: Cassidy McCombs becomes the SEC Freshman of the Year, Suzanne Yoculan becomes the SEC Coach of the Year, and Katie Heenan becomes the all time leading scorer in Gym Dawg history.
Congratulations to these fine individuals for their accomplishments, as well as a congratulations to the team. This is Georgia's 16th SEC Championship. Very impressive.
Come home to Athens, girls. A potential 4-peat awaits.
Other items worth mentioning:
-UGA wins the Southern Equestrian Championship
-UGA softball picks up two wins over Arkansas
-Sophomore Chris Hill moved up to number 4 on Georgia's all-time top-10 list in the javelin as he won the event at the Yellow Jacket Invitational in Atlanta on Saturday
-As of press time, UGA baseball had split 2 games over Mississippi State. Friday's contest was lost by the (good) Dawgs in 10 innings. UGA then won 5-1 on Saturday. Georgia is playing one of (if not) the toughest schedule in America. The team seems to be doing really well, especially offensively. The one weakness is the bullpen, which has had moments of flirtation with not holding leads late in games. This problem is much improved over the same issue that plagued the team last season.
-Sebastien Rouault and Chris Colwill recorded 2nd place finishes as UGA set 2 school records on Friday at the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championship. Great job on the silver guys!
It's great to be a Georgia Bulldog!
Chili
Update: The baseball team won on Sunday to take the series against Mississippi State, the softball team swept Arkansas, and both the Mens and Womens tennis teams won their events.
Go Dawgs
Friday, March 28, 2008
Students: forgot about basketball?
Well, I hate to make my first post somewhat of a bummer, but I haven't really been able to come up with any more ideas.
Something that society plays off of a lot and is something that I cannot stand is a "bandwagon" fan. Someone who didn't give two hoots in the wind about things when it was rough, but they are "oh...my...God...I am, like, your HUGEST fan!!!!!" when it comes time to play on the big stage. Suddenly, all those students who had more important things to do during the week, suddenly became ardent supporters of Felton's crew, fighting for their lives in D.C., but I digress.
I don't think it's any secret that UGA is a football school. Period. Nothing else even really comes close. The debate for the number two sport, however, could be a heated one. Men's basketball probably gets the moss press and recognition, but the Gym Dawgs are a VERY tough ticket on most days. The Gym Dawgs have had unparalleled success on the beams, and I love it. Women's basketball has been, over the course of time, more successful than perhaps the men. Georgia baseball has had a new run of success under skipper Dave Perno.
UGA students, and in some ways fans, really mostly care about football. This isn't really a bad thing, I'm just saying. Demand for UGA student tickets and season tickets are high. This 2008 upcoming season is already being talked about in hushed tones, bridled excitement ready to bust out in open song, that this could be a very special year. It certainly has all the makings too. That schedule is a tough one, but do you believe in the silver britches?
For the casual UGA student, football dominates your athletic interests during your time on campus. Hell, even some folks made football their selling point to come here to this fine academic institution for higher learning. So the typical UGA student makes the fall flings with no question. They will catch a Lady Dawgs game every once in a while, definitely baseball since it's free, and will be doing the Pink Out with the rest of them while they cheer on the Gym Dawgs.
But where does men's basketball come into this? During the season, turnout was sparse at several of the games I made it to. I went to as many as I possibly could. If I have my figures right, the only sell out was Tennessee. Florida may have sold out once I got inside, but when I walked by around 7:15, they still had tickets. Matter of fact, Tennessee still had tickets on Saturday for sale. Kentucky may have been a sell out as well.
Point is, why do the students only feel the need to show up when the Dawgs REALLY need them? I believe students should show up for as many games as they should. Yeah, yeah, I know a winner on the court will put fannies in the seats, but for us, we are STUDENTS. Where is that school spirit?!?! You only get to go to college once, and when you are out and want to make a trip to watch the hoops team, you will miss those $2 tickets.
I was out of town during the SEC Tournament/North Avenue Trade School invitational, and missed the thrill of a tourney berth in person. When I got back to campus on Monday, I was really surprised at the lack of buzz surrounding the improbable run the Dawgs had made the few days before. Many worried over their bracket, but not so many over the matchup with Xavier.
Thursday, the Tate Student Center held a viewing for the opening round game. I was down in front, yelling and screaming with some of the loudest supporters of UGA hoops on campus (those crazy guys who paint). Of course we were front row. Of course we were loud. Of course we were jumping around. The Dawgs gave us a lot to cheer about until about 10 minutes to go in the game. I was numb at the way the others acted. We were told to "sit down" and "shut up" on multiple occasions. That's like going to Sanford Stadium and yelling at a guy to be quiet.
If you don't like it, keep your ass in the dorm. You can make your own rules there.
How many times in your life have you watched UGA in the NCAA tournament? And who is to say when it happens again? (I hope very, very soon). Enjoy the moment. It was a gathering of students. It should have been about making Tate the home of Felton's Fanatics. They should have been able to hear us up in Washington. Instead, it was up to about five or six of us.
I hope that we as students can make a more collective effort to back the basketball team next season. I know they love to look up and see a full student sea of red and black. (Which leads me to another thing: WEAR SCHOOL COLORS TO A UGA EVENT! Would you wear your green t-shirt or nice blue polo to a Saturday afternoon between the hedges? I didn't think so. So what makes you think the hoops boys deserve any less of our support? They are busting their rear ends, representing YOUR school, and for the natives, YOUR state, as well as trying their hardest to put a product on the floor that YOU would be proud of).
I have always wondered if the team gets a little disheartened, looking up in the stands and seeing that maybe 500 or so students care about basketball. (And at some of the games this year, 500 is a generous number). How do you think that makes them feel? To know that some freshman has more interest staying in Russell, surrounded by World of Warcraft and Chemistry homework, instead of yelling and screaming for the Dawgs for a couple of hours with friends, then grabbing some Snelling on the way back.
The homework will still be there when you get back. While as a student, take the time to support the other teams on campus. I believe they appreciate it, and it makes a difference.
Go Dawgs,
ChiliDawg
Something that society plays off of a lot and is something that I cannot stand is a "bandwagon" fan. Someone who didn't give two hoots in the wind about things when it was rough, but they are "oh...my...God...I am, like, your HUGEST fan!!!!!" when it comes time to play on the big stage. Suddenly, all those students who had more important things to do during the week, suddenly became ardent supporters of Felton's crew, fighting for their lives in D.C., but I digress.
I don't think it's any secret that UGA is a football school. Period. Nothing else even really comes close. The debate for the number two sport, however, could be a heated one. Men's basketball probably gets the moss press and recognition, but the Gym Dawgs are a VERY tough ticket on most days. The Gym Dawgs have had unparalleled success on the beams, and I love it. Women's basketball has been, over the course of time, more successful than perhaps the men. Georgia baseball has had a new run of success under skipper Dave Perno.
UGA students, and in some ways fans, really mostly care about football. This isn't really a bad thing, I'm just saying. Demand for UGA student tickets and season tickets are high. This 2008 upcoming season is already being talked about in hushed tones, bridled excitement ready to bust out in open song, that this could be a very special year. It certainly has all the makings too. That schedule is a tough one, but do you believe in the silver britches?
For the casual UGA student, football dominates your athletic interests during your time on campus. Hell, even some folks made football their selling point to come here to this fine academic institution for higher learning. So the typical UGA student makes the fall flings with no question. They will catch a Lady Dawgs game every once in a while, definitely baseball since it's free, and will be doing the Pink Out with the rest of them while they cheer on the Gym Dawgs.
But where does men's basketball come into this? During the season, turnout was sparse at several of the games I made it to. I went to as many as I possibly could. If I have my figures right, the only sell out was Tennessee. Florida may have sold out once I got inside, but when I walked by around 7:15, they still had tickets. Matter of fact, Tennessee still had tickets on Saturday for sale. Kentucky may have been a sell out as well.
Point is, why do the students only feel the need to show up when the Dawgs REALLY need them? I believe students should show up for as many games as they should. Yeah, yeah, I know a winner on the court will put fannies in the seats, but for us, we are STUDENTS. Where is that school spirit?!?! You only get to go to college once, and when you are out and want to make a trip to watch the hoops team, you will miss those $2 tickets.
I was out of town during the SEC Tournament/North Avenue Trade School invitational, and missed the thrill of a tourney berth in person. When I got back to campus on Monday, I was really surprised at the lack of buzz surrounding the improbable run the Dawgs had made the few days before. Many worried over their bracket, but not so many over the matchup with Xavier.
Thursday, the Tate Student Center held a viewing for the opening round game. I was down in front, yelling and screaming with some of the loudest supporters of UGA hoops on campus (those crazy guys who paint). Of course we were front row. Of course we were loud. Of course we were jumping around. The Dawgs gave us a lot to cheer about until about 10 minutes to go in the game. I was numb at the way the others acted. We were told to "sit down" and "shut up" on multiple occasions. That's like going to Sanford Stadium and yelling at a guy to be quiet.
If you don't like it, keep your ass in the dorm. You can make your own rules there.
How many times in your life have you watched UGA in the NCAA tournament? And who is to say when it happens again? (I hope very, very soon). Enjoy the moment. It was a gathering of students. It should have been about making Tate the home of Felton's Fanatics. They should have been able to hear us up in Washington. Instead, it was up to about five or six of us.
I hope that we as students can make a more collective effort to back the basketball team next season. I know they love to look up and see a full student sea of red and black. (Which leads me to another thing: WEAR SCHOOL COLORS TO A UGA EVENT! Would you wear your green t-shirt or nice blue polo to a Saturday afternoon between the hedges? I didn't think so. So what makes you think the hoops boys deserve any less of our support? They are busting their rear ends, representing YOUR school, and for the natives, YOUR state, as well as trying their hardest to put a product on the floor that YOU would be proud of).
I have always wondered if the team gets a little disheartened, looking up in the stands and seeing that maybe 500 or so students care about basketball. (And at some of the games this year, 500 is a generous number). How do you think that makes them feel? To know that some freshman has more interest staying in Russell, surrounded by World of Warcraft and Chemistry homework, instead of yelling and screaming for the Dawgs for a couple of hours with friends, then grabbing some Snelling on the way back.
The homework will still be there when you get back. While as a student, take the time to support the other teams on campus. I believe they appreciate it, and it makes a difference.
Go Dawgs,
ChiliDawg
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
A little acquaintance
Well, SlawDawg has made a dream come true. I am now blogging on LarryMunson'sHead. Much thanks to slaw for making this happen. I'm flattered to be contributing with my thoughts and insights. I'm still getting acquainted to this whole thing, but maybe I can get it all figured out soon and have more insights headed ya'lls way.
More later.
Chili
More later.
Chili
Thursday, January 3, 2008
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