The game formerly known as “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” is upon us – the University of Georgia Bulldogs versus the University of Florida Gators in neutral Jacksonville, Florida. It’s no mystery – the Gators have owned the Bulldogs in recent memory, winning 15 of the last 17 meetings. It’s the biggest game of the season for Georgia fans, and unfortunately, it’s the game in recent years that more often than not, the Bulldogs have found a way to lose, even when we had the superior team. I honestly believe that if Georgia had beaten Florida during the early 2000’s, we would’ve had at least two (2) national titles.
Regretfully, the Dawgs have developed a mental and physical block when it comes to this game. Players and coaches freeze up and under perform. The defense allows big plays, receivers drop easy passes, and coaches either fail to adjust or play too conservatively to win the game. If Georgia ever wants to take back this series, they need to exorcist the Gator demon. Bulldog players and coaches need to acknowledge the importance of this game while taking steps to demystify the annual rivalry game. Former coach, Vince Dooley proved that Georgia teams could dominate the series; now it’s time that Coach Richt return the Bulldogs to glory.
Florida is beatable this season; just ask Auburn and Louisiana State. The key to beating the Gators is old fashion smash mouth football – run the ball down their throat and play hard nose defense. The Dawgs have to take the Gator fans out the game by either scoring first or forcing the Gators into several three and out situations. Most importantly, the Bulldogs have to go after Tim Tebow. Although I’m critical of Tebow’s success, I’ll admit that he’s a good player; therefore, Georgia needs to derail him by offering different blitz packages and probably placing a spy on him, so he’ll be forced to stay in the pocket. We can’t let Tebow energize the crowd.
On our side, it’s time for the offensive line to grow up. They have to protect quarterback Matthew Stafford. At the same time, Stafford needs to make use of all his opportunities by throw accurate and catchable balls. Furthermore, offensive play caller Mike Bobo needs to dial some down the field plays, as opposed to just screens and cut routs.
Running back Knowshon Moreno has shown so much potential the last couple of games; it’s time for him to have a coming out party on the grandest of stages by totally running over the Gators. Dawgs win by a touchdown!
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