Back to the Grind

After a weekend off, the University of Georgia Bulldogs will return to the field next Saturday in hopes of gaining momentum for their quest for the national title. If properly examined, defeat can bring clarity, and if utilized correctly it can be channeled into motivation. The Bulldogs need both those attributes because their schedule only gets tougher as they’ll play Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Louisiana State, Florida, Kentucky, Auburn, Georgia Tech, and every team mentioned above is capable of being Georgia and permanently extinguishing the Dawgs’ national title hopes.

The first give games taught me that Georgia is athletic and talented, but severely undisciplined. This is evident by the fact that Bulldogs average 87.4 yards per game in penalty yards. Georgia’s undisciplined play has sustained the drives of opponents, reversed key offensive and defensive plays, and has frustrated me as a fan. Second, Georgia’s offensive line is inexperienced. As a result, running back Knowshon Moreno and quarterback Mathew Stafford have had to work extra hard for yards, especially against good defenses – see the South Carolina and Alabama games. Third, the Dawgs’ defense lacks a game changer that creates pressure and demand double teams. Last, the Georgia coaching staff lacks last year’s swagger and confidence. This was evident at last week’s game against the Crimson Tide where the coaching staff seemed unprepared. Offensive Coordinator Mike Bobo never tried to establish the run; Defensive Coordinator Willie Martinez failed to make necessary adjustments in the first half and still refuses to call a blitz (every now-and-then) to get pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

I’m confident that the Bulldogs will come ready next week for their always tough match up against the Volunteers. Regardless of Tennessee’s record, they’ll be tough because their hungry for a win after tough loses to Florida and Auburn, and they’ll want to extend their current two game win streak against Georgia. Some time the best dog is the underdog because you have nothing to lose.