Buck's Blog

Saban Going After 'Dogs Commit Ramsey

Buck Belue — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:40:50 GMT

Can't say that I blame Coach Saban for going after Camden Co. HS QB Brice Ramsey. He's one of the top-rated QBs in the Class of 2013. Obviously, Nick isn't going to be scared off by the fact that Brice has already committed to Georgia. Saban will try to change his mind.

But it doesn't look to me like Ramsey will be coming off his commitment to Georgia.

Coach Bobo got into Camden County first. Spent an entire day there studying video and then, observing spring practice. Mike formed an immediate relationship with Brice, before these other schools even knew that this young man could play. That's big, in this case...because trust will be a huge factor with the Ramsey family. More on that in a moment.

Brice attended a 'Dogs summer camp last year, committed on the spot and started recruiting some playmakers. He's close with Goose Creek, SC WR Tramel Terry and got him to commit. He worked on Yulee, FL RB Derrick Henry and get him to commit. He also got close to 'Dogs new signee John Theus, who just signed a couple of weeks ago.

Even if Brice is impressed, after visiting Alabama in the coming weeks, not sure how you go back on what's already taken place. And before you slam the kid for visiting Alabama think about this... he's probably just interested in seeing the program. I was the same way, when I visited Bear Bryant. Curious about their success, not interested in signing with them. And it's nice to have something to compare Georgia to.

Here is what Coach Bobo and Richt have to sell: 1- a track record of success for QBs at Georgia and the NFL (Stafford, Greene, Shockley), 2- opportunity to stay close to roots & compete for title, and 3- chance to play early (Murray probably exits after this season).

The Tide can only brag about 1 of those 3 factors (play for a title).

Now, back to the trust factor.

Brice Ramsey's Dad is a Navy sailor, who is being transferred out at the end of this year, for 3 years. So, Brice's Dad, Mom and sister will be moving. Maybe overseas. Maybe to the west coast. Mom is already on record about the trust factor. Got to leave him with people they trust. This is a huge factor in this process.

Coach Saban is playing a game of catch-up. Richt and Bobo have already established trust. The final issue with Georgia will be Richt getting that contract extension.

Just watched Brice Ramsey's highlight tape. Camden County runs a Wing-T attack, which has been tweaked, in order to take advantage of Ramsey's ability to throw it. I was impressed. He has a natural throwing motion. Throws the deep ball impressively. Can move around comfortably. Brice only has 1 full season of competition under his belt, so he will continue to improve this coming season. The sky is the limit. Right now, he's 6'3" and 195.

You'll be hearing a lot about Robert Nkemdiche (Grayson) and Reuben Foster (LaGrange), in the coming months. But Brice Ramsey is #3 on the state of Georgia's top-rated players list.

'Dogs Might Offer Alford

Buck Belue — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:07:46 GMT

The Bulldogs currently have a little room, under the NCAA limit of 85. Best I can tell, they are 7 short of the max. Why? How? Well, they came up a little short on national signing day. And Richt had to run those 3 guys off for reportedly having sticky fingers.

Word on the street says that Richt is close to offering Mario Alford. Probably need to jump on this one. This guy can play. He's a former HS QB, who won the Georgia state 100M, with a 10.77. Just watched his highlight reel from this season at Georgia Military JC, where he played WR and had a number of explosive plays. He can fly. And he looked like a football player, not just a track guy.

Why was he at Georgia Military? Reportedly, he was a late qualifier. But he's qualified now and would have 3 years of eligibility remaining.

Take a look at the highlight reel. It's impressive. He took a lot of those hitch routes to the house.

With the lack of depth at CB, it might be foolish to allow Branden Smith to return kicks this season. Alford looks like a candidate for that role. Wonder if he could play corner? Anyway, Richt needs to sign this guy up, if he clears the background check. The 'Dogs have room and this guy can play.

Big Secondary Concerns

Buck Belue — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:52:05 GMT

Didn't have much time to enjoy the 2012 Georgia signing class, with the dismissals that came down. And it's made me take inventory of the Bulldog secondary.

Grantham's defense has to replace Paul Hornung Award winner Brandon Boykin, who was the top playmaker in the secondary. Jordan Love left. So did Jakar Hamilton and Derek Owens. Now Nick Marshall and Chris Sanders got kicked off the team. That's 6 DBs no longer with the team.

Sure hope the guys that are left don't get injured or get in trouble. Right now, Grantham looks at his depth chart in the secondary and is reminded of how thin they are.

And remember, starting CB Sanders Commings is facing a suspension to start the season.

If the Bulldogs played tomorrow, here is how they would line up in the secondary: Perhaps the best safety tandem in CF would be Bacarri Rambo and Shawn Williams, who return for their senior season. Branden Smith is a starter at one CB spot. With Commings probably out to start the season, soph. CB Damian Swann takes over at the other CB slot.

Who are the back-ups? At CB, RF Devin Bowman and incoming freshman Sheldon Dawson are all that's left. At safety, Corey Moore, Mark Deas and Quintavius Harrow are all underclassmen who will get a look.

Grantham does subscribe to the pro-approach of playing mostly starters. But what if injuries hit? And with Rambo, Williams, Smith and Commings all exiting after this season as seniors, what will the 2013 secondary look like? That's a concern.

The 'Dogs open the SEC schedule at Missouri...the Tigers are a pass-happy attack. Grantham will have to play the nickle & dime package. Bowman and Dawson will probably have to play. Did you see where the Tigers signed the top WR in the country?

Not sure we can risk Branden Smith returning kicks or getting any snaps on offense, with this situation in the secondary. Guess the staff could do the position change thing with someone else. Maybe Malcom Mitchell could get some reps at CB against Missouri? We'll see.

Looks like the Class of 2013 will have an overload of DBs. Got to make up for those 6 guys that aren't here anymore.

Wild Signing Day for Bulldogs

Buck Belue — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:18:07 GMT

   The Josh Harvey-Clemons story is the talk of the town. Valdosta, Athens and Atlanta. And everywhere else Bulldog fans are today. Crazy, uh? I really feel for Josh, right now. Try and put yourself in his shoes. It had to be embarrassing. It was supposed to be a great day and it all came crashing down. Sure hope he can get this resolved quickly.
   Like most signing days, it was a mixed bag. Good and bad. Missed on JaQuay Williams and Avery Young. Hit on Josh Dawson. Secured Jonathan Taylor and Jordan Jenkins. Landed the top rated players in 4 different states. John Theus is a big deal. So is Marshall and Gurley. Addressed some major needs, by signing both Marshall Morgan and Collin Barber. Still have a shot at Harvey-Clemons. There is much to feel good about. Getting Sheldon Dawson out of Memphis is a boost, especially if he turns out to be the next Boykin.
   It would be awesome to hit on all of these guys. But that's not realistic. The best approach is to wish those guys well and move on.
   Anxious to see the guys that come in a little under the radar...Blake Tibbs, Quayvon Hicks, Ty Smith, Greg Pyke, Leonard Floyd and James Deloach. This is a solid class.
   Hoping they add one more to the list.

Focused on Impact Guys From 2011 Class

Buck Belue — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 01:57:23 GMT

So much of the buzz recently has been about the 'Dogs Class of 2012. Will Richt finish the drill and flip some of these guys? What will Josh Harvey-Clemons do? Big questions, uh?

But let's be realistic. How many will make an immediate impact? Not many.

That's why I'm focused on last year's class. Wondering who steps up this year? They've had a year to develop, mature and get coached up. Maybe some of them are ready to play ball in 2012.

Let's start with the offense. Two guys jump off the page: Jay Rome and Chris Conley.

We caught a glimpse of what Conley is capable of this past season. Chris got a taste of the action and was impressive. Caught 16 balls, with 2 TDs. That 6'3" frame looked smooth running routes. Great hands. Can go up and get it. And with a year in the system, he should make a big jump this year. In fact, this WR corp will be one of the best in CF: King, Mitchell, Brown, Bennett and Conley. That's a solid group.

Orson and Aron have moved on and left a void at TE. Arthur Lynch should step in and be physical, with his huge 6'5", 275 lb. frame. And I'm expecting Jay Rome, who took a redshirt season, to step in and make an impact. Jay's a talented young man, who can block, run and catch it. And he's a big target, at 6'6" 255 pounds. Look for Bobo to utilize the 2-TE set this season and run it.

Over to the defense, now. Ray Drew and Damian Swann are all looking to grab playing time in 2012.

Drew has had an opportunity to sharpen up his technique. Bet he makes a move now. Bring some heat off the edge, opposite Jarvis Jones. Knock some guys around. Washington is the starter, but Drew is looking to take some playing time away from him.

With Boykin moving on the NFL and Commings in trouble, Grantham needs a couple CBs to emerge. Swann got to taste big-time CF as a freshmen. Looking for him to take the next step this season. Damian has impressive ball skills. Time to show it off this spring. Can't wait to see him play ball.

In fact, looking forward to seeing all these guys hit the field...Conley, Rome, Drew and Swann. This should be fun.

Josh Harvey-Clemons Head Spinning

Buck Belue — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:20:30 GMT

The states top-rated player is getting "press coverage" right now. Richt is in Valdosta and will go to church with him tonight. Jimbo Fisher shows up tomorrow for lunch. Gator assistant coaches will attend his Lowndes High football banquet tomorrow night. And then, he's probably off to Miami to visit the 'Canes. That is, if Louisville doesn't finalize his travel plans for a visit there.

The crazy life of a 5-star recruit, who is still wavering on where he wants to go to school. And his grandpa is the one guiding him through all this, because his parents are deceased. I feel for the young man. I also respect his grandfather.

My sources are telling me that Grandpa favors Florida, because Gainesville is a lot closer to home than Athens. I also hear that Josh favors Georgia. And that Grandpa doesn't want him at FSU, because he feels like his former LHS teammate Greg Reid is a bad influence. That's what I'm hearing.

Watched his highlight tape again. The young man has some outstanding ball skills. He can chase, sideline-to-sideline. Looks comfortable in space, where he can cover. Can bring heat off the edge, when he rushes the passer. Huge wingspan. Projects to easily put on another 20-30 pounds, as he matures.

He also looks really raw. Technique not real sharp. Has trouble getting off blockers. So, like a lot of guys, he needs to get coached-up.

Is he an instant impact guy? I believe he probably needs a year of work, before he gets on the field, with a big role at LB. Could play on special teams as a freshman.

Hunker Down Time For Richt & Staff

Buck Belue — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 15:14:28 GMT

Let me just say that I like how Coach Richt and his staff can recruit to the finish line this year. In years past, they would have already wrapped up the recruiting class. Probably missed on some good players because of it. Not this year.

Georgia has room to sign 6-8 more players. Richt has a shot this week to go into homes and seal the deal. Sell the 'Dogs program hard. He's "a closer" this week. Again, I like that.

A lot of these players have trouble making up their minds. They go back and forth. Lean towards one program, then flip a week later. Sometimes it comes down to the final week. And that's where we stand right now.

Priority #1: Josh Harvey-Clemons in Valdosta. I've got the urge to drive back home and sell him on Georgia. That's a NCAA violation, right? Better not. But I feel like it. Maybe former 'Dog LB Randall Godfrey, a former Lowndes High star, got in his ear at some point. Anyway, Georgia has a 50/50 shot of signing the states top-rated player and we can't allow him to slip away to Florida or FSU.

Now the Seminoles are making a late run at Harvey-Clemons. That scares me. Lowndes High Head Coach Randy McPherson is "a FSU guy." They've always funneled players to Tallahassee. Suddenly, this smells.

John Theus looks to me like he's "college ready," but the 'Dogs could use more of this...Avery Young would be a boost to this class. He's the 2nd ranked OL in the state of Florida, behind Theus. Maybe he didn't like Miami this weekend.

WR JaQuay Williams and DT Dalvin Tomlinson appear to be long-shots, but maybe Richt can flip them. Bet Auburn is busy pointing out the young WRs Georgia already has and how much they need him. Dalvin has had the look of a Tech man for months. But go sell Georgia, anyway.

Sheldon Dawson, from Memphis, would be a nice addition to this class. We'll take all the playmakers we can get, right? Kenny Crawley, a D.C. DB, has a decision to make, after backing out from a Tennessee VC. Bulldogs have a shot with him. JC WR Cordarrelle Patterson has had the re-carpet treatment all over the SEC and now has a big decision to make...will it be LSU, Tennessee, Auburn, Arkansas or Georgia? Josh Dawson is another player the 'Dogs need to put the press on. Tech turned back on Lanier County High DE/OLB Junior Gnonkonde, so 'Dogs need to jump him quick.

Glad to see Coach Richt and his staff pushing hard toward the finish line. Go get these guys! Finish the drill! Got 6-8 spots to fill.

Can 'Dogs Lure In Josh Harvey-Clemons?

Buck Belue — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:41:23 GMT

Rivals has him as the top-rated player in the state. So does Scout. ESPN too. Josh Harvey-Clemons is also undecided, which makes this the most anticipated announcement of National Signing Day, in the state of Georgia.

His grandpa says it's come down to Georgia or Florida. We won't know until makes the announcement. Who will it be?

Best I can tell, both sides have positives and negatives.

The Gators have a couple of things working in their favor. 1- Gainesville is 90 minutes from Valdosta. 2- Florida is thin at the LB position. So, Grandpa is close by and Josh can see early playing time. The negatives? The Gators are in a rebuilding mode. And there has never been a Lowndes High player play for the Gators. Josh wants to win. And he would be more comfortable if there was a little Lowndes High history at Florida.

The 'Dogs have a good and bad list too.

The Good: Josh and Coach Grantham hit it off. Todd sold him on the SLB position, as his best fit. He had video to back that up. Another positive revolves around this group being in position to compete for a championship next season. And there are some Valdosta products already on the team. One more thing; former Bulldog LB Randall Godfrey is a Lowndes High star. Josh feels comfortable at Georgia.

What's the negative? Athens is 4 hours from home. And he sees quality depth lined up at the LB position. Playing time isn't as easy to imagine, when compared to what the Gators have.

Obviously, Georgia always hopes to sign the states top-rated player. This year is no different. And if the Bulldogs do land Josh, they will have lured in 3 of the states Top 5 players. That's good work.

2 Weeks From National Signing Day

Buck Belue — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:11:55 GMT

The clock is ticking. Two weeks before the big day.

Sure would be nice to hear that the 'Dogs got the 2 big guys still uncommitted. OLB Josh Harvey-Clemons and DT Dalvin Tomlinson. That would be another big boost to this recruiting class.

My Valdosta sources are telling me that Josh Harvey-Clemons visit this past weekend as a good one. Grantham was a big hit. They bonded. Coach was selling Josh on the SLB position. It's a spot where he could get the most out of his skill set...rush the passer and play in space. And there is an opportunity to play early.

Reading Michael Carvell's coverage at AJC.com, it sounds like grandfather likes Coach Richt and appreciates the early morning tutoring program. Georgia's got a good shot at getting him.

I watched him play in one of the all-star games and really liked his athleticism. He moved around so easily. So smooth. Chased the ball carrier aggressively. He's a little light right now, but his frame can hold 30 more pounds. Can't wait to see him a couple of years from now.

Lowndes High has always been a great recruiting spot for FSU. The Seminoles have owned that school. So, it's nice to see that Josh is exploring beyond the norm. Georgia's got so much to offer. And it's got to help us, with Jay Rome and Malcolm Mitchell already on campus.

'Dogs Get Help at Running Back

Buck Belue — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 20:14:24 GMT

Keith Marshall is already on campus. And now, Todd Gurley has committed. Obviously, the Bulldogs have stepped up the competition level at RB. I'm guessing these two guys aren't looking to stand on the sideline this coming season. They are coming to play.

Suddenly, Isaiah Crowell has some competition. And the 'Dogs have some alternatives, if Crowell isn't available.

Gurley and Marshall appear to be an outstanding 1-2 punch. Keith is a shifty, speedy, make-them-miss talent. Todd is a tough, between the tackles, banger...who can also run past defenders. This is a nice combination.

Add Ken Malcome to the mix too. He really came on strong in 2011. Got to figure that he's only going to get better in 2012.

So, that's 4 legit RBs. Should be able to get them all playing time. Probably need them all, in order to get through the season. AND PLAYING TIME WILL BE EARNED. The starter will have earned that honor.

Bryan McClendon needs to be complimented. Nice job recruiting and selling the program. The competition is tough out there. Bryan connected with this guys. Deserves a raise too.

How We Replace Orson Charles

Buck Belue — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:46:44 GMT

Orson is off the the NFL. Look for him to be another Georgia TE who ends up being a successful pro. Obviously, he can catch it. Runs good routes. Physical enough to bring it down in traffic. I see Orson being a 2nd round pick, by a team with a west coast scheme. Probably the second or third TE off the board.

But how do we replace him at Georgia? I believe we are in good shape at TE, even though the offense lost Charles and Aron White. But Coach Bobo will be changing the scheme. Orson and Aron were good receiving TE's, who we flexed out a lot.

The new guys have a different skill set. Can't wait to see redshirt freshman Jay Rome take the field. Jay is 6'6" in cleats and 260 pounds. Big enough to block and also a big target. Junior Arthur Lynch is a physical blocker, at 6'5" 270 pounds. Coach Bobo will probably be using 2 TE sets and pounding the rock a little more.

Rome's uncle was an awesome HS TE at Valdosta High. His Dad was the most talented WR that ever put on a Valdosta uniform. Both were highly competitive. Jay comes from good stock. He looks like a combination of both. Can block. Can catch. Team guy, who wants to win.

Orson Charles will be a success in the NFL. But he leaves the position in good hands.

Roll Tide, Roll

Buck Belue — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:29:59 GMT

Alabama crushed LSU, in the rematch.

A.J. McCarron elevated his play big-time. McElwain got him some easy flat throws immediately, which gave him some confidence. The Tide got some plays out of its WR group, even after Maze left with an injured hamstring. Thought they did a nice job of using back-up RB Eddie Lacey early in the game, so Trent Richardson would be fresh late.

Kirby's defense pitched a shutout. They stuffed the option. Obviously, they worked overtime on that, with 6 weeks to prepare. As always, they smothered the run game on 1st down. Courtney Upshaw, the games defensive MVP, was a difference-maker up front. On the edge, CBs Dre Kirkpatrick and DeQuan Menzie played tough. Barron was a beast, at safety.

The big keys to victory? I've got one on each side of the ball.

The Alabama offense is going to miss OC Jim McElwain, who has left to lead the Colorado State program. His plan was masterful. THE TIDE USED A 2 TE SET THE ENTIRE GAME TO HELP CONTROL THE TALENTED LSU FRONT 4. So, Alabama had 7 capable blockers on the field, at all times. Michael Williams and Brad Smelley played a huge role in the win.

Defensively, THE TIDE TOOK AWAY THE RUN GAME AND MADE JORDAN JEFFERSON TRY TO BEAT THEM WITH HIS ARM...and that wasn't going to happen. Jordan is a runner, not a thrower. How did they take away the run game? They put 8 strong players in the box. They were disciplined against the option.

ALABAMA WON THE SPECIAL TEAMS BATTLE TOO, which was huge. Cover team got after Claiborne on kick-offs. Return teams executed. And Shelley was 5-7 on FGs.

Saban's team had only 1 penalty. They just dominated the top-rated team in CF. Impressive.

Future 'Dogs Hunker Down in All-Star Games

Buck Belue — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:43:00 GMT

   Got my first real look at some of the future 'Dogs, as I took in the Under Armour & Army High School All-Star Games. Got to focus on two guys in particular and left very impressed.
   Running back Keith Marshall and OL John Theus could get some early playing time, once they get to Athens. Both were able to handle going up against the top HS competition.
   Marshall got the rock 9 times in the Under Armour game. He's quick and shifty. Reminds me of former Ole Miss star Dexter McCluster. Hard to get a good shot in on him. He can make them miss. Looked polished.
   Theus played a lot of guard in the Army All-star game, but he's a tackle at Georgia. And this guy is a beast. Huge legs. Good feet. Strong. Smart. Competitive. After seeing him go at it, I wouldn't be surprised to see him play at Georgia as a freshman, opposite Gates. He looks like a future star.

Not Sure 'Dogs are Top 10 in 2012

Buck Belue — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 01:07:47 GMT

Hearing a lot of talk about the 'Dogs being a Top 10 rated team heading into the 2012 season. Let me just say that I'm not on board yet. A Top 25? Sure. Top 10? Nope.

We've got some work to do up front, on both sides of the ball. Until then, we are hanging around the same spot...somewhere between 15 & 25.

On the O-Line, we lose 3 senior starters. So, we are looking for a center and 2 OTs. Question: What are the 3 most important spots on the OL? Answer: Center and both tackles. Question: Do we have experienced upperclassmen ready to step in, in those 3 spots? Answer: Maybe in 2 of the 3.

Chris Burnette looks like the best option at center. Best I can tell, he played guard out of necessity this season. But he would take over the center spot as a junior, with starting experience. The other option is to go with an unproven, redshirt freshman in David Andrews.

At tackle, junior Kenarious Gates is expected to grab one spot. He did come on strong late this season at guard, but it remains to be seen if he can deliver at tackle. The other spot is wide open. It looks like one of the young pups will have to play. That's not a situation Top 10 teams typically deal with.

On the D-Line, who are the impact players? Jenkins is legit, but he's taking on double teams. I don't see "difference-makers" at DE. Top 10 teams have impact players at those spots. I over-valued Geathers. Garrison Smith could emerge. Abry Jones wasn't that impressive. There are question marks.

We are loaded at WR and LB. Set at QB. Solid in the secondary. It's on the LOS where we have issues. And the best I can tell, you can't beat Top 10 teams, when you're not winning up front. But what's new? This has been the same story for years now.

Tough Loss To Michigan State

Buck Belue — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 01:56:46 GMT

That was a tough loss. The 'Dogs leave Tampa with a lot of regrets.

Got to give Michigan State credit. They were down, got up, fought back and won. Their seniors were determined to go out a winner. Tip your cap to them.

But this is a tough one to take for Georgia. Gave up a 16 point halftime lead. Let a late lead get away, with less than 2:00 to play. Had a shot to end it in the first overtime, but Walsh missed another one. This is a game that the 'Dogs allowed to get away.

Aaron Murray's second half performance was disappointing. Two 3rd quarter picks resulted in 2 Spartan TDs. That's a killer. Aaron made some plays too. But those 3 turnovers really turned the game over to Michigan State.

It sure looked good with 1:55 remaining on the 4th quarter, with the 'Dogs up 27-20 and State getting the ball at their own 15 yard line. Thought for sure Grantham's defense would slam the door shut on them. But instead, they gave up a 10-play, 85 yard TD drive, to force OT.

The biggest mistake by Coach Richt was playing for the FG in the 1st overtime. We sat on it, so Blair Walsh could miss another one. Could understand that approach, if Rex Robinson or Kevin Butler was kicking, but Walsh? After the season he had? That prevented us from winning. Richt should have allowed Bobo to be aggressive there.

Our O-Line got whipped. Our RB situation is below average. That was crystal clear too.

Losing that one is a big disappointment.

Boykin played his rear end off. He was out MVP. Tavarres King had a record setting day. He was outstanding. Jarvis Jones was making a huge impact, until he injured his knee. We had some guys play well. But we are still a few players short of being able to handle a Top 25 team.

1980 Dawgs Video A Great Gift

Buck Belue — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:11:21 GMT

Dad is going to love this gift. The Inside Story of the National Championship Season, in a 2 DVD set. It'll fit into his stocking nicely.

Obviously, this touches my soul. When first contacted to be apart of the project, I wondered how this would turn out. I'm so impressed with the finished product. Lenny Daniel (Filmed & Directed) and Mike Moss (Executive Producer) worked magic. I felt a range of emotions watching it. I laughed, teared up a few times, and felt inspired all over again.

The highlights were awesome and the interviews brought the story to life. It really took me back in time...seeing Erk work the sideline, watching Herschel pound the rock, Lindsay sprint past the Gators, and Scott Woerner take down Clemson. Couldn't pull myself away from the video.

I want to encourage you to buy this for your special Bulldog.

Go to www.1980Dawgs.com to information on how and where to buy it.

The location closest to me is North Point Mall, at the College Station store, in Alpharetta. But there are many locations.

'Dogs O-Line Key in 2012

Buck Belue — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:54 GMT

Just a few days remain in 2011. And what a bounce back season it has been for the 'Dogs. Richt is officially off the hot seat and about to sign an extension. The Bulldogs are back playing in a good bowl game. The car is back on the road.

A bus load of talent returns for next season too. And that's all good. Maybe the Bulldogs take that next step forward in 2012. Win the SEC. Contend for the big title. Play in a BCS bowl. Get back to the big-time.

One of the big keys in that happening lies up front. The O-Line has some holes to fill. Both tackles exit. And to me, that's the key to the 2012 team...replacing the 3 senior starters.

The 'Dogs did a smart thing in attracting a JC OL into the fold. Mark Beard will enroll in January and should have an opportunity to play immediately.

At center, I'd have Chris Burnette stepping in to replace Ben Jones. I realize Coach Friend has been complimenting freshman David Andrews, but the educated guess here says he's not ready. Burnette is now a veteran, after starting most of the season at guard. That's who I would plug in. He's ready. And this is a critical spot on the O-Line.

At guard, it looks like Dallas Lee will lock down one of those spots. He looked good this season getting his first action. Kolton Houston should get a long look at the other spot. Could be a Buford duo at guard.

Of course, the tackle spots are critical in the SEC. Got to block those talented DEs. Kenarious Gates should be able to slide over and grab one of those spots. He's huge and he came on strong at the end of the season. The other tackle spot looks wide open.

Wonder if Austin Long can stay healthy and compete? He'll be a junior. Maybe Watts Danzler can play ball as a redshirt freshman. Xzavier Ward was a machine in HS. He's coming off a knee injury. Anxious to get a look at him in the spring. Zach Debell is another redshirt freshman who has some upside. One of these guys has to emerge.

Highly-rated recruit John Theus could be a star, but asking him to step in as a freshman is simply asking too much.

Wish we were in a place where a junior or senior was set to step in. That's what most of the big boy programs do. Not us. Not lately. Got to get these underclassmen ready to rumble.

Better Respect The Spartans

Buck Belue — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:51:39 GMT

   Got a bad feeling about this one. Sure hope the 'Dogs are motivated to beat a tough opponent in Michigan State, because I believe the Spartans are a team on a mission.
   The Spartans senior class is the winningest in Michigan State history (36 wins) and that spans a proud 115 years. But they have not won a bowl game. I'm sure they remember losing to Georgia a few years ago in Orlando. And they definitely have a chip on their shoulder about last year's bowl loss to Alabama. The Tide rolled them 49-7. Ouch. That one hurt.
   If you're thinking we'll give them the same treatment...consider this.
   Alabama physically manhandled them. Pounded them with the downhill running game. Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram ran over them. Alabama ran for a record 5 TDs. This 'Dogs team doesn't play that style of football. The 'Dogs don't have a physical runner.
   On defense, Alabama stuffed the MSU run (RB Edwin Baker had 14 yards on 12 carries) and then, pressured QB Kirk Cousins (sacked him 4 times). That's total domination. Grantham's defense could do similar work, but would be hard-pressed to match that performance.
   Just saying...don't expect a blowout. Michigan State is better than they were a year ago. And they are MOTIVATED. I wonder about us.

Belue's a Fan of Mike Davis

Buck Belue — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:03:41 GMT

   Got a new favorite player. Stephenson High School running back Mike Davis.
   He was a verbal commitment to Muschamp's Gators, but ended that flirtation recently. That's when Georgia stepped in with an offer. Not sure what took so long, but better late than never. Word is that he will take an official visit sometime soon.
   Anyway, Davis told AJC Recruiting Insider Michael Carvell last week a few things that totally impressed me. And I think Bulldog fans everywhere will respect the approach this young man has with the recruiting process.
   As far as the Keith Marshall commitment goes, well that doesn't scare Mike Davis. He looks at it this way: There is competition at every top program. So, he's not shying away from Georgia just because Keith Marshall is coming and Isaiah Crowell is already on campus. I LOVE THIS! This is the attitude all these recruits should have.
   During his visit to Georgia, he plans on asking Coach Richt if this is an open competition. If so (and it is), he believes he can compete with any RB. I LOVE THIS TOO!
   Mike Davis is a young man I'd want on my team. Obviously, the Bulldogs need more than 1 quality RB in this class and Davis would be a great addition. Sure hope he decides to come to Georgia.
   However, I'll be a fan of Mike Davis regardless of where he decides to attend college.

Richt Extension Practically Done

Buck Belue — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:18:10 GMT

   Don't waste one second thinking that Coach Richt is leaving Georgia for Texas A&M. That's comical. Who comes up with this stuff?
   My sources are telling me today that the Richt extension is "practically done." Dotting the I's and crossing the T's. It'll probably be a 3-year contract extension, which will put his contract back on a 5-year deal. That allows these head coaches to go into the prospects home and assure them they will be there during their time there.
   No way Richt gets Keith Marshall to commit, if he's considering going elsewhere. Come on, now.
   Texas A&M might indeed be interested. Penn State too. But Coach Richt is not going anywhere. McGarity has cut him a new deal and Coach Richt will stay put. I promise.