spring practice thread

[reese]

there will be a bunch of articles come out the next couple weeks so we can have this thread to post and discuss different topics through out spring practice.

[reese]

Richt pleased with spring practice start
WR King has been impressive after enrolling early

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/03/08

It was just the first day and the pads were not on and the rust was
just coming off, but still Richt was impressed with what he saw from
his team on day one of spring practice.

"Overall the practice had a lot of energy and a lot of just guys
running around playing hard and fast," he said. "It is like a lot of
first practices, it is hard to really say who did what."


But with so many veterans returning and only four newcomers to the
program the day was much more organized and seamless than the first
day of fall ball.

"The first day of spring is nice because almost everybody knows where
they should be where the first day of fall camp you have about 30 who
are not sure," Richt said. "You put things in a whole lot faster in
the spring and overall we handled it pretty good."

That's not to say there were not a few mistakes.

"Every time we went on the hard count somebody jumped offsides on
offense or defense," Richt said. "It happens just about every time you
do that. Guys are anxious to get off the line of scrimmage. But
overall it was a good day."


One to watch

Wide receiver Tavarres King didn't come into Georgia with near the
hype of incoming recruit A.J. Green. But King does have the jumpstart
on Green. King enrolled at the midyear and has already started to turn
heads on the practice field.

"He is going to be something special," said wide receiver Kris Durham.
"He works extremely hard and has got good hands, too. He reminds me,
like everybody says, of Sean (Bailey)."

Bailey and King are both 6-1. Both have plenty of downfield speed.
King may also have more elusiveness than Bailey over the middle. "I
could see him doing stuff like Mikey (Henderson)," Durham said. "He is
real skinny but he is real shifty, too."

Keep the title talk down

Georgia players are not supposed to talk about the national title.
Really, they are not even supposed to think about the national title.
Instead Richt wants the team to focus on the moment; what each
individual can do to better himself at that moment.

That is much easier said than done. Players have hopes and dreams,
too. And sometimes those just have to be fed.

To that end center Chris Davis was stuffing his imagination with
thoughts of what if just the other day.

"Coaches say take it a game at a time but I am trying to win a
national championship," the sophomore said. "I have never had a ring
of any kind of championship in high school or anything and it would be
a great experience.

"I was looking at a tennis player, some pictures of his on Facebook,
and I saw they got to meet the president and I thought that would be
pretty cool to meet the president. That's my goal, I want to meet the
president."

Which leads to the obvious question. "I am a Republican, we will just
keep it that way," he said.

**********

[reese]

Stafford impresses in Georgia's first workout
Bulldog quarterback focusing on improved footwork, accuracy

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/04/08

It's only day one, but quarterback Matthew Stafford is already looking
different.

"I thought Stafford threw the ball extremely well," Richt said.

The rising junior was more accurate and more willing to take what was
given to him instead of going downfield all the time, Richt said.

"I saw that more today than I have seen in a long time," he said. "A
guy is open in the flat, just zip it out there. You don't have to hit
the deepest guy. You don't have to prove you can squeeze it in."

Stafford's footwork and accuracy will be a major point of emphasis
throughout the spring. He completed 55 percent of his passes last
season. The goal for the upcoming season is 62 percent.

[reese]

Richt likes work of Stafford, King in first day of spring drills

The Associated Press
ATHENS, Ga. — Georgia coach Mark Richt praised the passing of quarterback Matthew Stafford and the running of tailback Caleb King in Monday's opening day of spring practice.

Stafford, a junior, is a returning starter while King is the top backup to Knowshon Moreno, who rushed for 1,334 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2007.

King, a top signee last year, sat out as a redshirt last season.

"He looked good today," Richt said of King, before adding "It's just shorts."

Stafford completed 55.4 percent of his passes for 2,348 yards with 19 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He said he hopes to improve his completion percentage this year.

"If he throws it like he did today every day, his percentage will go up," Richt said.

Georgia, which finished No. 2 in the nation following an 11-2 finish last season, is expected to be ranked near the top of the preseason polls.

Richt said he doesn't think the national championship talk was the reason players were excited for the first of 15 spring practices.

"I don't know if it's the national championship, it's that they look around and see we've got a chance to be pretty good if everybody does what they're supposed to do," Richt said.

Copyright 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

[D^3]

Some pics from the first day of practice....

http://www.georgiadogs.com//pics5/640/ID/IDHFCIZQZUUWEUX.20080303231741.jpg

http://http://www.georgiadogs.com//pics20/640/BU/BUYYKUQAVOZGJQS.20080303231707.jpg

http://www.georgiadogs.com//pics7/640/CX/CXBEMGZLQDWUIAA.20080303231723.jpg

http://www.georgiadogs.com//pics30/640/QN/QNJLZVNWSXTIVBC.20080303231718.jpg

[D^3]

Good thread reese.... now I don't have to remember which thread I saw what info in. :thumpsup:

[reese]

i looked at all the pics on georgiadogs, t. king is a tiny little thing

[D^3]

i looked at all the pics on georgiadogs, t. king is a tiny little thing


Well, lets hope he's got wheels :D


On a sidenote: I'm not sure if Moreno has gotten even beastlier, or I just forgot how beastly he was. But he's definitely looking like a beast.

[reese]

i wanna see what walter hill looks like in pads....i read where asher allen was sayng he isnt a typical tall, lanky reciever

[D^3]

i wanna see what walter hill looks like in pads....i read where asher allen was sayng he isnt a typical tall, lanky reciever


No, the talk around him is that he's not just tall, he's tall and BIG, with the physicality to fight DB's for the ball. The roster shows him at 6'4" 214 lbs, so he's definitely got some mass to him.

You gonna make it to the spring game?

[reese]

No, the talk around him is that he's not just tall, he's tall and BIG, with the physicality to fight DB's for the ball. The roster shows him at 6'4" 214 lbs, so he's definitely got some mass to him.

You gonna make it to the spring game?

yep...it will be my 2nd in a row

[reese]

Which defensive end will step up for Georgia?
Battle, Wynn, Lomax all candidates


Published on: 03/04/08

Athens — For three straight years now an unknown, well as unknown as one can be while playing for a top 25 team, has stepped forward at the defensive end position for Georgia,

First there was Quentin Moses. Then came Charles Johnson. And last year it was Marcus Howard. And, of course, before all of those it was David Pollack who stepped from the shadows to be a force at defensive end for Georgia and in the Southeastern Conference.

Now Georgia is searching once again for that player. There appear to be three who have the chance to be that player: Roderick Battle, Jarius Wynn and Jeremy Lomax.

Of those three, it is Battle who has the edge when it comes to experience. The junior started every game opposite Marcus Howard last season. He comes into this spring as the starter once again. But that does not guarantee him a spot.

"It is hard to say what is going to happen now," he said. "We have got a lot of people who know what they are doing with the exception of (Justin) Houston moving over."

Seven defensive ends played against Hawaii. And Georgia coach Mark Richt is not against allowing such a deep rotation to happen again.

"Hopefully one or two guys start to really step up," Richt said. "If they all step up, we will do it by committee. I don't mind. I like it better."

That committee could include players like Demarcus Dobbs, Michael Lemon and Neland Ball. But none of those have the experience of the aforementioned three. So, in all likelihood, as Georgia goes through spring, Wynn, Lomax and Battle will be the three going after the two top spots.

"I think it is fun to just compete," Battle said. "The other guys see that, too. They are thinking it is going to be them (starting) too. So it is good to have that competition within our segment."

[reese]

Things looking up for Bulldog receivers

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/05/08

Athens -- Every year a team is supposed to get bigger, stronger and faster.

This year Georgia became taller.

The Bulldogs have a potential wide receiving corps, if they put three on the field, of 6-foot-5 Kris Durham, 6-4 A.J. Green and 6-2 Mohamed Massaquoi. Then there is 6-4 Walter Hill, a redshirt freshman who is coming on strong.

But just because those players have exceptional height doesn't mean they will be able to run wild on defenses. Smaller cornerbacks can be a pesky problem when they jam the receivers at the line.

"The hardest thing is getting low when they are in press," Durham said. "It is kind of hard because some of the corners, they are smaller, and I have to get down to their level to get off the jam. You have to overpower it and get around it."

Some players, such as Green, might be able to use their speed to get around the jam. All of that is useless if the pass is not thrown correctly. Georgia coach Mark Richt and offensive coordinator Mike Bobo have stressed that point to quarterback Matthew Stafford.

"He has got to throw it to give these big men a chance to make a play at the ball and not throw it out of their range," Richt said. "You have to understand everybody's speed and everybody's strengths, and most of those big guys' strengths is to be able to basically box a guy out and make a play.

"We have got to make sure we throw the ball that way," Richt said.

"You see so many guys today playing with bigger receivers, and they give you a big target," Bobo said. "But we have got to give them a chance to make the play. A tall guys sometimes can be covered, but if you give them a chance to sometimes make the play, they are able to make it because of a size advantage. Giving them an opportunity to make a play will be the biggest thing."

[bulldawg]

Moreno looks like a mini Michael Pittman. I heard on Rivals that he dropped 5-10 pounds and he is faster than ever. He had some rediculous 40 time that the coaches won't release to the media for some reason.


I will be up for the spring game. I have a reservation at the Marriot and I'll be picking up some tickets online tomorrow after i get paid.

[D^3]

Some news from todays practice:


-----------------------

ATHENS, GA. * --- The Georgia football team went through its second of 14 spring practices on Wednesday afternoon.

With the sounds of the baseball game at nearby Foley Field creeping in, the Bulldogs practiced for about two hours. Afterward, Georgia coach Mark Richt said he was happy with what he saw.

"I was really proud of the hustle," Richt said. "That was one of the things we wanted to emphasize today. We wanted the guy with the ball to run harder and longer to force the defense to pursue harder and longer."

Richt said at Monday's practice tailback Knowshon Moreno dashed about 50 yards after catching a screen pass. Defensive lineman Jeff Owens pursued so hard, Richt said, that he and Moreno were in the same frame on the film at the end of the play.

"It was tremendous effort and hustle," Richt said. "If everybody went like that, we might have something special. Today, we saw a lot more hustle, a lot more team hustle."

Richt said it also was obvious that the Bulldogs are ready to put on the pads.

"We¹ll get them get into shells (Thursday)," Richt said, referring to shoulder pads and helmets. "That will give them a chance to get after each other. That's what they like to do."

Richt singled out Kenneth Harris, Demarcus Dobbs, Andrew Williams, Tripp Chandler, Tony Wilson and Mohamed Massaquoi for their play during Wednesday's session.

[reese]

Bulldogs look for ways to use Dent

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/05/08

Athens — Akeem Dent's position is in danger of becoming obsolete.

And he is not alone. More and more strongside linebackers are being
pushed out of the game because of the increased three- and
four-wide-receiver sets in college offenses these days. So Georgia has
decided to try to do something about it.

"Akeem Dent he has been at [strongside]," said Georgia coach Mark
Richt. "But we are mainly working him at the [middle] and [weakside].
We are trying to cross train."

That is because Georgia wants Dent's tackling ability on the field,
but it can't afford to have a 6-foot-2, 218-pound linebacker trying to
cover a wide receiver. In fact, Georgia is training all its strongside
players at the middle linebacker spot.

"The last couple of games last season, we only used one [strongside],
and he barely played," said Justin Houston.

Houston was at strongside linebacker last season. But for various
factors, including less of a need for strongside linebackers, Houston
was moved to defensive end.

"I see now the [strongside] that we did have playing [Dent], he is
working more at inside, so I am happy that I made the decision to
move," Houston said.


Player spotlight

He might not be on campus yet, but 6-4 incoming freshman wide receiver
A.J. Green is already causing a lot of buzz, and Richt appears to be
adding to it.

"We will give him every opportunity to [play]," Richt said. "My guess
is he will make a contribution to the team. How big will depend on how
well he does.

"We will give him a really good crack at it," he said.

As for playing time being a problem because Georgia has several
veteran receivers returning, Richt doesn't see it that way.

"Everybody is cutting into the other guys playing time," Richt said.
"The more guys that prove they are ready the less any one guy might get.

"I want to see what that kid [Green] can do before we decide who plays
and who doesn't," Richt said. "There is not thing wrong with
substituting either. The more guys that prove they are ready to play,
that is how many we will play."


Inside the huddle

Tony Wilson was a player who made a lot or noise early in August. He
was a redshirt freshman with something to prove. So Wilson talked and
played a big game.

Then, just as quickly as he came onto the scene, the wide receiver was
lost.

"Tony really made a nice move in camp last year and was playing a lot
early and had a few drops, and I don't know went by the wayside as the
season went on," Richt said.

Wilson's most memorable drop was against South Carolina. But that
appears to have faded from memory now as Wilson is one of the wide
receivers turning heads during the first few days of spring football.

"He was always a tremendous blocker for us, and he is kind of showing
some signs like he did in camp," Richt said. "That would really be a
big plus for us if he could keep it going."


Coach's view

After watching the film of the first practice, Richt saw one thing he
wanted to increase as the players went into Wednesday's practice —
hustle. The play that brought it home was a 50-yard run by running
back Knowshon Moreno. As Moreno was headed down the field, the one
player who pursued the correct angle and almost caught him was
defensive tackle Jeff Owens.

"If everybody could go as hard as he went on that play, we might have
something special," Richt said.

That was the message Richt tried to get across to the team.

"One of the things we wanted to emphasize was everybody ... whoever
had the ball in their hand, to run harder and longer to force the
defense to pursue harder and longer," Richt said. "And we also want
the offensive players who were not carrying the ball to get out front
and block these defenders. We wanted more hustle, and it started with
the guy with the ball in his hand

[ColonelKurtz]

Playing as much nickel & dime as you have to vs. the 4-5 wide sets and spread offenses, three LB'ers aren't needed as you want a FS type on the wide side who can better match up with the speed guys.

Dawgs have been gravitating more towards such players the last two recruiting classes as more SEC foes adopt variations of the spread. Funny thing about this cat & mouse game is that the undoing of the spread is a DL push as disruption of the offense's timing is the simplest means of neutralizing it. Tebow didn't enjoy as much time as he was used to vs. UGA the last 2 games the two rivals have played and UF's overall offensive production has been less than prolific vs the Dawg D since Martinez has been DC.

[reese]

Stafford works on improving accuracy
UGA QB says goal is to make passes easier to catch

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/05/08

Athens — In the offseason, while all the Georgia highlights, wins and accomplishments were being savored, quarterback Matthew Stafford found himself alone in the dark.

His mind wasn't on what he had done — lead a sometimes shaky team to an 11-2 season and a No. 2 finish. But instead he was focused on what he had not done — complete 154 of his 348 pass attempts.
Matthew Stafford has been analyzing his 2007 play to gain more accuracy as a passer.

"I went back and looked at every incompletion I had last year," Stafford said. "It felt like I never completed a ball when you just watch incompletion after incompletion. But it was good I learned a lot."

The knowledge is what Stafford, offensive coordinator Mike Bobo and coach Mark Richt will be trying to expand on as Georgia goes through its spring practice.

"There has been improvement but there is still a lot of room for improvement," Bobo said.

There were passes that sailed and ones that fell short last year. Sometimes it was Stafford's footwork. Other times it was his decision making. Add it all up and Stafford completed just 56 percent of his passes. That was better than the 53 percent as a freshman. But it is not near the expected 62 percent.

"You want to hit a guy right in his heart and it is hard to drop those, although we have dropped a few of those over the year," Richt said. "The goal is not only to complete the ball but to hit him in such a way he can get the yards after the catch."

Mohamed Massaquoi's 84-yard touchdown against Florida is a perfect example. Stafford, with pressure in his face, hit Massaquoi in stride and allowed him to go some 60 yards after the catch for a touchdown.

"The times when you are on balance and you have got good protection and everything is going right you have got to hit the guy," Stafford said. "And that is something I have to get better at."

Too many times Stafford did not hit the receiver in 2007. And there are a couple of reasons why.

"Good footwork will help you make good decisions and when you make good decisions you can have good precision," Bobo said. "That is kind of our saying; good footwork equals good decisions equals great precision."

Because of Stafford's arm strength, he is sometimes able to get away with throwing off his back foot or not being completely set. It worked very well throughout his high school career as Stafford was able to complete passes of all types at a 65 percent clip as a senior. Back then, and in his first two years at Georgia, Stafford would rely on his arm to get him out of any mess and get his team into any big play.

"He will get there (62 percent)," wide receiver Kris Durham said. "We have been working hard with him. Our timing is getting better as we have gotten older."

The coaches at Georgia have continued to tell Stafford that big plays are not always going to win the game and make him an accurate, reliable quarterback. He said he is getting the message.

"(Watching the film) I learned a lot about just taking what the defense gives you and hitting your target," Stafford said. "Just try to make it easy on those guys to catch it."

The coaches started to see that Stafford grasped that concept more and more as the season went on. To keep Stafford interested Bobo said he would continue to call plenty of downfield throws. But he also wants Stafford to recognize when the best play is to zip it to the flat.

"We have got to get him to play four quarters on a consistent basis," he said. "He is going to have to if we want to reach our goals and if he wants to be a great quarterback. It is not always about the long ball. His job is to help move the chains.

"For him to be considered great and not just a good guy with a great arm he is going to have to learn to do those things."

[reese]

Davis, Jones vying for chance to fill crucial void
Tight race in chase to play center

At 6-foot-4, 292-pound Chris Davis made a smooth transition from tight end as a senior at Jefferson High School to the starter last year at left guard after redshirting in 2006.

No matter who wins the job as Georgia's starting center, the Bulldogs will be undergoing a youth movement at the position where it all begins on offense.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford has had the luxury of a senior - Fernando Velasco in 2007 and Nick Jones in 2006 - to deliver the ball to him during his first two seasons.

This spring, redshirt sophomore Chris Davis and freshman Ben Jones are the leading candidates to snap to Stafford.

"(Stafford's) never really had a problem so to speak with snaps, knock on wood," offensive coordinator Mike Bobo said.

"But the quarterback and the center have to communicate on a lot of what we do in the run and pass game. It's going to be a new guy. Whoever it is, Stafford is going to have to take more of a role in helping the center with blocking schemes. They're going to have to work together."

The 6-foot-4, 292-pound Davis made a smooth transition from tight end as a senior at Jefferson High School to the starter last year at left guard after redshirting in 2006.

Jones, fresh out of Bibb County (Ala.) High School, brings a reputation to Georgia of playing with a nasty disposition, a trait that should serve the 6-foot-2, 306-pounder well in the trenches of the SEC. He came to Georgia already with a reputation of being a "tough son of a gun," from his showing in combine and camp appearances, coach Mark Richt said.

"He's a hard worker, he's intelligent, he's a good guy," Davis said. "I believe he can contribute. The biggest thing about (going from) high school to college is just the pace of the game. That's something I had a hard time learning, just the fast pace of practices because everybody is so much quicker."

Davis calls Jones "a good ole country boy."

"I tell him that he didn't learn what electricity was until he got to Athens," Davis said. "We pick on him all the time and tell him he doesn't have DSL."

Richt doesn't care if his center prefers high-speed or dial-up.

"You've just got to have a guy who knows what he's doing," Richt said.

Davis already should have a good feel after serving as Velasco's backup last year.

"Everybody says the center is like the general of the O-line, the quarterback of the O-line," Davis said. "It's true to a certain extent, but in our offense everybody needs to know what to do. Last year I knew what to do at every position. I have confidence in my team that they know as well."

Stafford isn't overly concerned about how the center competition will shake out this spring. Redshirt freshman Ben Harden and sophomore Kevin Perez are also working at the position.

"I don't think it's a huge deal," Stafford said. "I think we'll have an idea who it's going to be. ... I think we'll find who we need to get in there and it'll work itself out."

If Jones proves a quick study, that would allow coaches the option of moving Davis back to guard, but Davis is fine staying put.

"I enjoy center," Davis said. "I've always said I like having the ball in my hands. The play starts at center. ...I'd like to stay at center, but whatever can help this team out is what I'm going to do. We're going to see what happens."


Published in the Athens Banner-Herald on 030608

[reese]

one of our new walk-ons is a transfer from UCONN. he was on scholarship there. he was a 2 star TE on rivals. considering we signed a 2 star TE to a scholarship this year id say thats not bad for a walk on.


Derek Rich - Football Recruiting (http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=1&pr_key=46082)

[gatorhater]

one of our new walk-ons is a transfer from UCONN. he was on scholarship there. he was a 2 star TE on rivals. considering we signed a 2 star TE to a scholarship this year id say thats not bad for a walk on.


Derek Rich - Football Recruiting (http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=1&pr_key=46082)

Thanks for the update, reese. I heard that Derek was leaving UCONN, but hadn't heard where he was going. He's from my hometown and I'm friends w/ his older brother.

Derek was also a long-snapper at UCONN in case we need him for that purpose.

[reese]

Curran: Dogs deserve lofty ranking


Published on: 03/07/08

Rennie Curran, a Georgia linebacker and rising sophomore from Snellville, sat down with AJC staff writer Chip Towers for a quick Q&A after Thursday night's late practice. Here's what he had to say:

Q: What's the best thing about no longer being a freshman?

Definitely no longer having that feeling of confusion and running around like a chicken with my head chopped off. Going through fall camp it was like 140 degrees every day and they'd blow that whistle and I wouldn't know where to go. I'd just look to Dannell [Ellerbe] or Brandon Miller. I was, like, lost and confused and hot. That's definitely gone and not knowing where to be and not knowing the plays and all that.

Q: Who's the better tailback, Knowshown Moreno or Caleb King?

We'll have to find out when the pads come on. The only way you can tell is when you're playing in full pads. Anybody can look good in shorts in practice. We won't know until that first Saturday this fall.

Q: What was your best memory from the 2007 season?

Definitely the Auburn game. It was my birthday and we got those black jerseys. And then I blasted through Brad Lester on a toss play they had. He was a guy I grew up watching because I went to Brookwood and he went to Parkview. He always bulldozed guys in high school so I always dreamed of the day I could take him on. It was surprising.

Q: Which young teammate do you think might surprise some folks?

I think one of them will be Richard Samuel. He'll definitely turn some heads. He's a freak in the weight room, a strong kid. He's got good body size with a lot of room for growth. I think when he gets a grip on the system he's going to be dangerous and people are gonna want to watch. He's got the instinct and the mindset and he's real young, too. Lot of potential.

Q: How do you feel about all the lofty preseason expectations?

I think it's about time we started getting some respect. I feel like last year nobody paid much attention to us through the year and we really proved ourselves. Considering what we've got coming back this year I think we should be [ranked high]. I know we can't let it get to our head our anything and we're not going to let it.

We've got to do exactly what we did and remember the things that got us to where we are — the hard work, running to the ball, making plays.

Q: What are your plans for spring break?

I'm definitely going to spend some time with my girl [Natalie Quezada]. We'll probably go to Savannah. I've been with her since my sophomore year in high school and we don't get to see each other that much. She goes to Augusta State right now but she's about to transfer over.

[reese]

Notebook: Secondary turns to 2006 signees
By Josh Kendall - jkendall@macon.com

ATHENS --Prince Miller, Asher Allen and Reshad Jones always have felt a connection.

Now that they will be in the starting lineup together for the first time, they think that will become evident on the playing field. All three were members of the 2006 signing class. Miller and Allen, both juniors, are Georgia's starting cornerbacks, and Jones, a redshirt sophomore, is stepping into one starting safety position.

"Most of us who are playing together came in together, so we kind of feel comfortable," Jones said. "We have a brotherhood relationship."

Miller thinks that will allow the cornerbacks to be more aggressive on the perimeter, and he hopes that will improve on their four combined interceptions from a year ago.

"People were holding back at certain times I think (last year)," Miller said. "This year a lot of people are starting to take more chances with the safeties we've got. People feel more comfortable to take chances with Reshad Jones and CJ Byrd and Quintin Banks back there. It seems like we've all grown together, and we've all learned together. You kind of expect people to be at certain spots on the field."

Defensive coordinator Willie Martinez will encourage any extra aggression from his cornerbacks.

"Asher always has been a physical guy, but Prince really came on at the end of the year, just making open field tackles, and that was good to see," Martinez said.

RASH OF INJURIES

Offensive lineman Chris Little, a graduate of Twiggs County, will miss the rest of spring practice after having surgery to repair a stress fracture in his right foot. Little suffered the injury during mat drills, but the team had hoped he could participate in spring practice before having surgery.

"You've got to look at it on the bright side: He's going to be a month ahead on the rehab," head coach Mark Richt said.

Little, a third-string guard, is expected to be back at full strength by fall.

The Bulldogs' injury list grew quite a bit Thursday, although none of the others are believed to be as serious as Little's.

Sophomore tight end Bruce Figgins suffered an ankle sprain.

"It could be a high ankle sprain that would keep a guy out the rest of spring, but usually on an ankle sprain, you're thinking seven to 10 days, maybe even shorter," Richt said.

Senior linebacker Marcus Washington suffered a shoulder injury to the same shoulder he has injured twice before.

Freshman quarterback Logan Gray suffered a foot injury, but he is expected to be back March 17 when the team returns to the practice field as it takes off next week for spring break.

Defensive lineman Neland Ball (shoulder), linebacker Darius Dewberry (groin), offensive lineman Tanner Strickland (ankle) and wide receiver Demiko Goodman (leg) also are expected back March 17.

HARD DAY

Georgia had its first full contact practice of the spring Friday, and the reaction of the offense worried Richt.

"I wasn't necessarily disgusted with the offense, but I was a little upset with the offense," he said. "I felt like in shorts when everybody knew there was no tackling, no contact, everybody was flying around, making plays, looking brave, and then we started having contact, and all of a sudden, we dropped more balls, we fumbled more balls. They weren't playing with as much confidence."

The offense responded to a tongue-lashing by Richt and held up better in the final drill of the day, the coach said. Richt was pleased with the play of young backs Caleb King, Richard Samuel and Dontavius Jackson.

"(Samuel) actually picked up a linebacker blitz, not perfect, but he struck him pretty darn good," Richt said.

[reese]

Georgia adjusts to spread offense
By Josh Kendall

ATHENS --Midway through the 2007 season, Georgia linebacker Rennie Curran started getting a little lonely.

More and more, Curran noticed, he was one of only two linebackers on the field rather than the traditional three. The strongside linebacker, called the Sam linebacker by the Bulldogs, was nowhere to be found, unless Curran looked to the sideline.

"I noticed that we didn't use the Sam as much, especially against Florida," Curran said. "That was one of the reasons I even got to play, we brought the Sam out, and I got the opportunity to come in in a different type of defense."

Bulldogs head coach Mark Richt and defensive coordinator Willie Martinez noticed the trend before Curran did and began to plan for it.

"In our league, more and more people are spreading out (on offense), and I think it's happening pretty much around the nation," Richt said. "The more (offenses) spread, the less (defenses) play their Sam linebacker. You could play Sam and play a certain team and play maybe 15 snaps or something. And then if you have two Sams who are ready to play, you are splitting time like that."

When offenses spread out their formation, defenses have to replace the Sam linebacker with a defensive back, a player who is expected to be faster and better in pass coverage. With a linebacker in the game against a spread offense, Martinez said, quarterbacks and offensive coordinators know the defense will be playing zone defense, giving the offense an advantage.

"They know a linebacker is not going to play man (coverage)," Martinez said. "He's going to play zone."

So as the spread offense pops up more and more on Georgia's schedule - first-year offensive coordinator Tony Franklin is taking the spread to Auburn this year - Richt and Martinez have been trying to figure out what to do with their strongside linebackers.

The solution? Make sure they can do something else. That's one of the reasons redshirt freshman Justin Houston was moved from strongside linebacker to defensive end and the main reason Sam linebackers Akeem Dent and Darius Dewberry are learning the middle linebacker and weakside linebacker positions.

"I didn't really realize that," Dent said.

Houston said he is glad he's no longer playing a position in such flux.

"The last couple of games last season we only used one Sam, and he barely played," Houston said. "I see now the Sams that we did have are working more at inside."

Dent and Dewberry shouldn't worry that their preferred position will be phased out, Richt said, but they should understand it is changing. From now on, the head coach said, Georgia's strongside linebackers will have to be able to either play defensive end in passing situations or play more than one linebacker spot to ensure themselves playing time.

"You are going to see us more and more where that guy is a jack of all trades," Martinez said. "No doubt, it's a special kind of guy. You want the strength, you want the power, you want the size, but at the same time, you don't want that guy out there in space, trying to defend the spread."

OF NOTE

Georgia released the salary increases for its assistant coaches this past week. Defensive ends coach Jon Fabris received a 10 percent raise, the biggest percentage of the group. Here are the updated salaries: defensive coordinator Willie Martinez ($310,300), offensive coordinator Mike Bobo ($267,500), defensive line coach and recruiting coordinator Rodney Garner ($253,301), offensive line coach Stacey Searels ($235,400), Fabris ($192,610), wide receivers coach John Eason ($187,908), running backs coach Tony Ball ($157,600), tight ends coach John Lilly ($157,600) and linebackers coach John Jancek ($151,539).

[reese]

GEORGIA SPRING FOOTBALL REPORT: Defense 'out to get' offense
Physical practice highlighted by spirited hitting

By Chip Towers
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/08/08

Athens —- Georgia's defense got the best of the offense in the first full-contact practice of the spring as the Bulldogs conducted a short but intense and spirited practice before adjourning for spring break.

Georgia players were hitting each other hard most of the day, highlighted by a 3-on-3, Oklahoma-style drill in the middle of the practice and an 11-on-11 at the end. Coach Mark Richt, who kept score throughout, declared the offense the winner of the 3-on-3 drill but the defense for everything else.

At least two players were injured. Linebacker Marcus Washington's left shoulder popped out of socket, and tight end Bruce Figgins suffered a sprained ankle.

"That was exciting," Richt said. "It is a good drill to get started with because, believe it or not, it's safer than most hitting drills. It's tighter, the offensive and defensive players are nose-to-nose so you don't generate a lot of that speed, and the back is not very far behind. It was good."

Richt said the offense dominated the defense on Thursday, something the defensive players took to heart.

"The offense was talking a lot of trash before we ever got into pads, so we were out to get them," linebacker Darryl Gamble said. "We wanted to show them we could back up the talk."

"We love that," safety Reshad Jones said of full-speed contact. "Seeing the intensity of the team today, you'd never know it was only spring."

Linebacker depth no problem now

This time last year there was a lot of talk about how the Bulldogs were going to overcome a lack of depth at linebacker. There's no such talk this year as Dannell Ellerbe and Rennie Curran return to start at the two inside positions, Akeem Dent takes over at strongside, and the Bulldogs go three deep with scholarship players at all three positions.

"We're going to play a lot of guys at every position," Ellerbe said. "We should be fresh. We're the leaders of the defense this year."

The linebackers say that who starts and who doesn't is pretty much immaterial.

"The thing about it is, all of us are pretty much experienced, and all of us are working at all the positions," said Gamble, who never started but played in all 13 games as a redshirt freshman last season. "We don't get mad about who's first team and all that because it really doesn't matter. We all play."

Break for spring brings big plans

The players were even more upbeat than usual after a Friday practice because they were dismissed for spring break. Following are some of their plans:

Curran: "Heading to Savannah with my girl."

Ellerbe: "Going home to sit in front of the TV and get fat."

Jones: "Going home and hanging out."

DT Jeff Owens: "Taking a little road trip. Going with Josh Davis to Mississippi. Then we're thinking about going to Houston for the Big 12 [basketball] championship, and we might drop by LSU to see some buddies of mine. Heading west."

Little on crutches after foot surgery

Offensive lineman Chris Little was on crutches and will be out for the remainder of spring practice after having surgery to repair a stress fracture in his right foot.

Little suffered the injury during mat drills but was hoping to get through spring practice before the surgery, until the pain became unbearable.

"We have to look at it on the bright side," Richt said. "He's going to be at least a month ahead on his rehab than what he would have been. It will help him have a better summer and a longer time to be full speed."

[reese]

ATHENS, Ga. --- The Georgia football team resumed spring practice on Monday, working out for approximately 90 minutes in helmets and shoulder pads. The Bulldogs were off last week due to the university's spring break.

"I thought the energy level was pretty good, considering the fact that it's the first Monday after spring break," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "The offense had a rough day; the defense dominated the day. The defense did extremely well. I don't think the offense has won an inside drill yet this spring."

Richt said the experience and depth on defense is showing this spring.

"There's a lot of competition on defense," Richt said. "Guys are trying to fight for starting positions. There's a good many who have shown they deserve reps. We have a lot of guys who are showing they are ready to play. When you are confident that many can play, you can play harder and faster and avoid injuries. It creates excitement when a lot of guys know they are going to play."

Linebacker Marcus Washington said after practice he will undergo left shoulder surgery and likely will have to redshirt this season. Defensive coordinator Willie Martinez called the injury "a real blow" to the Bulldogs. Richt said the Bulldogs will continue to cross train linebackers Akeem Dent, Darryl Gamble and Darius Dewberry to help with Washington's absence.

Richt was asked what he thought about the SEC Tournament title and subsequent NCAA berth for the Georgia men's basketball team.

"I started crying when it was happening," Richt said. "This was just an awesome thing to see. I was so happy for the players, the coaches, for the fans who have been so loyal. To see history being made like that was pretty spectacular."

Before Monday's practice, the players and coaches sang "Happy Birthday" to former Bulldog Bobby Towns. Towns, who turned 70, serves as a referee during Georgia's practices.

Georgia's G-Day Game will be played Saturday, April 5, at Stanford Stadium. Tickets may be purchased in advance through georgiadogs.com.

[reese]

Defense reacts to the spread
By Marc Weiszer | marc.weiszer@onlineathens.com | Story updated at 11:52 PM on Monday, March 17, 2008
Nobody has put the strongside linebacker on the endangered species list yet, but the proliferation of the spread offense in college football is taking away snaps at the position at Georgia.

It's why defensive coordinator Willie Martinez is getting his No. 1 strongside linebacker, Akeem Dent, work at middle linebacker this spring. It's one of the reasons why the Bulldogs decided to move redshirt freshman Justin Houston from strongside linebacker back to defensive end this offseason and why Brandon Miller made the same move at the end of last season.

"It's forced defenses to do some things that account for the offense utilizing more space rather than pack it in there back with Herschel Walker," said Texas Tech coach Mike Leach, whose spread offense has led the nation in passing in four of the last five seasons. "You'd get some nice, big old linemen and slingshot Herschel in there and let it happen. Quite honestly, anybody that had Herschel again could probably do it all over again, but then the thing is not everybody's got a Herschel."

Georgia instead saw plenty of four- receiver sets against Hawaii's run-and-shoot offense in the Sugar Bowl and last season also went up against spread offenses including Florida, Kentucky, and Troy, whose offensive coordinator has since been hired to run Tommy Tuberville's offense at Auburn.

"In our league more and more people are spreading out and I think it's happening pretty much around the nation," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "So many people are going to three and four receiver sets that we've got to make sure. What happens is when they go to three and four-receiver sets, we go to a lot of nickel when we're only playing two linebackers."

Against the spread look, the strongside linebacker is usually heading to the sideline, replaced by a fifth defensive back who is more suited to defend against the pass.

"The last couple of games last year we only used one (strongside linebacker) and he barely played," Houston said. "I'm happy I'm at end."

Richt said a strongside linebacker might play only 15 snaps against a spread offense. If there are two strongside linebackers capable of playing, that further cuts into playing time.

"It's something you've got to deal with," Leach said. "With some people it's going to be a trend. Some people, whatever's hot offensively, they're going to run and dabble in it. More and more people are really getting committed to it, so I don't think it's really going to go away."

Marcus Howard, a one-time strongside linebacker at Georgia, thrived at defensive end last season against spread attacks. He had two sacks against Florida, one and ha lf against Troy, two against Kentucky and three against Hawaii.

Defensive coordinator Willie Martinez said Howard showed the ability to be a playmaker against spread offenses against Louisiana Monroe in 2005 when he made three tackles.

"It was a spread offense where they're running the zone read options, just space plays and he was running down making plays and was the defensive player of the game," Martinez said. "We played more of those teams last year. That's where the offenses are going now. Somebody like him that you're not trying to pound the ball at--even though he can do it because he's a strong kid - it just played into his hands."

Leach said his offense still sees its share of the more conventional 4-3 looks although defenses are apt to blitz or drop into coverage out of that look.

"We'll see three linebackers, but maybe they'll stir the pot with them a little bit with 'Maybe we're coming, maybe we're not' type of stuff," Leach said. "If they feel like they have you overmatched, they'll just run their stuff sometimes. They're either going to try to pressure or else they're going to drop everybody, one of the two. That'll be the initial philosophy. If that doesn't work, then they'll go to the other extreme. And if that doesn't work, they'll stir it up and try to keep you off balance. That can be frustrating if you're trying to sort it out, but the truth of the matter is that's good news. If you see a lot of defense, then that means we're moving the ball pretty good and we're having success."


Published in the Athens Banner-Herald on 031808

[D^3]

I suppose the 2 linebacker sets will be to our advantage with Washington out now.

[reese]

Gray to just play quarterback
Redshirt freshman had worked out at receiver

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/19/08

Athens — The experiment to make Logan Gray more than just a quarterback has ended.

A foot injury to the redshirt freshman has made Georgia take a second look at Gray and reassess his value to the team as a quarterback.
Redshirt freshman Logan Gray will be third on the quarterback depth chart behind Matthew Stafford and Joe Cox.

"We have got three scholarship quarterbacks and him getting banged up ... if he would have had a season-ending injury we would have all been going, 'What in the world are we doing this for?' " Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "For the sake of our entire football team we need to make sure he is healthy and ready to go if we need him.''

Gray, who is third on the depth chart at quarterback behind Matthew Stafford and Joe Cox, started the spring at receiver and quarterback. The idea was to be able to utilize his speed and athletic ability at different areas on the field.

It was an idea pushed by offensive coordinator Mike Bobo. Bobo wanted as many options as he could have. But, from the beginning Richt said, "I wasn't too thrilled about it.''

Still he was intrigued enough to let it happen.

"I could see why Bobo and Logan wanted to do it,'' Richt said.

Then Gray injured his foot, not significantly, but enough to throw up a red flag in Richt's mind. So Monday, after a week's hiatus from spring practice, Gray was exclusively being used as a quarterback and that is where he will most likely stay.

Because of the injury Gray has been limited to control passing drills. The coaches do not want to push him by forcing him to change direction while running or do any quick burst footwork.

"We don't want him to try and go do something that would set himself back,'' Richt said.

[ColonelKurtz]

ATHENS, Ga. --- The University of Georgia football team held its sixth practice of the spring Thursday, going in full pads on the Woodruff Practice Fields. Head coach Mark Richt returned from a speaking engagement in Indianapolis for the first half of practice before participating in an academic honesty panel on campus.

"We were originally not supposed have practice today so I had schedule a trip to Indianapolis to talk to the Indiana High School Association about our character education program," said Richt. "And they are in the preliminary stages of implementing it. I got back to watch the first half of practice and I was impressed with what I saw. I thought the 3 v 3 drill was good, that is the only drill the offense has really won this spring."

After returning from the academic honesty forum, Richt spoke about the team's plans for the rest of the week.

"I am a little bit concerned, I don't like to go three days in a row in the spring," said Richt. "But we will shorten in a little bit (Friday) and then we will scrimmage for the first time Saturday. Saturday is also our Junior Day. We will be scrimmaging on our practice fields instead of the stadium but hopefully with a big crowd the guys will be pretty excited."

Richt also addressed a question regarding the depth chart after six practices.

"I know there will be a lot of guys ready to go on both sides of the ball," said Richt. "I think we need to be a little healthier on the offensive line to create the kind of depth that we want, that is probably the place we are farthest from having that depth, but the potential is there. We have a lot of depth on the defensive line and at
linebacker, and I think we have about six guys ready to go at cornerback. Safety is a little bit of an issue right now. We have a lot of receivers that know what to do and we have two solid tight ends along with Aron White making headway."

Richt 'Impressed' With Team's Sixth Spring Practice - GeorgiaDogs.com—Official Athletic Site of the University of Georgia (http://www.georgiadogs.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=40673&SPID=3571&DB_OEM_ID=8800&ATCLID=1416357)

[ColonelKurtz]

Another article on the D:

Chattanooga Times Free Press | Georgia defenders eager to open now (http://www.tfponline.com/news/2008/mar/20/georgia-defenders-eager-open-now/)

[reese]

Richt says King is no 'slam dunk' for No. 2 back

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/21/08

Athens — Mark Richt has a word of caution for those already anointing Caleb King as the second coming or even the second string running back at Georgia.

"Caleb is not a slam dunk for number two [behind Knowshon Moreno]," Richt said.

Caleb King is in competition for the No. 2 running back slot behind Knowshon Moreno. The other two in the running are Dontavius Jackson and Richard Samuel.

Before anyone finds a cliff, just hold up a second. Richt quickly chased that first statement with this one:

"He is a solid number two," he said. "Those other guys can rise up. You also have [Carlton] Thomas coming in and I don't know if you have seen his film or not but he is an exciting kid. And he is a pretty tough kid. We will see what he can do, too."

The other two competing to be No. 2 behind Moreno are Dontavius Jackson and Richard Samuel. Both came in at the midyear. And both have a long way to go. That is why both are behind King at the moment.

"We are competing still," Richt said. "The mid-years are really just trying to learn what to do. I see [running back coach] Tony Ball working hard almost every play. I don't think either one of those two mid-year guys could be thrown out into a ballgame and we could let them play. Caleb is capable of doing that."

What the backs have been incapable of so far is creating the energy that Moreno brings to the practice field. The sophomore is being held out of much of practice because Georgia doesn't want to risk injury and the coaches already know what he can do.

But with him out there is a void in the energy and a lack of passion when it comes to finishing runs strong.

"Just about all those young backs one time or another that they didn't really finish the way we expect a guy to finish," Richt said. "You have got two guys ready to make contact you don't expect one guy to stop another in his tracks but the defense a couple of times stopped our guys right at contact. You gotta expect some yards after contact."

Georgia may work Moreno more into practice so the younger backs can see what it takes too be successful and learn how to finish runs. Plus Moreno may need some work.

"He will get rusty," Richt said. "He is human. We need to keep him greased up a little bit."

[reese]

UGA's King readying for debut
Redshirt freshman RB showing skills in spring drills

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/10/08

Athens — Caleb King is cloaked in mystery.

It's not something King chose to wear. However when that redshirt was pulled over the running back's head by Georgia football coaches last season the wondering began in earnest.
How good can he be? What can he do that Knowshon Moreno doesn't? Is he a third-down specialist? Can he catch the ball out of the backfield? Can he run between the tackles?

Nobody knew because nobody was allowed to see. Sure, King was on the scout team, but he wasn't running Georgia plays. And even when he had a chance to scrimmage, King was hampered by a hamstring.

Now, six months before the start of the season and 18 months since he last played a game in high school, the mystery is slowly starting to reveal itself.

"It's amazing how he hits the hole," center Chris Davis said.

Ditto, according to quarterback Matthew Stafford.

"He seems to have good patience and good vision and good ability to burst through the creases," Georgia head coach Mark Richt said. "I've seen him break a lot of tackles.

"I've seen him kind of work his way toward his landmark of where he's supposed to be running and once he sees it he can dart through it pretty good," Richt said. "He does change direction good."

Which means Georgia won't change its offensive direction much from last season. This was a run first, pass second offense a year ago.

Georgia was fourth in the SEC with 177 rushing yards per game last season. It was eighth in passing offense with 198 yards per game. And that was with just one healthy back for the meat of the season.

Now Georgia has two backs — one proven, Moreno, and one out to prove something.

"It is just exciting because I am practicing first of all and I am just going out there and playing," King said. "I don't feel the pressure. I just do what I have done since I was young which is go out there and play football."

King has played it well since he was young. His junior year at Parkview, King set the state record for yards in a season among juniors with 2,768. That vaulted him into the top spot in the recruiting rankings.

He tumbled the next season at Greater Atlanta Christian. After transferring to the Spartans, King broke his tibia in the sixth game of his season. He was bed ridden for weeks. When he was able to get back into the weight room, King was too aggressive.

"I was lifting too much weights," King said. "Someone told me to lift weights and I put on too much muscle mass."

His weight went to 222 pounds. His flexibility and speed slipped away with every pound of muscle gained. Throughout his freshman year King had to work to lose the weight. He is now down to 205 and feels that is a better playing weight. Now it is just a matter of how his play will be different from Moreno's.

"We both run hard and then I would say the difference is (Moreno) is a stronger runner than I am, but I believe I've got a little more quickness to the outside," King said.

That is not to say King cannot go between the tackles. In fact, Stafford remarked before spring practice how surprised he was during bowl practice at King's ability to display power between the tackles. Stafford didn't suspect that ability because the knock on King had always been he wanted to get to the outside.

"I have been hearing that ever since my sophomore year in high school," King said. "I pretty much take in stride and show them I can run between the tackles. It will be a surprise for the other team."

How much of a chance King will have to run between the tackles or anywhere else is up to offensive coordinator Mike Bobo.

We're going to get Caleb ready to play," Bobo said. "How fast he's ready to play is going to depend on him. We're very pleased with him and the progress he's made, and we're going to continue to work him and give him what he can handle."

Keep doing that and pretty soon everyone will get to see how much King can handle

[D^3]

ATHENS, Ga. --- The University of Georgia football team held its sixth practice of the spring Thursday, going in full pads on the Woodruff Practice Fields. Head Coach Mark Richt returned from a speaking engagement in Indianapolis for the first half of practice before participating in an academic honesty panel on campus.

"We were originally not supposed to have practice today so I had scheduled a trip to Indianapolis to talk to the Indiana High School Association about our character education program," said Richt. "And they are in the preliminary stages of implementing it. I got back to watch the first half of practice and I was impressed with what I saw. I thought the 3 v 3 drill was good, that is the only drill the offense has really won this spring."

After returning from the academic honesty forum, Richt spoke about the team's plans for the rest of the week.

"I am a little bit concerned, I don't like to go three days in a row in the spring," said Richt. "But we will shorten in a little bit (Friday) and then we will scrimmage for the first time Saturday. Saturday is also our Junior Day. We will be scrimmaging on our practice fields instead of the stadium but hopefully with a big crowd the guys will be pretty excited."

Richt also addressed a question regarding the depth chart after six practices.

"I know there will be a lot of guys ready to go on both sides of the ball," said Richt. "I think we need to be a little healthier on the offensive line to create the kind of depth that we want, that is probably the place we are farthest from having that depth, but the potential is there. We have a lot of depth on the defensive line and at
linebacker, and I think we have about six guys ready to go at cornerback. Safety is a little bit of an issue right now. We have a lot of receivers that know what to do and we have two solid tight ends along with Aron White making headway."

The Bulldogs will conclude spring drills with the annual G-Day spring scrimmage on Saturday, April 5, at 2 p.m. in Sanford Stadium.

[reese]

Richt: Saturday's scrimmage crucial
LB Gamble to wear injured Washington's number

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/21/08

Georgia will hold its first scrimmage of the spring Saturday at 11:30 a.m., and Richt said it should be crucial in evaluating the positioning of some players.

"I told the guys this is the closest thing we get to the game," Richt said. "The coaches do evaluate everything you do no doubt about it. But there is more emphasis on what you do in the scrimmage. We have a lot better feel for what you are going to do in the game when we watch the scrimmage. A lot of guys they do break out in the scrimmage. They make the plays.

"There are some guys who just have a knack for making a play, whether it is fundamentally sound as you want; that may not be, but some guys are just playmakers," Richt said. "The main thing is who is ready to play for Georgia and this will go a long way in answering that."

Inside the huddle

Marcus Washington might be gone for the spring, but his number's not.

Middle linebacker Darryl Gamble has switched numbers and is now wearing Washington's 44.

"I did it to honor him this spring, but I will be back to my number in the fall," Gamble said.

Washington, who wears No. 44, injured his shoulder and is out for the spring, and he most likely will redshirt in 2008. Gamble, who typically wears No. 50, is now the backup middle linebacker behind Dannell Ellerbe.

[reese]

Asher Allen may add punt returns to duties
Prince Miller also could see time on punt return


Published on: 03/21/08

Asher Allen might need to make room for another job title. The cornerback/kickoff returner is one of a few players battling to become Georgia's next punt returner. Allen and Prince Miller are listed on the spring depth chart as one and two at that position. They are vying to replace Mikey Henderson and Thomas Flowers, two players who proved to be explosive in big games.

"I feel like I can take it the distance," Allen said. "Last year I had a couple of runs that were 50 plus. I also feel like I am really good with my hands, so if it comes down to crunch time and we are on the goal line and we need a catch on the 20, I feel like I can catch that and not let it bounce.
"Running wise, I feel like I am real explosive and able to hit the holes," Allen said.

Allen has had experience in punt returns. The junior had four returns for 54 yards in his freshman season. He also set the UGA single-season record for kickoff return yards last season with 659 yards.

[ColonelKurtz]

Bulldogs Prepare For First Spring Scrimmage - GeorgiaDogs.com—Official Athletic Site of the University of Georgia (http://www.georgiadogs.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=40673&SPID=3571&DB_OEM_ID=8800&ATCLID=1416871)

The D continues to shine and finally some Offensive guys get a mention from the Coach.

[D^3]

Georgia will hold its first scrimmage of the spring Saturday at 11:30 a.m., and Richt said it should be crucial in evaluating the positioning of some players.




Uh-oh.... its 11:13 right now..... I think I'll head over to the practice field and watch! :ph34r:

[reese]

Uh-oh.... its 11:13 right now..... I think I'll head over to the practice field and watch! :ph34r:

let us kno how it goes

[ColonelKurtz]

Scrimmage report from DawgPost poster (unedited):

"Qb- stafford looked great...he is skinnier and stronger....he was throwing bb's all over the field...made one bad throw on 3rd down inside the 20 when the d was about to sack him and he threw it before he was ready....he threw a beautiful td pass to mo mass on a fade from about 5 yds out...he also threw a gun on a slant for a td from a 5 wide set from about 10 yds out

cox looked good...he threw some nice balls out there including about a 30+ yarder to bruce....i see a very solid number 2 man in cox but there is no way he will ever push staff for playing time these next 2 years

logan is fast, he had about a 40+ yd gain that CMR called back on a shotgun read play where he kept it himself...that was about it for him

Rb- knowmo did not get one rep

caleb looks good, he runs hard and is usually falling forward...the defense really dominated practice for the most part but he runs good and when he got into space he made some things happened

dj is a lot faster than i thought he would be, he runs hard and is not afraid to stick his nose right in there with the big boys, i was very impressed with jackson

richie rich is going to be a star imo, he runs hard and strong and fast, he can turn the corner or take it right up the middle, i think he will stay at rb....funny thing happened, the d was kind of getting mad that knowmo wasnt getting any carries so knowmo and samuel switched jerseys, it was pretty funny

kalvin daniels runs hard also i like him a lot

wrs- mo mass caught a nice td fade pass,
-kenneth harris if he keeps practicing and playing like he is then he will play a lot and thats a good thing, i think harris had 2 td catches,
-kris durham is awesome, he catches everything and he runs hard after the catch and those long strides are a little decieving, he is moving when he runs
-tony wilson got hurt in what appeared to be a knee or acl (it was kind of nasty looking) but the word was it was only an ankle which is good news
-no other receivers really did anything and tk is skinny but he will get bigger

ol- for the most part the dl got the better of them, when it was 1vs1 the defense got the best of every position really....i am not too worried about these guys with CSS leading the way

dl- really dominated up front and i think we are stacked here...at de with wynn, battle, lomax, houston and the others, and at dt with owens, atkins, weston, and corvey we are also loaded there

lb- overall this might be the fastest group of guys ever to play at uga

ellerbe and curran didnt get too much action today...dent looked good and gamble had 2 picks...hebron had a nice tackle on a toss sweep play to save a td

cbs- we are deep here asher, evans, vance cuff, prince, we have a lot of talent here

s- reshad is the real deal, cj almost had a pick, knox was in on that nice play hebron made, and banks is always popping people out there

nice energy today with 3 little fights

wynn and davis got into it twice and one time davis got his helmet taken off by wynn..the ol and dl got into it a bunch

thats about it im sure the practice reports will have exact stats and the os will have a lot more stuff."

Scout.com: Georgia Forums List (http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=135#s=135&f=1073&t=2241454)

[ColonelKurtz]

Brief scrimmage report from Georgiadogs.com:

Georgia Football Holds First Spring Scrimmage - GeorgiaDogs.com—Official Athletic Site of the University of Georgia (http://www.georgiadogs.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=40673&SPID=3571&DB_OEM_ID=8800&ATCLID=1417304)

ATHENS, Ga. --- The University of Georgia football team held its first full scrimmage of the spring Saturday at the Woodruff Practice Fields. Following the session, defensive coordinator Willie Martinez spoke about the quality of play on offense and defense.

"We got a lot of reps in today which is very good for our younger players," said Martinez. "Like most of the spring, there was some good and some on both sides of the ball. Both sides were a little bit sluggish to start but that is to be expected. Defense started fast but couldn't sustain that tempo throughout. The offense started slow but picked it up in the second half. The bottom line today is we want to see how guys compete."

Martinez also mentioned a few players in particular who performed well in the scrimmage.

"Matthew Stafford looked good with the first group," said Martinez. "He showed great leadership and poise and made some plays in long yardage situations. Caleb King looked really good and so did Dontavius Jackson.

"Defensively, a guy that really showed up throughout the scrimmage was Darryl Gamble," continued Martinez. "He had six tackles, two interceptions, one for a touchdown, and a pass breakup. Another one of the younger players we really wanted to see was John Knox. He was the same as a lot of guys, he made some very good plays and then there were some questionable plays. We had a lot of younger guys really show up today."

Additionally, several high school players and their families and attended the scrimmage as Georgia held Junior Day for potential recruits.

[D^3]

let us kno how it goes

I would... but it looks like you guys already got all the info :lol:

[ColonelKurtz]

Donovan Baldwin reported to the ACC Hilton after the scrimmage yesterday to serve some mandatory jail time for his January DUI. He was NOT arrested again at 6 pm for another DUI as some have posted on a couple of UGA boards this AM.

[reese]

Weston hard to ignore
Defensive tackle Kade Weston is one of Georgia¹s biggest players and knows his playing time depends on how he practices this offseason.

By Chris Starrs | sports@onlineathens.com | Story updated at 12:26 AM on Sunday, March 23, 2008
Even on a football field, Kade Weston is easy to spot in a crowd.

At 6-foot-5 and 316 pounds, the junior defensive tackle is undoubtedly among the largest players on Georgia's roster (for the record, the biggest player listed on the spring depth chart is junior offensive lineman Vince Vance, who's at 6-8 and 320 pounds).

And Weston has been big on the field for critical games in the Bulldogs' recent past, including recording two tackles and a quarterback sack against Florida and a career-high five tackles and a fumble recovery against Vanderbilt last year. In his two-year career, Weston has 32 total tackles, two sacks and nearly three dozen quarterback hurries.

Although he had five starts in 2007, Weston spent much of the season spelling Jeff Owens and Geno Atkins. He will have similar responsibilities this year, which could present problems for offensive lines on passing or running plays.

"Kade is just a big, powerful man," said Georgia coach Mark Richt.

"He's a very difficult guy to move out of there in the run game. He's a pocket pusher. He's going to push that pocket up into the quarterback's face and he's going to bat balls down.

"When you get guys coming off the edge, forcing the quarterback out of the pocket, you've got Kade, Geno and Jeff pushing that thing up in his face. And a big old tall guy like him will put (his) hands up and bat balls down all the time. He's difficult to move around."

Weston, who in 2006 was named to the SEC All-Freshman team and a Sporting News Freshman All-American, embraces his part in helping the Bulldogs with their first line of defense.

"I'll have an important role to play backing up Jeff and Geno," he said. "The third man is pushing hard so when they come out of the game, there's no drop in the quality of play. We all play a lot and I know my role, so I'll do whatever the team needs from me to win."

Owens, himself a Freshman All-SEC selection in 2005, came to Georgia at the same time as Weston, and two have a built a solid friendship.

"I know a lot about Kade - we've been roommates for two, going on three years," said Owens. "As a roommate, he's a giving guy. If he's got it, you can have it. Anything I need, he'll give it to me if he's got it. He's a friend and a brother. We bonded ever since we got here because we were the only freshmen defensive tackles. We had to stick together and learn to play together."

And Owens is impressed with his roommate's ability and commitment.

On the field he's big - a massive, strong guy," he said. "He can go out and dominate. When guys see him, they're thinking, 'I've got to block this dude?' because he's bigger than most offensive linemen. He's tough to block. And Kade's out there every day, trying to get better, just grinding. He pushes me more than I push him. He's not a very vocal guy, but he leads by example."

Weston knows he'll get his share of snaps this fall, and this spring he's concentrating on areas of his game that need improvement.

"It's the same every year," he said. "You can never be too quick. So there's quickness, and I'm still working on my pad level. That's what the coaches are stressing and that's what I'm working on."

And even if he is the "third man," he'll be part of a lethal combination.

"Here's one thing I know - if I'm that field next to Kade, I know he's going to get the job done," said Owens. "There's no doubt in my mind. I know he's got my back on that field and in life."

And the best part is he's not hard to find.


Published in the Athens Banner-Herald on 032308

[reese]

First spring scrimmage shows some high, lows
Football notebook
By Ryan Lavner | sports@onlineathens.com | Story updated at 12:26 AM on Sunday, March 23, 2008
Georgia defensive coordinator Willie Martinez said Georgia's first scrimmage of the year on Saturday was a "tale of two halves."

"Both sides were sluggish, that's a pretty good way of looking at it," Martinez said after the Bulldogs' 21/2-hour scrimmage at the Woodruff Practice Fields. "There was some good, there was some bad on both sides of the ball."

Martinez said the defense "showed a lot of energy, a lot of fight, early on in the scrimmage and as it finished, I thought it fizzled."

The primary focus of the scrimmage, Martinez said, was to evaluate the talent and see how the players held up in game-like situations. He will be able to make those judgments after reviewing the practice film.

"We're early on in the process of evaluating guys," he said. "We've got seven more practices to try to develop a two-deep roster on both sides of the ball."

Quarterback Matthew Stafford said the scrimmage was "weird" because some drives would be stopped after a certain number of plays, so it was tough to establish timing with his receivers and rhythm offensively.

Still, Stafford said his receivers, specifically Kenneth Harris and Mohamed Massaquoi, caught the ball well and made a few plays down the field. Martinez said Stafford looked comfortable with the first team, and "showed a lot of leadership and poise."

"We started off slow but scored a bunch at the end," said Stafford, who completed 9 of 19 passes with three touchdowns and two interceptions. "We've just got to keep plugging away, it's going to take a while."

Richt busy with Junior Day

Saturday was also Junior Day, where approximately 40-60 recruits toured the Butts-Mehre building and watched Georgia's practice. Coach Mark Richt spent time with the potential recruits after practice, and was unavailable for interviews.

Moreno to return punts?

Tailback Knowshon Moreno was among four Georgia players who returned punts during Saturday's practice. In the hour-long window that was available to the media, Moreno, Prince Miller, Tony Wilson and Asher Allen all fielded punts.

"I think we're all evaluating," Martinez said. "We lost the punt returners we've had in the past and I think that the coaches are just trying to evaluate different guys who have the talent and the skill."

Gamble sparks defense

With linebackers Darius Dewberry (groin) and Marcus Washington (shoulder) already on the shelf this spring, Darryl Gamble showed Saturday he may be ready to fill the void.

Gamble had six tackles and two interceptions in the scrimmage, including a touchdown return on a tipped screen pass.

"We've got a long way to go but we've got a lot of potential and a lot of talent," rising senior and defensive tackle Jeff Owens said. "And the great thing about it is we've got a lot of time to get better."

Martinez said fellow linebackers Dannell Ellerbe and Rennie Curran were held out of the scrimmage.

This and that

Georgia coaches, players and personnel received their 2008 Sugar Bowl Championship rings after the scrimmage. ... Stafford said after practice Saturday that he is no longer wearing the brace on what was believed to be a sprained left thumb. He had a tape wrap around the finger on his non-throwing hand. ... Saturday's scrimmage was the first at near-game speed since Georgia's Sugar Bowl victory on Jan. 1 over Hawaii. "You're playing your own guys so they know you like the back of their hand," Stafford said. "It's not all the same, but it's fun to get out there and play a little bit." ... Georgia's annual spring G-Day game is scheduled for Saturday, April 5.


Published in the Athens Banner-Herald on 032308

[bulldawg]

Is AJ getting any reps yet? I didn't see him mentioned in the reports.:ph34r:




wrs- mo mass caught a nice td fade pass,
-kenneth harris if he keeps practicing and playing like he is then he will play a lot and thats a good thing, i think harris had 2 td catches,
-kris durham is awesome, he catches everything and he runs hard after the catch and those long strides are a little decieving, he is moving when he runs
-tony wilson got hurt in what appeared to be a knee or acl (it was kind of nasty looking) but the word was it was only an ankle which is good news
-no other receivers really did anything and tk is skinny but he will get bigger

[reese]

Is AJ getting any reps yet? I didn't see him mentioned in the reports.:ph34r:





aj green is still in high school

[bulldawg]

aj green is still in high school


Yeah, :sad:Wasn't thinking about that one. I guess he won't join the squad until summer huh!!

[reese]

Hill opening eyes at wide receiver

By CARTER STRICKLAND
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/24/08

Walter Hill's size, 6-4, has started to come into play at the wide receiver spot.

The former basketball player showed off his size and athleticism during a practice last week.

"He caught everything thrown his way,'' said Georgia coach Mark Richt. "He happened to be the guy who the ball got directed to all day."

But just catching it around Georgia is a big deal. The team lost two typically sure-handed receivers in Sean Bailey and Mikey Henderson. So there is a search to find guys who can pull in Matthew Stafford passes.

Hill proved he had what it took on one touchdown pass.

"The play he made in the end zone was big," Richt said. "It was a ball inside the five going in and a typical fade throw. The ball was put in a good spot and he gathered up, boxed him out and made the catch."

For Aron White, catching is the easy part these days. The redshirt freshman tight end is still working on becoming a solid blocker along the line. His size, 225-230 pounds, has a lot to do with his struggles.

"He is learning he is the kind of guy that is not going to whip anybody with brute force," Richt said. "He has got to learn to be a great technician. He has got to have great pad level and learn to be tenacious and just run your feet on these blocks."

Richt said in blocking situations the players wants to get a good initial stop on the rushing player. But eventually that rusher is going to try and come off the block.

"If the offensive player is athlete enough when that defender starts to go off in a direction, if you can keep you feet moving you can gain the power advantage," Richt said. "(White) has got to hope for a stalemate and when the defender goes to make the play he has got to stick on him, run his feet and make the play."

Etc...

Linebacker Darius Dewberry is scheduled to undergo surgery on his groin and will be out for an extended amount of time. The surgery is to release the tension on a tendon that has been problematic for Dewberry. He should be 100 percent in time for fall practice, Richt said.

Dewberry was one of the players who was crosstraining at strong and middle linebacker to make up for the injury to middle linebacker Marcus Washington (shoulder). Now the middle linebacker spot has Dannell Ellerbe as the starter and Darryl Gamble as the backup. Akeem Dent can play middle but is also at strongside linebacker. Redshirt freshman Charles White is third string at middle linebacker.

[Bulldog Bry]

Hill, Harris, Green.

I'm getting giddy...........

[reese]

Hill, Harris, Green.

I'm getting giddy...........

dont waste ur time gettin giddy over harris

[reese]

from georgiadogs.com

ATHENS, Ga. --- The Georgia football team opened its third week of spring drills with a 90-minute workout in shells Monday afternoon at the Woodruff Practice Fields. The practice was the first workout since the team held its first scrimmage of the spring last Saturday.
"For a Monday after a scrimmage and a holiday it was a pretty good practice," head coach Mark Richt said. "I thought the effort was good. It was pretty evenly matched today."

Richt singled out the play of several defensive players including Darryl Gamble, Reshad Jones, Quintin Banks and CJ Byrd for their performance in Saturday's scrimmage.

"I thought the defense played harder and faster than the offense," Richt said. "I feel like the offense has to play with a little more intensity as a group. The defense has not arrived, but it looked like they enjoyed it more than the offense. They are playing with a good amount of energy and passion."

Richt said after practice that sophomore flanker Tony Wilson underwent successful surgery Monday to repair a fracture to his left ankle and damaged ligaments suffered in the scrimmage on Saturday. Wilson will have a second surgery in approximately eight weeks to remove screws placed to stabilize the joint and allow the ligaments to heal. Wilson is expected to fully recover and should be cleared to play in the fall.

[reese]

i hope tony wilson makes it back. he is one of the best blocking WRs that we have a has a great attiude.

[ColonelKurtz]

dont waste ur time gettin giddy over harris

Don't know what you're basing that on but I'd strongly advise you getting a new source....

[ColonelKurtz]

Bobo seeking bell cow for the OL:

Bulldogs look for leader on offensive line (http://www.macon.com/166/story/303396.html)

"Georgia knew Fernando Velasco wasn't going to be on this year's team, but the truth of that really hit home watching Saturday's scrimmage, head coach Mark Richt said.

The Bulldogs still are desperately seeking a leader on the offensive line, Richt said after reviewing tape of the team's first spring practice scrimmage. Velasco filled that role last year as the team's center, but he has used up his eligibility.

"It helps when the offensive line has a real strong leader, but right now it's not there, and it's hard to be outside of that group and try to lead them," Richt said. "You want at least one guy in there who can do it. There are a couple guys trying."

Georgia has only one scholarship upperclassman on the offensive line, and that's junior Vince Vance, who has only been in the program one year. Redshirt sophomore Chris Davis, who is trying to take Velasco's place at center, has as much experience as any of the offensive linemen but isn't quite ready to be a leader yet, he said.

"I'm trying to lead by example before I open my mouth at all," Davis said. "I've never been in a leadership position in my life to tell you the truth. I've always had somebody who has been able to lead me. For me to be a leader, I have to step my individual play up. My effort as an individual has to get better if I even want to think about being a leader."

Offensive coordinator Mike Bobo is hoping a leader will emerge as the offensive linemen have more time to grow comfortable with their roles.

"It takes time, but you have to have a bell cow in that group that's going to hold them together," Bobo said. "Line coaches, they grind those guys and they have to stay tight with each other and play for each other. Right now we're looking for that."

The coaches can't pick who the leader will be, Bobo said.

"We've got some (candidates), but I don't want to mention who they are," he said. "I don't want to put that much pressure on them or anoint someone a leader. If you get into anointing one or trying to tell a team who its leader is, that doesn't work. The players have to naturally follow that player."

WILSON, KING INJURED

Sophomore wide receiver Tony Wilson suffered a broken leg during Saturday's scrimmage that required surgery Monday. Wilson, who caught 14 passes for 124 yards last year, will miss the remainder of spring practice and won't be able to run for at least 10 weeks.

Wilson, who was hurt running a reverse, is expected to be back full speed by the fall.

Redshirt freshman running back Caleb King suffered a knee injury during the scrimmage. King walked off the practice field early during Monday's workout, but Richt doesn't think the injury is serious.

"It's just more sore than he thought it would be and (head athletic trainer Ron Courson) just wants to be real complete on it," Richt said. "We don't think it's super bad right now, but we'll take a look and see."

King was expected to have an MRI either Monday night or some time today.

DEFENSE SETTING PACE

After watching film of Saturday's scrimmage, Richt thinks his offense has some work to do, he said.

"I feel like the defense is just ahead," he said. "It's obvious they are ahead. We've got more depth on defense, too. The defense can roll more guys in who are ready to play, which helps."

[reese]

Don't know what you're basing that on but I'd strongly advise you getting a new source....


mabe u need to get a new source. i dont have a source. i have eyes. i watch him play. he is a senior who has done next to nothing in his career so far. he barely got to play last year with slightly above avg WRS ahead of him so only a blind homer like u would thnk he has a chance to make a difference next year.

[ColonelKurtz]

mabe u need to get a new source. i dont have a source. i have eyes. i watch him play. he is a senior who has done next to nothing in his career so far. he barely got to play last year with slightly above avg WRS ahead of him so only a blind homer like u would thnk he has a chance to make a difference next year.

Hey jackass, how many years of Major College ball have YOU PLAYED? COACHED?

That's what I thought, you're another message board Bear Bryant like pinky boy. STFU or I'll tell your Momma to disconnect you.

[reese]

Hey jackass, how many years of Major College ball have YOU PLAYED? COACHED?

That's what I thought, you're another message board Bear Bryant like pinky boy. STFU or I'll tell your Momma to disconnect you.

so when u cant comeback with comment backing up and proving me wrong, u attack me and call me names.

ill give u another chance, go ahead and tell me why we should be excted about kenneth harris..

[Bulldog Bry]

so when u cant comeback with comment backing up and proving me wrong, u attack me and call me names.

ill give u another chance, go ahead and tell me why we should be excted about kenneth harris..

Because the coaches are. That's good enough for me. Why are we arguing..Where is the LOVE???:laugh:

[reese]

Because the coaches are. That's good enough for me. Why are we arguing..Where is the LOVE???:laugh:

i hear that every year about harris. he is one the hardest workers and always looks good in the spring. he had 4 catches last year. until he does something on the field, i will continue to doubt that he has the ability to.

[ColonelKurtz]

so when u cant comeback with comment backing up and proving me wrong, u attack me and call me names.

ill give u another chance, go ahead and tell me why we should be excted about kenneth harris..

Never mind that you haven't proven yourself to be RIGHT yet, but instead of just saying it's so, git you some crackers and start digesting this:

->Only 2 WR's returning with double digit catches last season who weren't named MoMass (32): (Durham 11, Wilson 14)

-> Wilson just broke his ankle

->Moore(Jr) & Goodman (Sr.) return with 3 and 7 catches respectfully.

-> Troupe RF, 6-4 Walter Hill RF, Fr Tavarres King, and the other Fr A.J. Green have ZERO snaps.

And my personal favorites:

->Stafford said his receivers, specifically Kenneth Harris and Mohamed Massaquoi, caught the ball well and made a few plays down the field.

->kenneth harris if he keeps practicing and playing like he is then he will play a lot and thats a good thing, i think harris had 2 td catches

Never said Harris was the next superstar but anyone can see how thin we are at WR. Heck, I'm hoping Moore has a breakout season too. Fact is, next to RB, its the thinest position we have.

Somebody has to play a lot of snaps this Fall and the numbers tell us that we need Harris and all of the returning guys to produce. Seniors who've got 20+ games and some starts just cannot be dismissed, particularly at a position where touches are hard to come by and therefore are crucial. Reggie Brown didn't catch a lot of passes but he caught enough of them vs. Auburn to be a very well known guy. Harris and Goodman have the opportunity to get lots of PT while the redshirts and freshmen are learning what to do.

[reese]

i never said i wasnt hoping he would do good. i never said he wouldnt get the oppurtunity. all i said is dont get ur hopes up. we have 3 guys that played over him last year coming back not to mention a whole host of guys that should be more talented then him right behind him. i will be shocked if he catches more then 15-20 passes this year

[ColonelKurtz]

i never said i wasnt hoping he would do good. i never said he wouldnt get the oppurtunity. all i said is dont get ur hopes up. we have 3 guys that played over him last year coming back not to mention a whole host of guys that should be more talented then him right behind him. i will be shocked if he catches more then 15-20 passes this year

a whole host of guys that should be more talented then him right behind him

a whole host of guys that should be more talented then him right behind him

Shoulda, woulda, coulda....you got that straight from your source, didn't ya?

The Dawgs' track record of signing superior WR talent that actually panned out has been particularly dismal. For all his hype, MoMass and his 30+ catches are a high water mark of sorts for the group the last few seasons.

And as I stated above, while it isn't vital that the Dawgs have a 60+ reception guy to be successful, you don't graduate more receptions than you have returning and feel giddy.

[reese]

Nothing but a scare for King
Football notebook
By Roger Clarkson | roger.clarkson@onlineathens.com | Story updated at 12:16 AM on Thursday, March 27, 2008
Redshirt freshman tailback Caleb King received a scare, but that was it and he should be ready to return to practice soon.

King tweaked his knee during Saturday's scrimmage, though the MRI report came back negative and Georgia coach Mark Richt anticipates King will return to drills in plenty of time for the G-Day game on April 5.

"Caleb's knee was bothering him," Richt said. "We did do an MRI and there's nothing really serious. It's just sore. Whether or not he's there Friday, I don't know. But he'll be back before spring's over."

King wore a non-contact jersey during Wednesday's workout at the Woodruff Practice Fields. He did not take part in contact drills but remained with the running backs instead of riding a stationary bike.

Offensive line still behind the pace

Richt took issue with some of the offensive line play he has seen during the spring. Georgia returned three starters and the top backup from last season. But the line has not come together as quickly as Richt would like.

"There's no question that the defense is ahead of the offense by a good margin," Richt said. "Most of it's happening up front. We're not getting the QB-center exchange. We're not able to provide a lot of space for runners and time for passers. I'm sure it's frustrating for offensive skill people when you wonder what can be. But up front right now we're probably a little further behind this year than we were a year ago. We've got a ways to go."

Georgia lost center Fernando Velasco and tackle Chester Adams as outgoing seniors. Velasco took every meaningful snap last season. His projected replacement, Chris Davis, was a starter at guard last season and has not found a rhythm with the quarterbacks yet. A number of regulars are back, but not all are in the same position. Kiante Tripp, who was a defensive end last spring, is the projected starter in Adams' old spot at right tackle. Vince Vance, Georgia's top sub last season, is the projected starter in Davis' old spot at left guard.

Gamble's versatility making an impact

The cross-training Georgia uses for its linebackers is getting a workout this spring. Injuries to Marcus Washington and Darius Dewberry have forced the unit to shuffle its depth chart.

Darryl Gamble has stepped forward as maybe the Bulldogs' most versatile linebacker. Georgia likes to train its linebackers and defensive backs at every position to increase depth and reduce the impact of injury.

Gamble started spring as Rennie Curran's backup at weakside linebacker. But he also is making a bid for Washington's and Dewberry's spots at middle and strongside.

"Gamble had an outstanding scrimmage on Saturday, pushing for reps on the inside," defensive coordinator Willie Martinez said.

"The great thing is he can play all three linebacker positions. That's what we like. We cross train them and Darryl's a guy who can play all three positions and we feel very comfortable playing him at all three positions. If somebody gets hurt, we won't hesitate to play him at Sam, Mike or Will."

This and that

Athletic director Damon Evans watched Wednesday's practice. He talked with Richt for several minutes during workouts. ... The defensive backfield is in search of somebody to replace Kelin Johnson as the unit's fastest talker. CJ Byrd said it's probably between him and Reshad Jones. ... Freshman offensive lineman Ben Jones wore a regular jersey but rode a stationary bike during contact drills. ... Matthew Stafford wore a wrap on his non-throwing wrist but his passes did not lack zip.


Published in the Athens Banner-Herald on 032708

[reese]

Dodge County product in mix at tailback
By Josh Kendall - kendall_j@bellsouth.net

ATHENS --One-third of the way through spring practice, true freshman tailbacks Richard Samuel and Dontavius Jackson are still neck-and-neck in the battle for the third-string tailback spot.

That's the word from offensive coordinator Mike Bobo, who added there's a third serious contender for the spot - Dodge County product Kalvin Daniels.

"Kalvin Daniels has done a nice job," Bobo said. "He's had a nice first eight or nine days of practice. He's shown a better (ability for) being able to run between the tackles. He's always had speed."

Daniels, who rushed for 44 yards on eight carries last year, was an honors graduate at Dodge County and the team's MVP his final two years. The walk-on is the underdog in the race.

Most of the spotlight so far has been placed on Samuel and Jackson. Both of those backs said their first live college action, last Saturday's scrimmage, was a combination of good and bad.

"It wasn't a shock to me. The only thing that got me, that I was a little behind on, was knowing what to do on every play," said the 6-foot-2, 215-pound Samuel, Scout.com's No. 4 running back in the nation last year. "You have to know it all and know what to look for and know if you block or run a route. The split-second decision of knowing what to do is what got me."

Jackson, 5-10, 190 pounds, could play running back or slot receiver because of his size, but he has practiced exclusively at running back this spring. Both Jackson and Samuel enrolled early so they could participate in spring practice.

"Both (Samuel and Jackson) are still having to be told everything to do every play, but I like their effort, and I like the way they practice every day," Bobo said.

Either Daniels, Jackson or Samuel will have to be ready to play next year, and it's possible two of the three will be in the rotation, Bobo said. Sophomore Knowshon Moreno will start, and redshirt freshman Caleb King is expected to back up Moreno. King suffered a minor knee injury last week but has been cleared after having an MRI.

WRAPPING UP

Starting free safety Reshad Jones and backup strong safety Quintin Banks, both redshirt sophomores, are beginning to get the hang of things, Richt said.

"I'm seeing a lot more direct hits by our safeties, Reshad and Banks, especially," Richt said.

Jones is becoming a better open-field tackler, and Banks is validating his reputation as a big hitter, Richt said.

"(Starting strong safety CJ) Byrd is a very good tackler, a good sure tackler," Richt said. "Maybe he just hasn't had as many opportunities as the other guys, but there have been some really good solid shots by Banks."

Banks is a graduate of Houston County. Redshirt freshman John Knox is the top backup at free safety, Banks said.

PRAISE FOR WYNN

GMC transfer Jarius Wynn isn't a starter and may not be at any time in his collegiate career, but that doesn't mean he's not making a positive, Richt said.

Wynn, a senior, is backing up junior Rod Battle at defensive end.

"Wynn is playing very well, but Roderick is, too," Richt said. "Jarius keeps coming on. I just think it's clicked for him on how to work, what kind of effort it takes, what kind of focus it takes to be a great player. He's really practicing like he wants to be special.


He's definitely going to play a lot of snaps, and Roderick is going to play a lot of snaps."

Wynn, 6-5, 273 pounds, had nine tackles last year.

[geechee]

I've been away for a while and in one sitting I'm totally back up to date. This is a great thread you started reese. Other schools have had threads like this but till this year there were never enough Dogs' fans on this board. Thanks...........

[reese]

I've been away for a while and in one sitting I'm totally back up to date. This is a great thread you started reese. Other schools have had threads like this but till this year there were never enough Dogs' fans on this board. Thanks...........

no problem, i enjoy doing it.

[DavidTD]

I've been away for a while and in one sitting I'm totally back up to date. This is a great thread you started reese. Other schools have had threads like this but till this year there were never enough Dogs' fans on this board. Thanks...........

I have to agree 1000%. :thumpsup:

[Bulldog Bry]

i hear that every year about harris. he is one the hardest workers and always looks good in the spring. he had 4 catches last year. until he does something on the field, i will continue to doubt that he has the ability to.

Fair enough, but like Col said, they spread it around so much, no one is going to have the superstar numbers. I just expect him to get his share.

[reese]

Fair enough, but like Col said, they spread it around so much, no one is going to have the superstar numbers. I just expect him to get his share.

IMO the reason we have to spread it around so much is becuz we havent had a WR step up as a go to guy. i hope MM can be that guy this year to step up and have 50-60 catches. as far as KH, i would be suprised if he had more then 15. and the only reason i even give him that much is becuz he is a senior. not counting green and king, the freshman, i see it ending up like this as far as catches go.....

MM
TW if he gets healthy
KD
WH
KH
MM

walter hill may jump KD. we will have to just wait and see. id love to see demiko goodman be in there too. he has great speed but hasnt developed as a solid WR(shocker, thanks eason). he also hasnt been healthy but if he is, ill bet that he plays over harris too.

[ColonelKurtz]

IMO the reason we have to spread it around so much is becuz we havent had a WR step up as a go to guy. i hope MM can be that guy this year to step up and have 50-60 catches. as far as KH, i would be suprised if he had more then 15. and the only reason i even give him that much is becuz he is a senior. not counting green and king, the freshman, i see it ending up like this as far as catches go.....

MM
TW if he gets healthy
KD
WH
KH
MM

walter hill may jump KD. we will have to just wait and see. id love to see demiko goodman be in there too. he has great speed but hasnt developed as a solid WR(shocker, thanks eason). he also hasnt been healthy but if he is, ill bet that he plays over harris too.

IMO the reason we have to spread it around so much is becuz we havent had a WR step up as a go to guy.

No, the reason it is spread around is so that the D cannot immediately double up coverage on that go-to guy.

i hope MM can be that guy this year to step up and have 50-60 catches. as far as KH, i would be suprised if he had more then 15.

I would be surprised if MoMass gets over 40. Distribution last season was WR's 65%, RB's 17%, TE's 12%, and FB's 7%, not optimal in our system but it does show that there is a great effort placed on unpredictability. When you've got everybody on the receiving end dropping them like we did in '06, it's pretty smart to spread it around if for no other reason than you must identify somebody who CAN catch it.

walter hill may jump KD. we will have to just wait and see. id love to see demiko goodman be in there too. he has great speed but hasnt developed as a solid WR(shocker, thanks eason). he also hasnt been healthy but if he is, ill bet that he plays over harris too

Durham is your starter and him getting injured is the ONLY way he isn't. Goodman has been hurt for nearly his entire career and is hurt NOW. No question the guy can fly but keeping him able to play has been impossible. Don't know how Coach Eason is to blame for that, your SOURCE must have told you.

[D^3]

I've been away for a while and in one sitting I'm totally back up to date. This is a great thread you started reese. Other schools have had threads like this but till this year there were never enough Dogs' fans on this board. Thanks...........


Yeah we gotta keep bringing more in... its nice to have a Dawg back you up once in awhile when you're standing alone against all these gamecocks and gators :lol:

[reese]

No, the reason it is spread around is so that the D cannot immediately double up coverage on that go-to guy.

thats ignorant. there isnt an offense in tha country that doesnt want a go to guy. u want a guy that demands double teams. if u can get that guy then he will open up other guys.



Durham is your starter and him getting injured is the ONLY way he isn't. Goodman has been hurt for nearly his entire career and is hurt NOW. No question the guy can fly but keeping him able to play has been impossible. Don't know how Coach Eason is to blame for that, your SOURCE must have told you.

u obviously cant read. i never said goodman being hurt was eason's fault. i said him not developing as a WR was easons fault. durham isnt even the starter now so i dont kno what makes u think he will be in sept.
tony wilson played more then hm last year when he was healthy and if he is healthy this year he will again. however i thnk in most of our 3 wide sets i thnk it wll be MM,TW,KD.

[ColonelKurtz]

thats ignorant. there isnt an offense in tha country that doesnt want a go to guy. u want a guy that demands double teams. if u can get that guy then he will open up other guys.

MoMass is ALREADY the go-to guy, he's the POSSESSION receiver. Guess your SOURCE didn't tell you that yet. As for ignorance, did your momma bare any children that aren't SPED'S?

u obviously cant read. i never said goodman being hurt was eason's fault. i said him not developing as a WR was easons fault. durham isnt even the starter now so i dont kno what makes u think he will be in sept.
tony wilson played more then hm last year when he was healthy and if he is healthy this year he will again. however i thnk in most of our 3 wide sets i thnk it wll be MM,TW,KD.

How can the Coach be held responsible for a player who is perpetually injured not developing? Instead of you flapping your change purse, how about you actually LEARNING something about what you post about! The Spring Depth Chart lists Durham as #1 SE, therefore if there were a game tomorrow, he'd be the STARTER. Wilson evidently caught the passes thrown to him well enough to have played in FIVE GAMES. Durham played in EIGHT. 8>5!

http://www.forumspile.com/owned/Owned-DogEatCat.jpg

[bulldawg]

I will be up in Athens for the spring game, If anyone wants to meet up before or during the game anywhere for a beer let me know before I leave on Sunday

[reese]

How can the Coach be held responsible for a player who is perpetually injured not developing? Instead of you flapping your change purse, how about you actually LEARNING something about what you post about! The Spring Depth Chart lists Durham as #1 SE, therefore if there were a game tomorrow, he'd be the STARTER. Wilson evidently caught the passes thrown to him well enough to have played in FIVE GAMES. Durham played in EIGHT. 8>5!


do u just make stuff up as u go along? where did u get that durham played in 8 games and wilson played if 5? durham started 1 of the 13 games he played in last year. wilson started 2 of the 12 games he played in last year. as far as the depth chart goes, im sure there was an article about harris passing durham on the depth chart but i cant find it. of course the depth chart mid-spring means nuthin anyway.

[geechee]

IMO the reason we have to spread it around so much is becuz we havent had a WR step up as a go to guy.

That really would not make a whole lot of difference to Richt. The cornerstone of Richt's whole plilosophy is built around "spreading it around" at all positions except QB if possible. This is one of the main reasons the Dogs have done so well with recruiting since Richt arrived. He can honestly tell high school recruits that, even though they are coming to a top ten program, if they can contribute, they will play. He does not play favorites as so many other NCAA coaches do.

[reese]

thats sounds good. but we wont make it thru the year without a go-to guy. we need a WR to step up and catch 50-60 passes. that will truely open up everyone else up. WR is the only position we need to prove themselves. this could go on forever becuz its comes down to philosophy and what somewants wants to accomplish. but remember this...

if we are 11-2 or 12-1 going into the NC game, then we will have a WR on the team with around 50 catches. we will not make it that far without that. mark it down. bookmark it, quote it. whatever anyone wants to do. a go to guy is our missing link and thats what we need to win it all.

[geechee]

thats sounds good. but we wont make it thru the year without a go-to guy. we need a WR to step up and catch 50-60 passes. that will truely open up everyone else up. WR is the only position we need to prove themselves. this could go on forever becuz its comes down to philosophy and what somewants wants to accomplish. but remember this...

if we are 11-2 or 12-1