Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Dawgs at South Carolina

Georgia fans, forget about AJ Green for a minute. The best WR in America ain't playin' this Saturday. On the low country side, neither is All American caliber TE Weslye Saunders. As far as an advantage goes, this kinda looks like a "push" in betting terms... not that I condone that. Now, let's look deeper into the situation.

South Carolina's offense looks to be explosive, even without their star TE. The Gamecocks have inserted some tremendously talented freshmen into their arsenal. Running back Marcus Lattimore could be the most impressive tailback this school has featured, since the legendary George Rogers laced up his cleats. And then, you've got to factor Ace "no relation to James" Sanders into the equation. The 5'7 phenom from Bradenton Florida showcases Escambia County-esque speed. (He ain't from there, but that's not the point).

The point is, how can Georgia contain the Gamecocks offense? QB Stephen Garcia may have finally matured into a solid decision maker and passer. Plus, he's got the 6'5 Tori Gurley and 6'4 Alshon Jeffrey to throw to. This tandem accounted for 1,203 yards receiving and 8 tds in 2009. We've just begun to venture into the season of 2010. But, South Carolina ain't missin' Weslye Saunders yet. They've replaced him with some incredible playmakers. Todd Grantham, God bless you. I wouldn't want your job right now.

So, what does Georgia's offense bring to the table in Green's absence? They've got some big time talent of their own, in TE Orson Charles (313 yds,3 tds in 09), RB WaShaun Ealey (717 yds,3 tds last season), and potential deep threats in WRs Tavarres King and Rantavious Wooten. But, the last two must prove themselves to be consistent weapons at their position. What does that mean? They've gotta show better focus and have fewer dropped passes in 2010.

Getting defensive, South Carolina has one of the most brilliant minds in America as their DC. And, Ellis Johnson will have some blitz packages very capable of rattling a barely seasoned QB. Guess what? That's what Georgia brings to the low country. Good luck Aaron Murray.

If Georgia is gonna leave Williams-Brice Stadium with a victory, the Dawgs must be nasty.

To view one of the greatest plays in Georgia vs South Carolina history, click on the title of this post.