Monday, November 21, 2011

Remembering Larry Munson

Although I never met the man, it saddens me greatly to know that Larry Munson has passed away. As a play by play announcer for the Georgia Bulldogs, he was able to paint pictures with more than his words. Listening to Larry call a game, one could feel the momentum change tides, along with the inflection in his voice. The love he had for the University of Georgia was more than a sound you heard. It was as if you could feel Munson's emotions climb right through the radio.

Most fans recount his calls of Herschel Walker running over people or Belue to Lindsay Scott. But, what I loved most was hearing him Munsonize such a simple phrase as, "And we intercept it!" Larry Munson was the greatest announcer of all time. And as Georgia fans, we were blessed to hear him speak.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Brandon Harton 101 Yards

A couple weeks ago, I had an opportunity to be in the Sanford Stadium stands as Georgia trounced New Mexico State 63-16. Knowing I'd see no Isaiah Crowell or Carl Thomas, I quickly became a fan of Brandon Harton. What captivated my eyes the most, was the Thomas Brown like swagger, in which this former walk on toted the rock. There may have been an early issue with ball security, but overall, Harton excellently rushed toward a 98 yard effort.

I thought about that today, as Isaiah Crowell nursed a first quarter injury against Kentucky. His absence gave Tattnall County's version of Darren Sproles another opportunity to showcase his talents. And, Brandon Harton proved himself to be a capable option at running back. Given 20+ carries, the 5'6" phenom posted 101 yards for the first time in his collegiate career.

And in case ya'll missed it, this former walk on is in the process of proving that opportunity + preparedness = success. On this day in UGA history, Brandon Harton helped carry his Dawgs toward an SEC title game in Atlanta. He may not seem flashy, but #20 has proven himself to be an invaluable asset for the eastern division champs. Game ball goes to Brandon Harton and Georgia's defense. Go Dawgs!

Monday, November 7, 2011

It's great to be...Wrong

Today, I've decided to make a painful admission. After the first week of football, I did not believe in this group of men called Bulldogs. What bothered me the most, was that I thought I saw the same unfixed problems from 2010 continue to plague Georgia on the field. Mainly, I was concerned about the defense and the team continuing to get yellow hankies tossed their way at inopportune times. What I failed to understand, is that these Dawgs just needed some time to improve.

Since then, the Georgia Bulldogs have proven themselves to be a LOT tougher and more resilient team than I had given them credit for. Before they even teed it up vs South Carolina, I was knocking Georgia's chances of competing in the SEC, regardless of their LSU and Bama-less schedule. I was wrong for that, as well. A little over two months later, this team currently sits in the drivers seat in the east. With a win over the unpredictable Auburn Tigers, Mark Richt's squad could take a giant leap towards returning to the SEC Championship Game in Atlanta.

Writing these words makes me feel like a fan that had gone astray. My take on the Georgia Bulldogs was unsound and a little bit left of center. But, I've also learned that sometimes it's great to be wrong.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Game ball goes to Brandon Harton

One thing I've learned about college football over the years, is things can always change. And, sometimes opportunities are born from adversity. As you've heard by now, Georgia will be without running backs Isaiah Crowell, Carlton Thomas, and Ken Malcome this Saturday because the trio violated a team rule.

That brings us to former walk on, Brandon Harton. The 5'6" scatback from Reidsville, Georgia seems poised to get the first start of his collegiate career. Previously buried on the depth chart, Harton has had very few opportunities to tote the rock. But, #20 held his own with a respectable day vs Coastal Carolina (11 carries for 33 yards). Until then, the high mark of his Bulldog career had been a 65 yard touchdown run in the first scrimmage of spring practice. And now... Harton is the leading candidate to start at RB vs New Mexico State.

I don't know what to expect, but nobody else does either. The Dawgs could use a combination of Zander Ogletree, Brandon Boykin, Branden Smith, and Kyle Karempelis to split time with Harton in the running game. Also, TE turned FB, Bruce Figgins may be used in some one back sets when Georgia wants to play action pass.

What I hope to see, is the Bulldogs offensive line overwhelm New Mexico State's defense. If they impose their will on the Aggies, there outta be rushing lanes big enough for me to run through. That could be good for Brandon Harton, who is a LOT faster than I'll ever be. I believe #20 will make the most of this opportunity and play well enough that Mark Richt never forgets his first name again.

Game ball goes to Brandon Harton. Go Dawgs!

Click on the title of this post to view Brandon Harton highlights from his Tattnall County days.