Rallying behind my Dawgs

This season has been a strange tale that resonates back and forth between jubilance and disaster for the Georgia Bulldogs. Although we've seen the Red and Black emerge victoriously over South Carolina, Louisiana State, and Tennessee, we've also witnessed some less than stellar results versus teams named Tigers.

Aaron Murray led one of the greatest drives in Bulldog history three little weeks ago that vaulted UGA to an amazing come from behind victory over LSU. Then came the Tennessee game. Trailing UT by a touchdown very late in the contest, even the game clock was wearing orange. But, Murray dialed up similar heroics. UGA nail-bitingly tied the score and won in overtime. Unfortunately, the Dawgs ran out of miracles versus Missouri. It was a tough loss that may have derailed their hopes of winning the BCS.

Georgia has had to deal with some devastating injuries on the offensive side of the ball. But, they will never use that as an excuse for the final tally on any scoreboard. In describing the loss of 5 key players, I can only imagine Larry Munson saying, "Ole Lady Luck has not been on our side." And, he would be correct. She ain't been behaving lately. But, this battalion of Bulldogs continues to fight through adversity and give their all in pursuit of victory. As a fan, I can't ask for more than that. Go Dawgs!!

Later, Lane

In just one season at Tennessee, Lane Kiffin posted a 7-6 record as head coach of the Volunteers. During his days in Knoxville, Kiffin was a constant source of controversy. And now, he's gone. I believe the SEC is a better conference without his ignorant antics. But, I will definitely miss Kiffin's ludicrous sound bytes.

Speaking of that, Lil' Lane never got to sing Rocky Top all night after beating Florida. That was a "tradition" he was unable to embrace, because Kiffin's Vols couldn't get the job done against UF. Aided by his sudden departure, Kiffin did make good on one promise. After thumping UGA 45-19 in Neyland Stadium, LK stated that UT would never lose to Georgia as long as he was coaching the Vols. A bold statement after just one game against Tennessee's rival from the Peach State. This lame prophecy leaves me wondering, "How would Mark Richt have handled his shot at revenge against the shot taking Kiffin?"

Maybe the Dawgs would have stormed the field and personal foulishly danced after their first successful field goal against UT in 2010. But, now we'll never know. I just wish Richt could have given Kiffin a huge cup of STFU. Hopefully, UCLA can do that on his behalf next season. Go Bruins!

Click on the title of this post to hear a tribute to Lane Kiffin.
P.S. Thanks to Matt Chernoff of 680 the Fan for recommending this song.

College Football Now

As I began to type, Navy had just scored a TD to go ahead of Missouri 28-13 with 14 minutes and 39seconds left in the Texas Bowl. But, who really cares about that? In less than an hour, Lane Kiffin's Vols will face the Virginia Tech Hokies in the Chic-Fil-A Bowl live from the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.

The Volunteers are led by star running back, Monterio Hardesty, who rushed for 1,306 yds including 12 touchdowns in 2009. UT is averaging 30.6 PPG, while opponents have scored just 21 PPG against the Vols.

As for Virginia Tech: The Hokies also boast stellar play from the backfield. Freshman Ryan Williams gained 1,538 yds and 19 tds on the ground this season. Bud Foster is the mastermind behind a very physical VT defense. This unit only surrendered 15.8 PPG in 2009.

Gotta add an update in here. Navy just went up 35-13 over Mizzou. Looks like the Tigers are going down. Anyways, I'll be keeping a close eye on the Chic-Fil-A Bowl. Feel free to send me your thoughts.

Happy New Year, ya'll. Click on the title of this post.

Vols will be tough

At this point in the season, the Tennessee Volunteers are still breaking in a new quarterback (Jon Crompton) and learning how to execute Dave Clawson's "spread-like" offense. Tennessee hosts the Florida Gators this weekend. They're gonna lose, but the battle will strengthen UT's armor. The following week, Fat Phil takes his squad on the road to face Auburn. So...there's very little room for growing pains. That being said, I believe Crompton and the entire Volunteer offense will continue to improve as the season progresses. Georgia hosts Tennessee on October 11. The Vols could be a very dangerous two or three loss team when they travel to Athens. It will be tough for UT to defend their eastern division title, but if the Vols can steal two of these three games, there is a definite possibility of Tennessee advancing to Atlanta. Fat Phil's 2008 team actually reminds me of the 2007 Georgia Bulldogs. Before you question my sanity, here's why. Tennessee has one of the best running backs in the SEC in Arian Foster. Joining him in the backfield is talented passer, Jonathan Crompton. With more experience, the junior from Waynesville, North Carolina could develop into a top notch talent. On the other side of the ball, Tennessee fields a solid defense that is led by versatile DB Eric Berry. The season opening loss to UCLA was not what Tennessee fans expected. But, UT bounced back with a 35-3 victory over winless UAB. Crompton threw for 240 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Volunteer offense.

Click on the following link, to hear a stirring rendition of "Rocky Top."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n9prNixjbg