Bulldawg Illustrated : News Releases

Richt, Bulldogs Preview Boise State

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS——-Georgia head coach Mark Richt and a delegation of players met with the media Tuesday during the Bulldogs’ weekly press luncheon. They offered the following comments:

Head Coach Mark Richt

Opening Statement…
“It’s finally here – game week. It’s been a long time waiting for this ballgame. The minute we announced we were playing this game, I think it created a buzz. I know it created a buzz here in the Butts-Mehre building with our players. I remember when we first announced it to the team, looking at the excitement on some of the guys’ eyes and even the disappointment on some of the seniors’ eyes that they weren’t going to be able to be a part of it. It’s been a big deal to us to know that we are going to play Boise State in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game. So it’s here. I can remember when it was 104 days away, and now it’s four days away. It’s moving right along.

“Boise State, as we all know, is the winningest team in college football since 1997. Coach (Chris) Peterson has done a tremendous job of getting those guys to believe, getting those guys to play with confidence, swagger and intensity. They are great fundamentally. They just play so hard. They know what they are doing, and they believe in what they are doing, and for good reason. Because they are a team that wins, they will be a very difficult team to beat. Teams that are in the habit of winning are hard to beat, there is no doubt about that.

“Offensively, they were No. 2 in the country in total offense last year. Over the last few years they have been in the top five in scoring nationally. They are just in the habit of doing that. When you look at their scores it’s 51 points, 57 points, 49 points, 42 points. Every once in a while they will play a game in the 30s. Every time they play they just rack it up. They are used to doing that. One of the big reasons for that is their quarterback Kellen Moore, who we know is a senior. He is an extremely accurate passer. He is a guy that you can tell understands the system extremely well, and he has all the confidence in his skill people to make plays. He is complimented by Doug Martin, their great running back. (D.J.) Harper also plays a good bit. I was sorry to hear about the No. 3 back who is injured. I know what it’s like to have one of your players to have an ACL for the second or third time and cost a guy another season. That’s tough on those guys.

“Doug is very, very physical back. He is a guy who always gets positive yards after contact. I’ve seen him break big runs. He has good speed. I’m sure he loves his fullback, Dan Paul. He’s a real physical guy, another senior who is a big part of what they do in their offense. He may not have a lot of yards, but of course they use their fullback similar to what we do as far as being a big-time blocker and a guy who sets the tone physically.

“Up front, (Thomas) Byrd, their center, and (Nate) Potter, their left tackle, are probably their two finest. They are breaking in a couple of guys on the right side, and I’m sure they will be just as good as the ones who played a year ago. Their tight end is back. (Tyler) Shoemaker, more of a slot receiver, is back. I’m assuming that’s the role he is going to continue to play for them.

“Defensively, it’s just as impressive if not more impressive what they’ve done. Last year they led the nation in sacks and led the nation in red zone defense. They were No. 2 in the nation in total defense and had a few shutouts along the way. The thing that is interesting about this defense, as far as we’re concerned, is they are returning just about everybody. They are going to have nine or 10 seniors starting on that defense and one or two juniors starting on that defense, guys who have played a lot of football and played a lot together.

“Billy Winn is a beast inside. He is a certain first round draft pick in my opinion and in most everybody’s opinion. Really across the board, their front is super physical. They all have a bunch of sacks and tackles for loss. I think they might have been first or second in the nation in tackles for loss. Their front seven is very tough.

“The 4-3 is their base defense, but they will get into a 3-4 look when they begin to play more of the spread set. It’s a lot like what other people do across the country. They have an outstanding linebacking corps. I know Tommy Smith is a Georgia boy from North Atlanta High School. He is going to get an opportunity to possibly start. Either he or (Byron) Hout will start at the “mike linebacker.” Their safety is (George) Iloka, he led the team in tackles last year with 63 on the perimeter and does a great job.

“From what I understand they aren’t sure who is going to be their place kicker yet, but they do an outstanding job on special teams as well, so we know it’s going to be a challenge there.

“Again, they are a great football team, a team that we have to get ready to do battle with. We are excited about it, and we’re thankful to be in this game. We’re glad that the Georgia Bulldog fans have risen to the occasion as far as getting ready to show up and cheer on the Dogs.”

On if he puts Georgia’s Aaron Murray and Boise State’s Kellen Moore in a similar mold…
“I wouldn’t put Murray in his category yet. Kellen has done so much. He will end up being the winningest quarterback in the history of college football. It’s not a slight against Aaron, but Aaron just hasn’t played as many games and won any championships or anything like that. This guy right now I would say is deadly accurate. There’s a difference between completions and hitting a guy on the dead run and hitting a guy exactly where they need to be hit. He throws it so accurately that he allows his receivers to really get some good yards after catch. I have not seen him use his wheels like Aaron has, but part of the reason why Aaron ran last year was maybe not being 100-percent sure he wanted to throw it into a certain coverage so he took off running. He actually did a pretty good job of it. I think Kellen would be less likely to cross the line of scrimmage, although he’s mobile and can make plays moving around. He’s a little bit more mature than Aaron in his play. I think Aaron is a heck of player, and I think Aaron is going to play extremely well for us this season. Kellen is the leading passer in the country returning as far as QB rating and things of that nature. I think he hit 70-percent of his passes. Aaron is getting there, but I don’t know if he’s there yet.

On the culture of change at Georgia, offseason training and having a 240 pound running back in Richard Samuel…
“We had a great offseason I believe. I have seen the results. I’ve seen guys bulked up pretty good. I’ve seen guys that have a lot of stamina in practice. I will say that when we did move our practices to the a.m. during came that it helped our guys. It was cooler in the morning, but we’ve had a couple weeks of the heat in the afternoon once school began and I still see guys that are holding up pretty darn good. Richard Samuel being 240 pounds is a very big physical, fast guy. He’s not much for dodging people. He’s an outstanding pass protector too. Every once and a while there will be a guy or two that will make the whole team look tough, and he’s one of those type of guys. I think the offseason went extremely well. I think guys are in a really good frame of mind right now, and like everybody else in the nation ready to hit somebody besides their teammates.”

On the physical factor in games last year…
“I personally think we just didn’t finish well last year, so there are a lot of things that we could do better. We lost the close games. In years’ past, we’ve won the close games. Is it because of the physical nature? Is it because guys didn’t make a play here? Or the ball bounced the wrong way? Whatever it may be, the bottom line is we just didn’t get the job done. So we are looking forward to turning that around and getting it done this season.”

On the buildup for the Georgia-Boise State game and if it will determine how the rest of the season goes…
“It is a big build up for an opening game I think because of who we are playing, where we are playing and maybe a little bit of the uniform issue and all that kind of thing. So there’s an awful lot of hype going into this ball game compared to some other opening games. I don’t personally think that the season is riding on the one game. It’s really not. It’s a game that we absolutely want to win. It’s a game that we expect to win. We talk a lot about winning the Eastern Division, and that is the one thing that we can control. It really has no bearing on the Southeastern Conference race, so it doesn’t really get in the way of that goal or the goal of winning the Southeastern Conference. What I do think it’s going to do is give us a pretty good feel of what we are made of right away. It’s also going to be a great teacher of what it’s going to take to win in our league down the road. I think it’s very positive that we are playing the game, and I certainly would love to win it because we can create some really good momentum from that but I don’t think the season is riding in the balance.”

On contrasting now compared to when Georgia played Boise State in 2005…
“At that time, I know that that was kind of the upset special. That was kind of the game that a lot of people were pointing to say what’s going to be the upset of the week or the opening game of the season. A lot of people were picking Boise State to win that game. But I didn’t blame them. I looked at the film. They had quite a few pros on that team. We did them here (in Athens). We did get them on a really blistering hot day and humid day. I think that was a factor that day. We started well and grabbed momentum early and never looked back. They never really got a chance to get it going. On any given day, if we had got the ball first and thrown a pick on the first play of the game who knows what would have happened to us that day. You just never know. The score that day I don’t think was indicative of the difference in the teams as much as the momentum that was taken early, and we never relinquished it so to speak.

On if Georgia has learned anything on Boise State from transfer Michael Tamburo…
“You would have to ask coach (Todd) Grantham on that. I don’t know if he’s really spent a lot of time with him on that. It’s very obvious that we have everyone’s film. We can study all the film. We can talk to other coaches that have played them. That’s where we get all our information from. Todd might have spent time with him, but I really don’t know. You’d have to ask Todd on that.”

On Michael Tamburo’s outlook…
“It’s early for him, but he’s got ability. The one thing he did get to do and that I got a taste for his abilities is in our practice games. He was one of the quarterbacks that played on that day, and you can see he has got some nerve staying in the pocket. The pocket wasn’t all that great at times, but he stood in there and made some really fine throws and seemed to be very accurate. He hasn’t got an awful lot of reps at all with our offensive units. I’ve seen him throw a few passes here and there when we throw with our receivers, but at this point, the guys who are getting the most work are the guys that are going to play right now.”

On what other opposing coaches have said about Boise State…
“I’d say opposing coaches say ‘get ready.’ They say ‘these guys know how to play the game of football.’ They’re going to get after you. You better be prepared. They are relentless in their play. They are well coached. They believe. Lately, they’ve started fast and furious on both sides of the ball.”

On true freshman seeing playing time beyond Isaiah Crowell…
“Malcolm Mitchell has made some plays for us. He’ll play. Will he do something spectacular this week? I don’t know, but he’s a young guy who has done well. Damian Swann has got an awful lot of practice time especially the last few days with Branden Smith and his set back. By the way, we expect Branden to get a little bit today and then everything the next two days. So we think Branden will be fine. Ray Drew is going to get to play. There’s a few guys that are going to get to play some snaps on offense and defense, and then a lot of guys will play some special teams.

On what he thinks is going through Isaiah Crowell’s mind this week…
“What I hope is going through his mind is his assignments and knowing what to do on every play. We do have quite a few plays. He’s like any other true freshman. He’s trying to learn it, master it and try to get comfortable with it. It is nice to have Aaron Murray in the backfield with him who can guide him a little bit here and there to give him little reassurance that he’s lined up in the right spot. I’m sure he’s very excited. He did grow up wanting to be a Georgia Bulldog. He grew up wanting to play tailback for us. Through the recruiting process we pointed to this game as a game that he’d get an opportunity to show what he can do, to show the college football world what he’s got. But I think once he’s gotten here that he’s quickly understood that it’s not about Isaiah Crowell. It’s about Georgia. Even reading some of the quotes he’s been mindful of his teammates and he knows he’s got a lot to learn. He does want to do whatever he can to help the team win, and time will tell how much that will be as we go. But he’s a very good football player and he’s been a really good kid. He’s had a good camp.”

On the depth chart unfolding to create more playing opportunity for Crowell…
“I guess. I guess you are talking about Washaun Ealey and Caleb King, and Richard (Samuel) to this point hasn’t practiced a lot lately. So the stage is getting set up for him to certainly get opportunities. I’m not mad that he’s going to get opportunities. After watching him practice, you can see that he’s got a lot of ability. But he hasn’t got hit super hard yet either. We’ve had some scrimmages and he’s been hit, but somewhere along the line somebody’s going to get a really good shot on him and we’ll see if he holds onto the ball and we’ll see how he handles that. I think he’ll be fine.”

On the defense and the 3-4 going into a second season…
“I feel so much better about our defense than a year ago. I knew our guys weren’t sure what do a year ago 100-percent. You’re putting it in from scratch. Everybody’s trying to figure it out. Even the assistant coaches other than Coach Grantham were learning it as we went along. There’s absolutely nothing to draw from experience wise, but our guys understand it at a much greater depth. They are much better technicians than they were a year ago. Coaches have been able to spend more time emphasizing the technique on how to do your job well. There’s no doubt in my mind that we are better than we were a year ago. But we’re also playing one of the most prolific offenses in college football game one, so we’ll see how that translates but there’s no doubt that we are better than we were a year ago.”

On the receiver position…
“I love the camp that Rantavious Wooten had. I love the camp that Marlon (Brown) had. Tavarres King started out extremely well and got nicked up a little bit that slowed him down a little bit but he’s come on strong of late. Malcolm (Mitchell) has made some plays. Michael Bennett had a very good camp. Michael proved to be one of the toughest receivers that we got and showed up to work every day and he got better. (Israel) Troupe had a good camp. So we’ve got enough guys in my opinion to go out there and roll them around and let them all play and see who makes the most plays. At the tight end position, which we also consider receivers for us, I thought Aron White and Orson Charles had a great camp. I think Artie (Arthur) Lynch improved drastically. Of course we took Bruce (Figgins) and moved him from tight end to full back. Bruce got a whole lot better at fullback early on in camp especially. In the spring, we were still opitimistic about how Bruce would begin to perform as a fullback, but then as we got into camp and began to hit he really made a big, drastic jump from being a guy that maybe knows his assignment and get to and breakdown a little bit try to fit up on a guy to a guy that just started to run through people and really hit people on the run and do things that a fullback needs to do. Zander (Alexander Ogletree) is a pretty good fullback too. So we feel pretty good about skill.”

On the Columbus (Georgia) connection being established for this game…
“We’re glad that we got some guys from Columbus doing well for us. I guess three projected starters. Well, I don’t know if Isaiah (Crowell) would start, but he could. The longer Richard (Samuel) doesn’t go, and I don’t think Richard will go full speed today. He’ll get some, but if it continues on it may be that Isaiah gets the nod. Either him or Richard would. It’ll just depend on what Richard can do here in the next couple of days. I think if Richard doesn’t practice in the next day or two, it might be that Isaiah gets the chance to be the starter. So it could be that we have three kids starting from Columbus.”

On the pass protecting abilities of the tailbacks…
“They’re getting there. Richard’s never had a problem with that, but everybody else after him is fairly inexperienced in that regard. Pass protection is a skill or an art or whatever you want to call it, and like everything else it takes time to learn it. It’s a matter of learning who to block and how to get it done properly. And you got to have an attitude. Those linebackers that are 220 to 250 pounds come barreling down on you and they’re looking to sack your quarterback and you got to get nasty some times. It just takes reps. I’m not disappointed in anybody’s progress, but I wouldn’t say they’re just totally polished at it right now.”

On being able to use both Richard Samuel and Isaiah Crowell provided Samuel is healthy enough to play…
“I don’t think there is any doubt that we would hope for them to split the time, to share the load. Most everybody in college and pro football would much prefer having two guys that could get it done. I think that Richard’s style and Isaiah’s style contrast enough to where that would be really good for us too. If no one got hurt all camp, I don’t think there’s much doubt Richard would start and Isaiah would be number two but with both of them getting playing time.”

On if there are any players other than Carlton Thomas who would not play vs. Boise State for reason other than injuries…
“Nothing to report on that. Nothing to report at this point anyway.”

Tavarres King, Junior
On Isaiah Crowell…
“I think he’s ready, he’s a confident kid. He’s been playing this game for a long time and he knows what’s expected of him. He’s been doing pretty well on the practice fields and I think it’s going to easily convert to the game fields.”

On the build up of the Boise State game…
“It’s a huge game. I mean, the first two games we have are huge, but we’re focusing on the first one and trying to get a win. It’s just like any other game, you want to win every game you play and that’s what we’re going to keep focusing on winning the ball game.”

On pre-game excitement…
“I’m pretty calm. You put in all the work out on the practice fields and everything you do in practice is going to translate to the game. There’s no need to be nervous, just ready.”

On the receiving corps…
“I love it. Marlon Brown is going to be a tremendous player for us, I think. Rantavious. Wooten has made some huge strides. I think he’s turned the corner and he’s going to be good for us. Malcom Mitchell, you’ve heard about him from day one, he’s going to be a real good guy for us. These guys are level headed and they are going come out there very calm and play well.

Aaron Murray, Sophomore
On having a feel for the game…
“I think the comfort level continues to develop and I think you’re born with certain traits, whether it’s leadership traits or the ability to throw the football, and I think Kellen Moore has those both of those traits. He can throw the football really well and he’s a tremendous leader. I think as a quarterback, you definitely need that leadership skill to have guys look up to you, offensive linemen that want to block for you and receivers that want to make plays for you. He has that great quality about him and I think that’s one of the reasons he’s been so successful.

On his running game…
“If the hole is there and everyone is covered, I’m going to take off and run, but I’m going to be a little smarter. I think this year, with my increased knowledge about defenses and our playbook, there will be fewer times when I make a misread or hold the ball a little too long. Then I’ll be able to make the passes and I won’t be running as much. I’ll probably be running a little less, but I’m not going to be shy. If I have the chance to run, I’m going to use it and try to get as much as I can and get down.”

On how the coaches and fans feel about him running…
“The coaches don’t always love it when I run, but sometimes they do. If no one is open and your options are to get four or five yards or to throw the ball out of bounds, you might as well get something positive out of the play. The fans love it, besides me parents probably.

Abry Jones, Junior
On Georgia’s pass rush ability…
“The confidence of the defensive line has gone up a lot, especially when it comes to the pass rush ability. Everyone on the feels that we can put some pressure on the quarterback. We know that we all have to step up and make plays.”

On the game against Boise State…
“This is an exciting game for us. We want to show our fans that we aren’t going to let them down and want them to know that we want to put the Georgia football program back on top of the college football world.”

On the quarterback matchup…
“I think this is going be a really good quarterback matchup. Kellen Moore has been around for a few years and is putting his name in the books as being one of the great quarterbacks in college football. Aaron had a tremendous year last year and I expect him to go into the game and get the job done.”

On Georgia Quarterback Aaron Murray…
“I think Aaron has the chance to have a big year. He’s a great leader, a team player that doesn’t really think about himself. Everyone on the team believes in him and trusts that he will go out and have a good game.”

On having size at nose guard…
“Having one good big man is always good, but to have two that can rotate in and out if the first one gets tired is always a plus. I think that you’ll see that when Kwami [Geathers] gets tired and [Jonathan] Jenkins goes in that you won’t see much of a difference.”

Sanders Cummings, Junior
On the defense…
“I’m a lot more comfortable this year. It’s like second nature to me now. I think that this is one of the fastest defenses that we have had at Georgia in a long time. I think that will help us defend Boise State’s offense because they play fast and score a lot of points.”

On playing safety versus cornerback…
There isn’t much of a difference between playing corner and safety, it’s just space between the receivers. I am just as comfortable playing safety as I am at playing corner.

On Boise State Quarterback Kellen Moore…
He’s a great passer, he can run when the pocket breaks down, he’s a Hesiman candidate and the film shows why. He doesn’t hold onto the ball for long. If we aren’t there in three seconds, he gets the ball off. One thing we have to do is put pressure him and get to him quickly.

Bulldogs Kick Off Game-Week Preparations For Boise State

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The 19th-ranked Georgia football team kicked off season-opening game-week preparations with a two-hour practice on Monday at the Woodruff Practice Fields.

“Here we are,” Georgia coach Mark Richt said. “This was the last practice in full pads. We’ll do shells on Tuesday, and shorts on Wednesday and Thursday. We’ll have some walkthroughs, some meetings, travel and the pregame meal. And then let’s play. There’s not much time yet. There’s five days left. I remember when it was 105. It’s upon us.”

Georgia and Boise State will open the season on Saturday in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic in the Georgia Dome. The game will kick off at 8 p.m. and will be televised nationally by ESPN.

In preparation for Saturday’s game, the Bulldogs strapped on full pads for the final time in preseason on Monday.

“Today was a pretty good day,” Richt said. “Most of what you do at this point is scout work, which is not as exciting as offense versus defense, but that’s where we are. The scout team is trying their best to simulate what we’ll see, which is hard. We’ve got to keep banging away.”

Richt said he is confident cornerback Branden Smith will play on Saturday. Said Richt, “My guess is he’ll get some work (Tuesday).” Richt said tailback Richard Samuel “is not 100 percent yet, but he’s getting there.”

Bulldogs Continue To Prepare For Boise State

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The 19th-ranked Georgia football team had its final Saturday practice of the preseason, working out for two hours on the Woodruff Practice Fields.

On Friday, Richt surprised the Bulldogs by organizing a practice in the Georgia Dome, the site of next Saturday’s season opener against Boise State. Richt also allowed the players to suit up in the Nike combat uniforms that they will wear against the Broncos.

“The majority of our players had not been in the Dome, so we wanted to get them in there and get a little taste of it,” Richt said. “We let them put on the uniforms and get it out of their systems a little bit. I figured the first time they put them on they’d be primping a little bit, so we got that out of the way. Now we don’t have to worry about them being in awe of the Dome and looking in the mirror at the new uniforms.”

Richt was asked if Friday’s trip to Atlanta would especially help the Georgia freshmen.

“You just have to experience it, but that was two of the elements of outside distractions,” Richt said. “The stands weren’t full and it wasn’t live, but even when I walked in, I kind of got a feel for what it’s going to be like in a week. Until you experience it, it’s difficult and you can’t really explain it to them.”

Richt said cornerback Branden Smith missed Saturday’s game practice with a foot injury. Said Richt, “We don’t think it’s serious. Day by day is the best way to describe it.” He added nose Jonathan Jenkins “was still not ready; we’re hoping Monday,” and that receiver Marlon Brown and tailback Ken Malcome did not practice.

Georgia and Boise State will open the season on Saturday, Sept. 3, in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic in the Georgia Dome. The game will kick off at 8 p.m. and will be televised nationally by ESPN.

GEORGIA, IMG 2011 Football Radio Programming

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, GA - Georgia football fans will have ample opportunities to follow the Bulldogs during the 2011 season through a comprehensive radio programming package on the Georgia Bulldog Sports Network from IMG. The programming includes more than nine hours of game day coverage, anchored by the “Voice of the Dawgs” Scott Howard and former Bulldog All American Eric Zeier, that will air statewide over a 52-station network and globally at georgiadogs.com.

All play-by-play action and some feature programming will additionally be available via Sirius XM Satellite Radio as part of its Southeastern Conference package.

In addition to its game day coverage, the Georgia Bulldog Sports Network from IMG will produce and distribute “Bulldog Brunch,” which will air every Sunday morning following a Georgia football game from 10:00 a.m. to noon, and “Bulldog Hotline,” a two-hour production airing each Monday night from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. throughout the 2011 season. The first network broadcast of the season is this Sunday (August 28) when the “Georgia Football Preview Show” airs on 750 AM WSB-AM and 95.5 WBTS-FM in Atlanta from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The roundtable format will feature host Neil “Hondo” Williamson, Daryll “DJ” Jones, Howard, Jeff Lewis, Kevin Butler and Zeier as they break down the 2011 season. Here is a description and talent line-up for the entire 2011 programming schedule: Bulldog Game Day – Airs four hours prior to kickoff and will be live from the Hotel Indigo in Athens for home games. Bulldog broadcaster Jeff Dantzler and veteran SEC broadcaster Charlie McAlexander set the stage for the game with a 60-minute preview that includes a look at games that will impact Georgia and the SEC. AT&T Tailgate Show – Airs three hours prior to kickoff live from its traditional home game location under the bridge by Gate 10 (adjacent to Tate Student Center) outside the west end of Sanford Stadium (or on the Georgia sideline for road games). Williamson and Loran Smith host complete pre-game coverage that includes a thorough analysis of the upcoming game as well as interviews and features. Former Bulldog players Eric Zeier, Kevin Butler and Daryll “DJ” Jones will serve as regular contributors. BB&T Countdown to Kickoff – Airs 30 minutes prior to kickoff from the broadcast booth with “Voice of the Dawgs” Scott Howard and former Bulldog All American Eric Zeier, and features the last word from Head Coach Mark Richt prior to kickoff. Play-By-Play – The “Voice of the Dawgs” Scott Howard calls all the game action with analysis and commentary from former Bulldog All American quarterback Eric Zeier. Chuck Dowdle, former WSB TV Sports Director and current host of “Inside Georgia Football with Mark Richt” will handle sideline reports and the halftime interview with Head Coach Mark Richt. The Regions Bank Locker Room Report – Airs immediately after the play-by-play action. Host Neil Williamson is joined by Chuck Dowdle in the locker room for interviews with Head Coach Mark Richt, Bulldog players and Bulldog assistant coaches

BB&T Dawg Talk – Airs live immediately following the wrap-up from the Georgia locker room, and will be on location at Hotel Indigo in Athens for home games as Jeff Dantzler is joined by Bulldog great and College Football Hall of Famer Kevin Butler. Tony Schiavone will join the broadcast team in 2011, as Dawg Talk will air live from the stadium for all road games, with he and Butler breaking down the game and take calls from Georgia fans.

Bulldog Brunch – Airs live from Hilltop Grille in Athens each Sunday morning from 10:00 a.m. to noon following a Georgia Football Saturday. Host Jeff Dantzler and analyst Kevin Butler review Saturday’s game and take calls from Georgia fans, as well as provide the first preview for next Saturday’s game. The show will be re-broadcast on Sirius XM Satellite Radio 199 and Sirius 213 from noon to 2:00 p.m. each Monday.

AT&T Bulldog Hotline – Airs on Monday nights from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Hosted by “Voice of the Dawgs” Scott Howard, the show’s first hour features Head Coach Mark Richt taking calls from Bulldog fans. Hour two will be anchored by Neil “Hondo” Williamson and feature our All-Star Bulldog Panel including Kevin Butler, David Greene, DJ Shockley, DJ Jones, and Jeff Lewis. Show will be re-broadcast on Sirius XM Satellite Radio 199 and Sirius 213 each Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Wednesday Workout Features Sanford Stadium Scrimmage

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The 19th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs held their third scrimmage of the preseason Wednesday at Sanford Stadium.

Georgia head coach Mark Richt provided a few statistical standouts from Wednesday’s action that included a pregame warm up, a coin toss with captains and full-speed tackling on all plays. Georgia’s No. 1 offense and defense battled the scout team that ran Boise State’s system.

“When you do these scrimmages, Georgia should do well against the scout team,” said Richt. “If you start 0-0, then there’s no drama and it could be 38-3. There’s no sense of urgency so we started out down 31-0 in the second half.”

The Bulldogs rallied for a 38-34 victory, scoring a touchdown with 11 seconds left in the contest. Junior flanker Tavarres King (Mount Airy, Ga.) caught a four-yard pass from sophomore Hutson Mason (Marietta, Ga.) for the win. Mason finished 7-for-9 for 98 yards while King had three receptions for 21 yards. Sophomore quarterback Aaron Murray (Tampa, Fla.) started and was 5-for-9 for 79 yards. Sophomore tight end Orson Charles (Tampa, Fla.) had three catches for 31 yards.

Richt announced the captains for the season opener in senior center Ben Jones (Centreville, Ala.) senior cornerback Brandon Boykin (Fayetteville, Ga.), senior defensive end DeAngelo Tyson (Statesboro, Ga.) and senior punter Drew Butler (Duluth, Ga.). They served as captains in today’s scrimmage too.

“It means a lot to me, especially opening up in the Georgia Dome, in my hometown,” said Boykin on being named a captain for the first game. “We’re getting ready for Boise State, and it’s starting to hit us. It’s really here.”

Defensively, Boykin was on his way to a couple of long touchdowns Wednesday on an interception and a fumble return had Richt not blown the whistle.

“We didn’t want him to pull a hamstring, but the interception was going to be 75 yards and the fumble return was for more than 80,” Richt added.

Sophomore outside linebacker Jarvis Jones (Columbus, Ga.) made four tackles and one sack while junior defensive end Abry Jones (Warner Robins, Ga.) had three tackles and two sacks. Sophomore cornerback Jordan Love (Glen Allen, Va.) tallied three tackles, one sack and caused a fumble. Also, junior strong safety Shawn Williams (Damascus, Ga.) and junior cornerback Sanders Commings (Augusta, Ga.) notched interceptions.

Richt was not pleased with the opening drive, calling it “sloppy,” however it did result in points. Senior Blair Walsh (Boca Raton, Fla.) nailed a 56-yard field goal.

Overall Richt said it was a good day as he got to put the guys in certain situations and made them have some long drives on offense and made the defense stay out there a while too.

“We’ll watch the film and see who is ready to play football for Georgia,” Richt added.

“We really played fast today, and that’s what (Coach) Bobo wanted us to do,” said Ben Jones. “Boise State’s front seven is supposed to be one of the best, and it makes us work that much harder.”

“I thought we had a really good scrimmage on both sides of the ball,” said Murray. “Coach Richt moved the ball around, and we had to drive the field a few times and the defense created some turnovers. I thought we executed plays all around.”

Georgia opens the 2011 season against No. 5 Boise State on Sept. 3. The Bulldogs and Broncos will meet in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic in the Georgia Dome at 8 p.m., and ESPN will televise contest nationally.

Bulldogs Prepare For "Boise State" Scrimmage

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The No. 19-ranked Georgia Bulldogs conducted a brief
practice in shoulder pads and shorts on Tuesday afternoon in Athens, with
their primary goal being to prepare for Wednesday’s scrimmage.

“We went really short today, an hour in shoulder pads and shorts,” head
coach Mark Richt said. “About 90-95 percent of it was scout work. We wanted
to give them a little bit of a break from the hitting and full-speed running
and get the scout team ready for tomorrow’s scrimmage and Boise State. It
was a good day, short and sweet.”

The Bulldogs will face pseudo-Boise State at Sanford Stadium.

“We’re going to play half a football game,” Richt said. “I want to get our
game warm up ready and go into a coin toss. We may have some captains by
then. We’ll probably make sure Boise State kicks off and we’ll play
football. We’re going to play full-speed and tackle to the ground. We’ll
tackle on kicking teams.”

The intent of the scrimmage will be different than Georgia’s previous two.

“What happens some times in scrimmage you script certain situations…a
drive starts from the 20-, 30- or 40-yard line…maybe have some 3rd and
long or goal line or coming out from the 1-yard line,” Richt said. "What I
want to do in this one is put is all together and play a game to make sure
we’re ready to go from offense to punt team to defense…the transitions you
have to have. I want to play it as it happens to make sure everybody has to
respond quickly, coaches don’t have a clipboard with what to do on it.
That’s as much for the coaches as the players.

While “Georgia” will be comprised of the No. 1 offense and defense, Richt
said he will have a keen eye on the “Broncos.”

“I really want those guys who are playing for Boise to try to win a
position,” Richt said. “A lot of times someone from the opposing team gets
discovered in the game scrimmage. A guy may make a great special teams play
or have 20 tackles and we’re like ‘We have to get this guy ready to play.’”

After Richard Samuel and Isaiah Crowell, the Bulldogs’ top two tailbacks,
missed last week’s scrimmage due to injuries, Richt is hopeful at least
Crowell will be able to go full speed.

“Isaiah is looking like he’s ready,” Richt said. “I don’t know if Richard is
ready. He did get some work in today, but I do not think Richard will go
tomorrow.”

Georgia will open the season against No. 5 Boise State on Sept. 3, a week
from this Saturday. The Bulldogs and Broncos will battle in the Chick-fil-A
Kickoff Classic in Atlanta’s Georgia Dome at 8 p.m., and ESPN will televise
the contest nationally.

Bulldogs Concentrate On Special Teams Work Thursday

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The Georgia Bulldogs held a 90-minute workout Thursday at Sanford Stadium, focusing mainly on special teams.

It was the second straight day of practice “Between the Hedges.” On Wednesday, Georgia went through a two-hour scrimmage at Sanford Stadium.

“It was a real productive day,” said Bulldog head coach Mark Richt. “We worked on punting, punt return with starters going after each other to simulate game speed. Also, we got about 20 minutes of 11-on-11 drills. Normally, we don’t do that on a kicking day but we caught up on a few reps.”

Richt added that the offensive and defensive lines got some work on fundamentals including run blocking and pass protection. When talk turned to the options at punt returners, Richt indicated that junior Branden Smith (Atlanta) and senior Brandon Boykin (Fayetteville) are the top choices with freshmen Malcolm Mitchell (Valdosta) and Damian Swann (Atlanta) in the mix too.

“Smith and Boykin have both handled the ball in big games as punt and kick returners,” said Richt. “Malcolm and Damian are battling for the number three spot and are both very talented.”

Richt was asked about the kick return plan but he said, “we’re not giving away that.”

As the season approaches, Richt added that the Bulldogs have the potential to be a good team and the difference between being good and just average is the ability to finish games and make big plays at the end of the game. When pressed on potential starters and an updated depth chart, he said that is still being discussed among the staff.

“To start is important, but it’s more important to earn playing time,” said Richt. “You have to see how someone does in the heat of a game and you may leave them in there, and they end up playing a lot, sometimes more than the starter.”

Georgia, ranked No. 22 in the preseason USA Today coaches’ poll, opens the 2011 campaign against No. 7 Boise State on Sept. 3. The Bulldogs and Broncos will clash in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic in the Georgia Dome at 8 p.m., and ESPN will televise contest nationally.

Due to recent public issues surrounding student-athlete autographs across the country, no outside items may be brought to Picture Day. The UGA Athletic Association will provide each fan with two free schedule posters to be signed by the players and Coach Richt. No other items will be permitted.

Bulldogs Battle Through Second Scrimmage

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The Georgia Bulldogs conducted their second preseason
scrimmage of the fall on Wednesday afternoon, working out for just over two
hours at Sanford Stadium.

Head coach Mark Richt was pleased with his team’s performance and with the
fact that the Bulldogs suffered no significant injuries.

“We didn’t have any injuries, which is always good,” Richt said. “We did
have a little cramping going on from the heat afterwards with Ben Jones.
It’s nothing too serious. Ben had an hour aerobics class today, and he
probably didn’t do a good job of hydrating. After aerobics and scrimmaging
and running wind sprints, it got to him.”

Starting quarterback Aaron Murray connected on 11 of 16 passing attempts for
108 yards, with a touchdown and an interception, while back-up Hutson Mason
completed 13 of 27 passes for 125 yards.

“I thought it was a pretty good scrimmage,” Murray said. “The offense made a
lot of plays here and there. There were some lulls, but that’s going to
happen. I’m very proud of both sides of the ball and how they played today.”

Rantavious Wooten caught five passes for 61 yards, including a 20-yard TD.
Israel Troupe also had five receptions for 50 yards.

Brandon Harton, a former walk-on who was awarded a scholarship last
Thursday, was the top rusher with 51 yards on 12 carries. Richard Samuel and
Isaiah Crowell, Georgia’s top-two rushers in the first scrimmage, missed the
session due to slight injuries.

“I do think Isaiah is a little closer than Richard,” Richt said. “We have a
kicking practice tomorrow and a regular practice on Friday. I’m not going to
say Isaiah will be ready for Friday but there’s a chance. Richard would
probably be more like early next week. As you watch them moving around,
Isaiah looks closer.”

Linebacker Alec Ogletree led the defense for the second consecutive
scrimmage, with eight tackles including a sack and tackle for loss. Safety
Shawn Williams recorded seven tackles, and cornerback Bacarri Rambo notched
six stops and an interception.

Ogeltree played safety last season as a true freshman before moving to
linebacker in the spring.

“‘Tree’ is playing good,” Richt said. “He’s playing fast and physical. He
likes football and has had a very good camp. I don’t have any doubt it was
the best move for him and for Georgia.”

“‘Tree’ gets after it,” linebacker Jarvis Jones said. “He loves the game of
football. He loves to work hard. He works hard every day. He would’ve been
successful at safety, but I think moving him to linebacker is one of the
best decisions our coaches could’ve made for the overall success of our
defense and our team. He can get off blocks. He can run sideline to
sideline. He can make big plays. He’s a high energy guy and brings it every
day.”

Murray complimented the defense and the progress it has made this fall.

“From day one to now they’ve made a lot of improvement,” Murray said. “There
are so many young guys, defensive backs, linebackers and linemen. They’ve
learned so much and are starting to play faster and with more confidence.
They’re getting a lot better and giving us much better looks right now.”

Placekicker Blair Walsh made 4 of 6 field goals, with a long of 49 yards.

“Our snapping wasn’t that keen today,” Richt said.

Richt also announced that senior safety Jakar Hamilton has suffered a
fracture that will likely keep him from playing this season.

“Jakar has a fracture that historically takes two or three months to heal,”
Richt said. "My guess is he won’t play this year. He does have the
opportunity to redshirt. That’s my best guess on what will happen. It’s in
his leg down toward his ankle. It’s something he’s been having issues with
but (the pain) was moving a little on a daily basis. A bone scan showed it.
It was something we couldn’t detect otherwise.

“Jakar is a very good special teams player and competing for downs as a
safety,” Richt added. “A young guy like Corey Moore will have a better
opportunity to play on specials and is one step closer to the field as a
safety. Maybe this will light a fire under him.”

The annual Fans Picture Day will be held this Saturday, Aug. 20 in the Reed
Plaza area behind the north side of Sanford Stadium from 1-5 p.m. Members of Georgia teams other than football and interim mascot Russ will be available
from 1-3, and the football players and coaches will be in attendance from
3-5 p.m. Due to recent public issues surrounding student-athlete autographs across the country, no outside items may be brought to Picture Day. The UGA Athletic Association will provide each fan with two free schedule posters to be signed by the players and Coach Richt. No other items will be permitted.

Eight UGA Walk-ons Awarded Scholarships

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS————— Eight University of Georgia football walk-ons were
awarded scholarships Thursday night by UGA head coach Mark Richt.

Awarded scholarships were: John Bodin, OG, Jr., Covington, Ga. (Paragon Academy); Taylor

Bradberry, WR, Jr., Winder, Ga. (Winder-Barrow); Matthew DeGenova, OLB, Sr.,
Kenner, La. (Jesuit); Eric Elliot, CB, Sr., Kennesaw, Ga. (Kennesaw
Mountain); Brandon Harton, TB, RSo., Reidsville, Ga., (Tattnall County);
Blake Sailors, CB, RSo., Athens, Ga. (Oconee County); Wes Van Dyk, TB, Jr.,
Highland Park, Tex. (Highland Park); and Jason Veal, ILB, Sr., Lilburn, Ga.
(Parkview).

Bulldogs Strap On Full Pads For The First Time

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - Georgia coach Mark Richt knew his Bulldogs were excited about the first day in full pads even before they took the field.

“I overheard one of the freshmen say, ‘We get to wear the silver britches today,’” Richt said. “I thought that was kind of neat.”

Under mostly overcast skies, the Bulldogs practiced for approximately two hours Monday morning. In addition to strapping on the pads for the first time, the Bulldogs went through what Richt called “a competition day,” meaning points were assigned to each drill. Afterward, he said the defense emerged as the day’s winner.

“I thought it was a pretty darn good first day in pads,” Richt said. “In full pads, you’re able to compete. The defense won a close, spirited competition. … There were some plays made. When you compete, you get after it and you try to win. And that’s OK because it gets the blood flowing.”

Senior defensive end DeAngelo Tyson said he was impressed with what he saw from his teammates.

“We have a good defense and good players on defense,” said Tyson, who had 36 tackles playing nose last season. “I thought it was a good practice today on both sides of the ball. When you keep score like that, it makes it more exciting and you’ve got even more motivation and focus. I was pleased with the energy today. I saw guys on defense running to the ball and making plays.”

The Bulldogs are scheduled to practice twice on Tuesday.

Georgia, which was ranked No. 22 in the preseason edition of the USA Today coaches’ poll, will open the season against No. 7 Boise State on Sept. 3. The Bulldogs and Broncos will battle in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic in Atlanta’s Georgia Dome at 8 p.m., with ESPN televising the contest nationally. The annual Fans Picture Day will be held Saturday, Aug. 20, outside Sanford Stadium. Georgia football players and coaches will be available for autographs from 3-5 p.m.

UGA Picture Day Festivities Set For August 20

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The annual University of Georgia Fans’ Picture Day will be held Saturday, Aug. 20, in the Reed Plaza area of Sanford Stadium and will feature Bulldog coach Mark Richt, players, cheerleaders, other UGA athletic teams and interim mascot “Russ.”

Special ticket coupons are required for access to the location for Russ and Coach Richt. Those tickets will be distributed to the first 150 fans at 8:00 a.m. from the East End ticket windows on East Campus Road.

The Georgia cheerleaders and Hairy Dawg will be available from 1-5 p.m. Russ and other University of Georgia sports teams will be available from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Georgia football players will be on hand for photos and autographs from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in Reed Plaza on the north side of the stadium between Gates 2 and 4. Head Coach Mark Richt will also be available from 3-5 p.m. for those with ticket coupons. Concessions and merchandise sales will be available in several areas of Reed Plaza.

Fans will be able to enter Reed Plaza through through Gate 2 in the northwest corner of the stadium across from the Tate Student Center and Gate 4 through the East Campus Road entry into Reed Plaza. Both gates open at 1:00 p.m. Parking is available to the general public in all campus lots surrounding the stadium. Handicapped parking will be available in the Tate Center lots.

Due to recent public issues surrounding student-athlete autographs across the country, no outside items may be brought to Picture Day. The Georgia Athletic Association will provide each with two free schedule posters to be signed by the players and Coach Richt. No other items will be permitted.

NCAA Response to UGA Report Received

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS——— The University of Georgia compliance office

was notified late Monday by the NCAA that it had reviewed the University¹s
report on UGA linebacker Jarvis Jones and found no violation of NCAA rules.

Statement from UGA head coach Mark Richt:
“I appreciate the work of our compliance office for its time and effort in
providing a thorough, comprehensive report and I’m thankful for the timely
manner in which the NCAA reviewed and evaluated all the facts to reach a
decision. We’re ready to move on with preparations for our season opener.”

Bulldogs Complete Fourth Practice

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - The Georgia Bulldogs practiced for just over two hours in
shoulder pads and shorts on Sunday morning, the team’s fourth session of the
preseason and final workout before moving to full pads.

The practice began with a brief shower and included intermittent drizzle
throughout.

“I thought we had great energy today,” head coach Mark Richt said. “We
caught a break with the weather. We’re practicing in the morning not only to
try to beat the heat but also to try to beat the afternoon showers.”

Richt said the Bulldogs’ offense looked solid.

“The offensive skill guys had a good day,” Richt said. “There was very good
running, throwing and catching. If we were keeping score today, I think the
offensive guys would’ve gotten the best of it.”

Defensive coordinator Todd Grantham said he is pleased but still looking for
more competitiveness from his unit.

“We’ve got some players who are competing and some players that need to
learn how to compete” Grantham said. “The guys I’m counting on, I like what
I’m seeing, but it takes 11 guys and it takes depth. If you’re on our team
and play defense, you have to know how to compete.”

Offensive coordinator Mike Bobo has been impressed with the leadership of
his veterans.

“I’ve been pleased with the tempo so far,” Bobo said. “Aaron Murray, Ben
Jones, Tavarres King and Marlon Brown have done a great job of leading this
group during practice. I’ve been pleased with their leadership. We’ll find
out tomorrow when we put pads on who will strike somebody and who won’t
flinch.”

The Bulldogs will conduct their initial practice in full pads on Monday
morning. On Tuesday, the team will practice twice.

Georgia Football Holds Second Practice

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS——-The Georgia football team held its second practice of the preseason Friday afternoon, working out for approximately two hours in shorts and helmets. The Bulldogs will practice in shells on Saturday and Sunday before donning full pads for the first time Monday.

“The guys really got a break today with the weather,” said head coach Mark Richt. “There was some cloud cover most of the day and a lot of breeze. For this time of year it was very cool out there, and I think it helped them. I’m pleased with the first two days.”

Richt noted the performance of junior cornerback Branden Smith, who had five interceptions on Friday.

“Branden Smith kind of stole the show today,” Richt said. “A couple of (his interceptions) just kind of came down to him, but mostly he went up and got or snatched away from somebody. It was a very, very impressive day for Branden Smith.”

Richt said he has also been impressed with the Bulldogs’ freshmen after two practices.

“You can see one or two years down the road they are all going to be very good football players,” Richt said. “In time I think they’ll all really produce well for Georgia. It’s just a matter of when really. Will it be this year? There will be more than I few that do I think. Isaiah (Crowell), you can see he has natural running skills. He has great change of direction and balance, and catches the ball extremely well. You can tell he really likes football and he loves practicing and learning.”

In an effort to beat the heat, Georgia will begin practicing in the mornings on Saturday. The No. 22 Bulldogs open the season against seventh-ranked Boise State in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game Sept. 3 at the Georgia Dome. Kickoff is slated for 8:00 p.m., and the game will be televised by ESPN.

Bulldogs Enjoy Cooler Weather During Third Practice

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS——-With temperatures in the upper 70s for most of the morning, the Georgia football team held its third preseason workout Saturday at the Woodruff Practice Fields.

The Bulldogs put on shoulder pads for the first time, and head coach Mark Richt said fatigue became a factor late in the day as the team went through its third practice since Thursday afternoon.

“It’s day three and a little bit of fatigue is setting in, a little bit of weariness,” Richt said. “Even this morning we had a lot of cloud cover. We really got a break on how hot it could have been if the sun was blazing, and it was not until the very end. Without question, the fatigue affected the concentration level. Physically, I think the guys fought through it pretty good. Mentally, I thought we just weren’t as sharp. That’s why you practice in the heat, that’s why you have camp. Hopefully we’ll get better in that regard.”

Georgia spent the first part of Saturday’s practice working on special teams, including extra points and field goals for the first time this preseason. The Bulldogs have a pair of preseason All-SEC specialists in senior kicker Blair Walsh and senior punter Drew Butler.

“We were very, very sharp.” Richt said of Georgia’s special teams. “The snaps, the holds, the kicks – I think we were 100 percent in every way. Just about every kick split the uprights. It was a good start in the extra point-field goal department today.”

The Bulldogs will practice again Sunday morning in shells before they wear full pads for the first time on Monday.

No. 22 Georgia will take on seventh-ranked Boise State in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game Sept. 3 at 8:00 p.m. at the Georgia Dome. The game will be televised by ESPN.

The annual Fan Picture Day will be held Saturday, Aug. 20 outside Sanford Stadium. Georgia football players and coaches will be available for autographs from 3-5 p.m.

UGA Football Players Report To Campus

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. — Tuesday marked the official reporting day for 105 University of Georgia football student-athletes back to campus.

On Wednesday, the team will have a series of meetings, testing and physicals, and then the Bulldogs will hit the field Thursday for the first time. The Bulldogs will open the 2011 season against Boise State in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff game Sept. 3 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. Georgia coach Mark Richt is in his 11th season at the helm.

Due to the NCAA’s five-day “acclimatization period,” a measure adopted for preseason football practices for all Division I-A teams since 2003, the Bulldogs will be in shorts and helmets for their first few practices and eventually be in full pads next week.

Classes resume at UGA on Monday, Aug. 15. The annual Fans’ Picture Day will be Aug. 20 in Sanford Stadium. The season opener against Boise State on Sept. 3 is set for an 8 p.m. ET kickoff, and it will be televised by ESPN.

English, Henley Chosen For U.S. Walker Cup Team

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

FAR HILLS, N.J. - Former Georgia All-Americans Harris English and Russell Henley were chosen for the United States’ Walker Cup Team on Sunday, according to the United States Golf Association.

The USGA picked four players on Sunday for Team USA: English, Henley, Patrick Cantlay of UCLA and Peter Uihlein of Oklahoma State. The remainder of the 10-man USA team that will compete against 10 amateurs representing Great Britain and Ireland will be named later this summer.

The Walker Cup will be played Sept. 10-11 at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club in Scotland.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for Harris and Russell,” Georgia coach Chris Haack said. “They set their sights on making the Walker Cup team, and that’s exactly what they did. All their hard work has paid off with this selection. I could not be prouder of them. I know they will represent the University of Georgia and the United States in a first-rate manner in Scotland.”

With the selections of English and Henley, Georgia now has been represented in the Walker Cup by 15 golfers, including Vinny Giles (1969, 1971, 1973, 1975 and 1993), Danny Yates (1989, 1993, 1999 and 2001) and Jimmy Gabrielsen (1971, 1981 and 1991). Brian Harman and Adam Mitchell helped the United States win the Walker Cup in Ardmore, Pa., in 2009.

The biennial Walker Cup match consists of 18 singles matches and eight foursomes (alternate-shot) matches over the competition’s two days. Team USA has won the last three matches and leads the series overall, 34-7-1.

English won the 2011 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Invitational at the Ohio State University Scarlet Course in July. One week earlier, English won the Southern Amateur at Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club near Tampa, Fla. He advanced to the semifinals of the 2011 U.S. Amateur Public Links in June at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon and was a quarterfinalist in the 2010 APL at Bryan Park in Greensboro, N.C. He placed sixth at the Porter Cup last week.

Henley became the second amateur in history to win a Nationwide Tour event when he won the Stadion Classic at the UGA Course in Athens in May. Henley continued his strong play into the summer by qualifying for the U.S. Open, where he made the cut and finished 42nd. He came in 16th and was the low amateur at the 2010 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach (Calif.) Golf Links.

Behind English and Henley, the Bulldogs finished as the runner-up at the NCAA Championships. They each garnered All-America honors, giving them a combined eight for their careers.

UGA to Wear Nike Pro Combat Uniforms in Season Opener

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

BEAVERTON, Ore. - Before “Glory, Glory” rings through the Georgia Dome and
the Georgia Bulldogs storm the field against Boise State on Sept. 3,
Georgia’s players will lace their cleats and buckle their chin straps while
donning uniquely designed, highly advanced Nike uniforms.

Georgia one is nine of the top college football programs slated to wear the
uniforms in at least one game during the 2011-12 season.

The fully integrated uniform system, which the University of Oregon debuted
during the 2010 BCS National Championship Game, incorporates the latest in
performance innovation and design from the world’s most renowned athletic
outfitter. The redesigned base layer facilitates the uniform’s overall
innovation, delivering the ultimate in lightweight protection for maximum
speed. Strategically placed seams, pads and cooling zones also help minimize
distraction and optimize protective coverage.

“Nike takes pride in giving athletes an advantage by providing them with
cutting edge innovation. The Nike Pro Combat system of dress uniform
delivers unparalleled on-field performance benefits while inspiring the team
through each uniform’s unique design,” said Todd Van Horne, Nike’s Creative
Director for Football. “It is a privilege to collaborate with the coaches
and student-athletes to develop a look that’s truly distinctive to each
university and their teams.”

The other teams selected to sport the 2011 Nike Pro Combat system of dress
uniforms include the United States Military Academy (Army), Boise State
University, Louisiana State University, Michigan State University, the
United States Naval Academy, The Ohio State University, University of
Oregon, and Stanford University.

While each school’s uniform delivers the same superior lightweight
performance and protection, each will tell a different story through its
design. Nike worked closely with each university to bring relevant elements
of the school’s rich heritage into a distinguished, modern uniform design.
The uniforms capture each team’s unique character.

The integrated uniform system provides enhanced durability and innovation
from the inside out. Robust padding without the bulk offers optimal
low-profile impact protection specifically throughout the crucial “hit zone”
between the knees and shoulders. Nike Pro Combat Deflex padding has also
been integrated in the hip and knee areas of the pant for crucial impact
protection that stays in place. The base layer now features customizable
protection, incorporating a thin, incredibly strong carbon fiber plate that
can be placed on the thigh padding where needed.

The uniform system design also emphasizes improved thermoregulation,
including the Nike Pro Combat Deflex padding layer, which is constructed
with fabric selected for its ability to help keep the body cool and wick
away sweat – making the uniform, and player, lighter and dryer. The jerseys
are made of four-way stretch woven twill that sheds moisture. A Flywire
collar eliminates two layers of fabric for improved breathability, providing
a more stable anchor to keep the jersey in place.

The uniforms will hit the field on opening day of the 2011-12 college
football season and throughout the year during some of fiercest rivalries in
college football. Dates include Oregon vs. LSU at Cowboys Stadium (9/3),
Boise State vs. Georgia at the Georgia Dome (9/3), Michigan State vs.
Michigan (10/15), LSU vs. Auburn (10/22), Ohio State vs. Wisconsin (10/29),
Stanford v. Notre Dame (11/27) and the annual service academy bragging
rights matchup between two of the nation’s most prestigious football
programs – Army vs. Navy (12/10).

About Nike
NIKE, Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world’s leading designer,
marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment
and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. A
division of NIKE, Inc., Jordan Brand is a premium brand of footwear, apparel
and accessories inspired by the dynamic legacy, vision and direct
involvement of Michael Jordan. Wholly owned Nike subsidiaries include
Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear,
apparel and accessories; Cole Haan, which designs, markets and distributes
luxury shoes, handbags, accessories and coats; Umbro Ltd., a leading United
Kingdom-based global football (soccer) brand; and Hurley International LLC,
which designs, markets and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle
footwear, apparel and accessories. For more information, visit
www.nikebiz.com.

Nine Bulldogs On Coaches Preseason All-SEC Team

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.——-Nine members of the Georgia football team have been voted to the 2011 Southeastern Conference Coaches’ Preseason All-SEC team, it was announced Thursday by the league office.

The Bulldogs are tied with South Carolina with the third-most players selected to the team behind Arkansas with 14 and Alabama with 13. Georgia had six players who were named to the first team, second only to Alabama’s seven first team selections.

The Bulldogs voted to the first team offense include sophomore quarterback Aaron Murray, junior tight end Orson Charles and senior lineman Cordy Glenn. Senior place kicker Blair Walsh, senior punter Drew Butler and senior return specialist Brandon Boykin also grabbed first team honors on special teams.

Senior center Ben Jones was voted to the second team, while senior lineman DeAngelo Tyson and Boykin were named to the second team defense.

This marks the eighth straight year of the SEC Coaches Preseason All-SEC Team. The team is announced each year in advance of the SEC Football Media Days. This year, the event will be held next Wednesday through Friday at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover, Ala.

Georgia opens the season against Boise State in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game Sept. 3 at the Georgia Dome. The home opener is slated for Sept. 10 against South Carolina.

2011 SEC COACHES PRE-SEASON ALL-SEC TEAM

OFFENSE

First-Team Offense

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

TE Orson Charles, Georgia 6-3 241 Jr. Tampa, Fla.

OL Cordy Glenn, Georgia 6-5 348 Sr. Riverdale, Ga.

OL Barrett Jones, Alabama 6-5 311 Jr. Memphis, Tenn.

OL Bradley Sowell, Ole Miss 6-7 315 Sr. Hernando, Miss.

OL Larry Warford, Kentucky 6-3 340 Jr. Richmond, Ky.

C William Vlachos, Alabama 6-1 294 Sr. Mountain Brook, Ala.

WR Greg Childs, Arkansas 6-3 217 Sr. Warren, Ark.

WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina 6-4 233 Jr. St. Matthews, S.C.

QB Aaron Murray, Georgia 6-1 211 So. Tampa, Fla.

RB Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina 6-0 231 So. Duncan, S.C.

RB Trent Richardson, Alabama 5-11 224 Jr. Pensacola, Fla.

Second-Team Offense

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

TE Brandon Barden, Vanderbilt 6-5 245 Sr. Lincolnton, Ga.

OL Alvin Bailey, Arkansas 6-5 319 So. Broken Arrow, Okla.

OL D.J. Fluker, Alabama 6-6 335 So. Foley, Ala.

OL Brandon Mosley, Auburn 6-6 306 Sr. Jefferson, Ga.

OL Rokevious Watkins, South Carolina 6-4 334 Sr. Fairburn, Ga.

C Ben Jones, Georgia 6-3 316 Sr. Centreville, Ala.

WR Joe Adams, Arkansas 5-11 190 Sr. Little Rock, Ark.

WR Rueben Randle, LSU 6-4 210 Jr. Bastrop, La.

QB Stephen Garcia, South Carolina 6-2 230 Sr. Lutz, Fla.

RB Knile Davis, Arkansas 6-0 230 Jr. Missouri City, Texas

*RB Jeff Demps, Florida 5-8 190 Sr. Winter Garden, Fla.

*RB Mike Dyer, Auburn 5-9 206 So. Little Rock, Ark.

Third-Team Offense

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

TE Philip Lutzenkirchen, Auburn 6-4 253 Jr. Marietta, Ga.

OL Grant Cook, Arkansas 6-4 318 Sr. Jonesboro, Ark.

OL Alex Hurst, LSU 6-6 329 Jr. Bartlett, Tenn.

OL Bobby Massie, Ole Miss 6-6 325 Jr. Lynchburg, Va.

OL Kyle Nunn, South Carolina 6-5 296 Sr. Sumter, S.C.

C Travis Swanson, Arkansas 6-5 305 So. Kingwood, Texas

*WR Emory Blake, Auburn 6-1 197 Jr. Austin, Texas

*WR Marquis Maze, Alabama 5-10 180 Sr. Birmingham, Ala.

*WR Jarius Wright, Arkansas 5-10 180 Sr. Warren, Ark.

QB Chris Relf, Mississippi State 6-4 245 Sr. Montgomery, Ala.

RB Vick Ballard, Mississippi State 5-11 220 Sr. Pascagoula, Miss.

RB Onterrio McCalebb, Auburn 5-10 172 Jr. Fort Meade, Fla.

DEFENSE

First-Team Defense

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

DL Jake Bequette, Arkansas 6-5 271 Sr. Little Rock, Ark.

DL Josh Chapman, Alabama 6-1 310 Sr. Hoover, Ala.

DL Malik Jackson, Tennessee 6-5 270 Sr. Northridge, Calif.

DL Devin Taylor, South Carolina 6-7 248 Jr. Beaufort, S.C.

LB Dont’a Hightower, Alabama 6-4 260 Jr. Lewisburg, Tenn.

LB Chris Marve, Vanderbilt 6-0 235 Sr. Memphis, Tenn.

LB Danny Trevathan, Kentucky 6-1 230 Sr. Leesburg, Fla.

DB Mark Barron, Alabama 6-2 218 Sr. Mobile, Ala.

DB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina 6-1 194 Jr. Rock Hill, S.C.

DB Robert Lester, Alabama 6-2 210 Jr. Foley, Ala.

DB Morris Claiborne, LSU 6-0 177 Jr. Shreveport, La.

Second-Team Defense

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

DL Melvin Ingram, South Carolina 6-2 271 Sr. Hamlet, N.C.

DL DeAngelo Tyson, Georgia 6-2 306 Sr. Statesboro, Ga.

DL Kentrell Lockett, Ole Miss 6-5 248 Sr. Hahnville, La.

*DL Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State 6-4 295 Jr. Yazoo City, Miss.

*DL Barkevious Mingo, LSU 6-5 240 So. West Monroe, La.

LB Ryan Baker, LSU 6-0 227 Sr. Grand Ridge, Fla.

LB Jerry Franklin, Arkansas 6-1 245 Sr. Marion, Ark.

LB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama 6-2 265 Sr. Eufala, Ala.

DB Brandon Boykin, Georgia 5-10 183 Sr. Fayetteville, Ga.

DB Casey Hayward, Vanderbilt 5-11 188 Sr. Perry, Ga.

DB Tyrann Mathieu, LSU 5-9 180 So. New Orleans, La.

DB Tramain Thomas, Arkansas 6-0 198 Sr. Winnie, Texas

Third-Team Defense

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

DL Corey Lemonier, Auburn 6-4 229 So. Hialeah, Fla.

DL Sam Montgomery, LSU 6-4 250 So. Greenwood, S.C.

DL Travian Robertson, South Carolina 6-4 298 Sr. Laurinburg, N.C.

DL Tenarius Wright, Arkansas 6-2 252 Jr. Memphis, Tenn.

LB Jon Bostic, Florida 6-1 238 Jr. Wellington, Fla.

LB Jelani Jenkins, Florida 6-1 223 So. Olney, Md.

LB C.J. Mosley, Alabama 6-2 234 So. Theodore, Ala.

DB Johnthan Banks, Mississippi State 6-2 185 Jr. Maben, Miss.

DB Dre’ Kirkpatrick, Alabama 6-3 192 Jr. Gadsden, Ala.

DB Neiko Thorpe, Auburn 6-2 185 Sr. Tucker, Ga.

DB Prentiss Waggner, Tennessee 6-2 181 Jr. Clinton, La.

SPECIALISTS

First-Team Specialists

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

PK Blair Walsh, Georgia 5-10 192 Sr. Boca Raton, Fla.

P Drew Butler, Georgia 6-2 214 Sr. Duluth, Ga.

RS Brandon Boykin, Georgia 5-10 183 Sr. Fayetteville, Ga.

AP Joe Adams, Arkansas 5-11 190 Sr. Little Rock, Ark.

Second-Team Specialists

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

PK Caleb Sturgis, Florida 5-10 192 Sr. St. Augustine, Fla.

P Tyler Campbell, Ole Miss 6-2 227 Jr. Little Rock, Ark.

RS Warren Norman, Vanderbilt 5-10 195 Jr. Stone Mountain, Ga.

AP Trent Richardson, Alabama 5-11 224 Jr. Pensacola, Fla.

Third-Team Specialists

Pos. Name, Team Ht. Wt. Class Hometown

PK Zach Hocker, Arkansas 6-0 180 So. Russellville, Ala.

*P Dylan Breeding, Arkansas 6-1 211 Jr. Hoover, Ala.

*P Ryan Tydlacka, Kentucky 6-1 185 Sr. Louisville, Ky.

RS Andre DeBose, Florida 5-11 180 So. Sanford, Fla.

AP Trey Burton, Florida 6-2 222 So. Venice, Fla.

- Ties

By School

School 1 2 3 Total

Alabama 7 3 3 13

Arkansas 3 5 6 14

Auburn 0 2 5 7

Florida 0 2 4 6

Georgia 6 3 0 9

Kentucky 2 0 1 3

LSU 1 4 2 7

Ole Miss 1 2 1 4

Miss. State 0 1 3 4

South Carolina 4 3 2 9

Tennessee 1 0 1 2

Vanderbilt 1 3 0 4

Georgia’s Glenn, Jones Named To Outland Trophy Watch List, Boykin To Nagurski List

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0400

ATHENS, Ga. - Georgia senior offensive linemen Cordy Glenn and Ben Jones have been named to the Outland Trophy Watch List while senior cornerback Brandon Boykin hasbeen included on the Bronko Nagurski Watch List, according to announcements by the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) on Friday.

Boykin, a native of Fayetteville, finished 2010 with 44 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss, and tied for the teamlead with three interceptions. Boykin is Georgia’s active leader with six career picks. He is also UGA’s leader in career kickoff return yards with 1,813 and is the only player in SEC history to have three 100-yard plays of any kind.

In addition to choosing the nation’s best defensive player for the Nagurski, the FWAA will also choose a National Defensive Player of the Week. If that player is not on the Watch List, he automatically will be added. The FWAA and the Charlotte Touchdown Club will announce five finalists for the Nagurski Trophy on Nov. 17.

The Nagurski Trophy winner is chosen from five finalists who are part of the FWAA All-America Team. The FWAA All-America Committee, after voting input from the entire membership, selects the 25-man team and eventually the finalists. Committee members, then by individual ballot, select the winner.

The 2011 Nagurski Trophy Banquet will be on Dec. 12 at the Westin Hotel in Charlotte, N.C. Bulldog head coach Mark Richt will be the keynote speaker at the banquet.

The Southeastern Conference leads the way on the Nagurski list with 19 individuals out of the 87 players listed.

Former Bulldog outside linebacker Justin Houston, who was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in this year’s NFL Draft, was a finalist for the 2010 Nagurski Trophy. Current Denver Bronco cornerback and former Georgia All-American Champ Bailey won the award in 1998.

Jones, a center from Centreville, Ala., and Glenn, a tackle from Riverdale, have already been selected as one of the duos on the Pony Express Award Watch List for being a dominant tandem. The pair has combined for 71 starts during their three-year careers, including 10 starts during each of their freshmanseasons in 2008. Jones, who has been named to UGA’s Team of the Decade, has been named to Phil Steele’s preseason All-SEC Second Team and the No. 7 center in the country by Lindy’s going into 2011.

Glenn, a preseason All-SEC First Team selection by Phil Steele and Lindy’s, was selected to the Pro Football Weekly All-America Team following the 2010 season. He has started every game the last two seasons for the Bulldogs and is expected to man the left tackle spot in 2011.

The Outland Trophy winner, which is considered the nation’s most dominant interior lineman, is chosen from three finalists who are part of the FWAA All-America Team. The three Outland finalists will be named on Nov. 21.

The Outland Trophy, presented annually since 1946, is the third oldest award in major college football. The winner of the 66th Outland Trophy, named after the late John Outland, an All-America lineman at Penn and Kansas at the turn of the century, will be announced on The Home Depot College Football Awards on Dec. 8 on ESPN.

The Outland Trophy presentation banquet, sponsored by the Greater Omaha Sports Committee, will be held on Jan. 12, 2012, in Omaha, Neb.

Georgia is one of four schools from the SEC to have two players on the 65-man Outland Watch List. Another former Bulldog All-American and NFL standout, Bill Stanfill, won the 1968 Outland Trophy.