Keys to the Game

I know I haven't commented a whole lot on Saturday's game. I get nervous about the first game, what can I say...Plus, I know jack about Oklahoma State. Most Bulldog fans seem a little apprehensive about this game. There are also a lot that think this will be just like Boise State in 2005. Personally, I don't see any similarities between this game and that one.

First off, Boise State put way too much on themselves. They were calling that game the biggest in the program's history. Oklahoma State plays Oklahoma every year, so they've played in big games before. Also, I expect Oklahoma State to be bigger and stronger than Boise State was.

I also don't think our guys compare favorably to the Dawgs of 2005. That team had a veteran offensive line. We don't have that luxury this year. The 2005 team also had DJ Shockley. Sure that was his first start, but he'd been in the program a long time.

So, I don't think this game compares to Boise State. I'm looking for it to be much closer. I'm also not going to make a prediction (I'm superstitious, sorry). What I will do is tell you what needs to happen for Georgia to win.

First off, our defense needs to shut them down early. A shootout does not favor Georgia. If the defense can get a few stops early in the game, it will give the offense time to gel.

Second, establish the run. I think a better comparison to this team is the Dawgs of 2003. That offensive line was talented but young. Opening at Clemson, they established the run early with Tony Milton. That opened up the passing game for long TD passes to Gibson. Also, the line will probably be better at run blocking early on in the season. If Brown, Lumpkin, or Moreno can break off a few long ones, look for Sean Bailey deep.

Third, we need to stick with the hot back. If they want to mix them up and keep them fresh, fine by me. But if one is obviously playing better, stick with him. After the game I don't want to be analyzing why any of the backs was averaging 8 yards per carry in the first half, and then only got one carry in the third quarter.

Finally we need good play from our special teams. I'm not worried about field goals with Coutu. I'm also not worried about punt returns with either Flowers or Henderson back there. What I am worried about is punting and kickoff coverage. Ely-Kelso is gone, and we're now kicking off from the 30. Our kickoff coverage was bad enough anyway. Now the kickoff won't go as far, and the return man will have more time to get going. Hopefully our kickoff coverage will improve, and maybe our returns will improve as well negating it all.

I'm ready for the game! If the Dawgs follow my steps, we should be alright.