UGA: Issues for Spring and Beyond

Well, after reading the drivel from “experts” regarding UGA’s upcoming season, it is apparent most journalists know little about our Team. 

‘Experts’ focus on “who” will replace former stars rather than addressing the challenges of 2008 that still might be around.  Since most starters and injured contributors return for ’09, and every player on the ‘09 team was part of a Top 10 signing class; the answers to most questions are not found in personnel. 

So, as a Bulldog fan, I will give you my Top five issues for next season in contrast to the “analysis” from journalistic world.  These are issues that should make the difference in 2009 starting with how the team responds in Spring practice.

Issue No. 1:  Defense

Last year’s defense was talented, experienced, and a strong point of the team—On Paper.   In reality, the unit was poorly coached and performed between average to miserable.  The Dawgs finished 10^th in scoring defense at 24.5 points per game. That’s just .2pts better than Mississippi State at No. 11.  UGA also finished No. 8 in sacks, No. 10 in interceptions, No. 11 in fumbles recovered. 

The numbers don’t lie—we were outperformed by lesser talented units. Injuries hurt performance but not enough to put us near the bottom in most defensive categories.  Our shortfalls had nothing to do with talent, and, if we fall short again this year, it will have nothing to do with talent.

Therefore, improvements in scoring defense, turnover margin, open field tackling, applying pressure and being able to execute in the nickel against the Spread are priority No. 1. This is the key to the entire season. 

So, we need at least one dominant defensive end to step up within the four that are healthy for the Spring.  We also need another corner, but not Bryan Evans, to replace Asher Allen.  Despite a bias against the blitz, we will also need pressure:  If the D cannot get pressure with four, they will need to send five. We’ve all witnessed SEC coaches doing more with less, we’ll see if Martinez has learned from 2008.

Issue No. 2:  Running Game

What can we say; Moreno was a once-in-a-decade back.  What most outsiders missed was that despite Moreno’s 1400 yards in 13 games, he did it behind a young, injured and patchwork line that was as weak as a mended screen fence. 

It was all on him. We didn’t have a running game, just a one-man running machine. Moreno also got hit in the backfield a lot and still managed positive gains. Amazing performances. 

This year, we will have a complete offensive line for the first time in two years; No guards playing tackle, no defensive ends on the O-line.  With Stacey Searles taking over as run game coordinator and a staple of four solid backs led by Richard Samuel, I see consistent production out of the run game, just with less flash than last year. 

Overall I expect the unit will be more consistent, able to grind the clock when we need it and I believe we can average better than last year’s 148ypg.

Issue No. 3:  Special Teams:

Will the Dawgs be able to kick the ball to the endzone?  Will the kickoff team be able to hold opposing teams behind the 30?  Will we try to block punts? Will we continue to use third teamers and get a third team result?  While we averaged 17 yards per punt return (Excellent) and 21 in kick off returns (serviceable), we were 11^th in the SEC in net kickoff coverage.  Will we make adjustments or bury our heads in the sand? 

This Spring I am hoping for: A kickoff specialist to emerge; consistent field goal kicking, and hopefully different coverage schemes other than “directional pooch kicking.”

Issue #4:  Team Unity & Discipline

Penalties are a reflection of coaching and a lack of discipline.  UGA was 12^th in penalties averaging 72ypg but in many games giving opposing teams over 100 yards. 

It’s demoralizing to kill an opponent’s drive only to give them a break with a penalty. So, will the coaching staff continue to tolerate chronic offenders that hit after the whistle, forget the snap count or habitually hold? There is an admitted penalty trend dating back several years and it morphed into a cancer.

Additionally, I can’t say UGA played four complete quarters in any game last year.  Forget finish the drill..just finish the game!  Many current players were quoted about a lack of intensity and leadership last year. 

I read in the Athens paper about a cultural change that was implemented in the off-season.  Let us hope it includes a culture of more leadership, complete games and fewer penalties.

Issue 5: Quarterback:

The real question is: Will UGA develop a solid, consistent No. 2 QB behind Joe Cox if he gets hurt?  As for Cox, he’s a 5^th year senior who is praised for his accuracy.  He also knows the entire playbook complete with all system audibles and checks.  Cox could have transferred but he stayed and the Team has responded to his leadership and sacrifice. Expect the better offensive line, healthy tight ends and new wrinkles in the running game to add to Cox’s arsenal. 

I’ll be surprised if Joe Cox does not finish the season with 60% in completions and the offense does not match the 31.5ppg it managed last year.

Well these are my thoughts about issues facing the Dawgs in 2009 starting with Spring practice.  What are yours?