Giving Thanks

Growing up with an actual newspaper, there were always columnists that I sought out to read. Usually they appeared in the Sport Section of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Lewis Grizzard was, of course, a must read. I read and still read Mark Bradley and Jeff Schultz despite how maddening they can sometimes be. There were others, but one column I always made sure to read was Furman Bisher's Thanksgiving column. Despite our 60 years difference in age, I always thought they were poignant and honest. Now that Mr. Bisher has passed, there is typically a tribute to him in the AJC on Thanksgiving and there are a host of folks who imitate his column. I've used Facebook and my own blog to do my own version in years past but felt it appropriate to do on GRH this year. So here is what I'm Thankful for this year...

I'm Thankful for crisp, fall days that end up in the stadium but begins under a tent or in a parking lot with your closest friends and family pretending to celebrate a football team but really celebrating each other.

I'm Thankful for having the opportunity to watch Todd Gurley in person for 2+ years. I'm not old enough to remember Herschel, but I imagine he's the closest thing I'll get to see to it (Though Nick Chubb may prove me wrong).

I'm Thankful I live in a country where people have the right to protest what they feel is wrong but I'm sad that people choose to utilize that right as an opportunity to commit crimes. I'm also sad that there are some in power who don't remember that people have that right.

I'm Thankful for the briefest of moments, sports reminds me what it is like to be a kid again. Nowhere else am I more hopeful than when my favorite teams take the field and nowhere else am I so crushed at the outcome of a game. 

I'm also Thankful that I'm an adult and don't hold on to those bipolar feelings for too long after a win or a loss.

I'm Thankful for the front porch swing and a head on my shoulder letting me know I'm loved.

(As much as they drive me crazy sometimes) I'm Thankful for two little girls that are giving me an opportunity I've never had before.

I'm Thankful I'm not as attached to my phone and technology as much as other people I see.

I'm Thankful for the opportunity to spend my mid-30s on a college campus as a student and pretend I learned my lesson when I was 21.

I'm Thankful for friends that drag me out when I need to get out.

I'm Thankful for family that allows me to stay home when I've been out with my friends too much.

I'm Thankful for mentors who are not only incredibly supportive but are just as happy to have a beer with you as they are to meet you in their office. 

I'm Thankful for the roar of the crowd.

I'm Thankful for all of the amazing people who grace my life. I was reminded this year that there are no guarantees as to how long this roller coaster lasts but I'm incredibly happy for the other riders that get on and get off the one I'm riding.

I'm Thankful I knew Matt.

Finally, I'm Thankful for second chances. We all deserve them but we don't always get them. Make the most of the times you do. 

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone.

Rivalry Week Scorecast and Synopsis

Here are the picks for Week 14. Keep in mind that the panelists' records and picks are made
based on the spread.

Synopses:

Jeremy

1. Arkansas @ Missouri - How impressive was Arkansas last week? They appear to have finally figured it all out in the SEC. However, Mizzou has also been impressive. They've had to win two very tough road games to maintain their hold on the SEC East. Here's the problem: They play this game at home where they lost to Indiana and were destroyed by UGA. The Hogs gets it done in a good game. Arkansas 27-21

2. Mississippi State @ Ole Miss - Ole Miss has seen its magical season fall apart at the end of the year. Their losses have actually hurt State who still is fighting for a spot in the playoff. This game is at Ole Miss but they aren't the same without their best player on offense. Their defense is solid but Dak Prescott finds a way to get it done. State 24-21

3. Georgia Tech @ Georgia - Tech has quietly been very good this year. Their defense has been the catalyst and their offense is always difficult to prepare for. UGA has the athletes to dominate Tech and have managed to do so over the last decade. Despite their record, I think Paul Johnson is still coaching for his job here. Plus, a win over the Dawgs and the Noles and Tech becomes a dark horse playoff candidate. I think the Engineers will play well but the Dawgs just have too much to overcome at home in the end. UGA 31-21

4. Auburn @ Alabama - Auburn has looked like a shell of itself in the past few weeks while Alabama has returned to the top of college football. But I just don't see them getting shellacked in the Iron Bowl. I think the Auburn offense does enough to keep them around in this game, but I think the Tide punch their ticket to Atlanta in the end. Alabama 28-20


Brian

1. Arkansas @ Missouri - Missouri may not be great, but they are better than people give them credit for. The loss at home to Indiana was bad, but outside the UGA game, Missouri has played well lately. Missouri has one of the best defensive lines/pass rushes in the country. Arkansas has one of the best rushing attacks in the nation and has played very impressively the past two weeks. The last two teams Missouri has beaten (Texas A&M and Tennessee) rely on QB play more than Arkansas. Thus, I like Arkansas's rushing attack to nullify Missouri's stellar pass rush. Arkansas 31-21

2. Mississippi State @ Ole Miss - It really surprised me how terrible Ole Miss looked against Arkansas. Mississippi State still has a ton to play for and will be ready for this game. I don't see the Egg Bowl being overly close. Mississippi State 34-17

3. Georgia Tech @ Georgia - This game is a question of whether Georgia will show up or not. Yes, Tech has played well this season, but I don't give their offensive and defensive lines a chance against Georgia's, assuming UGA takes Tech seriously. By the start of this game, UGA will know if they will be representing the SEC East in Atlanta. If Missouri wins the East, it could be a small let down for UGA, even though they could still make one of the power bowls. In any case, I still expect UGA to overpower Tech. Georgia 42-28

4. Auburn @ Alabama - Auburn did not look good against Samford, and we know how they looked against Texas A&M and Georgia. Setup for a blow-out in Tuscaloosa, right? Not exactly. Strangely, Saban defenses have struggled against Malzahn offenses. While Alabama has everything to play for, Auburn knows this and would love to spoil Alabama's season. Expect this to be closer than the spread, but the Tide will still win. Alabama 31-28

Keppel

1. Arkansas @ Missouri - One of these teams will show up. I pick Missouri at home. 

2. Mississippi State @ Ole Miss - One of these teams will show up. I pick Mississippi St. 

3. Georgia Tech @ Georgia - One of these teams will show up. I pick Georgia.

4. Auburn @ Alabama - One of these teams will show up. I pick Alabama. 

Week 13 Poll and SEC Standings

Arkansas became the first unranked team to shut out ranked teams in consecutive weeks. Can they beat the Missouri Tigers this week? Here was my poll at the end of Week 12. Here is my update at the end of Week 13. 

Further, below the rankings, I will list a few superlatives from the week. 

Week 13 Top 10

1. Florida State

2. Alabama

3. Oregon

4. Mississippi State

5. TCU

6. Ohio State

7. Baylor

8. Georgia

9. UCLA
10. Michigan State

Week 13 SEC Standings

1. Alabama

2. Mississippi State

3. Georgia

4. Auburn
5. Missouri
6. Arkansas

7. Ole Miss
8. LSU
9. Texas A&M

10. South Carolina

11. Florida

12. Tennessee

13. Kentucky

14. Anchor Down. 

Team of the Week: Arkansas

A-Holes of the Week: Tennessee. You had people starting to believe you were turning it around. Looked pretty mediocre as usual against Missouri. 

Failed execution of the week: Ole Miss, the whole game vs. Arkansas. 

Current Projected SEC Champion: Alabama.

Week 13 Scorecast and Synopsis

Here are the picks for Week 13. Keep in mind that the panelists' records and picks are made
based on the spread.

Brian

1. Arizona @ Utah - Arizona has the marquee win over Oregon, while Utah got beaten easily by Oregon and had a double overtime win over Stanford this past weekend. Even though the game is at Utah, I think Arizona has played better this year overall. Arizona 35-24

2. Ole Miss @ Arkansas - Arkansas finally secured its first victory in the SEC under Bret Bielema this past weekend. It was a solid win for a team that is probably better than their record. I'm not ready to jump on them just yet, and Ole Miss does have a very good defense. Ole Miss 20-10

3. Missouri @ Tennessee - Missouri shocked many people and won in College Station last weekend. It was an impressive victory for the Tigers. Outside the losses at home to Indiana and Georgia, Missouri has been solid. Tennessee notched a nice win against Kentucky, but Kentucky has been reeling. Missouri 31-27

4. USC @ UCLA - Both teams have played well lately. Cody Kessler of USC has been excellent, but so has Brett Hundley of UCLA. I think USC has a better defense and will make enough stops to win a very close game. USC 35-31


Keppel

1. Arizona @ Utah - Utah wins. No doubt.

2. Ole Miss @ Arkansas - Ole Miss wins. No doubt. 

3. Missouri @ Tennessee - Tennessee wins. No doubt. 

4. USC @ UCLA - UCLA wins. Krispy Kreme. 

Week 12 Poll and SEC Standings

Todd Gurley, Nick Chubb, and the UGA o-line had a strong showing this past weekend against Auburn. Here was my poll at the end of Week 11. Here is my update at the end of Week 12. 

Further, below the rankings, I will list a few superlatives from the week. 

Week 12 Top 10

1. Florida State

2. Alabama

3. Oregon

4. Mississippi State

5. TCU

6. Ohio State

7. Baylor

8. Georgia

    Ole Miss

10. Michigan State

Week 12 SEC Standings

1. Alabama

2. Mississippi State

3. Georgia

    Ole Miss

5. Auburn
6. Missouri

7. LSU
8. Texas A&M

9. Arkansas

10. South Carolina

11. Florida

12. Tennessee

13. Kentucky

14. Anchor Down. 

Team of the Week: Georgia

A-Holes of the Week: Nebraska. You had 1 loss. How did you get beat that badly by Wisconsin?

Failed execution of the week: Texas A&M late in the 4th quarter against Missouri

Current Projected SEC Champion: Alabama.

Thoughts on Derrick Rose "Sitting Out" and Todd Gurley

This past week featured some key storylines, as related to careers and injuries. Earlier last week, Derrick Rose acknowledged sitting out at times to think about life after he is done with basketball.

On Saturday, Georgia's Todd Gurley, who was playing in his first game since being suspended for four games, tore his ACL late in the game after Georgia had already put Auburn away. 

GRH weighs in below on Rose saving his for the long-term, and Gurley's injury. 

Jeremy

In case you missed it, here is the quote from Derrick Rose:

 “I’m good, man,’’ Rose said when asked to assess how he’s been playing. “I feel I’ve been managing myself pretty good. I know a lot of people get mad when they see me sit out. But I think a lot of people don’t understand that when I sit out, it’s not because of this year. I’m thinking about long term. I’m thinking about after I’m done with basketball, having graduations to go to, having meetings to go to.

“I don’t want to be in my meetings all sore or be at my son’s graduation all sore just because of something I did in the past. Just learning and being smart.’’

Look, we all already know that the NBA has the most meaningless regular season of any sport. More than half the teams make the playoffs and athletes feel they can 'flip a switch' when the time comes. Especially those on contending teams. So the fact that Derrick Rose wants to sit out probably shouldn't be that big of a deal. However, his justification is off-putting to fans to say the least, especially Bulls fans. 

Derrick Rose gets paid $90 million for his services, a figure that they average fan can only dream about. And he only has one job, to play a game. He gets more money from shoe contracts and endorsements so it's not his only income. I understand that he has had two pretty severe knee injuries but his reason for sitting out might not out to be some meetings he has in the future. It probably should be so his team has a chance to win in the future. Like this year. 

I could understand worrying about his son's graduation but some random meeting that he has in 2029. I'm not buying it. You get paid more than I'll ever see to play the one game I wish I could play professionally. It's ok to worry about the future but don't tell me it's some meeting that you want to be able to sit down at so you can make more money twenty years from now. 

It's eerie that an injury to a local star happened in the same week that the Rose story broke. People questioned Todd Gurley's decision to come back and play after his suspension because it could cost him money. He came back and blew out his knee which will certainly do that. Would I show the same disdain for Gurley if he hadn't have come back to play college ball? I don't know. Maybe because he hasn't signed healthy contract yet, I would have given him the benefit of the doubt. To me it seems to be two different scenarios. 

I suppose it also would depend on how Gurley framed it. I honestly have no problem with Rose sitting out some regular season games if it means he is healthy for the playoff run. What bothers me about Rose's comments are the reasons he feels it necessary to sit out. He's flat out telling you he's a selfish person and doesn't care about his teammates. Maybe Gurley would've come off the same way. 

Brian

In the case of Derrick Rose, I completely understand Rose wanting to preserve his body for the long-term, especially given the amount of season ending injuries he has endured thus far. I can respect that. 

However, I do have a few questions for Rose if this is how he intends to finish his NBA career. 

1. Would Rose consider being paid less?

Right now, Derrick Rose is being paid a superstar salary. Given his talent, I have no problem with his salary. Rose is being paid a salary that carries an expectation for him to play at the highest level and lead the Bulls to consistent success. However, given his cautious approach, if the Bulls decided to pay Rose less, would he be alright with that?

2. Can Derrick Rose alter his playing style?

Derrick Rose is one of the fastest players in the NBA. His aggressive slashing and ability to drive to the basket sets him apart from other players in the NBA. However, while Rose's style is largely responsible for his success, it increases the likelihood for injury. Later in his career, Michael Jordan became much more of a jump shooter and less of a slasher. I'm wondering if Rose can alter his game to decrease his injury probability AND stay on the court. 

In the case of Todd Gurley, as I have said in the past, I don't like that he broke a rule, even though I disagree with the rule...That's old news. 

Whether you like or dislike Todd Gurley, how can your heart not feel for him to some degree? Prior to his suspension, Gurley practiced and played as hard for Georgia as any player I have seen. When he was suspended, instead of making excuses and hiding, Gurley publicly apologized for his mistakes - unlike some other major collegiate athletes.

During his suspension, Gurley could have decided to give up on the team and merely sit out to prepare for the NFL - he was a projected first round pick. Instead, Gurley continued to practice with the team, ran stadium stairs, and trained as if he would return. Given his four game suspension, the safe move would have been for Gurley to sit out the entire season. But, because Gurley was committed to Georgia and his team, he enthusiastically wanted to return to the field. 

Late in the Auburn game, when Gurley went down, despite all the excitement from the game, my heart sank. My heart sank because Gurley not only seemed to have a passion for the game, but also because he was using football as his medium to improve life for himself and his family. There is no doubt Gurley can rehab his knee from the ACL injury, but I'm not sure he will be a first round pick anymore. 

Yes, players like Adrian Peterson have come back from ACL injuries and performed at high levels, but there are also examples like Marcus Lattimore where ACL injuries keep happening and careers end. Sure, Gurley has an insurance policy for possible injuries, but I just hate to see a player who has poured his heart into a program go down like that. I certainly hope Gurley recovers and has a great NFL career, as he is truly an amazing talent to watch.

Brain Droppings

College football can be a cruel sport sometimes. Sanford Stadium may have never been louder as when Todd Gurley broke open for a long kickoff return to start the game with Auburn. Weeks of waiting to see the best player in America were all validated in a 12 second run. Conversely, despite the score and the raucous atmosphere, it may have never been quieter than when he lie on the ground writhing in pain with a little over 5 minutes left in the game. With a torn ACL, it is likely that was the last image we'll have of Gurley in the Red and Black but the images of him hurdling defenders, breaking long runs, and bowing in the endzone after a TD will forever be etched in Bulldog lore. Unfortunately because of injuries and rules, we may never have seen what Todd truly had to offer. He may have been the one that finally lived up to the 'next Herschel' talk that every running back at UGA has to deal with. It's a shame we only got to see glimpses of what could have been one of the best of all time.

Studs - Alabama - All that talk about Miss State, Ole Miss, and Auburn. The Tide are the ones with a very clear path to Atlanta and all they have to do is beat an Auburn team that is suddenly floundering at home. People make a big deal out of the fact that other teams have been rated above the Tide all year but Nick Saban gets it. Just win and everything will take care of itself. Nick Chubb - Lost in the return of Todd Gurley was Chubb's brilliance. It seemed the roles were reversed on Saturday night. Chubb needed fewer carries to get more yards while Gurley ended up the battering ram. Both were magnificent until Gurley's injury but Chubb leaves UGA fans feeling ok about the future without the best player in CFB. Melvin Gordon - He averaged 16+ yards a carry and ended with an absurd 408 yards on 25 carries and didn't even play in the 4th quarter against a legitimate team in Nebraska. That's it. I can't say anymore.

Thuds - Arizona State - All they had to do was take care of Oregon State and Washington State and they would have set up a huge match-up with in-state rival Arizona for the right to play Oregon and a chance at the play-off. Oops. They blew a 10 pt halftime lead and their season in Corvallis. Texas A&M - After the biggest win of the season after weeks of mediocrity, A&M showed that they, in fact, have no defense by allowing almost 600 yards and 32 first downs to a Mizzou team that has shown no proclivity for offense since playing Toledo. Ouch. Nick Marshall - It was an ugly game for Marshall against his former UGA squad but calling out his receivers by saying they should've caught some passes was a low-light. Auburn needs to figure something out before they visit the Tide and another team looking for revenge.

Playoffs - (1) FSU (2) Alabama (3) Oregon (4) TCU - I'm still not giving Ohio State any love. I don't think the SEC is going to get two teams in. And I'm very close to putting Baylor ahead of TCU. If the top 3 keep winning then they will be in it. The 4th spot is up for grabs and there are a number of teams fighting for it.

Next Week - Pretty dull for a late November saturday. Mizzou against suddenly resurgent Tennessee. Utah and Arizona. Kind of ugly. Lots of teams with tune-ups before they take the field against their arch rivals.

SEC
14) Vanderbilt - A week off before the home stretch of losses
13) Kentucky - Completely imploded after a 5-1 start
12) Tennessee - Offense looks to be on track finally. Big game against Mizzou this weekend.
11) Florida - Muschamp fired after inexplicably blowing a game against Carolina
10) Carolina - Defense finally showed up but its too little, too late.
9) Arkansas - Finally got an SEC win and in resounding fashion against a rival
8) Texas A&M - Their defense is atrocious
7) LSU - Offensive is inept
6) Mizzou - This team can win the East and they lost to Indiana
5) Auburn - Reeling with 2 straight losses and Bama on the horizon
4) Ole Miss - Can still ruin State's season and get into SEC Championship if Auburn can catch the Tide napping.
3) Georgia - Supremely talented. Madly inconsistent.
2) Mississippi State - Tough loss but still a very good team with a shot at the playoff
1) Alabama - Back where they belong (I guess)

Week 12 Scorecast and Synopsis

Here are the picks for Week 12. Keep in mind that the panelists' records and picks are made
based on the spread.

Synopses:

Jeremy

1. Missouri @ Texas A&M - This is a tough one. I like A&M at home but have no faith in their defense. I'm also not 100% sold on the A&M offense after one solid showing by their newest star QB. However, Missouri's offense is not very good to say the least. I think A&M has weapons and will score enough to cover here. Texas A&M 34 -27

2. Clemson @ Georgia Tech - Clemson has been very good on defense since the UGA game to start the year. In fact, they lead the nation in 3 and outs. The Tech offense actually has very few three and outs on the year. I think the difference here is Deshaun Watson. His return at QB for Clemson gives them the edge. Clemson 30-24

3. Auburn @ Georgia - This game all of a sudden means far more for Georgia than it does for Auburn. Auburn still has a chance if there's a zany 3-4 way tie in the SEC West but UGA has a much better chance to win and have Mizzou lose once to win the East. Auburn's defense has been wrecked in the last 4 games and Hutson Mason has gotten better as the year has progressed. Todd Gurley and Nick Chubb will be the battering rams. Auburn also is without it's best receiver. Ruh Roh.  UGA 41-35.

4. Mississippi State @ Alabama - State is getting very little respect as the #1 team in the nation. The line on this game opened at 7 and has ballooned to 8.5 in favor of the Tide. Dak Prescott should be healthy but Alabama is a different team at home. I think the balance of run with their stocked backfield and the threat of Amari Cooper on the outside is just too much for the Bulldogs to bear. I'm taking the Tide here.  Alabama 30-20

Brian

1. Missouri @ Texas A&M - From a Georgia fan's perspective, Texas A&M needs to win. A Missouri loss and a UGA win seals the East for the Dawgs and sends them back to ATL. From the way Texas A&M played last week behind Kyle Allen against Auburn, the Aggies seem like the likely victor. However, getting up for games week in and out can be difficult in the SEC. Since the game is being played in College Station, I lean towards Texas A&M. Texas A&M 42-35

2. Clemson @ Georgia Tech - With Watson, Clemson is a pretty decent team. Without him, they are mediocre. Watson is expected to start against the Yellow Jackets this Saturday. While Tech has exceeded some people's expectations this season, they tend to fail against teams with bigger and more physical lines. Clemson should take care of business. Clemson 31-17

3. Auburn @ Georgia - This is my favorite game of the season every year. Not only is it a great rivalry, but also I grew up in Auburn (went to Georgia). There are a lot of family ties and meaning to this game. As for the analysis, this game is very difficult to predict. Georgia certainly has plenty of incentive to beat Auburn: 1) redemption from last year, 2) Gurley is back, 3) UGA can still win the East, 4) night game. With Auburn's loss last week, Auburn has less incentive from a conference and national perspective. So, it will be interesting to see how Auburn comes out. Auburn is still a very dangerous team, especially offensively. Assuming Auburn brings their "A" game, it will be very hard for Georgia to win. I expect this game to be a track meet, and I am sticking by my Bulldogs to win in an overtime thriller. Georgia 51-48

4. Mississippi State @ Alabama - The SEC and country are blessed to have games this intriguing and important late in the season. Alabama squeaked a victory in Death Valley and Mississippi State has been rolling. Mississippi State has proven me wrong time and time again, but for some reason, I still don't trust them completely. However, the spread is much larger than I would have figured, and Alabama may be a little dinged after last week; so I will take Mississippi State to cover but lose. Alabama 35-31

Keppel

1. Missouri @ Texas A&M - Who cares? Texas A&M

2. Clemson @ Georgia Tech - Who cares? Clemson

3. Auburn @ Georgia - Who cares? Georgia

4. Mississippi State @ Alabama - Some care. Alabama

Week 11 Poll and SEC Standings

Kevin Sumlin's Aggies notched a huge upset over Auburn this past weekend. It appears that Kyle Allen is a star QB in the making. Here was my poll at the end of Week 10. Here is my update at the end of Week 11. 

Further, below the rankings, I will list a few superlatives from the week. 

Week 11 Top 10

1. Mississippi State

2. Florida State

3. Alabama

4. Oregon

5. TCU

6. Arizona State

7. Ohio State

8. Auburn

9. Baylor

10. Ole Miss

Week 11 SEC Standings

1. Mississippi State

2. Alabama

3. Auburn

4. Ole Miss

5. Georgia
6. LSU

7. Texas A&M
8. Missouri

9. Arkansas

10. Florida

11. South Carolina

12. Kentucky

13. Tennessee

14. Anchor Down. 

Team of the Week: Texas A&M

A-Hole of the Week: Kaelin Clay of Utah, for his goal-line fumble against Oregon

Failed execution of the week: Auburn's 4th quarter

Current Projected SEC Champion: Alabama. Mississippi State is still top dog until they lose...I don't expect MSU to win at Alabama. 

Brain Droppings

The season is winding down and that bring's a tear to my eye. It's been a wild ride thus far and it doesn't seem as if it will let up with some huge games still to be played down the stretch. I, for one, can't wait. On a personal note though, I would like to complain about the fact that my pick of LSU this week lost in the scorecast. Sure, Alabama technically covered....in overtime. LSU played toe to toe with the tide for the whole game only to be victims of a coin toss. Of course, that's why it's called gambling I suppose but I was on my way to a 3-1 weekend instead I toil away at .500. That game wouldn't have mattered in our standings as McFather also lost and I at least gained some ground on him this weekend. Anyways, on to my thoughts...

Thuds - Auburn - We all knew that the luck was going to run out at some point. I just didn't think it would be against a Texas A&M team that Alabama beat 59-0. I was on a guys trip to Lexington and offered a $10 bet on Auburn to win at halftime. No one took me up on it despite a 35-17 lead for the Aggies. That's the perception of Auburn. Something is going to go their way. It almost did too. Then they were cursed with the same fumble-itis that plagued Ole Miss against them last week. Amazingly, they still aren't out of the wacky SEC West and have a huge game against UGA this weekend. Notre Dame - Hear that? It's the band wagon emptying. Notre Dame had one good loss all year. That's why they were ranked close to the top 10. That's it. Their win against a pedestrian Stanford team was a bit of a fluke. The Irish still have an opportunity to play in an upper tier bowl game. I hope they get Marshall. K-State - I thought this was the game of the weekend. TCU absolutely handed it to Bill Snyder's crew. Beat Baylor and they can still finish tied for first in the Big 12 but the playoff push is over for the Wildcats. That's too bad. I liked the way they played and have nothing but respect for the 131 year old Snyder.

Studs - UGA Freshmen - Isaih McKenzie ran a punt and a kickoff back for a TD. Nick Chubb is self explanatory. Sony Michel came back from injury to put up 84 yards. Lorenzo Carter is making plays on defense. Dominick Sanders is a fixture in the secondary. I know everyone hyped the "Dream Team" a couple of years ago, but this crop has been ridiculously productive. Now if they can just get past those stupid losses. Blake Sims - Listen, I predicted he would struggle in the atmosphere of Death Valley and for 98% of the game, he did. Then he made the plays needed to get Bama the tie and the win when it mattered most. A lot of people thought this kid was just holding a spot for Jacob Coker. Coker isn't even a thought when Sims is struggling. The Egg Bowl - CBS chose to televise the Egg Bowl over the Iron Bowl this year. This may be the biggest upset of the season. Especially since there's a chance neither team could be controlling their own destiny. If Alabama wins this week against State then they will control their own destiny in the West. Plus, it's the two teams that have played for the last 5 National Championships and who played one of the classic games of all time last year.

Playoffs - (1) Mississippi State (2) Florida State (3) Oregon (4) TCU - You read that right. Alabama doesn't have the same resume at this point as Oregon and TCU. A win against State and Auburn takes care of that though. Arizona State also controls it's own destiny and could knock Oregon out. The Baylor/TCU dynamic is most interesting. Baylor holds the head to head but TCU has a better resume at this point. Baylor will catch up if they keep winning. The stretch run will be very interesting. If FSU manages to lose a game then it becomes a complete free for all too.

Next Week - Bama/Miss State. Georgia/Auburn. Miami/FSU. Clemson/Georgia Tech. Missouri/A&M. Even Ohio State/Minnesota. The Tide and Bulldogs are the biggest game nationally by far. But these other are extremely important in their conference races. Should be a fun weekend.

SEC
14) Vandy - May have found a QB but another tough loss.
13) Arkansas - Still winless in the SEC under Bilemma.
12) South Carolina - Reeling from their loss to the Volunteers but a chance to beat the Gators this weekend.
11) Tennessee - They have a QB and a chance to win again against Kentucky.
10) Kentucky - They've fallen flat after a big start. Have to win one more to get bowl eligible.
9) Florida - Still a chance to win the East with some help.
8) Texas A&M - Where has that been since opening weekend?
7) Mizzou - I still don't trust the offense but they just manage to win.
6) LSU - Defense has rounded into shape but the offense can't score against legitimate defenses.
5) Georgia - Defense still has holes.
4) Ole Miss - Can the offense step up without it's best player down the stretch?
3) Auburn - The brutal schedule continues with a road trip to Athens this week.
2) Alabama - Looking to return to the #1 and reclaim their spot in the SEC.
1) Miss State - Win this week and a playoff birth isn't far behind.

JD's Deuce Points (How You Remind Me)

1. Kroeger's: Right Song, Right Price, Right?

Halloween ended. My brother and his family left. That means Wendy, his dog, left too. I can tell this has impacted Lady much more than  it should. Her nipples have been drooping more than usual. 

My wife and I have been searching for something to appease Lady's loss in not being able to see Wendy as much. When I was watching the NFL games on Sunday, seeing Peyton Manning and other quarterbacks gave me a great idea...Nickelback! 

You see, Nickelback is everyone's cure when they are down. My wife and I pulled out the ol' boombox and broke out Nickelback's Silver Side Up. FYI - my wife and I used to get down to this album back in the day. And by getting down, I mean air guitaring the hell out of some Nickelback!

I put the CD in the boom box and made sure to turn down the treble (for Lady's ears) before hitting the "play" button -"never made it as a wise man, couldn't cut it as a poor man stealing..."

Lady heard these words and then took a big deuce all over the floor. Maybe there was a reason the Nickelback album had dust on it. 

2. Algernon's Dishes

There is a maze. I see the maze. The paths keep winding and I don't know how to avoid the turbulence. I feel trapped.

The door mouse wants his food. He's in the maze with me. We have to work as a team. Communication is hard. The walls are closing.

The scheduled emergency test has commenced. 

Week 11 Scorecast and Synopsis

Here are the picks for Week 11. Keep in mind that the panelists' records and picks are made
based on the spread.

Synopses:

Jeremy

1. Kansas State @ TCU - If this game were in Manhattan, I may go in a different direction. Kansas State has been extremely good this year and really should be undefeated. They outplayed Auburn but couldn't put the Tigers away. The more I see TCU, the more I think they could be the real deal. I'm taking the Horned Frogs to cover here because they are playing at home, but I think this is going to be a battle. TCU  31-24

2. Notre Dame @ Arizona State - If Arizona State wins this game, there's a legitimate chance they can make a playoff push. How they lost to the Dread Pirate Leach and Washington State, I don't know. Notre Dame is hanging on because they managed to stay close against the suspect Noles. I just think it's been smoke and mirrors and a trip to the desert will expose some of those weaknesses. Arizona State 34-24

3. Ohio State @ Michigan State - The playoff committee obviously has devalued the Big 10 to the point where I'm not sure the winner of the conference has much of a chance unless they catch some major breaks. Ohio State has a chance to change the national perspective of them after an inexplicable loss to Virginia Tech. Michigan State has the chance to show they are the class of a weak conference. I think they get it done. Michigan State 38-21

4. Alabama @ LSU - A few years removed from the Game of the Century, these two meet in another meaningful November game. The Tigers showed there is still some bite in them after upsetting Ole Miss in Death Valley a couple of weeks ago. Many feel Bama is the best one loss team in the country. I think Blake Sims is going to struggle in this game. Baton Rouge is a nightmare to play in and he hasn't been the same QB on the road. I just don't know if LSU has the guns to keep up with the Tide in the long run. The Tide win but I'll take the Tigers and the points here. Alabama 23-17

Brian

1. Kansas State @ TCU - Both teams have played solid all year and managed close wins over conference opponents. Further, both teams have proven coaches. I trust Bill Snyder a little more as a coach and like the fact Kansas State has been exposed to Auburn. I like Kansas State to pull a major road victory here. Kansas State 27-24

2. Notre Dame @ Arizona State - Notre Dame did not play well last week against Navy. However, I still feel, as I have felt all year, the Fighting Irish have a solid team. Even though Arizona State is silently creeping up, I think Notre Dame will squeak by the Sun Devils. Notre Dame 31-28

3. Ohio State @ Michigan State - Ohio State has burned me several times on the spread this year. Had this game been in Columbus, I would have been tempted to go with Ohio State. However, the game is in East Lansing, and Ohio State hasn't shown me anything special recently. Mark Dantonio will have the Spartans defense primed to stop the Buckeyes. Michigan State 28-21

4. Alabama @ LSU - LSU surprised me with their play against Ole Miss in Death Valley a few weeks ago. I didn't give LSU a chance. The Tigers victory over the Rebels at least makes me think about this game for a little bit. I still like Alabama to win due to them being a little more consistent this season. I just don't know which LSU will show up. Alabama 35-28

Keppel

1. Kansas State @ TCU - Horned Frogs may win.

2. Notre Dame @ Arizona State - Sun Devils may win. 

3. Ohio State @ Michigan State - Spartans may win. 

4. Alabama @ LSU - Crimson Tide may win. 

Trivia Challenge Winner

Congrats to David for winning the Trivia Challenge and a $20 Amazon Gift Card. 

GRH will be resuming another 20 weeks of trivia in the near future!

Final Scoreboard
Name	Week Score	Cumulative
Bruce*	30	111
Bryan	40	167
Derrick	25	107
Josh*	45	135
Jarred	35	49
Jim	0	5
David*	50	190
*Note: Extra points for Blog Submission

Week 10 Poll and SEC Standings

Florida sure did show up against Georgia, or Georgia didn't show up. I don't want to say anything else about that game. In other news, Auburn won another nail biter over Ole Miss. Here was my poll at the end of Week 9. Here is my update at the end of Week 10. 

Further, below the rankings, I will list a few superlatives from the week. 

Week 10 Top 10

1. Mississippi State

2. Florida State

3. Alabama

4. Auburn

5. Oregon

6. Notre Dame

7. Michigan State

8. TCU

9. Kansas State

10. Arizona State

Week 10 SEC Standings

1. Mississippi State

2. Alabama

3. Auburn

4. Ole Miss

5. Georgia

     LSU

7. Missouri

8. Arkansas

9. Florida

10. Texas A&M

11. South Carolina

12. Kentucky

13. Tennessee

14. Anchor Down. 

Team of the Week: Auburn

A-Holes of the Week: Georgia. Pissed me off!

Failed execution of the week: Georgia letting Florida run a Fake FG for TD

Current Projected SEC Champion: Alabama. Mississippi State is still top dog until they lose, but Alabama has looked awfully good lately. I don't expect MSU to win at Alabama. 

Brain Droppings

Tough weekend to be a UGA fan. My initial attempt at Brain Droppings turned into a piece on the future of Mark Richt at Georgia. Be on the look out for that tomorrow. In the meantime, let's take a look at what happened this weekend...

Thuds - UGA - Installed as an favorite in the race for a National Championship earlier in the week by some Vegas oddsmakers, UGA looked outclassed by a desperate Florida team on Saturday. The Gators manhandled the Dawgs starting on the line of scrimmage. New starter Treon Harris only needed to throw 6 passes (only 3 complete for 27 yards) as Florida just crammed it down UGA's throat. The defense was also on point after the first quarter and there was no answer from the Dawgs. Looks like another Florida bowl game against Nebraska (God, not a third year in a row, for both team's fans). South Carolina - Let's stay in the SEC Least. Carolina managed to blow a two TD lead with two minutes left in the 4th Quarter against Tennessee. They also managed to give up like 450 yards passing to one of the most inept offenses in the conference. All of this prompted Coach Spurrier to walk out of his post-game presser after 45 seconds and admit to contemplating hanging it up. Ouch. Stanford - Oregon hammered Stanford over the weekend and the team that was supposed to be Alabama West has lost 4 games. Their top-ranked defense was exposed and their offense has no punch whatsoever. This has been quite a drop for what was the best team in the PAC-12 the past few seasons.

Studs - TCU - They overcame a 9 point 4th quarter deficit against what has become a solid WVU team in Morgantown. TCU may have just played their way into the Final Four. Their offense struggled for much of the day but made plays when it mattered. Next up: A huge game against K-State. Arizona State - Beat a very game Utah team late Saturday night. This team has a chance to get into the playoff conversation for real with a win over Notre Dame this weekend. Their only loss came in a route in the best game UCLA has played this season. They still have to hurdle Arizona in the PAC-12 but they have a legitimate chance to be the team facing Oregon in the PAC-12 title game. Auburn's Lucky Rabbit Foot - Usually when things bounce your way one year, they don't the next. Auburn continues to be the beneficiary of inexplicable plays. That doesn't mean they aren't any good. They are incredibly good. But they managed to beat Ole Miss the other night because the Rebels turned it over twice in the games waning minutes inside the 5 yard line. I guess Gus Malzahn has been living right, living to the beat, you can't touch.

Playoffs - (1) Mississippi State (2) FSU (3) Auburn (4) TCU - This has become a little easier since we know where the committee stands. No reason to drop the two States after this week. Auburn has two wins over top 10 teams on the road and TCU is the class of everyone else not in the SEC at this point, though Oregon looked like it's normal self against Stanford this week. Bama is right there and if it takes care of business moving forward will be in the mix very easily.

Next Week: An absolutely huge weekend of football. Notre Dame/Arizona State, Bama/LSU, TCU/K-State, hell, I'll even throw in Ohio State/Michigan State. These are the weekends we love college football. I'll be freezing my ass off in Lexington, KY watching the Dawgs play a Kentucky team I am very worried about.Take the gift 11 right now if these teams play like I expect. On the bright side, bourbon.

SEC Power Rankings:

14) Vanderbilt - 

13) South Carolina - Wow. What a collapse. This team beat ECU and Georgia (who both also lost inexplicably this week)

12) Tennessee - They may have found their QB. The question is whether or not Butch is gonna stick around now after he was reportedly interested in the Michigan job last week.

11) Kentucky - I thought they would beat a punchless Mizzou team on the road. Nope. Maybe a punchless UGA team at home though.

10) Texas A&M - Their helmets looked cool. Their QB didn't. I don't like them against anyone in the West right now.

9) Arkansas - Still winless in the SEC though a very game effort against Miss State on the road.

8) UGA/Mizzou/Florida - These teams don't deserve to be tied for 6th or 7th. Mizzou controls it's own destiny in the East and they lost to Indiana. Talk about an anomaly. UGA beat Mizzou 34-0, Mizzou beat Florida 42-13, and Florida beat UGA 38-20. Odd year.

5) LSU - Mighty test against the Tide this weekend.

4) Ole Miss - From penthouse to outhouse in two weeks. Rebels have to play spoiler.

3) Alabama - I think they're on the outside looking in but that will change if they keep winning.

2) Auburn - They did just enough to win on Saturday night. The schedule is unforgiving but if they manage it, then they deserve the #1 seed.

1) Mississippi State - The defense saved the day, turning Arkansas away twice in the closing minutes when they were threatening. A breather this week before the Tide.

The Future of Coach Richt: Takes After Florida Debacle

This past weekend was hard to take for Georgia fans. Prior to the game, the Mark Richt criticism was pretty mild this season, especially given losing Gurley for 4 games due to suspension. After the Florida debacle, the Richt rioters have started back up again. Both Jeremy and Brian of GRH analyze the extent to which criticism is warranted. 

Jeremy's Take

I texted my dad from section 416 high above EverBank Field in Jacksonville on Saturday at 3:30. The text simply read: "There are no Florida fans here." And it was true. Florida fans were quite casual about filling into the stadium prior to kickoff against the Dawgs. And though it filled in by the end of the first quarter, they didn't miss anything. Florida looked like they were supposed to for the first 15 minutes. But something was awry. I just couldn't help but have the feeling that we were letting them hang around. I guess the truth is, they were letting us hang around.

UGA lined up for a field goal into the wind as time was about to expire in the 1st quarter. To that point UGA had held the ball for 11 minutes, ran for over 100 yards, and recovered a Gator fumble near midfield. However, with the kick they would've only been up 10-0. The problem is that it never got to that score. I wondered why we kicked into the wind but I guess it might not have mattered. The kick apparently missed, though I didn't have a vantage point to tell. The UGA kicker thought it was good but I guess he didn't either. Florida had life and though their next drive was stopped at about the same place on the field, rather than miss a kick on 4th down, Florida faked it and not only managed to pick up the 1st down but a TD. Things took a dramatic turn and Florida dominated the rest of the game.

It was a familiar story line for us Georgia fans. I've been to Jacksonville for just about every one of the last 25 editions of the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party and have been on the losing end of more than I have the winning side. But this wasn't about losing to Florida. It was about losing to a team that was, up to this point in the season, inferior. It was about being befuddled on another fake kick when you know the other team has nothing to lose. It was about being completely dominated on the line of scrimmage. It was about getting away from your bread and butter too quickly. It was about "Georgia-ing" away another opportunity to make a run.

The call-in shows are lighting up with the Fire Richt and Bobo is an idiot talk. I can't rightly condone that. Richt has won an average of 9.7 games a year in his 13 years at the helm of UGA. He's won 2 SEC titles and played in the SEC Championship game 5 times. The 2012 edition of the team was 5 yards away from playing for the National Championship. The 2007 team was jobbed by voters because it didn't play for it's conference title (something pollsters didn't mind when Alabama didn't do in 2011. The 2002 team finished #3 in the country with one loss (again to the rival Gators). That's three times that UGA was a legitimate title contender in 14 years. It just has managed to not have that break every team that wins a NC gets. Additionally, I think UGA fans (because of their SEC brethren's recent success) forget just how difficult it is to win a National Championship.

With that being said, I wonder if UGA is at a point where change is good just for change sake. That is, has Coach Richt gotten stale. And the answer is, I don't know. That usually isn't a solution in college football like it is in the pros. The kids turn over more regularly so it's hard to get stale unless it's with a fan base. And I think the UGA fanbase is squarely divided. There are those who feel as if Coach Richt is an exemplary when it comes producing young men of high character. Hard to argue. UGA is the epitome of doing things the "right way." There is something to be said for that in today's "win at all cost mentality." Other teams have profited off of UGA's stringent policy's. However, the UGA team has suffered because of that too and ultimately as a coach, you are judged on your wins and losses. Actually, let's be honest. You are judged on your losses. People quickly forget the wins. Just ask Phil Fulmer.

Coach Richt has been the right person at the right time for UGA after the Goff debacle of the early 1990's and the Jim Donnan era of beating everyone but your rivals. Richt has put UGA in position to compete on a national stage by bring talent and stability to the program. He routinely beats rival. He wins on the road. UGA is no stranger to the SEC Championship. I guess the question is: Can he be the one that gets them over the top? Or will he eternally be Charlie Brown trying to kick the football only to have Lucy (aka Steve Spurrier, Florida, or Nick Saban) pull it away at the last second?

It's hard not overreacting to a poor performance in a football game. And let me stress, I'm not calling for Coach Richt's head. In fact, I am unsure there are many coaches who are obvious upgrades to Coach Richt. But I'd be lying if I said I was 100% sure he hasn't become Jim Donnan and reached his ceiling.



I certainly hope not.


Brian's Take

Over time, my views on Mark Richt have changed about as much as the weather in Georgia during the fall, which is a lot. 

However, in the past year or so, as I have begun a career myself, I have slightly altered my views on Mark Richt. Let me explain my progression:

2001-2006: During this time period, there was little reason to criticize Mark Richt. Most coaches receive a bye during their first year. In 2002, Richt won the SEC Championship in his second year and returned in 2003 even though Georgia lost to LSU. In 2004, UGA failed to make the SEC Championship, but posted a solid 10-2 record, only losing to Tennessee and undefeated Auburn. In 2005, Richt led the Dawgs to another SEC title.

2006-2009: 2006 was a transition year for UGA. No David Greene or DJ Shockley. Georgia struggled in 2006, starting Joe Tereshinski during the beginning of the year, and ending the year behind Matthew Stafford. Even though UGA went 9-4 in 2006, the team clearly progressed and fans had a lot of optimism surrounding Matthew Stafford. In 2007, UGA finished the season as the 2nd best team in the country (according to the AP Poll) and won the Sugar Bowl. 2008 represented the first year I actually started to question Richt as a head coach. UGA began the year ranked #1, largely due to having Stafford at QB, Knowhson Moreno at RB, and freshman phenom, AJ Green, at WR. Looking at the record book, a 10-3 season in 2008 doesn't seem all that bad. However, if you actually watched UGA, given all the NFL talent, the team heavily under performed. After being physically dominated by Alabama, UGA was destroyed by Urban Meyer's Gators. And, UGA ended the regular season blowing a sizable lead to Georgia Tech at home. 2009 was another transition year, with no Stafford and no Moreno. UGA managed to go 8-5, which was respectable enough given the loss in talent. Richt fired Willie Martinez at the end of this season due to defensive issues. I further began wondering if UGA should fire Richt at this point. When head coaches start firing coordinators, it's not usually a good sign. 

2010-2013: 2010 started with yet another new starting QB. Add in a 4 game suspension to AJ Green, and the 2010 squad barely made a bowl game. However, freshman QB Aaron Murray looked promising enough to wait and see how the 2011 squad would perform. Further, I wanted to hold judgment at least a year to see how Georgia's defense progressed under Todd Grantham and his 3-4 scheme. Despite opening 2011 with 2 losses (Boise St and South Carolina), Georgia reeled off 10 wins in a row and went to the SEC Championship. Even though the Bulldogs lost to LSU, most were happy with the progression of the team and the defense. Thus, I was still satisfied with Mark Richt being head coach at this point. 2012 started with a bang, as fans quickly saw how good the team could be with the Gurshall RB monster. With the exception of the South Carolina blowout, the 2012 team was a play away from competing in the national championship. Mark Richt was definitely safe at the end of the 2013 season. It is hard for me to assess how much Mark Richt should be blamed for the 2013 season. Georgia finished 8-5, but faced injuries (some were season-ending) to Todd Gurley, Aaron Murray, Keith Marshall, Michael Bennett, Malcolm Mitchell, Justin Scott-Wesley, and the list goes on. When healthy, this Georgia team was rolling. So, Richt got another mulligan for 2013. 

2014: Bulldogs fans knew life without Aaron Murray would be difficult, but Gurley would be healthy and the defense should be improved under Jeremy Pruitt, right? The opener vs. Clemson encouraged many fans. For once, Georgia physically dominated another team in the 4th quarter. Maybe this team would be different...After a week off, it was the same story for UGA against South Carolina - missed opportunities, strange play calls, and no defense. Ok, hit the re-set button. Todd Gurley gets suspended in early October, and Georgia reels off two impressive road victories behind Nick Chubb and a resurgent defense - or so we thought. Fast forward to the Florida game. After another bye week, the defense played awful and the team got physically manhandled by Florida. Now, many are left wondering again about Mark Richt. 

My conclusion...There are several things that really bother me about teams under Mark Richt. I will list these frustrations below, followed by a "but..."

1. Georgia doesn't seem to hit the gas pedal and keep it down. Have you ever noticed that Richt teams often play very conservative with a lead (or without one), fall behind, and wait until very late (when it's too late) to hit the gas pedal again?

2. Georgia consistently loses 1-2 games per year where they just don't show up. Even though Georgia lost to South Carolina this year, they showed up. They just didn't play well. That game was painful, but I can accept it. The team flat out did not show up against Florida. There was no energy or leadership. UGA got punched in the face and laid down. In 2013, they didn't show up vs. Vanderbilt and lost. In 2012, UGA got smacked by South Carolina in Columbia. And the list goes on...

3. Some people consider Gus Malzahn or Les Miles lucky and Mark Richt unlucky. I'm not gonna sit here and act like Auburn didn't have some miracles last season, but Les Miles and Gus Malzahn consistently do things that put their teams in position to have miracles: THEY ARE AGGRESSIVE ALMOST ALL THE TIME. Les Miles draws up trick plays frequently, whether they are fake FGs or punts. Do they fail sometimes? Of course. But, I like his mentality of let's keep other teams on their heels and make them STOP US. Let's consider the Georgia-Auburn game from 2013. Yes, it took a convenient bounce for Ricardo Louis to catch the go-ahead TD for Auburn. But, at least Auburn threw the ball down field and gave themselves a chance to win!  How many times have you seen Georgia concede a down with a 3rd and long RB draw? How many times have you seen Georgia run 4 plays inside the 20 yard line, without ever throwing the ball to end zone? It's almost like Georgia doesn't even give themselves a chance sometimes, settling for a field goal that ends up being missed. In other words, whereas Miles and Malzahn take the mentality of make them stop us, Georgia takes the mentality of stopping themselves. Further, in 2013, before Alabama kicked the final field goal in regulation against Auburn, Malzahn called a timeout to substitute in Chris Davis and blockers, should Alabama miss a FG short. Sure, it took some great blocking and a great returner for Auburn to win, but the strategy employed by Malzahn put them in a position to win.

4. Mark Richt recruits extremely well. This works both ways. Yes, UGA gets blue chip talent every year and is in the top 5 for college teams with active players on NFL rosters. However, guess who the only top 5 college team is without a recent national championship? Georgia. 

5. Georgia doesn't scare anybody anymore. Todd Gurley scares people, but Georgia as a team doesn't. People are scared of Alabama. People are scared of Death Valley and LSU. People are scared of Malzahn's offenses at Auburn. Unfortunately, Georgia just doesn't strike fear in opponents the way that such a talented team should. 

But, despite these frustrations, I do not remotely think Georgia should fire Mark Richt. During my first year in the workplace (outside of graduate school), even more than before, I have learned the importance of integrity, people, and relationships. There are many things I cannot control. However, I can largely control how I treat other people and love them. Investing in others and treating them with love and respect often comes with a sacrifice - myself. There are times in which I must put the interests of others above myself. 

There are countless stories online about how Mark Richt has invested in players, former or current, and how much he truly cares about developing young men. Even though I do not personally know Richt, I have the sense that he truly adheres to the Christian values that he preaches. His family has adopted several children from Eastern Europe, and the Richts have always been involved in the Athens community. Do Richt's extracurriculars and work-life balance detract from Georgia's winning percentage and his personal trophies? Possibly so. But, in the end, is life only about winning? Or, is it about using our positions on Earth to build relationships, invest in others, provide opportunities, and ultimately create a better place? 

While Mark Richt may have not brought a National Championship to Georgia (and may never), I think Mark Richt has undoubtedly made Georgia a better place for student-athletes. Does that give him a free pass to be a mediocre coach? Absolutely not. Does that mean fans shouldn't be frustrated? Not at all. But, in looking at the entire body of work, Richt has won close to 75% of his games and has impacted countless young athletes for their lifetime. You just cannot fire a guy like this. 

What is your take?