GT verbals are found throughout the AJC All State Team.
Class AAAAA
First Team Offense:
RB Charles Perkins, Collins Hill 6-0 195 Sr.
First Team Defense:
DL Shawn Green, Grayson 6-1 275 Sr.
DL Anthony Williams, Union Grove 6-4 235 Sr.
Class AAAA
First Team Offense:
OL Morgan Bailey, Loganville 6-4 285 Sr.
First Team Defense:
DB Ryan Ayers, South Paulding 5-10 178 Sr.
DB Isaiah Johnson, Sandy Creek 6-2 180 Sr.
Class AA
Offensive Player of the Year: B.J. Bostic, Jefferson County
First Team Offense:
QB B.J. Bostic, Jefferson County 5-11 175 Sr.
First Team Defense:
DL Catlin Alford, Adairsville 6-4 275 Sr.
DB Fred Holton, Thomasville 6-1 196 Sr.
DB Jake Skole, Blessed Trinity 6-1 188 Sr.
Interesting to see no mention of Denzel McCoy, arguably Tech's top recruit for this upcoming class.
Also Tech is in hot pursuit of several others on the list:
AAAAA
First Team Offense:
WR Quin Roberson, Colquitt County 6-0 175 Sr.
OL Thomas O’Reilly, Pope 6-3 315 Jr.
ATH Ean Days, Camden County 6-0 195 Sr.
Honorable Mention Defense:
DB Darius Robinson, Westlake
Friday, December 25, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Injuries
I don't ever want to hear anything from Nebraska fans about injuries or lack of talent, especially on the OL. GT produced an 86 yard game winning drive with their 4th string tackle in the game. Players like Clyde Yandell are found all over high schools throughout the state and the kind of players Nebraska used to get to walk on and contribute. Offensive success is about putting your players in a position to be successful-something Shawn Watson knows nothing about:
Lost amid the 469 yards Georgia Tech piled up in its 39-34 win against Clemson in the ACC championship game Saturday night were the players on the offensive line that paved the way.
Lost amid the 469 yards Georgia Tech piled up in its 39-34 win against Clemson in the ACC championship game Saturday night were the players on the offensive line that paved the way.
By the end of the game, redshirt sophomore Clyde Yandell was manning left tackle, which was being held down by Nick Claytor before he left in the second half with an injury. He was filling in for starter Phil Smith, who broke his leg in the first half. Smith was filling in for Austin Barrick, who was injured against Vanderbilt. Thin at tackle before the game started, coach Paul Johnson said he had no more available interior lineman left because of injuries.
"They did good. Nick Claytor and Clyde Yandell, they came through and held their own," quarterback Josh Nesbitt said. "We didn't miss a beat."
Guard Cord Howard, a senior, said he told Yandell when he jogged into the huddle: "It's your time man. Play. If you need anything ask me, as always. Just play, man. Don't leave anything out here."
He didn't. Jonathan Dwyer's 15-yard game-winning touchdown run came on the left side, where Yandell was lined up.
The Tigers had kept Dwyer mostly in check until the final possession, when he accounted for 33 yards of the 86-yard winning drive. Johnson said a few tweaks to the blocking scheme finally got Tech clicking on its last possession. Dwyer carried the ball the final four times on the drive.
"The last drive, I knew I needed to make a play and if the ball was in my hands, I was just going to give it all I had and leave my energy on the field, just give it all I had and try to make plays," Dywer said. He finished with 110 yards, including 51 in the final quarter.
More from Kevin Steele
Steele had some interesting comments leading up to the game yesterday.
Tigers defensive coordinator Kevin Steele knows a thing or two about option offenses, to say the least, having coached at Nebraska for six seasons under Hall of Fame coach Tom Osborne and having actually recruited legendary option quarterback Tommy Frazier.
According to Steele, the difficulty with Georgia Tech’s scheme is just when you think you’ve figured it out, Johnson actually has you right where he wants you.
“They say he watches film on fast forward. He’s just watching players, just watching players,” Steele said. “Because the way you line up in traditional games is not relative to him. And so, he gets so many different looks that I think they’re very conditioned to, ‘OK, what are we getting? What are they lining up in? And, how do we attack that?’”
And though the Tigers had a measure of success in the first meeting, at one point forcing six straight punts followed by an interception, Steele says that means very little going into the rematch.
“You can’t be a fastball pitcher at (Johnson),” he said. “I mean, we threw him a fastball the whole game last time, and he’s got it on tape. So, we’ve had to go back and scratch some things out, and we’ve got to be able to throw some curve balls and some knuckle balls. We can’t give him the same look. He’s too good a coach for that.”
Kevin Steele
Former Nebraska defensive coach Kevin Steele, who is now the DC at Clemson, saw his defense get run over, through and around last night. Steele, who broke his hand by punching a hotel room wall during a pre-game speech to his defense, had no answers for Georgia Tech and Paul Johnson. Tech didn't put one time the entire game and scored on all possessions but one.
Also, as I thought, Bay Bay Thomas told ESPN's Heather Dinich that he would be return for his senior season. But he may have been caught up in the emotion as well. We'll find out in a month or so.
Also, as I thought, Bay Bay Thomas told ESPN's Heather Dinich that he would be return for his senior season. But he may have been caught up in the emotion as well. We'll find out in a month or so.
So
ACC Champions-what a win over Clemson. My heart can't take much more of this. And Georgia still sucks-wait until next year. Great game plan Georgia to exploit the weakest part of the GT team, which is the undersized and outmanned (minus D-Morgan) DL. When Ben Anderson went down early, that pretty much sealed the defense' fate. When JC Lanier and some of the young studs get into the program, you won't be running the ball like that ever again.
As for Nebraska against Texas, it is what it is. Last week when Georgia Tech was in pretty much the same situation, down a touchdown towards the end of the game but seemingly in control of their destiny with the offense holding the ball, they couldn't cut it. Needing only to march down the field with plenty of time on the clock, GT didn't get it done. A dropped pass by one of the best receivers in the country sealed their fate.
NU fans and coaches (stop embarrassing yourself Carl Pelini) are whining about officiating but the Skers had every opportunity in the world to win the game. But they choked it away, pissed it down their leg etc. The reliable special teams makes a monsterous mistake by kicking it out of bounds and giving Texas the ball at the 40. The next play McCoy hits Shipley on a crossing pattern and Larry Asante, the most undisciplined player on the awesome defense, commits a horse collar tackle to add another 15 yards, which set Texas up for the game winning FG. So when it comes down to it, Nebraska was their own worst enemy. They had Texas right where they wanted and they shot themselves in the foot. Nebraska will be back but Bo has to fix the offense. The lowest offensive output in 25 years says something-that something is seriously wrong. It will be tough against Arizona and Stoops version of Desert Swarm in the Holiday bowl.
As for Nebraska against Texas, it is what it is. Last week when Georgia Tech was in pretty much the same situation, down a touchdown towards the end of the game but seemingly in control of their destiny with the offense holding the ball, they couldn't cut it. Needing only to march down the field with plenty of time on the clock, GT didn't get it done. A dropped pass by one of the best receivers in the country sealed their fate.
NU fans and coaches (stop embarrassing yourself Carl Pelini) are whining about officiating but the Skers had every opportunity in the world to win the game. But they choked it away, pissed it down their leg etc. The reliable special teams makes a monsterous mistake by kicking it out of bounds and giving Texas the ball at the 40. The next play McCoy hits Shipley on a crossing pattern and Larry Asante, the most undisciplined player on the awesome defense, commits a horse collar tackle to add another 15 yards, which set Texas up for the game winning FG. So when it comes down to it, Nebraska was their own worst enemy. They had Texas right where they wanted and they shot themselves in the foot. Nebraska will be back but Bo has to fix the offense. The lowest offensive output in 25 years says something-that something is seriously wrong. It will be tough against Arizona and Stoops version of Desert Swarm in the Holiday bowl.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
So Georgia Fans...
Let's peer into the mindset of the Georgia coaches and players this morning. Your program is in tatters, coming off a loss on senior day to Kentucky-a program that hadn't beaten you at home in 32 years. You're headed to the Denny's Grand Slam Toilet Bowl with a QB as inept as any at another program in the country. AJ Green is still sidelined with injury and your defensive coordinator is a lame duck heading to his last few weeks on the job. And now you have to go to Atlanta next Saturday night to play CPJ and his cut blocking, punch you in the mouth, make your life miserable for 60 minutes Rambling Wreck?? Yeah good luck with that. I'm guessing anyone on the mutt roster that hadn't already mailed in the season before the debacle last night is now firmly in the camp of "I've got better things to do than to get my teeth knocked in next Saturday night."
What are you playing for Georgia? Pride? Pfft. Pride went out the door when you lost to lowly Kentucky. Pride went out the door when your fans left in mass exodus in the 4th quarter with the game still in doubt.
There's no better rivalry coach in the game than Paul Johnson. And he's going to take every opportunity to pull the plug on your program for good. Recruiting, national exposure and a continuing march toward the top of the BCS is what we're playing for. How about you??
What are you playing for Georgia? Pride? Pfft. Pride went out the door when you lost to lowly Kentucky. Pride went out the door when your fans left in mass exodus in the 4th quarter with the game still in doubt.
There's no better rivalry coach in the game than Paul Johnson. And he's going to take every opportunity to pull the plug on your program for good. Recruiting, national exposure and a continuing march toward the top of the BCS is what we're playing for. How about you??
Monday, November 16, 2009
ESPN: Strong personalities leading teams down the stretch
Mark Schlabach writes about three teams whose head coaches personalities are leading them down the stretch.
And Tony Barnhart says ND should do the right thing and make a call to Paul Johnson. They're too stupid to make that move. Barnhart also says it's time for GT to pay the fiddler.
And Tony Barnhart says ND should do the right thing and make a call to Paul Johnson. They're too stupid to make that move. Barnhart also says it's time for GT to pay the fiddler.
Hat Tip Bbuzzoff
From Stewart Mandel's College Football Overtime:
"A knowledgeable person within the sport whose opinion I value told me Sunday that Georgia Tech's Paul Johnson "may be the best coaching hire in the last 30 years." The No. 7 Yellow Jackets (10-1, 7-1 ACC) are headed back to the ACC title game for the first time since 2006, only this time it feels like the Jackets' best days are still to come. They could well be a national-title contender in the future."
Link
"A knowledgeable person within the sport whose opinion I value told me Sunday that Georgia Tech's Paul Johnson "may be the best coaching hire in the last 30 years." The No. 7 Yellow Jackets (10-1, 7-1 ACC) are headed back to the ACC title game for the first time since 2006, only this time it feels like the Jackets' best days are still to come. They could well be a national-title contender in the future."
Link
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Avid Message Board Reader
Yes, I read Bbuzzoff. I just have never been able to figure out how to register to post.
And yes, I very much understand what Paul Johnson has said regarding his desire to stay in Atlanta. I also stated that it will take one incredible offer to ever lure him away. CPJ is a calculated man and he doesn't make decisions in haste. GT is also not a stepping stone to bigger and better things, as that isn't what motivates CPJ. The timing and circumstances will have to be right, as they were when he left Navy (can you believe he almost took the SMU job?). I believe that once he gets a national title at Georgia Tech (next year), he will look for his next challenge or his next challenge will come and find him. Whether he takes it or not...your guess is as good as mine. Its a really ideal situation in Atlanta compared to situations in say Michigan and Notre Dame. How would you like to be in Rich Rodriguez shoes now where everything is magnified 10x what it is at Georgia Tech?
Personally, I wouldn't leave Georgia Tech because the program will soon rise to the point where it challenges for a BCS bowl every year. But the allure/prestige/challenge of rebuilding one of the most tradition rich programs in college football history is a challenge I think he'll take at some point. But for now, enjoy the ride. GT is only scratching the surface of what they will become.
And yes, I very much understand what Paul Johnson has said regarding his desire to stay in Atlanta. I also stated that it will take one incredible offer to ever lure him away. CPJ is a calculated man and he doesn't make decisions in haste. GT is also not a stepping stone to bigger and better things, as that isn't what motivates CPJ. The timing and circumstances will have to be right, as they were when he left Navy (can you believe he almost took the SMU job?). I believe that once he gets a national title at Georgia Tech (next year), he will look for his next challenge or his next challenge will come and find him. Whether he takes it or not...your guess is as good as mine. Its a really ideal situation in Atlanta compared to situations in say Michigan and Notre Dame. How would you like to be in Rich Rodriguez shoes now where everything is magnified 10x what it is at Georgia Tech?
Personally, I wouldn't leave Georgia Tech because the program will soon rise to the point where it challenges for a BCS bowl every year. But the allure/prestige/challenge of rebuilding one of the most tradition rich programs in college football history is a challenge I think he'll take at some point. But for now, enjoy the ride. GT is only scratching the surface of what they will become.
Oh Noes The Recruits Won't Come!
I think the biggest misconception I've seen regarding Paul Johnson's offense from know-nothing fans of gutter programs (yes Texas A&M fans, please tell me how that Mike Sherman thing is working out for you) is that recruits won't play in the Paul Johnson offense. As in, any players on the Georgia Tech roster that Paul Johnson has to bring in are converted soccer players from Spain and Angola, along with Rugby players from Australia. Because we all know that in the entire United States, there can't be any talented players that would want to get a free education, and play major college football on a 10-1 team. I'm sure Paul Johnson has to fight off the perception that a defensive standout shouldn't go to Georgia Tech because that offense won't get them to the next level. Oh wait, I was looking at Rivals and it appears he actually DID convince some athletic players to come to Atlanta. And they even have offers from other Division I schools!
First of all, since the rage in college football seems to be the passing form of the spread offense, how do any of those elite recruits you speak of get convinced to go to Florida, Oregon, Texas Tech etc? Since no NFL teams run that offense, why does anyone with an ounce of talent bother heading to a school that doesn't prepare them for the NFL?
FYI, not every player has a numero uno goal of reaching the NFL. And just because a player doesn't get a 5 star rating from hypeupthenextnflstar.com, doesn't mean they can't be a productive or even superstar player at the college level. Tommie Frazier is a great example. It's a wonder Nebraska ever got anyone to attend their school when Tom Osborne was beating the hell out of everyone with that old outdated option. Outland trophy winner Aaron Taylor, the catalyst of the NU pipeline in the mid-nineties, was a lightly recruited 6' nobody from Wichita Falls who I don't believe played more than a few snaps in the NFL. Charlie Weis, Mike Sherman, Bill Callahan-sure they recruited tons of talent but it didn't translate to squat on the college football field. I saw firsthand the me-first mindset of a team full of hyped up high school stars with NFL dreams during the wretched Callahan era. You see, success at the college level is predicated on coaching players up and putting them in a position to be successful. And that's what Paul Johnson does.
By the way Aggie fans, I'll take any of the Navy running backs right now and QB Ricky Dobbs over what you currently have on your roster. They're a hell of a lot more productive than those standout players on the Aggie roster that were brought in with promises of NFL $$ in their future. I should probably just leave well enough alone and let Aggie fans continue to suck on raw eggs but I feel terribly sorry for them right now. Maybe for your next hire, you'll wise up and go after Coach Ken at Navy and leave the 5 star recruiting drivel in the garbage where it belongs.
Oh, and a Navy team full of Division II caliber players would run the ball right down your friggin throats if you played today. Reality is a bitch, isn't it? But at least you have those highly touted recruits that wouldn't go near a Paul Johnson-coached team.
First of all, since the rage in college football seems to be the passing form of the spread offense, how do any of those elite recruits you speak of get convinced to go to Florida, Oregon, Texas Tech etc? Since no NFL teams run that offense, why does anyone with an ounce of talent bother heading to a school that doesn't prepare them for the NFL?
FYI, not every player has a numero uno goal of reaching the NFL. And just because a player doesn't get a 5 star rating from hypeupthenextnflstar.com, doesn't mean they can't be a productive or even superstar player at the college level. Tommie Frazier is a great example. It's a wonder Nebraska ever got anyone to attend their school when Tom Osborne was beating the hell out of everyone with that old outdated option. Outland trophy winner Aaron Taylor, the catalyst of the NU pipeline in the mid-nineties, was a lightly recruited 6' nobody from Wichita Falls who I don't believe played more than a few snaps in the NFL. Charlie Weis, Mike Sherman, Bill Callahan-sure they recruited tons of talent but it didn't translate to squat on the college football field. I saw firsthand the me-first mindset of a team full of hyped up high school stars with NFL dreams during the wretched Callahan era. You see, success at the college level is predicated on coaching players up and putting them in a position to be successful. And that's what Paul Johnson does.
By the way Aggie fans, I'll take any of the Navy running backs right now and QB Ricky Dobbs over what you currently have on your roster. They're a hell of a lot more productive than those standout players on the Aggie roster that were brought in with promises of NFL $$ in their future. I should probably just leave well enough alone and let Aggie fans continue to suck on raw eggs but I feel terribly sorry for them right now. Maybe for your next hire, you'll wise up and go after Coach Ken at Navy and leave the 5 star recruiting drivel in the garbage where it belongs.
Oh, and a Navy team full of Division II caliber players would run the ball right down your friggin throats if you played today. Reality is a bitch, isn't it? But at least you have those highly touted recruits that wouldn't go near a Paul Johnson-coached team.
PJ is the model for how to rebuild a program
I'm now seeing articles posted up that are speculating on CPJ to Notre Dame to replace Charlie Weis. Is that really a surprise? I said before he left Navy that once he turned GT into a monster, he would be courted by the elite programs in the country that will be able to sell their alumni and boosters on CPJ much easier than hiring him directly from Navy. I don't think CPJ will go to Notre Dame, although there's no better fit for that position. If Notre Dame really wanted him, they would have to wait another year.
First off, I don't think PJ is going anywhere-for now. He's just getting the thing started at GT and he will stay around at least one more year to see the payoff. Rebuilding programs is surely rewarding but as a coach you don't put in all the hard work and leave the dinner table when you've just been served the main course. Next year will be his best team-national championship good. After next year, all bets are off.
An interesting scenario might be Paul Johnson going to Michigan after Rich Rodriguez is fired next year (yes he will be fired but it won't be this season, it will be after next year). Even though Bill Martin is going to retire, it appears someone at Michigan is paying attention to what's going on in Atlanta.
First off, I don't think PJ is going anywhere-for now. He's just getting the thing started at GT and he will stay around at least one more year to see the payoff. Rebuilding programs is surely rewarding but as a coach you don't put in all the hard work and leave the dinner table when you've just been served the main course. Next year will be his best team-national championship good. After next year, all bets are off.
An interesting scenario might be Paul Johnson going to Michigan after Rich Rodriguez is fired next year (yes he will be fired but it won't be this season, it will be after next year). Even though Bill Martin is going to retire, it appears someone at Michigan is paying attention to what's going on in Atlanta.
Martin looks at Georgia Tech, a program that had been mediocre for years before Paul Johnson revived the Yellow Jackets. Georgia Tech (10-1) whipped Duke on Saturday to advance to the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, and Johnson is seen as a savior.
"I expect to see the same situation here," Martin said.
But Johnson did it much quicker. In nearly two full seasons, Michigan is showing only marginal improvement in the win column -- and no improvement defensively.
"I know it. I can count," Martin snipped to reporters. "What's your point?"
The point is, why hasn't Michigan been even an average team under Rodriguez? The Big Ten is not a great conference. In past seasons, the Wolverines would roll over Wisconsin and Purdue in their sleep.
ACC Coastal Champions
Great step forward to reach the Dec 5th ACC Championship game with a pasting of Duke yesterday. Now, the team will finally get a week off after 11 straight games. They'll prepare for a home game against the Dawgs and get recharged for either Clemson or Boston College in the ACC Championship. It's been one hell of a season for Georgia Tech. I wonder how things might be different had they not played Miami when they did-specifically playing their third game in 12 days to open their season. But the ifs and buts are like candy and nuts...
Derrick Morgan will definitely be heading to the NFL after this year. He's going to be a good one at the next level too. If Morgan is not a first team AA it will be criminal. Next year we'll have Egwubine and Cross as likely starters at DE, with backups Robert Hall (return from injury), Osahon Tongo and several promising newcomers, including Too Tall Dieke, Chris Crenshaw and Euclid Cummings. All are progressing nicely on the scout team, especially Dieke who has added a lot of weight to his frame. Overall with the DL next year, you get starters Ben Anderson and Logan Walls back, plus top backups TJ Barnes and Jason Peters. JC Lanier is healing up from his shoulder surgery and is expected back by spring. Unless Anthony Williams or Denzel McCoy comes in and just tears it up, it will be awfully tough to see the field. Overally, the DL should be in great shape for next season-much better than this year even without Morgan.
So a scholarship will open up because of Morgan's departure. Can Tech steal super pass rusher TJ Stripling away from Georgia? I'd say 50/50 at this point. Stripling is about to set the all time Georgia HS record for sacks in a season-I think he is somewhere around 20 right now. He will need to put on some serious weight but what a steal it would be to get this kid.
As for other players that might leave early-Dwyer, Bebe, Burnett-stay tuned. I'd say right now that Burnett and Bebe definitely stick around for their senior seasons. Dwyer would probably be 50/50. Can he improve his draft stock anymore by staying another year or is the allure of a national championship enough to keep him around?
Derrick Morgan will definitely be heading to the NFL after this year. He's going to be a good one at the next level too. If Morgan is not a first team AA it will be criminal. Next year we'll have Egwubine and Cross as likely starters at DE, with backups Robert Hall (return from injury), Osahon Tongo and several promising newcomers, including Too Tall Dieke, Chris Crenshaw and Euclid Cummings. All are progressing nicely on the scout team, especially Dieke who has added a lot of weight to his frame. Overall with the DL next year, you get starters Ben Anderson and Logan Walls back, plus top backups TJ Barnes and Jason Peters. JC Lanier is healing up from his shoulder surgery and is expected back by spring. Unless Anthony Williams or Denzel McCoy comes in and just tears it up, it will be awfully tough to see the field. Overally, the DL should be in great shape for next season-much better than this year even without Morgan.
So a scholarship will open up because of Morgan's departure. Can Tech steal super pass rusher TJ Stripling away from Georgia? I'd say 50/50 at this point. Stripling is about to set the all time Georgia HS record for sacks in a season-I think he is somewhere around 20 right now. He will need to put on some serious weight but what a steal it would be to get this kid.
As for other players that might leave early-Dwyer, Bebe, Burnett-stay tuned. I'd say right now that Burnett and Bebe definitely stick around for their senior seasons. Dwyer would probably be 50/50. Can he improve his draft stock anymore by staying another year or is the allure of a national championship enough to keep him around?
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Ramblin and Gamblin
Tony Barnhart on Tech's Ramblin Gamblin Head Coach:
But understand that Johnson didn't just win a big game with his boldness last Saturday. He sent a message to his current players and to those who will come to play for Georgia Tech from this point forward.
"If I expect my players to play to win, then I have to be willing to play to win," Johnson said. "The easiest thing to do in that situation is to kick the field goal. If he misses it, you can just blame the player. My job is to put our guys into the best position to win every week."
The message has been received by the Georgia Tech players, who are now feeding off Johnson's confidence.
"He believes in us," said running back Jonathan Dwyer, the 2008 ACC Player of the Year. "Who doesn't want to play for a coach like that? It makes us go out there and play harder for him and harder for each other."
Georgia Tech's players are not the only ones who have bought in to the boldness of their second-year head coach. The Georgia Tech fans are absolutely giddy.
"Our fans love the guy because he is confident in his ability. In that respect he has some Steve Spurrier and some Barry Switzer in him," said Wes Durham, the longtime radio voice at Georgia Tech. "He doesn't need a script. He doesn't need a play sheet. He sees the game and makes the adjustments he needs to make. And he is competitive. Man is this guy competitive."
Monday, November 9, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
What....A...Day
Immediately following Georgia Tech's amazing 30-27 OT win over Wake Forest yesterday, I felt like I had run a marathon. But once the initial reality set in that Tech is now 9-1 and on the edge of the top 5 in the country, I realized what a magnificent day of football this had been. Not only had Paul Johnson's legacy Navy team went into Notre Dame and beat the mighty Irish for the 2nd time in three years, but Iowa, Oregon and LSU-all teams rated ahead of Georgia Tech-all went down in flames. And then, in just the 2nd year of this Paul Johnson experiment, the gutsiest coach in the country once again willed his team of fighters to an almost unthinkable victory. Big balls CPJ. Huge. "I play to win" is why Paul Johnson is the best coach in the country. Would Saban, Meyer, Brown or Carroll have even given a thought to going for it in OT when a chip shot FG would tie the game and give you another chance in OT? With the conference championship on the line? Doubtful. This has been one helluva ride and it's only going to get better. Paul Johnson will make Georgia Tech a perennial top 10 team because of his contagious winning attitude and belief in his system.
I'll say this-this is uncharted territory for both players and the program. The fact that such a young team keeps finding a way to overcome adversity and find a way to win is simply remarkable. Yeah Wake isn't great but they're very capable-Jim Grobe's teams haven't lost by much this year. And they always play a down to the wire game. Riley Skinner is one of the most accomplished QBs in ACC history and we took their best shot. Another 400 yard rushing day ho hum. Just the beginning.
I'll say this-this is uncharted territory for both players and the program. The fact that such a young team keeps finding a way to overcome adversity and find a way to win is simply remarkable. Yeah Wake isn't great but they're very capable-Jim Grobe's teams haven't lost by much this year. And they always play a down to the wire game. Riley Skinner is one of the most accomplished QBs in ACC history and we took their best shot. Another 400 yard rushing day ho hum. Just the beginning.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Dr. Tom Osborne Comments on GT
Caught the tail end of Tom Osborne on Sports Nightly with Lane Grindle last night. They were discussing various offenses throughout college football and Lane asked him about Georgia Tech. Dr. Tom with a serious laugh stated "I'll guarantee you nobody wants to play Georgia Tech right now." In fact, I believe he said it twice. Good to see TO give a vote of confidence to what Paul Johnson is accomplishing down in Atlanta.
Some conclusions: Tom is an astute follower of college football and what other teams are doing (whether he does it because he's a college football lifer or as someone who may be interested in something different like say recommending a new offense to Bo, is something only he knows). And he's watching Georgia Tech fairly close. You'll recall he also commented on their offense in an Omaha World Herald article at the end of last season.
Some conclusions: Tom is an astute follower of college football and what other teams are doing (whether he does it because he's a college football lifer or as someone who may be interested in something different like say recommending a new offense to Bo, is something only he knows). And he's watching Georgia Tech fairly close. You'll recall he also commented on their offense in an Omaha World Herald article at the end of last season.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Stupidity of Nebraska Fans
Well at least one of them. I frequently like to visit a few Husker message boards and as I've posted previously on this blog, they are now regularly engaging in debate on the GT offense and its viability in big time college football. I personally believe that some Nebraska fans are still so shellshocked from the late 80s/early 90s thumpings by Miami and Florida State, that they view anything associated with the "triple option" as an offense that simply cannot succeed against those fast speedy southern teams from today.
Now, I don't belong to Huskerpedia so I can't directly respond to this complete horses ass named SWVAHusker but here's one of the all time most moronic statements ever put on a message board-ANYWHERE:
They play in the ACC and got waxed by Miami's speed. They'll continue to get waxed by Miami's speed yearly unless Miami plays undisciplined or GT recruits superior talent. They'll have a major drop off next year IMO. Good luck recruiting for that system too.
No chance that team is any better than #4-5 in the Big 12.
I want the Oregon offense. Chip Kelly=Coach of the Year in both the Pac-10 and nationally IMO."
First, let's point out the obviously fallacies in this fools asinine commentary:
1.) "They play in the ACC"
Seems to me that Mr Know it All believes this offense just sort of got invented last year. The offense you're alluding too has been around for 3 decades. It is a spread option, just like the Chip Kelly offense you're so enamored with. And it has worked with amazing success no matter where it has been implemented-GA Southern, Hawaii, Navy and now GA Tech. It has worked against top teams from BCS conferences. I challenge you to actually do some homework and read through my well-researched information I've posted on this blog. Read the success GA Southern had against a 10 win Oregon State team coached by Dennis Erickson. Read the success Hawaii had against a great Illinois team in a bowl game. According to Sagarin, GT has the 12th toughest schedule in the country right now. Certainly the ACC is no juggernaut but what conference is??
2.) "They got waxed by Miami speed and will continue to get waxed"
I'm not into excuse making but here's how it is-GT was playing their third game in 12 days. They were playing a night game on national television against a team they embarrassed the year before by the tune of nearly 500 yards rushing (did Miami get that much faster in one year's time)? They didn't execute and thus, when any offense doesn't execute, they're not going to look good. Is Miami that much faster than Florida State? I believe longtime FSU coordinator Mickey Andrews said this year that this was his fastest defense he's ever had. So how did GT score 49 points on FSU? Oh and how did your mighty Chip Kelley offense get held to 8 points against those pasty white guys from Boise State?? I guess that one game is a referendum on how the Chip Kelly offense won't work against slow teams? Sounds logical right?
3.) "No chance that team is any better than #4-5 in the Big 12"
Oh really? Because the powerful Big 12 is so...powerful right? I mean GT would have no shot against the likes of Kansas State, Iowa State, Texas A&M, Baylor, Colorado, Texas Tech or Nebraska. Not only does Mr Bright Light make a definitive statement, he backs it up with all sorts of statistics and scientific evidence-no he really doesn't. Do you see why this is so frustrating?
4.) "They'll have a major dropoff next year IMO"
This is the statement that proves the poster doesn't know a thing other than to regurgitate some talking points probably gleaned off another message board like jackasshuskerfaniwanttothrowtheballalloverbecauseweneedtoget5starrecruits.com. GT has 6 scholarship seniors on their roster. Unlike Nebraska, Paul Johnson is working with players recruited for a whole different system. And no, the recruiting is not dropping off. Check Rivals if you're into star rankings. Fortunately for GT, Paul Johnson could care less about what some dipcrap know-nothing website says about talent evalution. He recruits players that fit into his system.
More than likely though, said poster's delusional and ill informed statements are merely a reflection of believing that the spread option scheme employed by GT is simply a gimmick offense that could never work at a big time program Nebraska. Now that I've taken poster to the woodshed, I'll resume my regular blogging. One more before I resume...
Mr SWVA-two questions for you since you seem to be the almighty answer to anything football related:
Do you think Tom Osborne's Nebraska's offense from 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 work succesfully against this year's Miami team?
How did Tom Osborne ever recruit any talented players to the mid-90s teams with that old outdated offense? I'm amazed Nebraska ever won a game, let alone any national titles. I mean didn't the recruiting class with Christian Peter get rated #42 in the nation?
Now, I don't belong to Huskerpedia so I can't directly respond to this complete horses ass named SWVAHusker but here's one of the all time most moronic statements ever put on a message board-ANYWHERE:
They play in the ACC and got waxed by Miami's speed. They'll continue to get waxed by Miami's speed yearly unless Miami plays undisciplined or GT recruits superior talent. They'll have a major drop off next year IMO. Good luck recruiting for that system too.
No chance that team is any better than #4-5 in the Big 12.
I want the Oregon offense. Chip Kelly=Coach of the Year in both the Pac-10 and nationally IMO."
First, let's point out the obviously fallacies in this fools asinine commentary:
1.) "They play in the ACC"
Seems to me that Mr Know it All believes this offense just sort of got invented last year. The offense you're alluding too has been around for 3 decades. It is a spread option, just like the Chip Kelly offense you're so enamored with. And it has worked with amazing success no matter where it has been implemented-GA Southern, Hawaii, Navy and now GA Tech. It has worked against top teams from BCS conferences. I challenge you to actually do some homework and read through my well-researched information I've posted on this blog. Read the success GA Southern had against a 10 win Oregon State team coached by Dennis Erickson. Read the success Hawaii had against a great Illinois team in a bowl game. According to Sagarin, GT has the 12th toughest schedule in the country right now. Certainly the ACC is no juggernaut but what conference is??
2.) "They got waxed by Miami speed and will continue to get waxed"
I'm not into excuse making but here's how it is-GT was playing their third game in 12 days. They were playing a night game on national television against a team they embarrassed the year before by the tune of nearly 500 yards rushing (did Miami get that much faster in one year's time)? They didn't execute and thus, when any offense doesn't execute, they're not going to look good. Is Miami that much faster than Florida State? I believe longtime FSU coordinator Mickey Andrews said this year that this was his fastest defense he's ever had. So how did GT score 49 points on FSU? Oh and how did your mighty Chip Kelley offense get held to 8 points against those pasty white guys from Boise State?? I guess that one game is a referendum on how the Chip Kelly offense won't work against slow teams? Sounds logical right?
3.) "No chance that team is any better than #4-5 in the Big 12"
Oh really? Because the powerful Big 12 is so...powerful right? I mean GT would have no shot against the likes of Kansas State, Iowa State, Texas A&M, Baylor, Colorado, Texas Tech or Nebraska. Not only does Mr Bright Light make a definitive statement, he backs it up with all sorts of statistics and scientific evidence-no he really doesn't. Do you see why this is so frustrating?
4.) "They'll have a major dropoff next year IMO"
This is the statement that proves the poster doesn't know a thing other than to regurgitate some talking points probably gleaned off another message board like jackasshuskerfaniwanttothrowtheballalloverbecauseweneedtoget5starrecruits.com. GT has 6 scholarship seniors on their roster. Unlike Nebraska, Paul Johnson is working with players recruited for a whole different system. And no, the recruiting is not dropping off. Check Rivals if you're into star rankings. Fortunately for GT, Paul Johnson could care less about what some dipcrap know-nothing website says about talent evalution. He recruits players that fit into his system.
More than likely though, said poster's delusional and ill informed statements are merely a reflection of believing that the spread option scheme employed by GT is simply a gimmick offense that could never work at a big time program Nebraska. Now that I've taken poster to the woodshed, I'll resume my regular blogging. One more before I resume...
Mr SWVA-two questions for you since you seem to be the almighty answer to anything football related:
Do you think Tom Osborne's Nebraska's offense from 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 work succesfully against this year's Miami team?
How did Tom Osborne ever recruit any talented players to the mid-90s teams with that old outdated offense? I'm amazed Nebraska ever won a game, let alone any national titles. I mean didn't the recruiting class with Christian Peter get rated #42 in the nation?
Sunday, October 25, 2009
One Writer's Take
This really shouldn't surprise anyone. After all, anybody that paid attention to what Paul Johnson's offenses did at Georgia Southern and Navy should have seen this coming. Nevertheless, a sportswriter from the Roanoke Times weighs in with an interesting take after witnessing CPJs juggernaut wreak havoc on Virginia, up close and personal yesterday.
"This offense is not a gimmick. It's not a freak show. It's a legitimate, effective beast that gobbles up first downs, swallows the game clock and then belches all over a tired defense."
"This offense is not a gimmick. It's not a freak show. It's a legitimate, effective beast that gobbles up first downs, swallows the game clock and then belches all over a tired defense."
Naysayers
First they doubted that Paul Johnson's "gimmicky" service academy offense would work in a BCS conference against all those elite athletes. The "option" was dead and it wouldn't work against the speed of teams like Miami and Georgia.
Now the popular line among the insanely stupid seems to be that Paul Johnson just inherited all this talent and once Dwyer, Nesbitt, Morgan, Bebe and all the other Chan Gailey recruits either graduate or move to the NFL, that Georgia Tech will gravitate back towards being a five win team.
Let me tell you what Paul Johnson inherited:
-A group of Chan Gailey softer than Charmin West Coast Offense recruits
-A program with about 70 scholarship players (80 now) because of NCAA probation from the previous staff
-A roster almost entirely comprised of freshmen and sophomores.
-Yeah that was a talented group of DL last year but look at what is leftover this year. Ben Anderson, Logan Walls, Jason Peters are surviving on heart and guts because it sure isn't elite skill.
FYI, Georgia Tech's starting OL right now consists of a converted DL who was a former walkon; A 6'2 257 lb starting tackle; a sophomore (Gilbert); and a converted TE (Barrick). The top backups are Phil Smith and Omoregie Uzzi-both redshirt freshmen.
When the redshirt OL hit the field next year, this offense will ascend to another level and it won't matter who is running the ball behind them. If you don't believe me, go watch Vince Murray of Navy chew through the Wake Forest yesterday. And Vince Murray couldn't start for most D-II programs. It's not that Paul Johnson can't recruit or doesn't need talented players to run his offense-it's that most of you don't think he can get another Dwyer. How do you know Dwyer is what the ideal RB in this offense? Maybe he doesn't need another Dwyer-maybe he needs a Daniel Drummond? It may surprise you that as tough as Nesbitt is, he is probably not the ideal QB for this system. He misses a lot of reads and misses even more wide open receivers because he doesn't see them or his throws are off the mark.
Bebe is a great receiver. But Paul Johnson has Stephen Hill and Chris Jackson in the wings. Having a receiver like Bebe is a great luxury but don't assume it's necessary or that CPJ can't bring in those kinds of players. Ever seen Charles Perkins play? Looks like a pretty talented group of recruits being brought in for next year.
If you don't believe me, stick around. With 6 scholarship seniors on the roster, GT will be right in the national title mix next year. For now, I'll be satisfied with the BCS. And shutting up the morons that know nothing of what they speak. At some point, people will stop trying to make excuses for why GT and Paul Johnson are having success. And realize that Paul Johnson is a winner and has won everywhere he's been a coach. That won't be changing anytime soon.
Now the popular line among the insanely stupid seems to be that Paul Johnson just inherited all this talent and once Dwyer, Nesbitt, Morgan, Bebe and all the other Chan Gailey recruits either graduate or move to the NFL, that Georgia Tech will gravitate back towards being a five win team.
Let me tell you what Paul Johnson inherited:
-A group of Chan Gailey softer than Charmin West Coast Offense recruits
-A program with about 70 scholarship players (80 now) because of NCAA probation from the previous staff
-A roster almost entirely comprised of freshmen and sophomores.
-Yeah that was a talented group of DL last year but look at what is leftover this year. Ben Anderson, Logan Walls, Jason Peters are surviving on heart and guts because it sure isn't elite skill.
FYI, Georgia Tech's starting OL right now consists of a converted DL who was a former walkon; A 6'2 257 lb starting tackle; a sophomore (Gilbert); and a converted TE (Barrick). The top backups are Phil Smith and Omoregie Uzzi-both redshirt freshmen.
When the redshirt OL hit the field next year, this offense will ascend to another level and it won't matter who is running the ball behind them. If you don't believe me, go watch Vince Murray of Navy chew through the Wake Forest yesterday. And Vince Murray couldn't start for most D-II programs. It's not that Paul Johnson can't recruit or doesn't need talented players to run his offense-it's that most of you don't think he can get another Dwyer. How do you know Dwyer is what the ideal RB in this offense? Maybe he doesn't need another Dwyer-maybe he needs a Daniel Drummond? It may surprise you that as tough as Nesbitt is, he is probably not the ideal QB for this system. He misses a lot of reads and misses even more wide open receivers because he doesn't see them or his throws are off the mark.
Bebe is a great receiver. But Paul Johnson has Stephen Hill and Chris Jackson in the wings. Having a receiver like Bebe is a great luxury but don't assume it's necessary or that CPJ can't bring in those kinds of players. Ever seen Charles Perkins play? Looks like a pretty talented group of recruits being brought in for next year.
If you don't believe me, stick around. With 6 scholarship seniors on the roster, GT will be right in the national title mix next year. For now, I'll be satisfied with the BCS. And shutting up the morons that know nothing of what they speak. At some point, people will stop trying to make excuses for why GT and Paul Johnson are having success. And realize that Paul Johnson is a winner and has won everywhere he's been a coach. That won't be changing anytime soon.
Rambling & Rolling
The 7-1 Jackets are officially on a roll after running roughshod over Virginia yesterday. Combined with Clemson's last minute victory over Miami, GT now controls its own destiny in the ACC Coastal Division. Simple-win the remaining conference games against struggling Wake and a tricky Duke team on the road and Tech will be playing in the ACC Championship on Dec 5th in Tampa.
First up will be an out of conference road game on Halloween night at Vanderbilt. Normally this type of game spells upset alert but Vandy is not what they've been (despite a close score against South Carolina) and GT is definitely not what they've been. There is an aura among this team that is willing them not only to win but to dominate opponents. A "Refuse to Lose" mentality led by Josh Nesbitt, Jonathan Dwyer and Derrick Morgan.
Coach Paul Johnson is taking this program to where it hasn't been in decades. The 18 play, 82 yard, 11 minute drive to open the 2nd half was an absolute thing of beauty if you're an old school football purist. It was like watching a vintage Tom Osborne team beat a helpless opponent into submission. The defense is playing much better now after getting several injured starters back.
The Jackets now rank 2nd in the country in rushing yards per game.
Meanwhile, Steve DeShazo sums it up pretty well: The rest of the ACC is shuddering.
And Paul Woody of the Richmond Times Dispatch is a believer.
First up will be an out of conference road game on Halloween night at Vanderbilt. Normally this type of game spells upset alert but Vandy is not what they've been (despite a close score against South Carolina) and GT is definitely not what they've been. There is an aura among this team that is willing them not only to win but to dominate opponents. A "Refuse to Lose" mentality led by Josh Nesbitt, Jonathan Dwyer and Derrick Morgan.
Coach Paul Johnson is taking this program to where it hasn't been in decades. The 18 play, 82 yard, 11 minute drive to open the 2nd half was an absolute thing of beauty if you're an old school football purist. It was like watching a vintage Tom Osborne team beat a helpless opponent into submission. The defense is playing much better now after getting several injured starters back.
The Jackets now rank 2nd in the country in rushing yards per game.
Meanwhile, Steve DeShazo sums it up pretty well: The rest of the ACC is shuddering.
And Paul Woody of the Richmond Times Dispatch is a believer.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Defining Win
No other way to put it. GT has officially turned the corner in the Paul Johnson era with the win over top 5 Va Tech. Postgame articles:
http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/12379191
http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/2009/10/18/mic_552403.shtml
http://www.modbee.com/opinion/world/story/897539.html
http://www.ajc.com/sports/georgia-tech/tech-powers-up-in-165598.html
http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/12379191
http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/2009/10/18/mic_552403.shtml
http://www.modbee.com/opinion/world/story/897539.html
http://www.ajc.com/sports/georgia-tech/tech-powers-up-in-165598.html
Before I get to Va Tech...
In the wake of Nebraska's loss to Texas Tech on Saturday, many fans have simply had it with Shawn Watson and his West Coast Offense. I told a friend of mine yesterday that as long as Watson is here, there is always going to be a remnant of Bill Callahan surrounding the program. Pelini is the head man as he'll stay for a long time. He's got the defense going in the right direction but he's got Callahan's imprint all over the offense. There was some thought in the wake of Pelini's hiring that Tom Osborne wanted to fix the defense first and then perhaps switch to some type of spread (we know he's a fan of Urban Meyer's offense). Maybe that will still happen-who knows? It won't be with Shawn Watson as coordinator because Watson knows one thing and that's the dink and dunk West Coast Offense. I do know this much-Tom Osborne watches Paul Johnson's offense. He commented on it at the end of last season in an Omaha World Herald article.
Those questioning the Nebraska offense have inevitably brought up the question about what should be done about it? Some have suggested and brought up the idea that Nebraska run Paul Johnson's offense. Just as the stupidity of certain Nebraska fans was on display when PJ's name was brought up during the coaching search, there are the handful of asshats who equate the flexbone with Frank Solich and the three yards and a cloud of dust. Peruse the message boards and you're sure to find the one clown of a fan who thinks he knows far more about Paul Johnson's system than he really does-vehemently opposed to that dreaded old option because it won't work against a fast Miami team. So for the regular readers of this blog, I apologize in advance for the "Pre-School" lesson I'm about to put you through. Consider it a basic review to clear up the misnomers that foolish Nebraska fans say about the "option" of Navy and Georgia Tech.
1.) Paul Johnson's offense is called the flexbone, not the triple option. It is, contrary to popular belief, a spread offense, much like Urban Meyer, Rich Rodriguez and Mike Leach run. PJ simply lines the QB under center instead of out of the shot gun. And he runs the ball, while Texas Tech passes the ball.
Dan Mullen, former assistant at Utah and Florida under Meyer and now head coach at Miss State, used to exchange ideas with PJ. There's a lot more similarities between what Florida and Georgia Tech do than most casual observers would ever understand.
2.) As stated, the flexbone system that Paul Johnson has developed is predicated on creating running lanes and getting players in space. That's why it's called a spread offense.
3.) The "triple option" is simply a a set of plays that Georgia Tech runs from their base offense. Sometimes they run triple option. Sometimes they run midline option. Sometimes they use the pitch game. Sometimes they line up in trips WR formations. Despite what Bob Davie and every other nonsensical television commentator says, calling it a triple option is highly inaccurate.
4.) It doesn't matter what offense you run-there are going to be highs and lows. Anyone can stop Paul Johnson's offense if GT doesn't execute and the other team dominates the line of scrimmage or GT turns the ball over. Florida's offense has been slowed down significantly in the last two weeks against LSU and Arkansas. The bottom line is, Paul Johnson's offense is an offense that works more often than it doesn't. It's not inconsistent and you know pretty much what you're going to get every week-in other words the offense at GT now knows exactly who they are. I even saw a moronic post yesterday on a Nebraska board that referred to Georgia Tech's loss to Miami earlier this year as proof that it doesn't work (seriously). Nevermind that the year before, Georgia Tech rushed for 472 yards on that same Miami defense or that they just ran for 309 yards on a pretty good Va Tech defense. Paul Johnson is running his offense with spare parts on the offensive line and he's barely scratching the surface on the final product. Don't believe me? Wait until next year when his redshirt offensive linemen hit the field.
In the meantime, those idiot NU fans that say "oh noes those 4 and 5 star wide receivers will never come here with that type of offense" will continue to rant and rave about why we should never run Paul Johnson's offense here. They bought into the recruiting garbage that Callahan sold them and they never looked back. They would have been the same jacklegs that would have criticized Tom Osborne offering a scholarship to Matt Davison. They're probably the same mouth breathers that said Paul Johnson's offense would never work in big time college football. And by the way-you don't have to hire Paul Johnson. But you could hire someone off his coaching tree and cure the ills.
Here's an article from ESPN from a few months ago that helps clear up some of the misconceptions:
http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/4896/georgia-tech-s-johnson-explains-spread-option-offense
And Birddog explains it better than I ever could in this blog post from a few years ago. Enjoy!
http://thebirddog.wordpress.com/2007/07/30/five-myths-of-paul-johnsons-offense/
Those questioning the Nebraska offense have inevitably brought up the question about what should be done about it? Some have suggested and brought up the idea that Nebraska run Paul Johnson's offense. Just as the stupidity of certain Nebraska fans was on display when PJ's name was brought up during the coaching search, there are the handful of asshats who equate the flexbone with Frank Solich and the three yards and a cloud of dust. Peruse the message boards and you're sure to find the one clown of a fan who thinks he knows far more about Paul Johnson's system than he really does-vehemently opposed to that dreaded old option because it won't work against a fast Miami team. So for the regular readers of this blog, I apologize in advance for the "Pre-School" lesson I'm about to put you through. Consider it a basic review to clear up the misnomers that foolish Nebraska fans say about the "option" of Navy and Georgia Tech.
1.) Paul Johnson's offense is called the flexbone, not the triple option. It is, contrary to popular belief, a spread offense, much like Urban Meyer, Rich Rodriguez and Mike Leach run. PJ simply lines the QB under center instead of out of the shot gun. And he runs the ball, while Texas Tech passes the ball.
Dan Mullen, former assistant at Utah and Florida under Meyer and now head coach at Miss State, used to exchange ideas with PJ. There's a lot more similarities between what Florida and Georgia Tech do than most casual observers would ever understand.
2.) As stated, the flexbone system that Paul Johnson has developed is predicated on creating running lanes and getting players in space. That's why it's called a spread offense.
3.) The "triple option" is simply a a set of plays that Georgia Tech runs from their base offense. Sometimes they run triple option. Sometimes they run midline option. Sometimes they use the pitch game. Sometimes they line up in trips WR formations. Despite what Bob Davie and every other nonsensical television commentator says, calling it a triple option is highly inaccurate.
4.) It doesn't matter what offense you run-there are going to be highs and lows. Anyone can stop Paul Johnson's offense if GT doesn't execute and the other team dominates the line of scrimmage or GT turns the ball over. Florida's offense has been slowed down significantly in the last two weeks against LSU and Arkansas. The bottom line is, Paul Johnson's offense is an offense that works more often than it doesn't. It's not inconsistent and you know pretty much what you're going to get every week-in other words the offense at GT now knows exactly who they are. I even saw a moronic post yesterday on a Nebraska board that referred to Georgia Tech's loss to Miami earlier this year as proof that it doesn't work (seriously). Nevermind that the year before, Georgia Tech rushed for 472 yards on that same Miami defense or that they just ran for 309 yards on a pretty good Va Tech defense. Paul Johnson is running his offense with spare parts on the offensive line and he's barely scratching the surface on the final product. Don't believe me? Wait until next year when his redshirt offensive linemen hit the field.
In the meantime, those idiot NU fans that say "oh noes those 4 and 5 star wide receivers will never come here with that type of offense" will continue to rant and rave about why we should never run Paul Johnson's offense here. They bought into the recruiting garbage that Callahan sold them and they never looked back. They would have been the same jacklegs that would have criticized Tom Osborne offering a scholarship to Matt Davison. They're probably the same mouth breathers that said Paul Johnson's offense would never work in big time college football. And by the way-you don't have to hire Paul Johnson. But you could hire someone off his coaching tree and cure the ills.
Here's an article from ESPN from a few months ago that helps clear up some of the misconceptions:
http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/4896/georgia-tech-s-johnson-explains-spread-option-offense
And Birddog explains it better than I ever could in this blog post from a few years ago. Enjoy!
http://thebirddog.wordpress.com/2007/07/30/five-myths-of-paul-johnsons-offense/
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Paul Johnson: Chess Master Extraordinare
The man is simply one of the greatest offensive minds in college football-EVER. Not only did he design this offense, incorporate spread elements with it but I am amazed at how he consistently makes veteran coordinators like Mickey Andrews look absolutely silly.
Sure there are games where the offense gets bogged down but you can say that about any type of offense. If the players execute CPJ's offense it's next to impossible to defend.
Last night, PJ's new wrinkle involved sending the A-back in pre-snap motion coming from a trips formation. Hat tip to Steebu from BBuzzoff for his analysis:
The trips formation makes the D play man coverage, and FSU obliged by putting a man on the "Trip" A-Back and the WR.
Watch the first drive where the "Trip" A-Back goes in motion. Never once does he go in "normal" tail motion (where he continues his arc path through the heels of the B-Back). In every case he shows "twirl" motion (where he reverses his arc) or he immediately pivots and becomes a blocker on the midline.
The man covering the motioning A-Back takes a few steps inside, and releases him to someone else. Never once does he completely follow the A-Back.
BINGO.
They did exactly what PJ figured they would, and watch what happens on the first play of our second possession:
Sure there are games where the offense gets bogged down but you can say that about any type of offense. If the players execute CPJ's offense it's next to impossible to defend.
Last night, PJ's new wrinkle involved sending the A-back in pre-snap motion coming from a trips formation. Hat tip to Steebu from BBuzzoff for his analysis:
The trips formation makes the D play man coverage, and FSU obliged by putting a man on the "Trip" A-Back and the WR.
Watch the first drive where the "Trip" A-Back goes in motion. Never once does he go in "normal" tail motion (where he continues his arc path through the heels of the B-Back). In every case he shows "twirl" motion (where he reverses his arc) or he immediately pivots and becomes a blocker on the midline.
The man covering the motioning A-Back takes a few steps inside, and releases him to someone else. Never once does he completely follow the A-Back.
BINGO.
They did exactly what PJ figured they would, and watch what happens on the first play of our second possession:
- 1st and 10, ball on the right hash mark.
- Same trips formation (trips left). Roddy at left A-Back. AA in the slot and starts that "weird" A-Back motion to the right
- The safety covering AA, #20, merely takes a few steps to his left and releases him to somebody (there is no "somebody", btw). He doesn't follow AA's path. When the ball is snapped he is on the far left hash (from the offense's point of view)
- Uh-Oh! AA doesn't twirl or lead block for the midline! CRAP - IT'S SPEED OPTION AND NOW AA IS AT FULL SPEED ON THE FAR CORNER!
- CW's three-back proof comes back to bite FSU in the butt big time. If all goes well it's a 2-on-1, and that's assuming that the D is manned up. In this case, there's one less defender on that side so it makes AA's 69-yard romp even easier.
Bowden Quotes
It was great to listen to Bob Davie commentary last night, even though he is still missing some specifics on the offense and it's particulars.
But it was incredible to watch CPJ completely run roughshod over Mickey Andrews. First off, I don't know what kind of offensive scheme Tech used last night but I have never seen it before. Whatever it was, FSU did not expect it and could not figure it out. You got the feeling from Bowden's quotes throughout the game (during lightning delay) and after the game that they were just powerless to stop what Tech was doing and they'd rather not ever play Tech again (sorry Bobby and Davie but it's not the Wishbone). They haven't seen anything yet.
What do you think are the main problems on the defense?
But it was incredible to watch CPJ completely run roughshod over Mickey Andrews. First off, I don't know what kind of offensive scheme Tech used last night but I have never seen it before. Whatever it was, FSU did not expect it and could not figure it out. You got the feeling from Bowden's quotes throughout the game (during lightning delay) and after the game that they were just powerless to stop what Tech was doing and they'd rather not ever play Tech again (sorry Bobby and Davie but it's not the Wishbone). They haven't seen anything yet.
What do you think are the main problems on the defense?
Bowden: “I think the main problem was the wishbone. We simply could not figure it out. We couldn’t get a hold of them to tackle. Paul (Johnson) does a great job. He takes the base wishbone and executes about as good as you see. Then he adds four or five things to it. He added something to us we haven’t seen all year. And we never could get it solved.”
How do you make sure things don’t kind of downward spiral from here?Bowden: “Don’t play the wishbone anymore. That’s really the best thing we can do. Don’t play the wishbone because we simply cannot stop it. I’ll give that win to the wishbone. Forty-four points should have won that game.”
Incredibly Proud
Not only did the Huskers gut one out on Thursday night in Columbia, but GT capped off a perfect weekend with one of the grittiest performances you'll ever see on a football field.
First off, I won't complain about any win or loss as long as the effort is there. And this Jackets team showed more heart and fight despite all the adversity in Tallahassee. You knew FSU would give their best effort because of all the circumstances regarding embattled coach Bobby Bowden. You knew they had talent (see Miami and BYU games). GT had never won at FSU and they were going into one of the toughest places to play in the country. Despite the defensive woes (will get to that later), 1 hour lightning delay and adversity of playing a night game at Doak Campbell, it was the heart of Josh Nesbitt and Co. that won in the end.
Make no mistake, this GT team is full of fighters and warriors and Nesbitt is the biggest warrior of them all. He willed this team to win last night. The team's fighting personality is a direct reflection of CPJ's tougher than nails mentality that he's brought with him from Navy.
Now about the defense-let's be clear about what is happening here. First off, FSU is not chopped liver. Ponder is a good and experienced QB and he has some good talent around him. That being said, I'm going to borrow an old phrase from former Husker coach Bill Callahan: "It is what it is."
CPJ is dealing with some major personnel issues up front on the DL (and on the OL). Izaan Cross and Tongo forced to play because of injuries to Robert Hall and Egwubine. Peters, Anderson and Walls will battle you but nobody is going to mistake them for
TJ Barnes is going to be a good one but he's young and inexperienced and still learning to play the position.
Bottom line, you could have the '85 Bears linebackers and secondary and they'd get torched the same way with the GT line in front of them. Luckily, help is on the way. JC Lanier would definitely be playing as a true freshman this year if not for shoulder surgery. Cross is getting valuable time now. And these issues are only going to be addressed through recruiting with players like Denzel McCoy, Shawn Green and Anthony Williams on the way.
Games are won in the trenches and there are some major talent and depth issues on both sides of the ball in that department. Despite it all, this team continues to will itself to win.
A huge game now sets up next week on the Flats against VT and you couldn't ask for a better stage. ESPN, night game and payback on the minds of a sky high GT team. I would rather be any other coach in the country right now than Frank Beamer and Bud Foster.
First off, I won't complain about any win or loss as long as the effort is there. And this Jackets team showed more heart and fight despite all the adversity in Tallahassee. You knew FSU would give their best effort because of all the circumstances regarding embattled coach Bobby Bowden. You knew they had talent (see Miami and BYU games). GT had never won at FSU and they were going into one of the toughest places to play in the country. Despite the defensive woes (will get to that later), 1 hour lightning delay and adversity of playing a night game at Doak Campbell, it was the heart of Josh Nesbitt and Co. that won in the end.
Make no mistake, this GT team is full of fighters and warriors and Nesbitt is the biggest warrior of them all. He willed this team to win last night. The team's fighting personality is a direct reflection of CPJ's tougher than nails mentality that he's brought with him from Navy.
Now about the defense-let's be clear about what is happening here. First off, FSU is not chopped liver. Ponder is a good and experienced QB and he has some good talent around him. That being said, I'm going to borrow an old phrase from former Husker coach Bill Callahan: "It is what it is."
CPJ is dealing with some major personnel issues up front on the DL (and on the OL). Izaan Cross and Tongo forced to play because of injuries to Robert Hall and Egwubine. Peters, Anderson and Walls will battle you but nobody is going to mistake them for
TJ Barnes is going to be a good one but he's young and inexperienced and still learning to play the position.
Bottom line, you could have the '85 Bears linebackers and secondary and they'd get torched the same way with the GT line in front of them. Luckily, help is on the way. JC Lanier would definitely be playing as a true freshman this year if not for shoulder surgery. Cross is getting valuable time now. And these issues are only going to be addressed through recruiting with players like Denzel McCoy, Shawn Green and Anthony Williams on the way.
Games are won in the trenches and there are some major talent and depth issues on both sides of the ball in that department. Despite it all, this team continues to will itself to win.
A huge game now sets up next week on the Flats against VT and you couldn't ask for a better stage. ESPN, night game and payback on the minds of a sky high GT team. I would rather be any other coach in the country right now than Frank Beamer and Bud Foster.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The Tech OL
I heard a radio interview with Navy beat writer Bill Wagner some time back where he talked about how it takes an offensive lineman 3 years in the Paul Johnson system to really understand and fully grasp the responsibilities of the flexbone. Wagner had surmised that until that learning curve is reached, it limits the in-game adjustments that are critical to making the offense work at its highest level.
After watching the Tech OL struggle for the last half of the game Thursday night, I figured it was a good time to discuss some reasons for the struggles. Not making excuses, just telling you how it is.
First, as PJ did, you must give credit to Clemson. They controlled the LOS during the 2nd half. That is an extremely talented football team that spent extensive time during the offseason preparing. However, it comes down to which teams wins the battle up front and that was Clemson in the 2nd half.
I have it on good authority that the 4 most talented OL on the Tech team are playing on the scout team as redshirts-Finch, Beno, Foster and Jackson. There is a difference however between talent and being ready to play. Here's an example:
Navy's offensive line, which averages about 262 lbs per man, can't hold a candle physically to the GT line (although the gap may not be as wide as you would think, did you see the gut on Dan Voss after Bedford got hurt?). But Navy's offensive line knows the system and executes at a much higher level than GT despite their physical limitations.
Its not feasible nor would it be smart for Johnson to pull all the young OL out of their redshirts and insert them into the starting lineup. The bottom line is that they aren't ready to play big time college football yet and the team would struggle more with them in the lineup.
Omoregie Uzzi is another young OL who is just now getting his feet wet. However, he's struggling with the mental aspect right now which negates his great physical abilities and natural talent.
Bottom line-it's going to take another year at least until we start to really see the critical pieces of this offense come together.
The guys we see up front now are Chan Gailey's players, recruited for a West Coast Offense. It should be a testament that Johnson has gotten the production out of these players he has in a little over a years time. It will get here but until then, you're going to see times where the offense looks stuck in the mud. After 2 games, Tech is averaging 318 yards rushing. That's right in line with what PJ's 2nd teams and Georgia Southern and Navy did. Right on track.
After watching the Tech OL struggle for the last half of the game Thursday night, I figured it was a good time to discuss some reasons for the struggles. Not making excuses, just telling you how it is.
First, as PJ did, you must give credit to Clemson. They controlled the LOS during the 2nd half. That is an extremely talented football team that spent extensive time during the offseason preparing. However, it comes down to which teams wins the battle up front and that was Clemson in the 2nd half.
I have it on good authority that the 4 most talented OL on the Tech team are playing on the scout team as redshirts-Finch, Beno, Foster and Jackson. There is a difference however between talent and being ready to play. Here's an example:
Navy's offensive line, which averages about 262 lbs per man, can't hold a candle physically to the GT line (although the gap may not be as wide as you would think, did you see the gut on Dan Voss after Bedford got hurt?). But Navy's offensive line knows the system and executes at a much higher level than GT despite their physical limitations.
Its not feasible nor would it be smart for Johnson to pull all the young OL out of their redshirts and insert them into the starting lineup. The bottom line is that they aren't ready to play big time college football yet and the team would struggle more with them in the lineup.
Omoregie Uzzi is another young OL who is just now getting his feet wet. However, he's struggling with the mental aspect right now which negates his great physical abilities and natural talent.
Bottom line-it's going to take another year at least until we start to really see the critical pieces of this offense come together.
The guys we see up front now are Chan Gailey's players, recruited for a West Coast Offense. It should be a testament that Johnson has gotten the production out of these players he has in a little over a years time. It will get here but until then, you're going to see times where the offense looks stuck in the mud. After 2 games, Tech is averaging 318 yards rushing. That's right in line with what PJ's 2nd teams and Georgia Southern and Navy did. Right on track.
Week 2 Thoughts
Everyone should be breathing a sigh of relief after the Jackets jumped all over Clemson and survived a huge rally from Clemson on Thursday night. In a way, the end result is probably the best thing for Tech. Reason? They will learn more from this than they would have had they continued to build on a 24-0 lead. I told a friend after the game that Tech won on pure heart and guts. With the offense completely bogged down from the 2nd half on, they came up big when they needed to.
By the way, is there a tougher SOB in the country than Josh Nesbitt? JN is the epitome of a warrior. If you don't believe me, just watch the game winning drive again.
And as much as the offense bogged down, they still ended up with 420 yards.
Tarrant is phenomenal as both a punt returner and a DB.
And what can you say about Derrick Morgan? Someone should name me a better DE in the country right now. The guy gets double and triple teamed and he still comes up with sacks with his relentless motor. It's unfortunate that this will probably be his last year at Tech. Almost certainly a top 10 pick in next year's NFL draft.
Going to be a tough game Thursday night against Miami. The Canes will be sky high after their marathon victory over FSU and their extra week to prepare. Oh, and they'll probably want some revenge after being embarrassed on national TV last year in Atlanta.
Also, did you see James Madison and their flexbone offense nearly beat Maryland last night, along with Navy bouncing back after nearly stunning Ohio State a week ago?
Speaking of Navy, with Dan Hawkins almost certainly gone from Colorado after this year, wouldn't a perfect fit for that job be Ken Niamauloto? KN's roots are from the West; he has strong Polynesian ties and he would be exactly what Colorado needs from a toughness and discipline standpoint. Plus, Colorado will never be able to recruit the top athletes to Boulder. They need to compensate with a unique scheme that doesn't require the 5 star recruits that top echelon teams can get.
Jacksonville State nearly pulled off the upset of the century against Florida State. Telling?
By the way, is there a tougher SOB in the country than Josh Nesbitt? JN is the epitome of a warrior. If you don't believe me, just watch the game winning drive again.
And as much as the offense bogged down, they still ended up with 420 yards.
Tarrant is phenomenal as both a punt returner and a DB.
And what can you say about Derrick Morgan? Someone should name me a better DE in the country right now. The guy gets double and triple teamed and he still comes up with sacks with his relentless motor. It's unfortunate that this will probably be his last year at Tech. Almost certainly a top 10 pick in next year's NFL draft.
Going to be a tough game Thursday night against Miami. The Canes will be sky high after their marathon victory over FSU and their extra week to prepare. Oh, and they'll probably want some revenge after being embarrassed on national TV last year in Atlanta.
Also, did you see James Madison and their flexbone offense nearly beat Maryland last night, along with Navy bouncing back after nearly stunning Ohio State a week ago?
Speaking of Navy, with Dan Hawkins almost certainly gone from Colorado after this year, wouldn't a perfect fit for that job be Ken Niamauloto? KN's roots are from the West; he has strong Polynesian ties and he would be exactly what Colorado needs from a toughness and discipline standpoint. Plus, Colorado will never be able to recruit the top athletes to Boulder. They need to compensate with a unique scheme that doesn't require the 5 star recruits that top echelon teams can get.
Jacksonville State nearly pulled off the upset of the century against Florida State. Telling?
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Pete Carroll on the Flexbone Offense
Pete Carroll of USC was asked today about why Navy was able to go toe to toe with Ohio State. His answer is great.
Q. Coach Tressel indicated that it was close because he has a young team, and that option attack was something they rarely see. From your standpoint, why was the Navy game so close?
COACH CARROLL: Navy presents so many problems for the defenses that you just can't prepare for at the same speed and tempo. They're so good and so disciplined in what they do, that they take advantage of every miscue and it's a nightmare playing against them.
It's so elaborate. The triple option and so many different directions and formations can totally offset the physical match ups and they've been able to do that highly successfully, that's what happened in this game. They moved the ball pretty consistently against them although they couldn't ever break out, but they still could make first downs. That made for a difficult game.
They made a couple of big plays on defense to get the interception to set up the opportunity to tie the thing up. You know, and they did enough to keep it going. So I think, I don't know that everybody appreciates it from the coaching standpoint particularly from a defensive coaching standpoint, that's a nightmare game to prepare for. And that's I wouldn't be surprised that Navy has a really big year offensively. They really look like they know what they're doing. They're really good at it.
Q. Coach Tressel indicated that it was close because he has a young team, and that option attack was something they rarely see. From your standpoint, why was the Navy game so close?
COACH CARROLL: Navy presents so many problems for the defenses that you just can't prepare for at the same speed and tempo. They're so good and so disciplined in what they do, that they take advantage of every miscue and it's a nightmare playing against them.
It's so elaborate. The triple option and so many different directions and formations can totally offset the physical match ups and they've been able to do that highly successfully, that's what happened in this game. They moved the ball pretty consistently against them although they couldn't ever break out, but they still could make first downs. That made for a difficult game.
They made a couple of big plays on defense to get the interception to set up the opportunity to tie the thing up. You know, and they did enough to keep it going. So I think, I don't know that everybody appreciates it from the coaching standpoint particularly from a defensive coaching standpoint, that's a nightmare game to prepare for. And that's I wouldn't be surprised that Navy has a really big year offensively. They really look like they know what they're doing. They're really good at it.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Jax State Thoughts
I have only seen limited highlights of the 37-17 victory over Jax State on Saturday so I'm sort of forced to rely on articles and recaps from those that were there. It's pretty clear that the players simply were going through the motions for most of this game. When it's 31-7 at halftime and you've scored on the game's first play, AND you have a big nationally televised game against Clemson on Thursday Night, I could see some reasons for the let up. After all, these are 18-21 year old kids.
That being said, I agree with CPJ's assessment that his team lacks a killer instinct and isn't nasty enough. Great teams don't take halves off no matter the opponent they're playing. The first play of the game, 4 Jax State players ended up pancaked on their backs while Jon Dwyer ran 74 yards for a TD. After that, most players checked out.
And since there were liberal substitutions of young players starting in the 2nd quarter into the rest of the game, nobody should be surprised with some of the issues that came up. One thing is for sure-I think you'll see a much more intense and focused team on Thursday night.
The Good:
-500 yards of total offense, playing a very vanilla offensive scheme.
-Nearly everyone on the roster played (or so it seemed).
-No significant injuries but backup Preston Lyons did leave the game with a separated shoulder and will miss the Clemson game. Richard Watson played well in relief.
-Julian Burnett. 9 tackles during his first college game. What a player this guy will be.
-Tevin Washington. Great to get him some significant playing time. Seems he moved the offense well.
-Derrick Morgan and Morgan Burnett. Two sacks for Morgan despite triple teams and another INT for Burnett.
-Bebe Thomas. Getting 100 yards receiving means teams MUST focus attention on him. That will only help with the running game.
-Even without Roddy Jones and a scaled down offense, GT moved the ball at will. Roddy is scheduled to start against Clemson on Thursday.
-Punt return for TD. Tarrant's return was the first GT punt return for a TD since 2001.
The Bad:
-Turnovers. Nesbitt has to take better care of the ball. If he coughs it up against Clemson, game over.
-Interior DL. Sure they got some pressure but Jax State was also able to run the ball with success periodically. Expect TJ Barnes to really start making a move towards starting.
-Scott Blair. Would you trust Blair to kick a winning FG if the game was on the line?
That being said, I agree with CPJ's assessment that his team lacks a killer instinct and isn't nasty enough. Great teams don't take halves off no matter the opponent they're playing. The first play of the game, 4 Jax State players ended up pancaked on their backs while Jon Dwyer ran 74 yards for a TD. After that, most players checked out.
And since there were liberal substitutions of young players starting in the 2nd quarter into the rest of the game, nobody should be surprised with some of the issues that came up. One thing is for sure-I think you'll see a much more intense and focused team on Thursday night.
The Good:
-500 yards of total offense, playing a very vanilla offensive scheme.
-Nearly everyone on the roster played (or so it seemed).
-No significant injuries but backup Preston Lyons did leave the game with a separated shoulder and will miss the Clemson game. Richard Watson played well in relief.
-Julian Burnett. 9 tackles during his first college game. What a player this guy will be.
-Tevin Washington. Great to get him some significant playing time. Seems he moved the offense well.
-Derrick Morgan and Morgan Burnett. Two sacks for Morgan despite triple teams and another INT for Burnett.
-Bebe Thomas. Getting 100 yards receiving means teams MUST focus attention on him. That will only help with the running game.
-Even without Roddy Jones and a scaled down offense, GT moved the ball at will. Roddy is scheduled to start against Clemson on Thursday.
-Punt return for TD. Tarrant's return was the first GT punt return for a TD since 2001.
The Bad:
-Turnovers. Nesbitt has to take better care of the ball. If he coughs it up against Clemson, game over.
-Interior DL. Sure they got some pressure but Jax State was also able to run the ball with success periodically. Expect TJ Barnes to really start making a move towards starting.
-Scott Blair. Would you trust Blair to kick a winning FG if the game was on the line?
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Who is Redshirting??
Well I guess I was wrong about a few of the redshirts. Looks like Julian Burnett is definitely skipping his redshirt this year. He's the top backup to the Gladiator at middle linebacker.
Lanier is out for the year with shoulder surgery.
Orwin Smith has been amazing in practices this fall. That he will skip a redshirt with all the talent around him in the backfield, speaks volumes to his abilities.
Cross and Thomas, as expected, should also play this year.
Hill and Sweeting will definitely play and a decision is still being made on Robbie Godhigh.
Lanier is out for the year with shoulder surgery.
Orwin Smith has been amazing in practices this fall. That he will skip a redshirt with all the talent around him in the backfield, speaks volumes to his abilities.
Cross and Thomas, as expected, should also play this year.
Hill and Sweeting will definitely play and a decision is still being made on Robbie Godhigh.
Recruiting
RB recruit Charles Perkins of Collins Hill ran for 303 yards last night against Parkview. I'd say Paul Johnson knows a thing or two about recruiting talented running backs. Can't wait until next year to see Perkins and all the other talent that has given verbal commitments. A machine is being assembled down in Atlanta.
Meanwhile, QB Synjyn Days of Marietta and ATH Jake Skole of Roswell have verballed to GT this week. Skole probably projects as a S at the next level-if he ever steps on the football field. He may well end up being taken in next year's Major League baseball draft. Skole had offers from Auburn, Georgia, Maryland, Virgina Tech, South Carolina among others.
A month ago, former ESPN 150 WR Chris Jackson, transferred from Alabama to Georgia Tech. Jackson was a member of the class of 2008 and will sit out this season under the transfer rule. Jackson was a 4 star WR by Scout and a 3 star from Rivals.
4 star commi-DB BJ Bostic-has been named to the Atlanta Journal Constitution Georgia Super 11 list.
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Meanwhile, QB Synjyn Days of Marietta and ATH Jake Skole of Roswell have verballed to GT this week. Skole probably projects as a S at the next level-if he ever steps on the football field. He may well end up being taken in next year's Major League baseball draft. Skole had offers from Auburn, Georgia, Maryland, Virgina Tech, South Carolina among others.
A month ago, former ESPN 150 WR Chris Jackson, transferred from Alabama to Georgia Tech. Jackson was a member of the class of 2008 and will sit out this season under the transfer rule. Jackson was a 4 star WR by Scout and a 3 star from Rivals.
4 star commi-DB BJ Bostic-has been named to the Atlanta Journal Constitution Georgia Super 11 list.
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Saturday, August 22, 2009
Castille is Gone-Could GT be in the mix?
With RB Quentin Castille getting the boot from Nebraska today, you have to ask the question "What's next?"
If you've been paying attention, Castille spent a few weeks in Atlanta this summer, with some family in the area.
Now I'm not saying he would transfer to GT or that Paul Johnson would even take him. GT recently shut down any speculation that Nate Frazier, a standout on Navy who was recently dismissed from the Mids, would transfer to the Jackets.
Castille could definitely just declare for the NFL although he probably needs to prove he can stay out of trouble first.
Stay tuned...
If you've been paying attention, Castille spent a few weeks in Atlanta this summer, with some family in the area.
Now I'm not saying he would transfer to GT or that Paul Johnson would even take him. GT recently shut down any speculation that Nate Frazier, a standout on Navy who was recently dismissed from the Mids, would transfer to the Jackets.
Castille could definitely just declare for the NFL although he probably needs to prove he can stay out of trouble first.
Stay tuned...
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Impact Freshmen
It will be a few more weeks before decisions are made on who redshirts and who doesn't. Just based on a week of practice and a few full pad scrimmages, here's how I see it:
Definitely won't redshirt:
-Stephen Hill (drawing comparisons to Georgia's AJ Green)
-Jamea Thomas (#2 safety behind the Predator)
-JC Lanier (already working with the twos)
Wait and see:
-Orwin Smith (they don't need him this year but he is really a talent)
-Daniel Drummond (an absolute monster, dragging players for 4 yards-do they need him?)
-Izaan Cross (physically ready 6'4 272, doing some great things in practice)
-Roderick Sweeting (haven't heard much-talent undeniable though)
-Emanuel Dieke (I think either he or Cross skips a RS)
Definitely RS:
Finch, Beno, Jackson, Foster, Luallen, Sims, Godhigh (walk-on, tenacious blocker), Burnett, Moore, Richardson, Watts, Crenshaw, Miles, Moore, Cummings.
Definitely won't redshirt:
-Stephen Hill (drawing comparisons to Georgia's AJ Green)
-Jamea Thomas (#2 safety behind the Predator)
-JC Lanier (already working with the twos)
Wait and see:
-Orwin Smith (they don't need him this year but he is really a talent)
-Daniel Drummond (an absolute monster, dragging players for 4 yards-do they need him?)
-Izaan Cross (physically ready 6'4 272, doing some great things in practice)
-Roderick Sweeting (haven't heard much-talent undeniable though)
-Emanuel Dieke (I think either he or Cross skips a RS)
Definitely RS:
Finch, Beno, Jackson, Foster, Luallen, Sims, Godhigh (walk-on, tenacious blocker), Burnett, Moore, Richardson, Watts, Crenshaw, Miles, Moore, Cummings.
What We Know So Far
Jackets went full pads for the first time yesterday. After a week of practices here's what I'm seeing and hearing:
-To nobody's surprise, offensive execution is light years ahead of last season. The younger players are of course, struggling as all newcomers do. Tempo and understanding of what to do and where to do are far ahead of a year ago.
-Dwyer looks in mid-season form already. This guy could win the Heisman. Seriously.
-Roddy is still wearing a yellow jersey as he recovers from a broken wrist suffered this summer.
-O line is vastly improved. Lots of shifting positions right now to try and get the best possible 5 on the field. Howard and Claytor at G positions? All the chatter indicates there is a solid 2-deep.
-Quintin Sims is another WR who PJ has singled out as impressing.
-Updated heights/weights on the official GT site at Ramblinwreck.
-Best chances to avoid a RS: Stephen Hill, JC Lanier, Emanuel Dieke and Jamea Thomas. So far the young OL aren't being mentioned much. Hill is wowing with his athletic ability and acrobatic catches. Calvin Johnson II? We'll see.
-To nobody's surprise, offensive execution is light years ahead of last season. The younger players are of course, struggling as all newcomers do. Tempo and understanding of what to do and where to do are far ahead of a year ago.
-Dwyer looks in mid-season form already. This guy could win the Heisman. Seriously.
-Roddy is still wearing a yellow jersey as he recovers from a broken wrist suffered this summer.
-O line is vastly improved. Lots of shifting positions right now to try and get the best possible 5 on the field. Howard and Claytor at G positions? All the chatter indicates there is a solid 2-deep.
-Quintin Sims is another WR who PJ has singled out as impressing.
-Updated heights/weights on the official GT site at Ramblinwreck.
-Best chances to avoid a RS: Stephen Hill, JC Lanier, Emanuel Dieke and Jamea Thomas. So far the young OL aren't being mentioned much. Hill is wowing with his athletic ability and acrobatic catches. Calvin Johnson II? We'll see.
Monday, August 3, 2009
GT Lands Another One
Union Grove 4 star DE Anthony Williams committed to GT today. Looks like another outstanding prospect and GT is about done recruiting for the year. I believe they will finish the class with a QB and perhaps a DB or LB-look for QB prospects Sinjin Days or Ryan White to be the final piece of the puzzle. I'm told White is higher on the board and the GT staff will wait for his decision. With only 6 seniors on the roster this year, it will be a small group but I can't help but be excited about the kind of talent PJ is bringing in. Certainly a bit better than what he had to work with at Navy (sarcasm).
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Let's get this thing started!
Georgia Tech players on the 105 report today. First practice is tomorrow! Destination: BCS
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Why you can't just play "assignment football" against the flexbone/triple-option
The adjustments that PJ can make in-game will only get better as Georgia Tech gets more experience with the offense.
Here
Here
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Jackets, Very Confident
Lots to like with the confidence of the team.
“(Early) last year, when they were just learning the offense, you can make one false step, but you still might be able to make the tackle,” Reese said of corralling Georgia Tech’s running backs in its then-new option offense. “Now, I can’t even explain it, man. These guys, it seems like they’re going 100 mph. They’re 10 times better than they were last year.”
http://www.macon.com/169/story/777885.html
“(Early) last year, when they were just learning the offense, you can make one false step, but you still might be able to make the tackle,” Reese said of corralling Georgia Tech’s running backs in its then-new option offense. “Now, I can’t even explain it, man. These guys, it seems like they’re going 100 mph. They’re 10 times better than they were last year.”
http://www.macon.com/169/story/777885.html
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Have to love this PJ quote
On the offense at peak capacity: “When we get good at doing it, it’s like death [for the defense]. It’s not like, ‘I can take a wrong step and recover because they’re coming off slow.’ It’s like, ‘I thought he had the ball and [the real ballcarrier] is 15 yards downfield.’ ”
Analyzing the Offense
QB:
Nesbitt is going to be better than last year, that we know for certain. With a year under his belt he's going to be able to command this offense much better and make the correct reads. In Birddog's post below, read the part where he says if Nesbitt makes the right read, a certain play is a TD. I think he's an okay passer-certainly no Sam Bradford but serviceable. Kind of reminds me of Tommie Frazier in terms of throwing ability. The backup QB race will be interesting to see. Jaybo Shaw was really the only option last year behind Nesbitt. Shaw is okay-he'll never wow you with athleticism but he could command the offense if needed. RS Fr Tevin Washington has really started to progress, especially with his passing. I think incoming freshmen Jordan Luallen and David Sims will get a chance to win the backup spot. Luallen knows the offense because he ran it last year in Indiana. Sims is the wildcard. I think he ends up on the field somewhere this year because of playmaking ability-whether that be QB, Aback, receiever-not sure yet. GT is definitely in better shape at this position than they were a year ago. Light years better.
RB:
This could well be the best backfield in the country (Sporting News agrees) in terms of quality and depth. Dwyer is just a beast and will be even better this year because of the natural maturation process and because everyone around him will be better. GT will lead the country in rushing and there won't be a close 2nd. Roddy Jones really came on late-see his 250+ day against Georgia. Jones fractured his wrist this summer so he may not be back in time for the Jacksonville State game. It looks like Louisville transfer Anthony Allen is slated to start at the other A Back spot. Kind of interesting as he is not the prototypical smaller Aback at 228 lbs. I had heard at times last year that Allen was the best RB on the team, while he sat out a year due to transferring. There is incredible depth and experience behind the starters. Both Embry Peeples and Marcus Wright played last year as true freshmen. Wright is a former Texas high school player of the year and he really impressed in the spring. Coach PJ lauds his toughness and tenacity and he appears set for a breakout season. Lucas Cox also has experience and impressed at times last year and can play both A and B back. If there's one true freshman I think will play it will be B-back Daniel Drummond. It might be tough to beat out Richard Watson (another Dwyer in the waiting?), but Drummond simply has too many physical skills to sit on the bench. Drummond is a weightroom freak and is going to cause opposing defenders to leap out of his path. Consider that Drummond is 6'3 250 with a 415 lb bench press, 600 lb squat and 330 lb power clean. That's stronger than any player on last year's Tech team! Read this article on Drummond here.
One other interesting thing that has leaked out of summer workout is the emergence of true freshman walkon A Back Robbie Godhigh. Godhigh, whose limited offers were obviously because of his small stature, is apparently tearing it up during workouts. Godhigh is only 5'7 and 185 but he is incredibly strong-like Darren Sproles strong. Here's a picture of Godhigh who was an all-state player last year from Kennesaw Stone Mountain HS. Just looks and sounds like the kind of player that could make a huge splash in the offense-if not this year, at some point in the future.
Needless to say, Georgia Tech is absolutely stacked in the backfield. It reminds me of the talent and depth that Nebraska had on their team during the mid 90s stretch. Even when they get to the 3rd and 4th stringers, you're going to see incredible production.
Receivers:
Like old school Nebraska, receivers in this offense are blockers first and pass catchers after that. In other words, you can pluck a non-highly recruited receiver like Tyler Melton and make his contribution to the success of the team the same as a Calvin Johnson. Despite that, this should be a pretty serviceable group. We all know what Bebe Thomas can do. Melton was actually contributing heavily last year until a midseason injury slowed his progress. Kevin Cone was impressive at times this spring. I think most expect top flight recruit Stephen Hill to come in and contribute right away. His talent level is undeniable and GT was lucky to hold on to him after the late offer from Georgia. I'm guessing since Melton was able to pick up the offense last year, it's not out of the realm for a true freshman receiver like Hill to also see the field.
Offensive Line:
Of course, Georgia Tech's ultimate success on offense will be determined by what happens up front. I remember a Navy beat writer saying it takes an offensive lineman a full 3 years in this system before Paul Johnson can implement his full arsenel. Like every other group on offense, GT will be far better this year than last year. Too much inconsistency and too many errors a year ago. Even despite that, things clicked well at times where you could really see things coming together. Due to graduated Andrew Gardner's mid-season injury last year, every starter will return to the line. Several missed the spring with injuries but all are expected to be back in time for the start of the season. Great news-I'm hearing Barrick is well above 270 right now so it looks like a servicable group. I would love to see Omoregie Uzzi come into his own, after redshirting a year ago. Maybe a true freshman or two sneaks in to provide some depth. I really like Ray Beno, a powerlifter roadgrader type of OL-reminds me a bit of the old school Nebraska linemen. Beno could make an instant impact at C or G. Beno is strong as hell, with a low center of gravity & flat-back drive blocking style. And he is NASTY. In fact, I think this OL group coming in is going to be outstanding down the road. Jay Finch, Antonio Foster, Beno and Will Jackson were all highly recruited with quality offers and by all accounts, each one has the nasty streak that is required in this offense. I'm especially excited about what I hear about Finch. Here's a pic from the spring game of Finch (middle), Beno (right) and 2010 prospect Oestmann.
Summary:
The Jackets have a chance to be one of the top offenses in college football this year. Johnson's 2nd season at both Georgia Southern and Navy saw significant improvement in execution and in terms of statistics. His first Georgia Tech team was right in line with what Georgia Southern and Navy did in their first year. Therefore, it's realistic to expect the 2009 Jackets to average close to 330 YPG rushing this fall. I think Nesbitt can throw the ball if he's given time to pass. He was a passing QB in high school but last year he ran for his life because of the poor protection. Depth development needs to take place up front as well. Even with Dwyer likely headed out to the NFL after this year, keep in mind this is still a very young offense (and team). Projected starting OL Dan Voss and Cord Howard are the only seniors, along with backup Brad Sellers, to even crack the preseason depth chart. But as PJ recently said in the AJC, “It’s a night-and-day difference, the speed at which we play, the execution level, I think the intensity. They know what we are looking for. It’s an easier flow, and an easier way to get things done because they’ve done it for a year.”
And as PJ said in the spring "We will be better on offense. Now I don’t know if we’ll win any more games, but I guarantee you we’re better than we were a year ago.”
Nesbitt is going to be better than last year, that we know for certain. With a year under his belt he's going to be able to command this offense much better and make the correct reads. In Birddog's post below, read the part where he says if Nesbitt makes the right read, a certain play is a TD. I think he's an okay passer-certainly no Sam Bradford but serviceable. Kind of reminds me of Tommie Frazier in terms of throwing ability. The backup QB race will be interesting to see. Jaybo Shaw was really the only option last year behind Nesbitt. Shaw is okay-he'll never wow you with athleticism but he could command the offense if needed. RS Fr Tevin Washington has really started to progress, especially with his passing. I think incoming freshmen Jordan Luallen and David Sims will get a chance to win the backup spot. Luallen knows the offense because he ran it last year in Indiana. Sims is the wildcard. I think he ends up on the field somewhere this year because of playmaking ability-whether that be QB, Aback, receiever-not sure yet. GT is definitely in better shape at this position than they were a year ago. Light years better.
RB:
This could well be the best backfield in the country (Sporting News agrees) in terms of quality and depth. Dwyer is just a beast and will be even better this year because of the natural maturation process and because everyone around him will be better. GT will lead the country in rushing and there won't be a close 2nd. Roddy Jones really came on late-see his 250+ day against Georgia. Jones fractured his wrist this summer so he may not be back in time for the Jacksonville State game. It looks like Louisville transfer Anthony Allen is slated to start at the other A Back spot. Kind of interesting as he is not the prototypical smaller Aback at 228 lbs. I had heard at times last year that Allen was the best RB on the team, while he sat out a year due to transferring. There is incredible depth and experience behind the starters. Both Embry Peeples and Marcus Wright played last year as true freshmen. Wright is a former Texas high school player of the year and he really impressed in the spring. Coach PJ lauds his toughness and tenacity and he appears set for a breakout season. Lucas Cox also has experience and impressed at times last year and can play both A and B back. If there's one true freshman I think will play it will be B-back Daniel Drummond. It might be tough to beat out Richard Watson (another Dwyer in the waiting?), but Drummond simply has too many physical skills to sit on the bench. Drummond is a weightroom freak and is going to cause opposing defenders to leap out of his path. Consider that Drummond is 6'3 250 with a 415 lb bench press, 600 lb squat and 330 lb power clean. That's stronger than any player on last year's Tech team! Read this article on Drummond here.
One other interesting thing that has leaked out of summer workout is the emergence of true freshman walkon A Back Robbie Godhigh. Godhigh, whose limited offers were obviously because of his small stature, is apparently tearing it up during workouts. Godhigh is only 5'7 and 185 but he is incredibly strong-like Darren Sproles strong. Here's a picture of Godhigh who was an all-state player last year from Kennesaw Stone Mountain HS. Just looks and sounds like the kind of player that could make a huge splash in the offense-if not this year, at some point in the future.
Needless to say, Georgia Tech is absolutely stacked in the backfield. It reminds me of the talent and depth that Nebraska had on their team during the mid 90s stretch. Even when they get to the 3rd and 4th stringers, you're going to see incredible production.
Receivers:
Like old school Nebraska, receivers in this offense are blockers first and pass catchers after that. In other words, you can pluck a non-highly recruited receiver like Tyler Melton and make his contribution to the success of the team the same as a Calvin Johnson. Despite that, this should be a pretty serviceable group. We all know what Bebe Thomas can do. Melton was actually contributing heavily last year until a midseason injury slowed his progress. Kevin Cone was impressive at times this spring. I think most expect top flight recruit Stephen Hill to come in and contribute right away. His talent level is undeniable and GT was lucky to hold on to him after the late offer from Georgia. I'm guessing since Melton was able to pick up the offense last year, it's not out of the realm for a true freshman receiver like Hill to also see the field.
Offensive Line:
Of course, Georgia Tech's ultimate success on offense will be determined by what happens up front. I remember a Navy beat writer saying it takes an offensive lineman a full 3 years in this system before Paul Johnson can implement his full arsenel. Like every other group on offense, GT will be far better this year than last year. Too much inconsistency and too many errors a year ago. Even despite that, things clicked well at times where you could really see things coming together. Due to graduated Andrew Gardner's mid-season injury last year, every starter will return to the line. Several missed the spring with injuries but all are expected to be back in time for the start of the season. Great news-I'm hearing Barrick is well above 270 right now so it looks like a servicable group. I would love to see Omoregie Uzzi come into his own, after redshirting a year ago. Maybe a true freshman or two sneaks in to provide some depth. I really like Ray Beno, a powerlifter roadgrader type of OL-reminds me a bit of the old school Nebraska linemen. Beno could make an instant impact at C or G. Beno is strong as hell, with a low center of gravity & flat-back drive blocking style. And he is NASTY. In fact, I think this OL group coming in is going to be outstanding down the road. Jay Finch, Antonio Foster, Beno and Will Jackson were all highly recruited with quality offers and by all accounts, each one has the nasty streak that is required in this offense. I'm especially excited about what I hear about Finch. Here's a pic from the spring game of Finch (middle), Beno (right) and 2010 prospect Oestmann.
Summary:
The Jackets have a chance to be one of the top offenses in college football this year. Johnson's 2nd season at both Georgia Southern and Navy saw significant improvement in execution and in terms of statistics. His first Georgia Tech team was right in line with what Georgia Southern and Navy did in their first year. Therefore, it's realistic to expect the 2009 Jackets to average close to 330 YPG rushing this fall. I think Nesbitt can throw the ball if he's given time to pass. He was a passing QB in high school but last year he ran for his life because of the poor protection. Depth development needs to take place up front as well. Even with Dwyer likely headed out to the NFL after this year, keep in mind this is still a very young offense (and team). Projected starting OL Dan Voss and Cord Howard are the only seniors, along with backup Brad Sellers, to even crack the preseason depth chart. But as PJ recently said in the AJC, “It’s a night-and-day difference, the speed at which we play, the execution level, I think the intensity. They know what we are looking for. It’s an easier flow, and an easier way to get things done because they’ve done it for a year.”
And as PJ said in the spring "We will be better on offense. Now I don’t know if we’ll win any more games, but I guarantee you we’re better than we were a year ago.”
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Getting Ready for the 2009 Season
I know, I know it's been a long time. I had some family issues to attend to last fall but am ready as ever to get this 2009 season underway. Before we do that, let's take a look back at the 2008 Georgia game, Birddog Style. This is one of the finest breakdowns of a game and the Flexbone offense that you will find anywhere. Pure genius here-both in the analysis and Paul Johnson. Despite his players really not understanding the offense, they still had an excellent first year. The future is looking incredible.
http://thebirddog.wordpress.com/2009/06/28/other-peoples-rivalries-and-the-futility-of-defending-against-the-wishbone/#more-1437
http://thebirddog.wordpress.com/2009/06/28/other-peoples-rivalries-and-the-futility-of-defending-against-the-wishbone/#more-1437
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