Issue 9, Georgia-Florida, 2014

Page 1

Let the Big Dawg Eat!

<AP> FBC SEC LOGOS 081303: Football helmets for the Southeastern Conference; with related stories; ML; ETA 4 p.m. </AP> Editors note tis mandator to include all sources that accompan this raphic when repurposin or editin it for publication.

GEORGIA FLORIDA 2014 ARKANSAS

FLORIDA

KENTUCKY

What happens in Jacksonville, stays in Jacksonville.

www.hi-athens.com

OLE MISS



FROM THE EDITOR: VANCE LEAVY As I sit down to write this, the sun is almost below the horizon on St. Simons Island with the PGA Tour’s McGladrey Classic having just completed at Sea Island Golf Club. The last week on the Georgia coast has been nothing short of spectacular. And it doesn’t get any better than to know another awesome week beckons in my hometown as the Bulldog Nation arrives for a week of revelry in anticipation of the annual battle with the Gators in Jacksonville. As always, Georgia fans will win the party, but I sincerely hope they aren’t riding too high to realize that a wounded Gator is mighty dangerous. In our Arkansas issue of BI, the message was not to get too high on the hog. And without question, I’m imploring the same train of thought for the game against Florida. Yes, it’s been a tough slog for Will Muschamp and his team, but to think our boys in red and black aren’t in for a tough game is silly, in my humble opinion. The Gators are fighting for their coach’s job and are due some good fortune. And don’t you know ending our Bulldogs’ shot at a dream season would be just the right cure. While I’m obviously very cautious, I must say that the way Coach Richt, his staff and his team have handled the Todd Gurley situation is a huge positive towards downing Florida on Saturday. Led by the best offensive line since 2002 and a most opportunistic defense, it has been exceptional to see our team improving week after week. Now, the question is can they continue the upward trend or

is a stumble coming their way? For that reason, we went with the ultimate symbol of the University of Georgia on our cover … its mascot, Uga IX. At the end of the day, players and coaches will come and go, but the love of our university and what it stands for never fades. It’s been a trying few weeks for everyone in the Bulldog Nation not knowing the fate of the team’s top player. Still, rather than succumbing to the frustrating process, Todd Gurley’s teammates have reminded us all of the importance of unity towards greatness. What a pleasure it has been to watch! At this writing, the word on Gurley still isn’t known. Like you, I’m hopeful he will be allowed to return to the field in Jacksonville. And if that were to happen, I hope #3 returns the favor to his Bulldog teammates. He owes them for letting them down. And he owes them for their stellar play in his absence. Either way, as I’ve already said, it’s been so great to see how our team has responded to all the noise. Because of that, our cover headline of “Let the Big Dawg Eat” seems, oh-so fitting. Now it’s time to wrap things up, but not before I boast a little about this issue of BI. Beginning on page 11, Cheri and company have an awesome feature called A to Z from the Classic City to the Coast. For every letter in the alphabet, you’ll find unique tidbits about Athens and the Golden Isles. Both areas’ charm and vibe are undeniable and contribute greatly to making the state of Georgia such a special place.

Georgia-Florida Cha Cha Cha Publishing Inc.

And on the sports side, Logan Booker (page 4) is a little too confident for my liking about this installment of the Georgia-Florida game. But perhaps he’s on to something? However, if you come from the Dooley/Munson cautious mold, then JD is your man on page 5. Also, included in this issue, is a look back at the stellar victory over Arkansas in Little Rock (pages 26 and 27). Speaking of that, kudos must go to the Bulldog Nation for showing up big in Arkansas. From the Clinton Library, to the streets of Little Rock, to the fairways of the golf course, UGA was thoroughly represented. And what a blast it was. Please enjoy our fan photos from there beginning on page 18. That will do it for me. Please enjoy your visit to the Golden Isles if that’s where you’re staying, but also do your part in preserving its beauty while here. And finally, be safe and take care of everyone in your group. And most importantly … Let the Big Dawg Eat!!!

• Editor : Vance Leavy • Creative Director: Cheri Leavy • Multimedia Director: Greg Poole • Sports Guru: Jeff Dantzler • Layout/Design: Cheri Leavy, Vance Leavy • Sales: Caroline Kinney, Nancy Kenerly • Sports: Jeff Dantzler, Murray Poole, John Frierson • Sports Intern: Logan Booker, Jordan James • Interns: Emory Kole, Frances Plunkett, Molly White • Cover Photo: Rob Saye • Sports Photography: Rob Saye • Columnists: Carlton DeVooght, Rob Sherrell, Loran Smith • Delivery: Jack Abernathy, Will Hayes, Bear Jordan, Tim Roberts, Cullen Sewell, Thompson Sewell, Champ Vance Georgia-Florida, October 28, 2014

bulldawgillustrated.com

The best brunch in Athens (Hilltop) just got competition ! a little bit of the coast comes to athens !

oysters peel & eat shrimp fish tacos

ENJOY FOOD & LIBATIONS ON OUR PATIO OVERLOOKING FIVE POINTS

best steaks and seafood in athens ! DISCOVER WHAT LOCALS ALREADY KNOW ... DON’T FIGHT THE DOWNTOWN CROWD !

Enjoy our New Weekend Brunch starting at 10 a.m.

Sunrise Salmon w/ egg over easy and sriracha aioli • Breakfast Quesadilla w/shrimp, cheddar, egg, bacon and corn salsa • Shrimp and Grit Cake w/ tri-pepper cream sauce and sauteed spinach • Country Style Fish and Grits

Outdoor Seating Corner of Lumpkin & Milledge - Athens, GA

menu available at marker7coastalgrill.com

Bulldog Brunch Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Georgia Bulldogs Radio Network airing live with hosts

Jeff Dantzler and Kevin Butler Outdoor Seating 2310 W. Broad Street - Athens, GA - (706) 353-7667 menu available at hilltopgrille.com


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

LOGAN BOOKER

Fans should set their expectations high By Logan Booker Bulldawg Illustrated

I am sure you enjoyed the bye week this past Saturday, having the SEC beat up on each other while you were able to watch stress free from the couch. While Ole Miss fans threw up in The Grove after blowing a game to a not-very-good LSU team, and Steve Spurrier once again limped away from an SEC matchup with a loss, all you had to do was finalize your itinerary for one of the best weeks of the year. Georgia-Florida is here! One of the greatest rivalries in all of sports is upon us once again, as you, the Georgia fan, know good and well it is far more than a game that kicks off on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. in Jacksonville. No, instead you’ll hit the road at various times throughout the week, G flags flying proudly off the side windows of your car as you aim towards the beaches of south Georgia, ready to live up to the game and week’s billing of World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. Played in Jacksonville since 1933 (with the exception of 1994 and 1995 when the Gator Bowl stadium was under renovations to prepare the city of Jacksonville for its first NFL team), the tradition of fans from both sides meeting at the neutral site has become of one the greatest spectacles in sport. With fans split directly down the middle of the stadium, the two seas of red and blue create the most neutral feeling of any game in college football. But this year, things feel a little different for Georgia fans that have kept a close eye on this game for the last quarter century.

We all know the painstaking stretch from 19902010 when the Bulldogs only left Jacksonville victorious three times. And despite Georgia fans showing up yearly while partying in style, as always, the feeling transitioned during this era from one of joy to one of just knowing things likely wouldn’t go their way at the Cocktail Party. Yet this Saturday, Georgia has a very real chance of stringing together four-straight wins over the Gators for the first time since the early 80s. With the Florida program in turmoil and sitting at a disappointing 3-3 record, there are more headlines written out of Gainesville about who will be the next head coach as opposed to getting ready to face one of their biggest rivals. And on the flip side, the Georgia media is calculating what needs to happen in order for the Bulldogs to sneak into the first ever College Football Playoff. So I say this week, revel every chance you get at a feeling that has eluded you for far too long. There is an era where our parents and grandparents would travel joyously to the Golden Isles with full confidence that the car rides home to every corner of the state of Georgia would be enjoyable. And while nothing is guaranteed in this game, ever, there may not be a year in the recent memories of any Bulldog fans under the age of 40 where confidence has been so high, and for good reason. With a victory this Saturday, Georgia will have won four in a row and six of the last 11. Clearly that is a sample size large enough to squash any talks of an era by Florida that would include the 14 years prior.

GO DAWGS! gear up for game day

TEXTBOOKS

TECH & SUPPLIES

/UGABookstore

4 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

APPAREL

The Bulldogs have a chance this week to officially begin a new era of competitive lore, which does not include the words “Florida” or “dominance” written next to each other. And the way Georgia had its way with Arkansas and Missouri had its way with Florida before the bye weeks, you now officially have clearance to set your expectations high. You deserve it after so many years of agony. A famous line in the well-regarded novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil described this game as a war between the gentlemen of Georgia and the Florida barbarians. And as it has arrived once again, get those seersuckers, bowties, fine bourbons and southern accents ready and meet me on the beaches of coastal Georgia. It’s officially Georgia-Florida week.


J E F F DA N T Z L E R’ S G E O R G IA- F L O R I DA P R E V I E W

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

Turnovers and kicking game are key By Jeff Dantzler Bulldawg Illustrated

Winners of five consecutive games, Georgia’s dreams of a special season are still alive. But the Bulldogs have no margin for error, and to keep those hopes of playing for the Southeastern Conference championship and vying for one of those coveted quartet of playoff spots alive, Georgia must next extend the winning streak over Florida to four. From 1990-2010, the Gators beat the Bulldogs 18 of 21 times. That followed a stretch from 1971-1989 when Georgia went 15-4 against Florida. But Steve Spurrier arrived at his alma mater prior to the 1990 campaign, and things changed in Jacksonville. Now the series has gone back in Georgia’s favor. Will Muschamp, who played defensive back for the Bulldogs in the early 1990s, succeeded Urban Meyer as the Gators head coach in 2011. As a player, his Georgia teams failed to beat Florida. As the Gators head coach, he still has not tasted victory in this grand and unique rivalry. Georgia hit a pair of fourth quarter touchdowns, Jarvis Jones played like Lawrence Taylor, and Richard Samuel ran like a bull in a 24-20 Bulldogs victory in 2011. The following year, once beaten Georgia edged the Gators 17-9 behind great running from Todd Gurley, another LT-esque Jones performance and a great catch-and-run by Malcolm Mitchell. Last season, the Bulldogs raced to a 23-3 lead, as Gurley returned from injury and had over 150 total yards in the first half. Georgia would hang on and win 23-20. So as sweet and needed as these Bulldog victories have been to a fan base starving and thirsting for success in Jacksonville, they have not been easy, and Saturday’s game figures to be a white-knuckler as well. With the open date and the off-field conjecture over Muschamp’s job security and Gurley’s playing status, this version of The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, has some extra zing-zang in the mix. Florida was oh-so-close to pushing its record to 4-1 on the season in a 30-27 loss to LSU in Gainesville. The following week, Florida outgained Missouri and shut the Tigers offense down. But lost 42-13. How does that happen? Missouri returned the opening kickoff, a punt, an interception and a fumble for touchdowns. While the swamp emptied out and questions swirled, the Gators focus turned squarely to Georgia and what this one means to the status of the program. Meanwhile, in the face of adversity, Georgia has put together six sensational quarters while pulling off a pair of impressive road victories on a Midwest swing of the Southeast-

2011 Honda Odyssey EX

ern Conference. Less than 48 hours after the news of Gurley’s suspension, Georgia rolled past Missouri 34-0 in Columbia. Freshman tailback, Nick Chubb, carries 38 times for 143 yards and a touchdown, while hauling in four receptions for 30 yards. Then in Little Rock, Georgia raced to a 38-6 halftime lead over Arkansas and held off the Razorbacks to win 45-32, improving to 6-1 on the season, 4-1 in SEC play and No. 9 in the polls. Chubb was again superb, outdoing himself against the Hogs with 30 carries for 202 yards and two more touchdowns. If there were a mid-season Heisman Trophy, it would go to Georgia’s tailbacks. What has truly galvanized this Georgia team, which has showed tremendous camaraderie, is a defense that has displayed a Pinnochio/Cyrano-sized nose for the football. In the wins at Missouri and Arkansas, the Bulldogs were a combined PlusNine in the turnover column, picking up five against the Tigers and four versus the Razorbacks, while not coughing it up. It should be noted that at Missouri, Georgia did get on a trio of its own fumbles. So now the Bulldogs lead the nation in turnover margin, the Bulldogs are averaging a whopping point total and the confidence is sky high. And in the other corner, a wounded and dangerous Gator. So how can Georgia beat the Gators for a fourth straight time and keep the lofty goals of 2014 in tact? Keep the turnover margin going in the right direction. You can’t expect to do game-in and game-out what the Bulldogs have done the last two games, but the Gators have been turnover prone and Georgia must cash in, cutting into Florida’s confidence and providing short fields. Winning the kicking game is a must. It hasn’t been perfect for Georgia this year, but the special teams are vastly improved over 2013’s disaster and a big reason that the Bulldogs have won five straight. Florida has speed to burn, and you can bet with the extra week to get ready, the Gators, with nothing to lose, will have all kinds of tricks up their sleeves. Let’s spare the Georgia faithful some of the face-in-hands moments in the kicking game that were such a huge part of Florida’s painful 18-3 record against the Dogs from 1990-2010. Nothing gives an underdog a better shot and more confidence than big plays in the kicking game and winning the turnover battle. Georgia’s defense must play well against Florida’s running game, which features, talented, highly touted backs, and pressure the quarterback. Jeff Driskel and Treon Harris both figure to play. Georgia forced the Gators into six turnovers with Driskel at quarterback in 2012. He and Harris are both

2009 Honda Accord LXP

STK#T505

$13995 2011 Honda CRV EX

2011 Honda Accord EXL

$19995 2005 Lexus LS430

STK# T621

STK# U82199A

$13988

$13988

STK# T624

$22985 Hyundai Elantra GLS Sedan

$17995 2011 Honda Accord EXL

STK# T540

STK#wT623

$15995

STK# T629

2012 Honda Civic EXL Nav

STK#T525A

$19995

2014 Chevrolet Cruze LT

$16988

STK# U72173B

2013 Nissan Versa SV

2011 Ford Expedition EL XLT

STK# T579

STK# T538

dangerous runners and passers. It was Harris who sparked Florida’s fourth quarter rally from a 9-0 deficit at Tennessee to lead the Gators to a 10-9 victory. Harris was later accused of a crime and missed the LSU game. The charges were dropped and Harris is back in the fold. Having two full weeks to get ready for the Bulldogs is certainly a huge boost for Harris and the Gator offense. Georgia’s defense has to contain the gaps, “set the edge,” and avoid giving up the big play. Finally on offense, it goes through these magnificent tailbacks. Perhaps Sony Michel will be back. Maybe Gurley. Brendan Douglas is a strong runner up the middle. And then there is Chubb. When Georgia lines up with a fullback out of the “Power I” and feeds an All-American caliber tailback, the Bulldogs running game is tough to slow down. It also sets up the play-action pass from Hutson Mason. This game always has a different feel. The crowd is 50/50, so there is always at least half of the throng on fire with noise and energy, and often if it is tight, both sides are roaring. There are bound to be ups and downs, it is how Georgia responds to these, staying focused, that will key the Bulldogs chances of another victory on the Banks of the mighty St. John’s. And remember, the days of the first time something went wrong and Georgia’s players and fans saying “here we go again,” those days are over. It is Georgia which has won three straight. A fourth straight victory over the Bulldogs would have the Georgia people grinning ear-to-ear and the hopes and dreams of 2014 alive and thriving.

2010 Mazda CX7

STK#U2162B

$22995

photo by Rob Saye

$13995

$18995

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 5


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

ON THE FIELD

THE BIG FIVE By Murray Poole Bulldawg Illustrated Many, many college football observers see the surging Georgia Bulldogs (6-1, 4-1 SEC) spanking the reeling Florida Gators (3-3, 2-3) good this coming Saturday in the 93rd rendition of this great rivalry, at EverBank Field in Jacksonville. And by all rights the Bulldogs, who have clicked to five consecutive wins after the disappointing loss at South Carolina, should storm to their fourth straight victory over a Gator team that has stumbled and bumbled its last two games against LSU and Missouri after earlier squeaking out narrow wins over Kentucky and Tennessee. But wait just a minute! Everyone who has followed Georgia vs. Florida down through the decades knows how whacky this series can be, how on numerous occasions the heavy underdog has risen up and smitten the heavy favorite. Here’s a bonafide example that both the Bulldogs and Gators can perhaps derive motivation from: In the fall of 1985, the Florida Gators came into the old Gator Bowl with a 7-0-1 record and ranked for the first time ever as the No. 1 team in America by the AP poll. Needless to say, Florida was a prohibitive favorite to romp over a Georgia team that would go on to finish just 7-3-2 that season, a win that would perhaps propel the Gators on to the ‘85 national championship. Well, all you UGA historians know what happen that sun-kissed afternoon in Jacksonville. With both Keith Henderson and Tim Worley each running for more than 100 yards, the Dawgs turned the giant water lizards every which way but loose en route to a stunning 24-3 upset of Florida. So, Gators, there’s your motivation in reverse. This year you can be like Georgia in 1985 and jump up and stun the favored Bulldogs. And Georgia, you would do well to look back on the history of this game and know that anything can, and will, happen if you aren’t prepared to bring your best game against UF. But certainly, despite all the bad things that

have happened to this Florida football team the past two seasons, and with UGA alumnus Will Muschamp’s coaching future in Gainesville hanging by a mere thread, the Gators still have the athletes to upset the University of Georgia Saturday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. (CBS-TV), and here are the Big Five factors that will be key in them doing so:

1. This is Georgia, rally the troops

Fact of the matter, this is the season for the Gators. You can bring a lot of Orange and Blue alumni and fans back into your camp by jolting the Bulldogs. And you can do that by putting together the best game of your season to remain firmly in the SEC East title picture.

2. Get that passing game going

When Arkansas couldn’t run on the Bulldogs’ defense weekend before last, Razorbacks QB Brandon Allen went to the air lanes in the second half and threw for 296 yards and three touchdowns. Sure, junior Jeff Driskel (No. 6) has had 12 turnovers in the last four games and freshman Treon Harris (3) has played hot and cold but in sophomore receiver Demarcus Robinson (11), who has 34 receptions for 524 yards and four touchdowns, you Gators have one of the nation’s best pass catchers. There’s bound to be seams at times in the Georgia secondary. Get the ball to Robinson and good things can happen Saturday.

3. O-line, step up and provide running room

Florida’s offensive line simply must come together Saturday and open the holes for the Gators’ capable tailbacks, Matt Jones (24), who has run for 424 yards, and touted sophomore Kelvin Taylor (21), who has totaled just 209 thus far. Both are big backs, Jones at 6-2, 235, and Taylor at 5-10, 209 and are capable of moving the sticks against Georgia ... that is, if the guys up front can create space against the Bulldogs’ good run defense.

www.gatorzone.com

4. Smack the Dawgs’ offense in the mouth from the start

This Gator defense was supposed to be one of the best in the country at the start of the 2014 season but it’s been a bit up and down thus far. Still, even in the most recent 42-13 loss to Missouri, the Gators held the Tigers to meager offensive stats, only to buckle under when Missouri (primarily Marcus Murphy) ran back kickoffs, punts, interceptions and fumbles for touchdowns. Get All-SEC cornerback Vernon Hargreaves (1), def. end Dante Fowler (6) and linebacker Antonio Morrison (3), the team’s leading tackler, playing at a fever pitch and do the job on Gurley, Chubb and the rest of the Bulldogs’ offense. Indeed, Gator defense, you are the key to this football game.

5. Don’t kill yourself, Gators

Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers ... the biggest thorn in Florida’s side this season long. Florida, you are capable of defeating Georgia on Saturday but you can’t do it unless you avoid the lost fumbles, the costly interceptions, the damaging penalties. In other words, play nearly mistake-free football Saturday afternoon and you can get the Bulldogs in a 60-minute battle and somehow, find a way to win it!

RestoRing Function. RestoRing quality oF liFe.

Back row L to R: Michael J. sullivan, M.D.; Frank clements, Pa-c; Beau sasser, M.D.; Gary M. Mcclain, M.D. Front Row L to R: Karah Brown, Pa-c; J. Melvin Deese, M.D.; Denny a. carter, M.D.; Katherine L. Maurath, M.D.; Buck cavalier, M.D. Musculoskeletal conditions and injuries can cripple your quality of life. The physicians at Summit Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery, a strategic affiliate of Southeast Georgia Health System, focus on reducing pain, restoring function and improving your quality of life by using the latest treatment techniques and a minimally invasive approach. The board-certified physicians and orthopaedic surgeons at Summit Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery offer treatment options for everything from simple fractures to sports injuries to the most complex conditions. Our orthopaedic specialists offer comprehensive care in all areas of orthopaedics including: n Foot and ankle n Physical medicine and rehabilitation n Spine n Hand and wrist n Joint replacement n Sports medicine

Locations Wellness Way Medical Office Complex Medical Plaza 2060 Dan Proctor Drive, Suite 1400 7000 Wellness Way, Suite 7110 St. Simons Island, GA 31522 St. Marys, GA 31558 912-466-5570 912-576-6355 Summit Professional Plaza 1111 Glynco Parkway Bldg. 1, Suite 35 and Bldg. 2, Suite 100 Brunswick, GA 31525 912-262-9961 For more information or to make an appointment, please call the Summit Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery location nearest you.

A strategic affiliate of Southeast Georgia Health System

facebook.com/SGHScares 6 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

southeast georgia Health system is a tobacco-free organization.

sghs.org 9/2014 © 2014 SGHS


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

ON THE FIELD

THE BIG FIVE

2. Win the turnover battle

By Logan Booker Bulldawg Illustrated

Coming off the bye week, Georgia fans are still enjoying another big win on the road as they are still the only non-SEC West team to beat a SEC West school. Frankly, Arkansas didn’t see what hit them as freshman RB Nick Chubb went for over 200 yards and the defense played strong in a blowout of the Hogs. But this week is different. This week is always different, and for good reason. The boys now travel to Jacksonville to face one of, if not the most hated teams amongst the Georgia fanbase. And although Florida has been struggling big time this season, no Georgia fan in their right mind will tell you they ever feel overly-confident about facing the Gators. And if Georgia fans want to enjoy that long, likely hung over car ride home this coming Sunday, the Bulldogs will have to have a few things go their way. Something that hasn’t always happened when it was suppose to during the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.

1. Run Nick, Run Please note at the deadline of writing this, the status of superstar running back Todd Gurley is still not known. And while he is expected by many to be cleared to play in this Saturday’s game, I do not even need to know his status to write that freshman Nick Chubb will have to keep doing what he’s been doing. He has completely won over the fanbase during big road wins against Missouri and Arkansas where he has been asked to average 34 carries a game. Whether Gurley is back or not, Chubb will be asked to either carry another similar load or be a viable fill-in when Gurley will need a break. Run the damn ball this week with success, and Georgia will be tough to beat.

Creating nine turnovers in the past two games has all of a sudden vaulted Georgia to No. 1 in the nation in turnover margin at +13. Not bad for first-year defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt and a bunch of inexperienced young pups in the secondary. Florida has shown lately that they are the opposite of Georgia and thoroughly enjoy turning the ball over more than they take it away. This game as always proven that turnovers will be vital and this game will be no different. The trends from both teams will need to continue while producing points for Georgia in order to see the favorite color of Georgia fans in the fourth quarter: teal seats on the Florida side of the stadium.

3. Offensive line needs some more love Nick Chubb and Todd Gurley get all the praise when the running game has worked this season. But the equation to make such success happen starts with the big ugly buffet-killers on the offensive line. They showed once again at Arkansas that they can open holes up against a big defense, and such trends cannot slow down this week versus the Gators. The defense has been the lone strong point for a Florida team that has struggled mightily, and the offensive line needs to once again play big.

4. Quincy Mauger keeps catching footballs Every week, opposing quarterbacks’ goal is for sophomore free safety Quincy Mauger to not catch any footballs. But over the last two games, Mauger has upset an opposing quarterback’s mood three times. Possibly the most improved member of the secondary under new defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt, the sophomore has shown he has the potential to be a playmaker. When he has not been intercepting passes he has been disrupting them and has laid the wood

photo by Rob Saye

more than once showing he can be a big hitter. A far cry from the guy that tried to shoulder tackle last season in the Gator Bowl, which resulted in a 99-yard TD pass for Nebraska. Mauger needs to be ready again, as Florida has proven it has no real pass threat. So if the run game doesn’t work for the Gators, a big day – once again – may be in store for Mauger.

5.

UGA seniors get a HUGE opportunity…

For the seniors on this Georgia team that did not take a redshirt at any point, this Saturday gives them the opportunity to say what no senior class since 1983 can say: “We never lost to Florida.” A phrase which certainly carries with it a lifetime of bragging rights and good feelings whenever they look up to see that Georgia-Florida week has once again rolled around. Players over time may be inducted into the Georgia-Florida Hall of Fame or make a big play that will fall into the lore of this game forever, but to say they have never lost should be held on a pedestal just as high. Not to mention, if they win, it would continue Gators head coach Will Muschamp’s forced claim that he has never won in Jacksonville.

Matt Presnell, B Presnell, Martha Henderson, Laura Wilfong

BEST STEAKHOUSE 11 Y E A R S R U N N I N G JEZEBEL MAGAZINE READER SURVEY

ATHENS is a CLASSIC . . .

your HOME should be too !

NEXT TO THE RITZ-C ARLTON BUCKHEAD • 404.846.0644 www.NEWYORKPRIME.com

Old Farm

St. George

Tallassee Farms

Five Points

Jennings Mill

Tanglebrook

1690 S. Lumpkin St. www.AthensClassicProperties.com

706.543.3800

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 7


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

JEFF DANTZLER

A View From ... Jacksonville By Jeff Dantzler Bulldawg Illustrated

Frank Frangie is one of the top college football minds in America. He is a highly respected and popular talk show host in Jacksonville on 1010XL/92.5 FM. Frank is the president of SportsDay Productions and can be seen and heard on various television and radio broadcasts throughout the south. Do you anticipate extra emotion and fire from Florida for this one considering the coaching situation? Maybe a little, but that is a fractured team. With a fractured psyche. Can they conjure up a little emotion at first? Maybe. But I think this is a group just trying to get through the season. Florida probably should’ve beaten LSU, and the Missouri game got out of hand due to all the returns, do you anticipate the Gators being at their best for Georgia? They will play hard, just not sure what their best is. No rhythm on offense, the receivers haven’t developed at all. They are playing a true freshman quarterback. Florida is still very good on defense, which will keep them in the game for a while. What does Florida need to do to win? Hope Georgia confuses the weekends and doesn’t show up! Honestly, I can’t imagine how Florida can win this one. Not since the 80s do I remember a game where the Gators had no chance, but this is it. Their best chance is they find magic with Treon Harris, the true freshman quarterback, score early and gain a bit of confidence. They need takeaways. And Georgia is so good at turnover margin. I just don’t see it.

What is your take on Georgia? From afar, it appears to be one of Mark Richt’s best teams. I know they have struggled on defense but I think that group has started to find itself. And offensively they are so good. The backs are unreal. Think about this – with everyone healthy, it’s some combination of Gurley, Chubb, Michel, Marshall, Douglas. That’s 5-deep with J. J. Green on defense. Well, at Florida, I think Green would start at running back. Not kidding, I think J. J. Green would be the Gators’ starting tailback. Obviously, the question is can Hutson Mason win a big game like all quarterbacks have to at some point? That is the unknown. But I think the Dawgs are awfully good. jaxevents.com

How surprised are you with what has gone on in the SEC West this year? I’m shocked that BOTH Mississippi schools are that good. The rest is no big surprise. Alabama is really good, Auburn is not far behind, and LSU is rebuilding. I expected that. I am surprised that A&M is struggling quite as much as they are. But the Mississippi schools are the real surprise. Who do you think plays in Atlanta for the SEC title? Alabama and Georgia. I think Bama wins. What is the pulse of the Florida faithful now? Exhausted, over it, and ready for a change. It is a bit incredulous that it has happened the way it has, that this team has sunk so far. People were angry with Ron Zook – but remember, Zook, in the regular season, was 8-4, 8-4 and 7-4. If his last year was a 12-game schedule and there would have been another patsy, he would have had 3 eight-win seasons. He also was 16-8 in SEC games.

36TH ANNUAL

OCTOBER 28-30, 2015

And he was run out of town. Imagine how the fans feel now. I’ve always liked Muschamp, he is a really good guy. But after Georgia beats them, he will be 15-15 in SEC games. Zook was 16-8 and got fired. What are some of the things that make this game so special to you? I’m biased because I’m born and raised in Jacksonville, and went to Florida, but I think it is one of the greatest spectacles in sports. The events during the week, those RVs rolling into town on Wednesday and Thursday, parties all over town on Friday night, evenly divided stadium on Saturday. The colors and pageantry, the border war. The history. Herschel and Emmitt and Buck to Lindsey and Wuerffel to Doering and on and on and on. It is just an amazing deal. A quick note for you: I’ve attended the last 32 of these, but will miss this one. I am on assignment as the new voice of the Jaguars. It’s breaking my heart. Cheers.

• All inclusive event • Practice round plus two tournament rounds • Breakfast at the course with Bloody Marys & Screwdrivers • Lunch cookout with cold beverages • Thursday night Rockin’ Seafood Feast with Memorabilia Auction and Live Music • Friday night Pre-Game Party at Latitude 31° ‘Rah’ Bar

Save the Date and Join Us Next Year!

/jekyllisland 8 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

/jekyll_island

/jekyll_island

jekyllisland.com/ga-fl-weekend


From Green To Shining Green

GolfLakeOconee.com Over 130 holes await you at our 7 world-class golf courses designed by master architects to fit beautifully along the rolling hills surrounding Lake Oconee.

We Are Georgia’s Golf Country! GolfLakeOconee.com


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

LORAN SMITH

Charley Britt huge in ‘59 Gators win Including 100 yard interception for a touchdown

In 1959, there generally was the pre-season notion that the three powerhouse teams—LSU, Ole Miss and Auburn would fight it out for the Southeastern Conference championship. Auburn, although on probation and bowl ineligible, had won the National Championship in 1957 and still was overflowing with seasoned and competent football players. LSU won the national title in 1958 and were led by Billy Cannon, who would win the Heisman Trophy. There was plenty of talent in Baton Rouge as there was in Oxford where Johnny Vaught had All American Jake Gibbs at quarterback and depth at every position. A funny thing happened, however, on the way to the SEC title. Georgia got in the way, an upstart team led by quarterbacks Fran Tarkenton and Charley Britt.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

On Halloween night in Bator Rouge, a damp, misty night, Billy Cannon fielded a high bouncing punt and returned it 89 yards for a touchdown which enabled the Tigers to knock Ole Miss out of the race. The next week in Knoxville, LSU struggled against Tennessee and was upset, 14-13 when Cannon was stopped on a two point conversion attempt. That eliminated LSU. Had the conversion attempt been successful, LSU would have remained undefeated in conference play.

• • • •

This put the other powerhouse team, Auburn, which had been tied by Tennessee, in the driver’s seat to win the conference championship, but the Tigers lost to Georgia in Athens. The Bulldogs became SEC champions. To get to the Auburn game undefeated with the opportunity to play for the championship, the Bulldogs had to defeat a capable Florida team in the old Gator Bowl in Jacksonville. The Gators were favored, but the Bulldogs, led by the heroics of quarterback-safety, Charley Britt, and a goal line stand from the two yard line won the game, 21-10. The Gators had first and goal, but could not advance the ball over the goal line. A pass to Bobby Joe Green, who had been clocked in :09.5 in the 100 yard dash, in the 2nd quarter had moved Florida 70 yards by air to the Georgia two yard line. Britt sprinted from behind to catch Green. As it turned out, Britt’s great play saved a touchdown as the Georgia defense subsequently held Florida on downs. Britt, alluding to the demanding expectations of his coach Wallace Butts, quipped that Green “was running for a touchdown. I was running for my life.” In addition to his defensive gem, Britt directed a 43 yard touchdown drive on the Bulldog’s first possession. Later, following a 27 yard punt return, Britt then threw a 35 yard touchdown pass to Bobby Towns.

GEORGIA DAWGS

• • • •

“ LADY DAWG ” HEADQUARTERS FOR 40 YEARS

20 % OFF STOREWIDE SPORTSWEAR 2-16 ★ PLUS SIZE SECTION 1X-3X ACCESSORIES ★ GIFTS 1616 Frederica Road ★ St. Simons Island 912-638-3995 ★ 10- 5:30 MON.-SAT.

• • • • OPEN GA/FLA SUNDAY 12-4 • • • •

10 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

By Loran Smith Bulldawg Illustrated

With the Gators fighting to stay in the game, Britt dealt Florida a dagger to the heart in the third quarter. The Gators had driven down to the Georgia eleven, where on fourth and seven, the quarterback threw a pass toward the end zone. Pat Dye tipped the ball at the line of scrimmage, Britt intercepted and raced one hundred yards plus yards for a touchdown. The dominating Dogs had won another critical conference game. Georgia would win a close one between the hedges a week later versus Auburn to clinch the conference championship -- but to get to that point, the Bulldogs had to take care of business in Jacksonville. To accomplish that objective would not have been likely without Charley Britt enjoying his finest moment in a Georgia uniform.

Plantation Dental Associates and Dr. Jack Melton welcome Dr. Chase Hopkins to the Golden Isles

Charles T. Hopkins, III DMD

Jack H. Melton, DMD

General and Restorative Dentistry

Go Dawgs! 300 Main Street Suite 101

St. Simons Island, GA

912-638-9001


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

CLASSIC CITY FROM A TO Z

A: ARCH

The Arch is the main welcome to campus and myth has it that if you walk underTOP it before receiving your diploma, you will never graduate.

B: B52s

The B52s is the legendary new wave band formed in Athens, Georgia in 1976.

C: COMMUNITY

Pop by this downtown shop for redesigned vintage and handmade items by local designers.

D: DAWGS

The proper spelling according to Georgia football fans. #dawgs

E: ERK RUSSELL This legendary and beloved defensive coordinator (1964-1980) merited the term Junkyard Dawgs!

F: FIVE & TEN

At Chef Hugh Acheson’s flagship restaurant, you can expect a fresh approach to Southern food in an historically preserved home.

G: GEORGIA THEATRE Landmark standing-room-only rock ‘n’ roll venue with a rooftop restaurant and bar. Built in 1889, the community venue has served as anything from a YMCA to a movie theatre and now the South’s favorite music venue.

H: HEERY’S CLOTHES CLOSET S‘ ince 1959, Heery’s Clothes Closet in the heart of downtown Athens has

artist Jamie Calkin

brought the latest trends and hottest fashions to ladies of all ages.

This week, we are all

Bulldogs! Good Luck from the

College of Coastal Georgia

Mariners

Stop by campus if you’re visiting the Golden Isles.

www.ccga.edu — 912-279-5701

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 11


CLASSIC CITY FROM A TO Z

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

I: INTELLECTUALS

The University of Georgia is one of the most decorated and prestigious state universities in the country.

J: JITTERY JOE’S

A specialty coffee roaster based in Athens with hip coffee shops packed with students and locals studying and working.

K: KITCHENS Athens has some of the best restaurants and chefs in the south and the nation!

L: LARRY MUNSON

The legendary voice of the Georgia Bulldogs and the greatest college football announcer ever.

M: MILLEDGE AVENUE

Milledge is one of the best Greek promenades in America.

N: NORTH CAMPUS

One of the most picturesque collegiate settings anywhere.

O: OCONEE RIVER GREENWAY

You can bike and walk this beautiful wildlife corridor.

P: PARTY

Athens, Georgia is America’s best college town featuring an unparalleled downtown scene.

Q: QUE

Check out Harry’s Barbecue for delicious pulled pork and pork tenderloin sliders. The traditional squash casserole is the bomb.

R: R.E.M.

Arguably the greatest American rock bands ever! Formed in Athens in 1980 by singer Michael Stipe, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and drummer Bill Berry.

UGA HOCKEY’S first season in athens! ®

thursday, october 30 7:00 PM

clemson

Public Safety Appreciation night

Caramel Apple French Toast Available November 1, 2014

AN APPLE A DAY…

50% off tickets

for police, fire and EMS personnel! See box office for details.

Familiar Food with Flair Serving Daily 7 AM - 2 PM

TICKETS STARTING AT ONLY $7! * Check out UGAHockey.com for more info & updates! * ClassicCenter.com • 706-357-4444 300 N. Thomas St. • Downtown Athens 12 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

Scan QR Code to Like us on Facebook

Scan QR Code to follow us on Instagram.

Now Open In Athens @ 1650 S Lumpkin St


S: SANFORD STADIUM Between TOP the hedges ... one of college football’s most iconic venues.

T: TWILIGHT CRITERIUM

Twilight is a weekend of bicycle races and events that has taken place every Spring since 1980. The pro cyclists racing through downtown Athens is an electric sight.

U: UGA IV

The world’s greatest mascot lives here on football Saturdays in Athens.

V: VARSITY

The Varsity has been serving world famous chilidogs in Athens for 74 years. What’ll ya have?!?

W: WALKER As in Herschel, the legendary #34 is the greatest running back to ever come out of Athens.

X: XYLAPHONE

The xylaphone is a favorite instrument in the Red Coat Marching Band.

Y: YMCA

Athens has the second oldest Y in the nation. Athens Y Camp located in Tallulah Falls is a rite of passage for many gentlemen from Athens and beyond.

Z: ZOO Yes, there is a zoo in Athens in Memorial Park. The Bear Hollow Zoo even has a black bear.

Beautifully Crafted Island Luxury from the $200s Now it's easy to own a second home on the island. The Palmetto Building Group offers the very best in Newly Constructed condos and town homes. Make the island your home away from home and your perfect Bulldog getaway. THE

RESERVE AT DEMERE

Make the island home.

912.638.3120

palmettobuildinggroup.com

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 13


COAST FROM A TO Z - ENJOY THE GOLDEN ISLES FOR GA/FLA

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

A: ANTIQUES & ACCESSORIES from Two Friends We love the staff and selection from this fab shop in Redfern!

TOP

B: BULLDOG TERRITORY

St. Simons’ Frederica Road is a sea of Red & Black for GA/FLA with car flags flying proudly

C: COASTLINE We are proud of our coastline and its barrier islands St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island and Jekyll Island with the salt marshes, tidal rivers and sounds.

D: DAIRY LANE BBQ

We realize this burger and shake joint is in Sandersville, GA but anyone in the know stops here on the drive between Athens and the Golden Isles.

E: ECO-LIFE Enjoy the vast unspoiled natural beauty and wildlife of the Golden Isles. It is a habitat for birds and marine life and especially our beloved loggerhead sea turtles (Jekyll is the home of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center).

F: FRAT BEACH

Thousands of young Bulldog fans gather on the beach on Friday; this year Halloween costumes should make for extra fun people watching.

G: GOLF Dubbed the golf capital of the United States, there are 198 holes of golf in the Golden Isles. PGA golfer Davis Love, III brought The McGladrey Classic to the area five years ago.

H: HORIZONS

Enjoy gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The sun is equally majestic above the beach or the marsh, glistening off the water.

CAPITAN

TM

COLLECTION

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

The World’s Greatest Men’s Rings

134 Retreat Plaza St. Simons Island 912.638.4061

“Good Boy” Bulldog

Ned%Cash%Jewelers

1418 Newcastle Street Historic Downtown Brunswick 912-264-0012 www.nedcashjewelers.com

The Store With The Big Clock Out Front

www.petitemaisonssi.com • 100 Redfern Village, St Simons Island • 912.638.0130 14 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com


I: INLET

On the northern tip of East Beach, at the end of Bruce Drive, is Gould’s Inlet: a great place to go crabbing.

J: JEKYLL ISLAND

WE’RE PR PROUD ROUD and T TO O S SUPPOR SUPPORT the thousands of guests whoT arrive today, the Island is a haven of history and

From the Native American and British settlers to the Jekyll Island Club millionaires

Loran Smith

wonder. Jekyll is host of the 35th Annual Georgia-Florida Golf Classic, featuring former Dawg and Gator players serving as the event’s official celebrities.

Athens TD club owes a lot to Candler Meadors Help us march mar ch tto o a million dollars K: KAYAK THROUGH THE MARSHES ffor or the A thens sc Athens community! ommunity! Enjoy the Golden Isles while getting scenic exercise with a fabulouse

Please visit athenshealth.org/ITSDonations athenshealth..org/ITSDonations & kayak tour. onate tto oT eam Alic e in W allkerland and T he P eeps donate Team Alice Walkerland The Peeps

The Touchdown Club of Athens had its beginning in 1946, organized to support Georgia football after World War II. L: LIGHTHOUSE The year '46 was a very good year. Located near the village and pier, the St. Simons Lighthouse is one onlyyear fiveof Charley Trippi was in hisoffinal eligibility, Wallace Butts in his heyday as a surviving light towers in Georgia. It is home of the Coastal Georgia Historical college coach, the master of the passing Society and A. W. Jones Heritage Center. tame. What a season to remember! Georgia won the national championship with an undefeated season and a 20-10 victory over North Carolina in the Sugar Bowl M: MAGGIE’S BOUTIQUE New Year's day, 1947. Trippi was chosen Dawg fans have been shopping at this Lady Dawg Headquarters 1974. by the since Maxwell committee as college football's outstanding player. They have tons of UGA accessories including an annual commemorative tee. Not many touchdown and quarterback clubs flourish today. First of all, sitting coaches won't take the time to travel N: NEIGHBORLY and speak. Even with the use of an airEveryone is warm and welcoming and local businesses love the GA/FLA plane, it still would take, even for a short haul, three or more hours to speak to a holiday as much as the Fourth of July. Candler Meadors with Gene Stallings club within a couple hundred miles. O: OCEAN Coaches make too much money today to thusiastic fans of Georgia football. BasTheThe mighty Atlantic is the Golden Isles natural resource. Team Alice in Walkerland and Peeps: makegreatest the effort to speak in the hinterlands ketball too. For years he has served on the statistician crew for Bulldog basketball. for $1,500.00 or less. (l-r) Alice Gaylene Ward, Kelley Blanton (l r) Cindy Clark, Anne Hansen, H Alice Pruitt, G aylene W ard, K elley Blant on At the meetings of the club, he was Since its inception, the Touchdown P: PIER Club of Athens, has had three secretaries: the welcoming committee, reservation coQ: QUE Their Shoes one-day walk IIn nT heithey rS hocatch es iis s aat113.1-mile 3feeding .1-mile o ne-day w alk tto o Check out all of the sharks time Harry Atwell, who was the first. He was ordinator, ticket dispenser, troubleshooter Every trip to St.by Simons hould include to grabwith some the South’s and greeter an of eternal smile of goodfollowed Jimmy Island Hayes who gave up the a trip recognize those who have lived with cancer and raise r e c o g n i z e t h o s e w h o h a v e l i v e d w i t h c a n c e r a n d r a i se or enjoy a libation on one of the decks at Brogen’s. will and good cheer. From his seat at the role in 1981. Candler Meadors sucbest barbeque at Southern Soul Barbeque. Their instagram will leave you Loran Smith Center Cancer Support. ffunds unds ffor or tthe he L oran S mith C enter ffor or C ancer S upport. ceeded Hayes and isyour in hisnext last year as ex- head table, he was always an attentive lisdrooling and longing for visit. The Center provides non-medical support services T he C enter p rovides n on-medical s upport s ervices ecutive secretary, having served in this tener to every speaker, always asking enatt n no charge) anyone community. ((most most a oc harge) tto oa nyone iin n tthe he c ommunity. capacity for 32 years. He will still be with thusiastic questions. He loved being part R: RED BARN of the exciting atmosphere of the Touchus, however, as Secretary Emeritus. Bennie’s Red Barn has been an island tradition since 1954. Servers the char- down Club of Athens. Candler who Harry Atwell was anrecite interesting acter, given and to innocent name dropping. joined the club in 1958 is one of the most menu tableside and here is an insider tip, ask for Johhny after you enjoy He had a mid-western background and senior members. You can count on your steak and seafood, finish off the evening with awas Racoon. friendly with Big Ten luminaries along left hand those who have been members He has been a with personalities like Frank Leahy, Notre longer than Candler. Dame head coach. Hayes ran McGregor member of the board of directors for 53 Printing Co. for years and was a quiet, years and served as President of the club soft-spoken type who enjoyed the club so- in 1967. As a businessman, he was in sales cials and particularly appreciated the wit and humor of well known coaching per- with Heyward Allen Motor Company for sonalities who often visited the club-- 26 years before taking over his own dealFrank Howard of Clemson, Peahead ership, Meadors Mercedes Benz, VolkWalker of Wake Forest and, of course, swagen which he operated for 12 years.. Candler, who grew up in Atlanta, reGeorgia's colorful coach, Wallace Butts. Candler has served the club longer than ceived his business degree from UGA in any officer and has worked with Georgia 1951and served in the Air Force 1951-53. coaches from Wallace Butts to Vince Doo- In high school, he rode a street car to Boys High where he played football and was ley to Mark Richt. For years, Candler managed the op- voted "most athletic" by his senior class. "We appreciate Candler's long time erations of the Touchdown Club, handling all the administrative chores, managing loyalty to the Touchdown Club and his the checkbook, collecting dues, supervis- love of the Bulldogs. If you pick the most ing the accounting which, for years, in- loyal friend of the University of Georgia, cluded a $50.00 contribution to the you would have to give consideration to Georgia Athletic Association. He wore Candler. For sure he loves the Dawgs," many hats within the organization: Coor- says Greg McGarity, Georgia athletic didinating the meeting dates with the rector. Mark Richt, Bulldog head coach, says, Athens Country Club, sending out the meeting notices, taking reservations, "We need more fans like Candler Meadors. choosing the menu, facilitating the meet- He is always loyal to our program and is ings, corresponding with speakers, book- forever ready to extend a helping hand." If those who appreciate Candler's keeping, setting up meetings of the officers and board of directors, keeping contributions to the Touchdown Club of the files in order and being the cheerful Athens, bellied up to the bar to toast him face of the Touchdown Club of Athens. for his years of work, the bartender would All the while, he was one of the most en- have to work overtime to fill the orders.

intheirshoesathens.org intheirsho oesathens s.org

The Wedding Bowl H Shadron Pottery 912-638-0846 www.hshadronpottery.com

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 15


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

COAST FROM A TO Z - ENJOY THE GOLDEN ISLES FOR GA/FLA

S: SEA ISLAND RESORT #happyplace Whether listening to the bagpiper while overlooking the St. Simons Sound at The TOP

Lodge, enjoying the tranquil view of the Black Banks River from The Cloister or hanging out at the Beach Club, it is an experience that is hard to beat.

T: TIBI OUTLET

TIBI owner and creative director is St. Simons native and UGA graduate Amy Wallin Smilovic. Her warehouse in Brunswick ships to major retailers worldwide and locals benefit from the outlet in Redfern Village on St. Simons Island.

U: UPSET

Georgia beat the top ranked Gators 24-3 in 1985.

V: VINCE DOOLEY

Coach Dooley was 17-7-1 against the Florida Gators. He frequents the Golden Isles as often as possible.

W: WILLIE’S WEENIE WAGON Home of the world’s best pork chop sandwich, this is a must visit in Brunswick!

X: X

It is the ten year anniversary of the 31-24 win over Florida and the end of a 6 year Gator streak.

Y: YARDS

93 yards, the length of the Buck Belue to Lindsay Scott game winning touchdown in 1980 that led to the national title.

Z: ZIGGY’S Think Johnny’s Hideaway goes Coastal.” This island institution and party destination has been around since 1994.

Two Friends a boutique ... a lifestyle St. Simons Island

www.twofriends2.com 16 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

GREEK GRIND

MC Chris Conley Macy Grattafiori, Emily Simmons, Dina Ghioto

Megan Mowers, Ann Patrick Meagher, Hope Kitchen, TOP Haley Terrell, Catherine Bowden, Erica Wells

Catherine Conner, Lindsay Brush, Ashley Baker, Nicole Villablanca, Nicole Tate

Macy Spottspood, Maddy Renaud, Annie Kate Snyder, Caroline Weidhaas

Macy Grattafiori Front- Audrey Thorn, Mary Elizabeth Nipper, Dina Ghioto, Ali Hoeffner, Lauren Matthews, Macy Grattafiori, Stephanie Carlquist, Anna Sherry Middle- Chris Conley, Alyssa Griffin, Miss Becky, Molly Pierson, Natalie Roe, Hannah Borgerding, Lauren Matthews, Nicole Waites, Emily Simmons, Ashton Dickinson, Kenzie Cash, Navie Birdwell Back- Janae Lunsford, Blaize Burley, Darby Miller, Rachel Ham, Maci Williams, Kate Ackerman, Caroline Houston, Jameson Kenerly, Adeline Kenerly, Nicole Weaver, Sydney Mohr, Pate Duddleston

Top- Nicole Weaver, Rachel Ham, Stephanie Carlquist BottomAdeline Kenerly, Ali Hoeffner, Natalie Roe, Dina Ghioto

McCall Stiles and Katerina Papadopolous

White snake lace Daniella combo top by Parker Black Indio full skirt by Rachel Zoe Black Sukie scallop bootie by Loeffler Randall Black Luna X body by Marc by Marc Jacobs Whitney sunglasses by Tom Ford Double onyx tear drop earrings by Theodosia

195 College Avenue Athens, GA 706.543.0702

heerys.com TIBI • Annie Griffin • Twine & Twig Clover Canyon • Rebecca Taylor • DVF • Clare V Vita Fede • Chan Luu • J Brand • Paige •Joie • Vince

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 17


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Georgia 45 Arkansas 32

Rob Ley, Kathleen Wilson, Corde Wilson and Candler Wilson

Michael Kobito, Ian Labreck, Geanna Gault and Robert Davidson

Jim Purcell, Sam Purcell, Scott Beaver and Liz and Jeff Bell

Brooke DeVore, Rett Evans, Madeleine Mattesky and Katherine Moody

Paul Johnson, John Ponder, Kent Layton and Patrick Murphy

Scott Fitzgerald, Chad Cannady and Todd Damato

Caroline Wright, Lynn Campbell and Debbie Gossett

Betsy Polhill

Julie Martin

Carol Warner

Mack Guest, Jay Lowe and Camilla Guest

Faith Pinnel, Jake Bearden and Buck Bearden

Donna Hoh

Ruth Heyward

Marie Sigman

David and Alexandra Hoffman and Louie Duvall

Mary Jo Prater

Dana Gardner

Patsy Bryan

Get a New Dawg House at the Beach Call Signature Properties Group 912-634-9995

Judy Ballard

Wendi O’Connor

Love Where You Live Go Dawgs

600 Sea Island Road, Suite 28, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 SignaturePropertiesGroup.com

Amy Houston

Joan Lewis

Gene Hoaster

18 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

Kathleen Haller

Janice Jones

Linda Wood

Ann Barnes

Phoebe Hoaster

Lesley Flournoy

Bill Keim

Zaida Harris


OFF THE FIELD

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

Georgia 45 Arkansas 32

Kelly Mason, Aaron Kublanow, Kirk Mason, Susan Kublanow and Daulton Mason

Chase Hudson, Kelin Johnson, John Stelling and Christian Robinson

Don Wagner, Doug Ford, Brandon Ford and Drew Brosnan

Rick Floyd, Joe Greiner and Chris Van Asch

Calvin Green, Karla Williams and Carl Green

Jerry and Lynn Campbell, Mike Wright and Debbie and Gary Gossett

Jimmy Taylor, Lee Greene and Rob Saye

Kim and Dan Diaz

Lijah Galas and Eric Hager

Ted Ridlehuber and Bubba Haupe

Kitty and Tim Keadle

Nick Chubb and Alex Smith

OFFICIAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

Athens Regional Health System looks forward to every exciting football game and to providing unmatched care for the fans.

We’re the #1 fan of those we serve. AthensHealth.org

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 19


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Sharon Maxey, Alyssa Moore and Travis Maxey

Bret Bielema and Mark Richt

Georgia 45 Arkansas 32

Jonas Thrasher-Evers, Mac McWhorter and Jonathan McWhorter

Zsolt Sandor, Jeff Gardner, Blake Gardner, William Anderson and Brock Gardner

Joan Lewis, Shelly Rosenblatt and Debbie Hutcherson

Bob Hope, Michael Rosing, David Thomas, Phillip Rosing and Frank Parker

Bob Odum, Rodney England and Brandon McEachern

Tim Hall and George Lee

Lee Pinnel and Jenni and Jay Carpenter

Greg Smith and Harvey Elerson

Alma Smith and David Smith

David Perrie and Jennifer Stitcher

Josh Stockton and Dennis Stockton

Christopher and Rafaella Wilson

Allison Van der Veer Realtor, Brokerage Manager

Beth Witt Associate Broker/Rental Manager

Jennifer Robinson Realtor 912-223-1974 jfieldsrob@gmail.com

912-996-8300 alvanderveer@gmail.com

912-230-0220 bethowenswitt@gmail.com

At Roland Daniel Properties here on St. Simons Island, UGA football headquarters on the coast, we’re pumped about our ‘Dogs this season and we wish them continued success on the road to Atlanta and perhaps beyond to Arlington, TX. We’re also pumped about your confidence in us as Realtors; we’re grateful that you have made us your Coastal Georgia real estate headquarters. And, we look forward to serving your dream home and condo needs for a long time. We’re known as the small company doing big business, and we’re growing -- check out our vacation rental department. THANK YOU! Call us anytime. And, while you’re here check out Cottages at Old Demere; open houses on Thursday and Friday before the game on Saturday. We also will hold open 4322 Fifth Street on East Beach during this time.

Roland Daniel Broker

912-230-4215 rolanddanielsold@gmail.com

www.rolanddaniel.com Cristi Kavanaugh Realtor

912-996-7304 cristi@stsimonsrealty.com 20 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

Vel Knight McGrath Realtor 912-223-1901 vkmssi@gmail.com

Linda Lindsey Realtor

912-399-8096 lindaanndixon@gmail.com

124 Follins Lane St Simons Island, GA 31522 (912) 638-6373


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Ford Neel, Drew Hill, Sara Schuster and Jack Yancey

Georgia 45 Arkansas 32

Jackson, Caroline, Julie and Trent Thacker

Bill Dismuke and Lori Ray

Carlton and Nadia Epps

Barb Parks and Emily Fleming

Ben Burnett and Mary Helen Burnett

Macy Lynn, Derrick, Caroline and Wendy McDowell

Amy Green and Crystal Terrill

Franca Frossini and Kevin Aycock

Brad and Claire Davis

Welcomes The Newest Addition To Our Family • Access to many Sea Island activities, including golf, dining and spa • Complimentary continental breakfast and wi-fi • Pool, workout room, evening restaurant and lounge • Located on St. Simons Island, GA

Rates begin at $185 per night

Book today at 855-382-8789 or seaisland.com

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 21


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Georgia 45 Arkansas 32

George Daigh, Jason Frank, Ashley Thiem, Chris Bissinger, Shelly Waters, Jason Williams and Dan Thorne

Alva and Jim Youngner

Mike Schuff, Gill Braddy, Michael and Amy Malone, Wyndi and Todd Damato, Shaw Braddy and Gregory Calley

Brian Fortson

(front) Mike Ratliff and Leon Watson, (back) Kelly Williams, Mike Daley, Charles Briscoe, Butch Sartain and Hugh Hill

Jimmy and Daniele Lord

Brendan Wiley and Jason Wiley

Olivia King and Anna Courson

Blake Crump and Ken Williamson

Bryan Pyne and Michelle McFerrin

Tate Chauncey and Rob Chauncey

Billy Sparks, Cody Mathis and Jeanne Sparks

Carl and Barb Parks

www.FitzFord.com

Beat Florida!

True Bulldog Girls Go to Athens in Lincoln Style Gracen Damato, Emma Munford and Leah Ward (back)

161 Benjamin H. Hill Drive 22 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

West Fitzgerald,GA

888-989-6154


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Spotlight on University of Georgia Graduates Every week, Cheri Leavy shares a Q&A with a Bulldog Belle on BulldawgIllustrated.com.

Name: Amanda Maddox Hometown: Saint Simons Island Current Town: Washington, D.C. Years at UGA: 2006-2010 School: Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication Family: Father, Danny Maddox (UGA class of ’84), wife Sabra Maddox (UGA Pharmacy class of ’96) and step-sister Isabella Owens (future UGA class of 2017); mother, Kris Beyers (UGA class of ’82) and husband Jim Beyers; sister, Tamara Branch (UGA class of 2009; UGA Law class of 2012) and husband Mack Branch (UGA class of 2007). Profession: Press Secretary for United States Senator Johnny Isakson – I serve as spokesperson and media liaison for Georgia’s junior senator in his Washington, D.C., office. As a Grady grad with a degree in broadcast journalism, politics were never my intended career path in college (in fact, I actually wanted to be a sideline reporter). However, since moving to D.C. after graduation, I fell in love with the fast-paced environment and public service life and have been privileged to utilize my Grady training on a daily basis in working with Georgia and national media outlets to promote Sen. Isakson’s views and positions.

Describe Athens in three words: Tradition, Family, Spirit

Share a favorite memory from your time at UGA: I have a recurring favorite memory at UGA, one that takes place every fall in Sanford Stadium before the first kickoff of the first home game of the season. When the voice of the late, great Larry Munson booms over the loud speakers and the fans turn their attention to the Battle Hymn of the Bulldog Nation, there is no more moving moment in my UGA experience than the chills I get as I soak in the loyalty, heritage and tradition that is the University of Georgia.

A favorite restaurant in Athens: Last Resort

A favorite shop in Athens: Native America Gallery

Band you heard while living in Athens:

Share a tailgate recipe:

Drive by Truckers at Georgia Theater

One thing few people know about you: I’ve been going to Georgia football games since I was in diapers.

Describe your typical Bulldog gameday: I come from a long line of University of Georgia graduates, and my gamedays have always been a family affair. Nowadays, a typical gameday starts at the crack of dawn with my sister Tamara and her husband and several of their friends setting up our tailgate in south campus with an elaborate spread of food and drinks. The majority of our pregame time is spent there, with friends and family coming and going throughout the day. Games are watched from our family’s seats in the north endzone. Postgame, the day typically ends downtown with some shopping, dinner and rehydration.

I’ve come up with a mean guacamole recipe over the years that is a personal favorite. Best served with tortilla chips and paired with fresh salsa and queso.

Fresh ingredients:

-Avocados (must be ripe, 1 = 4 servings) -1/2-1 whole lime juice (to taste, start with a half immediately so the avocado doesn’t brown, then add the other half if you think you need it) -Roma tomatoes (2 small tomatoes should do, finely diced) -Garlic (1-2 cloves, to taste) -Cilantro (minced, 1 tablespoon, to taste) -Red onion or shallot (1 whole shallot, or 1/3 red onion, finely diced)

Dry ingredients:

-Salt (1 or 2 pinches, wait to add any more than that until all other ingredients are added) -Black ground pepper (2-4 pinches, to taste) -Cayenne (or red) pepper (2-4 pinches, to taste) -Cumin (very important, 2-3 pinches, to taste) -2-3 dashes of hot sauce (I prefer Frank’s, but whatever you have is good) To keep fresh, put avocado pits into mixed guac and smush plastic wrap completely down on top of the guac and pits, making sure there is no air bubbles or space around the outsides, then cover with a plastic lid and refrigerate until served.

Be Seen at the Golden Isles’ Largest Collection of all Things Bridal January 18, 2015 Vendor booths are limited Register at goldenislesbridalshow.com

Photo of Kristi Mason by Brooke Roberts Photography

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 23


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

JOHN FRIERSON’S PERSPECTIVE

Long road stretch not all bad for Dawgs By John Frierson Bulldawg Illustrated

the road and without their star, and had outscored their opponents 72-6. That’s focus.

When Georgia’s 2014 schedule came out, it was easy to look at the midseason stretch of four straight games away from Sanford Stadium and feel a little uneasy. In September, following the Dogs’ heartbreaker loss at South Carolina, that month away from home didn’t look any better.

Sure the second half was a lackluster affair, with the final score winding up 45-32, but the game was never in doubt.

Now, halfway through the run of four games outside Athens in five weeks, and with the suspension of the Dogs’ best player thrown in, I think this road stretch was the best thing that could have happened to Georgia. In the wake of running back Todd Gurley’s suspension, and all of the subsequent attention and distractions that the possible NCAA violations and Heisman Trophy candidate’s absence created, getting out of town the next day en route to Columbia, Mo., was a blessing. By heading out of town, Georgia was able to be together as a team for hour after hour. They were a team with Gurley and proved to still be a team without him. Instead of playing in Athens, surrounded by 90,000-plus looking for the star in No. 3 and wondering if and when they might see him again, the Dogs were together in enemy territory. Georgia’s 34-0 thrashing at Missouri is one of the high points of the Mark Richt era. Not so much because the Tigers are great, or even decent, but because that was about as focused as I’ve ever seen a Georgia team. A week later, in Little Rock, Ark., against a scary Arkansas team despite its long SEC losing streak, Georgia again showed focus and roared out to a 38-6 halftime lead. At that point, the Dogs had played six straight quarters on

Over the years I’ve heard more than a few coaches, primarily basketball coaches for whom long road stretches are more common, say that a good road trip can bring a team together. It’s something I’ve come to believe is true, and I think we’ve seen it with Georgia this month. Do the Dogs beat Mizzou and the Hogs if the games are between the hedges? They should have and probably would have, but I don’t think we’d have seen the focus and execution that was on display. Georgia freshman tight end Jeb Blazevich, who’s fourth on the team with nine catches for 157 yards, said UGA’s home routine is similar to what the team does on the road. The Dogs stay in a hotel Friday night and isolate themselves as much as possible. True, but that’s not the same as the addition time together at the airport and flying to and from the road locations. Sitting with teammates for long stretches, Blazevich said, “you’ve got to talk to these people, and it turns out I like them.” Blazevich smiled when I asked him about road trips. I’ve long contended that the biggest jump from high school football to playing in a conference like the SEC isn’t the size and speed of the guys on the field. No, it’s the travel. Goodbye hour after hour on yellow Blue Bird buses and hello flights and nice hotel rooms — or at the very least, swanky buses with reclining seats and Wi-Fi.

photo by Rob Saye

“It’s definitely [different],” said Blazevich, a Charlotte, N.C., native. “We weren’t taking plane rides in high school. It’s a lot of fun and it really helps being able to sit down for basically a full [travel] day, if not longer, and just focus on my job. I bring my little book with all my notes in it and we have our iPads that we watch film on and I think that’s just the best time to pump yourself up and get confident in what you’re doing.” Halfway through this lengthy road stretch, with Florida and Kentucky still to come, Georgia has plenty of reason to be confident. The defense is improving each week, with nine takeaways in the past two games, and the offense is getting better play from quarterback Hutson Mason and his targets. As for the running game, well, we all know what Nick Chubb has been doing. When the first College Football Playoff rankings are released on Oct. 28, Georgia should be very much in the hunt for one of the four coveted spots. A couple of weeks from now the Dogs should still be in the mix, and they might have this long stretch away from home to thank for it.

EAST BEACH OCEANVIEWS

THEY DESERVE MOORE YOU DESERVE MOORE

One of the last undeveloped lots on Dixon Lane Located between Fourth & Fifth Street Large lot at approximately 60 x 154

A rare find at $950,000

Call The Alsonett Co./Pam Timbes 912-222-6773

WHAT MOORE DO YOU WANT FOR YOUR KIDS?

Atlanta

Coastal Georgia

Gwinne

www.mstiller.com 777 Gloucester St. • Suite 201 • Brunswick, GA 31520 • 912-265-1750 24 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

Build your dream beach cottage with room for a nice yard & pool


R U O Y T

UI S BISC UARTER HEADQ

t s o alm l a actu size

y l i a d h s e r f e mad *at participating Golden Pantry stores

MARSH & RIVER VIEWS Brick Kiln is nestled between Epworth and Hawkins Island on St. Simons Island 17 acres located at the end of a private lane on a peninsula surrounded by marsh and water. Dockable access to Brick Yard Creek. Also, includes two scenic ponds; one at the entry and another at the marsh line. Property consists of 2 parcels: 201 Blasingame - 11 ac (.65 ac high) includes a single family home and access to Brick Yard Creek which is 5-6 ft. at low tide. Owner has estimate for dock. $795,000, what a deal! 197 Blasingame - 6 ac (.80 high) marshfront with small tidal creek and two ponds. $595,000 Directions: By street - Sea Island Road to Arthur J. Moore then right on Blasingame. Go to end of street. By water - From Morningstar Marina go north on Frederica River then right into Hawkins Creek and right into Brick Yard Creek.

Most unique property on SSI TheThe Alsonett Co/Pam Timbes Alsonett Co/Pam Timbes 912-222-6773 912-222-6773

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 25


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

P O O L E S H O T S - S TAT S T HAT M AT T E R :

By Murray Poole Bulldawg Illustrated What a night it was for offense, defense and special teams, too, as Georgia surged to an eye-popping 38-6 halftime lead on the shell-shocked Arkansas Razorbacks at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock before then taking their foot off the gas in the second half and allowing the Hogs to dominate those final two quarters. But the 45-32 final on Oct. 18 was as close as Arkansas would get on an evening when the magnificent freshman tailback, Nick Chubb, even almost out achieved suspended superstar Todd Gurley by running for 202 yards on 30 carries with two touchdowns, this after he had jolted Missouri the previous Saturday for 143 yards on 38 trips. But while Chubb scored on runs of 43 and 3 yards, he wasn’t the only guy putting up huge statistics in a contest that lifted the Bulldogs to 6-1 on the season and 4-1 in the SEC with a wounded, reeling Florida team awaiting the Bulldogs on Nov. 1 in Jacksonville. Senior quarterback Hutson Mason had touchdown passes of 36 yards to Chris Conley and seven yards to Michael Bennett and scored himself on a 1-yard sneak. Conley became the first Georgia receiver this season to soar over 100 yards in a game as he showed five receptions for 128 yards including a 48-yard catch in the opening quarter and his TD grab, which was the Bulldogs’ only score of the second half. And the Bulldogs also had a touchdown on a 54-yard fumble recovery run by freshman defensive back Dominick Sanders which came after Jordan Jenkins separated Arkansas quarterback Brandon Allen from the ball and staked Georgia to its commanding 38-6 advantage at the break. And defensively, senior linebacker Ramik Wilson was all over the field with his 14 total tackles and he got plenty of help from free safety Damian Swann (11 tackles plus a pick), fellow inside linebacker Amarlo Herrera (10 stops) and outside linebacker Leonard Floyd (also 10 tackles). But as these Stats That Matter will illustrate, it was one nagging 15-yard penalty after another in the second half, coupled with the Georgia secondary being riddled by Razorback QB Allen that enabled the Hogs to make a one-sided game look closer than it should have looked at the contest’s end.

Plays of 20 plus yards, offense and defense The Bulldogs had a bunch of these. Chubb had his 43yard touchdown gallop plus a 33-yard run; Mason had the 36-yard TD strike to Conley in the final period after the Razorbacks had staged a mild rally and Mason hit Conley two more times for gains of 48 and 26 yards in the first half. Arkansas, meantime, had four plays over 20

26 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

GEORGIA

45

ARKANSAS 32

yards, all but one of them coming via passing plays.

Untimely Mistakes (turnovers, penalties, clock management miscues, etc) The Bulldogs stayed away from these afflictions in the almost perfect first half but they again reared their ugly head in the final two quarters when the Razorbacks struck for four more touchdowns. Late out-of-bounds hits on linebackers Herrera and Floyd kept Arkansas TD drives going. There were two 15-yard pass interference calls on Devin Bowman and a face mask penalty on Floyd. For the night, Georgia was penalized nine times for 101 yards, something a championship caliber team simply can’t have. And the Bulldogs had to take two questionable timeouts in the first half, one when the offense seemed confused on a third down situation with the Arkansas fans roaring loudly and the other on an Arkansas fourth-down punt scenario.

Special teams wins vs. miscues Isaiah McKenzie managed a 48-yard kickoff return; Marshall Morgan booted a 37-yard field goal early on and both Collin Barber and Adam Erickson both booted the Razorbacks dead inside the 20 in the second half. And the Georgia kick coverage teams were exceptional against the Arkansas returners.

photo by Rob Saye

Missed Tackles Not too many whiffs in this category but down the stretch, the Georgia defensive backs did let the Arkansas receivers keep going after first contact and, at times in the second half, the Bulldog defenders didn’t lock up on Arkansas running backs Alex Collins and Jonathan Williams, allowing the Hog backs to lunge for extra yardage.

Yards after contact Chubb was again the man of the hour, making like his absent superior, Gurley, by tearing loose from first hits and continually moving the first down chains.

Turnovers (gained/lost) Some big ones again gained in this contest. After forcing Missouri into five turnovers a week ago, the Georgia defense had four takeaways again vs. the Razorbacks. The big one staked Georgia to its commanding 38-6 halftime lead. When Jordan Jenkins sacked Arkansas quarterback Brandon Allen and separated Allen from the ball, freshman defensive back Dominick Sanders scooped up the fumble and sped 54 yards untouched for a touchdown. Swann and Quincy Mauger both had interceptions and Leonard Floyd also pounced on a Hogs’ fumble. And the Bulldogs again protected the ball themselves splendidly, having neither fumbles nor interceptions.

Red Zone (offense/defense) The Bulldogs converted four-of-five red zone opportunities while the Razorbacks were also most proficient in this stat, scoring five of six times they penetrated inside Georgia’s 20-yard line. Of course Georgia also struck from deep outside the red zone at times, primarily Chubb’s 43-yard scamper to paydirt and the Mason to Conley touchdown hookup that covered 36 yards.

Third down conversions Each team was so-so in this category, the Bulldogs going 5-of-11 on third down tries and Arkansas converting eight of 15 opportunities.

Run/pass attempts (total plays) With a back like Nick Chubb lugging the pigskin, it’s no wonder that the Bulldogs again ran the ball more than twice as many times as Hutson Mason threw it. With Chubb soaring for his 202 net yards, he compiled nearly all of Georgia’s rushing total as the Bulldogs ran 39 times for 207 yards and passed it 17 times for 179 yards on 10 completions.


BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

K E V I N B U T L E R’ S P L AY E R S O F T H E G A M E — G E O R G I A- A R K A N S A S

Kevin Butler, former University of Georgia legendary kicker and a member of the Georgia radio broadcast team, will each week during the 2014 football season select his offensive, defensive and special teams players of the week for Bulldawg Illustrated. Here are Butler’s selections and reasons why for the Bulldogs’ 45-32 win over Arkansas on Oct. 18.

OFFENSE – Senior wide receiver Chris Conley, who had a season-high five catches for 128 yards including a 36-yard touchdown pass from Hutson Mason … the Bulldogs’ only score in the second half. Conley’s performance was the first time all season a Georgia receiver has totaled 100 yards. “After being somewhat quiet in previous games Chris broke out in a timely way against Arkansas,” said Butler. “In a game that the Bulldog Nation was expecting a ‘great southern ground battle,’ UGA took to the air via Conley. Chris’s 5 catches for 128 yards led all Bulldog receivers and was his best game of the year. With Hutson Mason completing only 10 passes, half of those were to Conley who brought back the vertical pass play to the Dawgs. Chris Conley is one of the leaders of this team and with consistent play like Saturday from Chris, Georgia just got a lot stronger.”

DEFENSE – Senior free safety Damian Swann, who recorded 11 tackles, one quarterback sack and one tackle-for-loss while also intercepting a pass in the end zone right before the end of the first half to preserve the Bulldogs’ 38-6 halftime lead. And for good measure, Swann also forced two Razorback fumbles. “The senior DB might have had the best game of his career against the Razorbacks,” said Butler. “Damian was literally all over the field the whole game. Blitzing off the corner, backing off the line at the snap, tackling with authority and making and creating turnovers is the reason he is the defensive player of the week. Every offense will now identify where No. 5 is before the ball is snapped. His leadership in this still young secondary is a blessing for the Dawg nation. His play can vault UGA into national contention title talk.” SPECIAL TEAMS – Freshman kick returner Isaiah McKenzie, who returned three Arkansas kickoffs for 93 yards including a 48-yard return to start the second half. “In a game where the specialty teams play was solid, the one man that made track in Little Rock was Isaiah McKenzie,” said Butler. “Most people think just catching punts is not good enough but against Arkansas it was perfect. Combined with three kickoff returns for 93 yards it gave the Bulldogs great field position to start drives. His long return of 48 yards set the Bulldogs up for a score and he will be needed more and more each game from here on out. Isaiah is a force to game plan for and that is a great advantage for the Bulldogs moving forward.” photo by Rob Saye

It was another great October weekend of college football, and the first weekend of November sets up like a dandy as well. There are some great conference races taking place, in particular both divisions of the SEC, the PAC-12 South and the Big XII. This past weekend the SEC shined at night, as Auburn won a 42-35 shootout over South Carolina while LSU edged Ole Miss 10-7 in a classic. The undefeateds are few and far between. It is only Mississippi State, Florida State and Marshall. 1. Mississippi State – Josh Robinson had some kind of game in Lexington. He may be the best tailback in the SEC that doesn’t play in Athens. Mississippi State is a physical, talented team with a lot of weapons. They just don’t have many weaknesses. MSU hosts the Hogs this week in what promises to be a slobber-knocker. 2. Florida State – The Seminoles had this past week off to soak in their victory over Notre Dame. Florida State figures to have its hands full with Louisville on Thursday night. The ‘Noles aren’t as good as they were a year ago, but are still one of the country’s best teams. 3. Ole Miss – It was a heart-breaking loss to LSU 10-7 on Saturday night. The Rebels had a shot down the stretch to possibly tie the game, but a penalty and a pick made the difference. Ole Miss can still accomplish its goals, but now there is no margin for error. And this week Auburn comes to Vaught-Hemingway.

7. Notre Dame – The Fighting Irish had this past week off to try and get over the heart-breaking loss at Florida State. Notre Dame tries to make it 7-1 this week, taking on old rival Navy at FedEx Field. 8. Arizona – Rich Rodriguez has done excellent work in Tuscon. The Wildcats picked up the signature win over Oregon and have been putting up big points ever since. The loss was a two-pointer to Southern Cal. Now comes a tough road test at UCLA. 9. Oregon – The Ducks have their big one with Stanford on Saturday night in Eugene. The Cardinal will try and outmuscle Oregon again. If the Ducks get the win, they are well on their way to the PAC-12 Championship Game. 10. Michigan State – Mark Dantonio has another fine team in East Lansing. It had to be especially sweet to shut Michigan, the old rival, down. The Spartans defense is the best in the Big Ten. Michigan State is off this week to get ready for Ohio State in a mega showdown.

TOP 25 JEFF DANTZLER

14. Arizona State – The Sun Devils got an impressive win at windy Washington this past week. The defense was really salty. It’s another mega-showdown in the PAC-12 South, as fellow once-beaten Utah comes to Tempe. Once nomadic Todd Graham has ‘em smiling in the desert.

20. Nebraska – Ameer Abdullah is having an incredible season and is in the midst of the Heisman Trophy conversation. Big Red hosts Purdue this weekend and shouldn’t have any trouble running the record to 8-1 on the year.

15. Utah – That was impressive the way the Runnin’ Utes came back and beat talented Southern Cal. Kyle Whittingham is a superb coach. The winner in Tempe on Saturday night just may have the inside track to play for the conference championship.

21. West Virginia – It’s another big game up in Morgantown. The Mountaineers are right in the thick of the Big XII race and that tough travel to “Couch-town” from the Lone Star state in particular gives them an extra edge at home. It should be a shootout with TCU.

16. LSU – Death Valley was on fire Saturday night as the Tigers came back, took the lead and then held off Ole Miss in a 10-7 instant classic. LSU takes this week off and then Alabama comes to town. The Tigers have their legs under them. It was an especially sweet win for Les Miles. His mother passed away the day before the win over the Rebels.

22. Marshall – The Thundering Herd have flashed back to their glory days that began under Jim Donnan’s watch. In a 35-16 win over Florida Atlantic, Devon Johnson carried 24 times for 272 yards and four touchdowns. The 8-0 Herd are off this week before heading to Southern Miss.

17. Ohio State – The Buckeyes have played their oddest schedule in memory, barely escaping the upset at Penn State this past week. Their Big Ten games have been Maryland, Rutgers and Penn State. In November, they play five original members of the league. That loss at home to Virginia Tech was a bad one.

4. Alabama – Amari Cooper is in the Heisman Trophy conversation. The sensational junior wide receiver is putting up incredible numbers for the Crimson Tide. Alabama is off this week to get ready for the big showdown in Baton Rouge.

11. Georgia – The Bulldogs had this past Saturday off to get ready for the Cocktail party and upset minded Florida. Georgia is eyeing a fourth straight victory over the Gators and sixth consecutive win in 2014. The Bulldogs are very talented at tailback.

5. Auburn – It was a shootout in the loveliest village, with the Tigers pulling out the 42-35 victory over South Carolina. Nick Marshall had another tremendous game. The treacherous slate continues this week with Ole Miss in Oxford.

12. Baylor – The Bears should have an easy go of things with Kansas this week. After the Jayhawks comes a trip to Oklahoma. This Big XII race is excellent. Art Briles has done an incredible job at the Baylor helm.

18. Oklahoma – The Sooners have lost a pair of tight ones to TCU and Kansas State, which has derailed the big dreams of 2014. Bob Stoops has yet another talented team, fully capable of winning out. Oklahoma shouldn’t have much trouble at Iowa State this week.

6. Kansas State – Can you imagine 30 years ago saying that Kansas State beat Oklahoma and Texas in back-to-back games and it was not surprising? The Wildcats lone loss is to Auburn. Up next is another big test with Oklahoma State in Manhattan.

13. TCU – The Horned Frogs were one of the teams of the week on the strength of their 82-27 demolition of Texas Tech. They’ll have their hands full this week at West Virginia. But the way they have bounced back from that heart-breaker at Baylor has been extremely impressive.

19. East Carolina – The Pirates ran the record to 6-1 with a 31-21 win over a pretty bad Connecticut team. East Carolina goes to Temple this week. The Pirates strength is a high-powered passing game that ranks third nationally with 381.9 yards per game.

23. Clemson – In the wonderful world of conference expansion, Clemson traveled to Syracuse, got in defensive struggle and got out with a 16-6 win. The Tigers miss freshman standout Deshaun Watson. Clemson is off this week then has a Thursday night affair with Wake Forest in Winston-Salem. 24. Southern Cal – The Trojans lost another conference game in the closing seconds, as Utah eeked out a squeaker in Salt Lake City. Southern Cal has excellent talent, but due to probation just doesn’t have the depth, and it has showed up in a trio of losses that have all come by six or less. 25. Missouri – Don’t forget about the Tigers in the SEC East. Mizzou is 6-2, 3-1 in the league. Kentucky is in Columbia this weekend for an important SEC clash. The Wildcats may be the most improved team in the country.

Nothing goes better with gator meat than McRib!

YES IT’S BACK Lets do this! www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 27



Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.