V3 August 2021

READV3.COM | AUGUST 2021 V3 MAGAZINE

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Thank Goodness it’s finally football season!

GO

DAWGS!

“Rome’s Locally Owned Funeral Homes” Barry R. Henderson

Joe Paul Henderson (1919-2008)

www.hendersonandsons.com 2

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Chances are, the birth of your baby will be a happy, healthy experience. Still, peace of mind is priceless, and it’s good to know that Floyd stands ready 24/7 with the advanced care necessary should your baby need intensive care following birth. As the area’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, our expert team of doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists provides high tech care with a compassionate touch for the tiniest newborns.

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COLUMNS 10

We all say we are “sorry,” but do we really mean it? Tammy Barron explores how being constantly apologetic can often do more damage than good.

FEATURES

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14

This Hardy Home offering on Horseleg Creek Road awaits a new owner who treasures solitude but also values the convenience of quick access to town.

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Break out the crystal ball, because Ian Griffin and Jim Alred are here to give a look into the hazy future of this year's SEC Football teams.

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Honeycream gelato shop offers a taste of the sweet life through handcrafted Italian desserts and coffee.

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Publisher's Note OWNER & CEO Ian Griffin MANAGING PARTNER Chris Forino CREATIVE DIRECTOR Elizabeth Childers WRITERS Jim Alred, Tammy Barron, DeMarcus Daniel, Ian Griffin, Nina Lovel, Paul Moses

O W N E R & C E O Ian Griffin

PHOTOGRAPHERS Andy Calvert

With so many negatives surrounding 2020, I’m going to dwell on the positive instead. One of the most positive things that happened in that sea of negativity was football. I love high school, I love the NFL, but it’s no secret to those who know me that college football is king, so when it was delayed and all was in question, it was excruciating. I watched Austin Peay open the season like it was the Super Bowl. I waited and held my breath until the SEC started a historical 10-game all-conference schedule the likes of which we will never see again.

We lost some great out-of-conference rivalries like Georgia/Georgia Tech, Clemson/South Carolina and Florida/Florida State, but without the cupcake games, a sport where every week matters was even more must see TV with an all-conference slate. My mom summed it up perfectly when reminiscing about the worst of the pandemic early this summer when she said, “I don’t know what we would have done without football.” It was a wonderful distraction from the madness around us and as weird as it was to not hear both marching bands or see packed stadiums, it was an awesome season for so many reasons.

This year, the cupcakes and out of conference rivalries return with a handful of SEC teams looking like playoff contenders. Bama reloads, Georgia is hopeful JT Daniels can be the quarterback they need to get over the hump, Jimbo Fischer thinks the Aggies are ready to usurp the Tide and wildcards like LSU, Auburn, Florida and Ole Miss seem capable of surprising or disappointing their fanbases in 2021.

What we know for sure is that Nick Saban is still in Tuscaloosa so it’s everyone versus Alabama.

Sounds familiar right?

When I pulled my files to start working on the previews I had forgotten that Jim Alred and I had formed our prognostications based on the original schedule in order to get the book to press on time. So much changed in a short period, but I did manage to pick both division winners and the conference champion…though it’s hard to brag much about picking Alabama.

We will take our best shot at looking through the crystal ball again as anticipation for the season continues to build. We will dissect the schedules, strengths and weaknesses of each team and try our best to predict where your team will finish with the dust has settled on what should be another thrilling season in the SEC. It’s almost time for football!

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AD DESIGN Elizabeth Childers PUBLISHER V3 Publications, LLC CONTACT 417 Broad Street Rome Ga, 30161 Office Phone 706.235.0748 hello@v3collective.com CREATOR Neal Howard

READV3.COM ReadV3.com: Where you can find all the print content from this issue, our archives and exclusive ReadV3 digital features.

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Sorry

Sorry Sorry

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Sorry Sorry Sorry Sorry

Sorry Sorry

Sorry Somewhere in my youth I equated saying “sorry” with good manners.

I DIDN’T SAY IT FOR ANY OFFENSE IN PARTICULAR: “Sorry to bother you,” “Sorry I have a question,” “Sorry. Sorry. Sorry.” Over the years it became habit, an automated response to deflect blame and avoid conflict. This apologetic phrase single-handedly ushered me into adulthood. It’s common enough, but psychological studies support that constantly internalizing fault has lasting negative impressions in our subconscious. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying there’s no room for repentant V3 MAGAZINE AUGUST 2021 | READV3.COM

Sorry Sorry

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behavior. There are times when we should apologize, especially when we want to express respect and empathy to the people we’ve hurt. It shows others “I take responsibility for my actions and care about your feelings.” The problem with incessant apologizing is that it sends messages of low self-confidence and conditional self-worth. It limits one’s authenticity, and worse yet, it can make someone a target for toxic relationships. So why do we do it?

When we find ourselves apologizing for something that is not our fault, often we are attempting to avoid or diffuse a conflict.

Unfortunately, apologies are not Band-Aids or cure-alls; and they are inadequate substitutes for conflict resolution. The uncomfortable truth is we have to invest in quality communication—however awkward—to maintain healthy relationships at home

Sorr

Sorry

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and in the workplace. For some people the idea of speaking up, confronting an issue, or asking for something is enough to bring on an “I’m sorry” litany.

Personally, it was years after college before I had the confidence to speak up for my needs. Eventually, learning to resolve my conflicts without emotion, it seemed if I could focus on facts I wouldn’t clam up. In order to do my job I need [blank]. To feel valued in this relationship I need [blank]. Finally, I found a way to feel less repentant when I talked to people, but that was not the whole picture.

I wanted people to like me, I guess to some degree I still do. It’s an atavistic desire. Tribal acceptance was long ago linked to our survival, so it should not come as such a shock that people continue to seek ways to appeal to others. In doing just this, I justified putting myself down. Adopting a sort of

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rry

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rry

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Unapologetically, Sorry Yours Sorry Sorry Sorry

Sorry

opened doors

By Tammy Barron

Sorry

self-deprecating posture that shows those around me I’m not a threat and they should feel comfortable around me. The problem—I realized in my thirties—with placing yourself in an inferior position is you can fool yourself into believing it. My self-esteem took a major hit. Psychologists explain valuing other people’s opinions and feelings more than your own is the building blocks of codependency. Stumble through a few of these messy relationships and you will recognize how a lack of self-confidence can foster toxic relationships. Desperation for acceptance and approval can only lead to the continued feeling of not being good enough or interesting enough in the eyes of others.

This summer I was really taken aback by Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from the U.S. Women’s Gymnastic Team events. She is an outstanding

Sorry

athlete who has always commanded my respect. Her decision was unexpected, but the true shock came from the backlash she received in the media. Biles never once apologized for putting her physical and mental health first, as she acknowledged that she is “more than [her] accomplishments.” With the world watching, she gave us a lesson in emotional intelligence and unwavering sense of self-worth. She stood aside and supported her team wholeheartedly as she cheered on the U.S. athletes. Saying “no” and respecting your own limitations are signs of selfrespect, and Biles doing so unapologetically in the face of criticism is a tremendous lesson for us all.

A favorite quote I read online rings true, “The version of me you created in your mind is not my responsibility.” I find as I’ve grown older, I put little energy in other’s misconceptions of who I am or

Sorry Sorry

who they think I should be. Time is precious. Gone are the days that I shuffle blame to make people feel more comfortable with themselves or the choices they make. It took a while, but I’ve finally learned to be unapologetically myself. The good, the bad, and the ugly; I embrace it all. While I never aim to offend, and take great care in what I say, at the end of the day I am responsible for the words I use, not for what others hear. I am responsible to live a life that honors those I love, and it doesn’t start with the words: I’m sorry.

*The views expressed in this column are those of the writer, and do not represent the opinions of V3 Magazine READV3.COM | AUGUST 2021 V3 MAGAZINE

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Hidden Away on Horseleg Creek This Horseleg Creek home is perfect for the family that likes to enjoy the quiet of a personal retreat but also wants to be close to all of Rome’s exciting events.

photos MELANIE ABNEY text PAUL MOSES

T

here are certain residential properties that exude desirability, sight unseen, by virtue of their street address. For instance, the citizens of Rome, Georgia, know what it means when they hear of a home address on Horseleg Creek Road: high quality, beautiful architecture, and shady, expansive lawns. The home that James and Faye Easterwood built on that street in 2008-2009 has all those characteristics and more. Now that this lovely home is up for sale, it is available for some lucky family.

Land, land, and more land

The first impression one gets when driving through the gated entrance and toward the Easterwood home is that of open space; they are greeted by a sweeping green lawn. Ten acres of prime real estate comes with this property. Ten acres! That is almost unheard of within the city limits. The wide, tree-dotted lawns (irrigated by well water) that surround the house on all four sides cover between four and five acres, and the rest of the property is made up of forest.

This place feels like a secluded retreated hidden away in the middle of town, isolated enough for privacy and peace of mind, yet with easy access to everything Rome has to offer. “The privacy is wonderful here,” Faye Easterwood says. “It’s so very quiet. And it’s so convenient.”

16 | HARDY REALTY | HOME FEATURE

Quality and craftsmanship

Construction of the Easterwood home was the handiwork of the late Eddie Lanham, of Summerville, Georgia. Lanham was one of the region’s premier builders of fine homes, and northwest Georgia showcases many examples of his excellent craftsmanship. His policy of only working on a limited number of projects per year speaks to the care he took in assuring his clients of his close attention to detail. This Horseleg Creek property is a prime example of the marriage between a homeowner’s dreams and a great builder’s skill and hard work in making those desires a reality.

A book to judge by its cover

This home’s charming exterior is no lying façade; the outside foretells the truth about the interior. A many-peaked roofline, large arched windows and a perfect mixture of stone and brick tell of a home that is as attractive as it is functional and structurally sound.

On one end of the home is a large two-car garage, complete with cherrywood cabinets for storage. However, just outside stands another two-car garage, connected to the house by a covered breezeway. Faye Easterwood is quick to point out: “Those are his-and-her garages.” (Is that the secret to such a long marriage?)

Behind the house is a small building with a porch, good for storage or for use as a pool house (should the new owners want to go that way).

A shingle-sided pump house and a pole barn complete the collection of outbuildings.

HARDY REALTY | HOME FEATURE | 17

Inside, this home boasts 5,050 square feet of finished living space, not to mention additional unfinished space. There are four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. Not one, but two of the bedrooms are considered master bedrooms, one with two closets, the other with one.

Both master bedrooms have stylish recessed ceilings. Although there is a separate laundry room near the kitchen, one of the master bedrooms also has its own washer and dryer. How’s that for convenience? And another of the bedrooms has a wall of high-quality built-in shelves, giving the new owners the option of using it as a library and/or home office. All the bathrooms use high-end materials and finishes. No updates needed here.

The kitchen, dining room, and living room flow together as one huge open space, ideal for family holiday gatherings or hosting friends for parties. Both the living room and dining room have shining hardwood floors; the living room has a white mantled fireplace and triple archtopped windows that look out onto a covered patio. The airy kitchen is both homey and roomy, with hardwood cabinets and a tile floor.

It has a calming muted color scheme of neutrals and features all the modern conveniences, including a convection microwave oven. One of the kitchen’s standout appointments is a farm-style hand-hammered copper sink. It really makes the space pop.

Elbow room, then some

For the family who needs even more space, the upstairs is a diamond in the rough, awaiting someone with a vision for what it could be. This unfinished space is large, plenty big enough for two additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. It is already wired for electricity, so it just needs drywall, plumbing, and flooring. It would also make great office space, or a game room, or even an art studio or music room.

As for the future of her beloved home, Mrs. Easterwood says, “I hope the new owners enjoy it as much as we have.”

For additional information about the property or to schedule a showing, please contact Hardy Realty at 706-291-4321.

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IT’S ALMOST HERE. THE NERVOUS ENERGY THAT SURROUNDS THE PRESEASON IS BUILDING. After a season that started with doubts it could ever finish, stadiums will be packed with fans, bands, cheerleaders and all the pageantry that makes the college game what it is. The 2020 campaign was one to remember nonetheless, but a return to non-conference play brings back classic rivalries we missed in 2020 along with the cupcake games that so often go wrong and shock the sporting world.

The storylines are plentiful as always. Nick Saban signed an extension that made anyone who doesn’t bleed crimson kick their chair, as his Alabama dynasty isn’t going anywhere until he hangs up the clipboard.

Four new coaches (Bryan Harsin @ Auburn, Josh Heupel @ Tennessee, Shane Beamer @ South Carolina and Clark Lea @ Vanderbilt) will start their bid at building programs in their vision. The latter two in that group should receive the patience needed to build a program, while Auburn and Tennessee are capable of opening the trap door on a coach at any given time. It will be interesting to see who has the quickest impact out of the four regardless.

Kirby Smart enters year five with one clear hurdle…beat Alabama and win it all. He has recruited lights out since he put down roots in Athens and just needs to usurp his mentor in Tuscaloosa to get to the promised land. So far that achievement has been cruelly elusive. Dawg fans don’t like losing to Florida either, so stopping Dan Mullens winning streak at one is important for them and the road to the Eastern Division crown. The rest of the East is a mixed bag with Kentucky and Missouri sitting squarely in the middle of what should be a meddling rest of the division.

LSU looks to rebound and certainly has the talent to do so, while Jimbo Fischer is writing checks he hopes he can cash by stating his Aggies are on par with all-mighty Alabama.

Lurking in the shadows are Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss, who lit up the scoreboard last year and return gunslinging quarterback Matt Corral to run the show. While Alabama is replacing another million first round draft picks, they are still the favorite in the West, but it certainly feels like a year someone could rise up and take them down.

Can the Tide be beaten? Can the Dawgs get over the hump? Can anyone else win the conference? While Alabama and Georgia are the clear favorites, there are a handful of teams that could certainly shake things up in 2021. It should be a heck of a ride.

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EAST RISING SECEAST 2020 RESULTS: 8-4, 8-2 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 9-3, 5-3 (SEC)

FLORIDA GATORS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

FLORIDA ATLANTIC

9.11

@ SOUTH FLORIDA

9.18

ALABAMA

9.25

TENNESSEE

10.2

@ KENTUCKY

10.9

9 VANDERBILT

10.16

@ LSU

10.23

OPEN DATE

10.30

GEORGIA (JACKSONVILLE)

11.6

@ SOUTH CAROLINA

11.13

SAMFORD

11.20

@ MISSOURI

11.27

FLORIDA STATE

JACOB COPELAND 22

V3 MAGAZINE AUGUST 2021 | READV3.COM

Overview: Dan Mullen’s offense was almost unstoppable for the majority of 2020. Kyle Trask, Kyle Pitts, Kadarius Toney and Trevon Grimes are all on NFL rosters in 2021 however and that is a lot of production to replace. The defense was unexplainably bad last season, but fans are hoping a shakeup in secondary coaching will change that, after a veteran unit was regularly torched. The good news is they have the talent on the roster to rebound, but can embattled Defensive Coordinator Todd Grantham coach them back to an elite level?

Offense: Out goes Kyle Trask and in comes Emory Jones. The former Heard County Brave has patiently waited his turn to take over Mullen’s spread attack and is arguably a better fit than his predecessor.

Behind him is a beast of a player named Anthony Richardson who’s brut physique will be put to use in the quarterback run game, so expect Dan to utilize both players.

The Gators have had six receivers taken in the draft the last two seasons, so that is a huge question mark going into 2021. Jacob Copeland, Justin Shorter, Xavier Henderson and Trent Whittemore are all capable of filling those gaps with Copeland and Shorter having super star potential. Replacing Kyle Pitts will be a by committee approach, but Kenmore Gamble and Keon Zipperer are a solid pair.

The running back room is stacked, with Dameon Pierce and Malik Davis offering experience while former five-star transfers Demarkcus Bowman and Lorenzo Lingard bringing game breaking speed and playmaking ability. There is no lack of talent, but the question remains can the big nasties create holes for them to run through?

Experience returns up front, but can OL Coach John Hevesy finally get them playing downhill?

Josh Braun and Ethan White bring girth at guard unseen in Gainesville for some time and the hope is this unit can turn the corner.

Defense: It was hard to find excuses for the performance by this unit in 2020. The secondary blew coverages regularly and the pass rush disappeared at crucial times. Two transfers were brought in to get more push up the middle in Daquan Newkirk of Auburn and Antonio Shelton of Penn State. Both of those gentlemen are over 320 lbs and have plenty of experience to work alongside rising-star Gervon Dexter.

If those guys get a push up the middle, Zachery Carter, Brenton Cox Jr. and Mohamoud Diabate

should feast off the edge. Ventrell Miller is rock solid at middle linebacker and the secondary has future NFL starters all over the field. If the gators are better up front it will undoubtedly benefit the secondary, but if the gators bust on any coverages in first three games expect Grantham to be greeted with pitchforks.

Special Teams: The Gators must replace both Evan McPherson and Jacob Finn, but do so with very capable players. Transfer Jace Christmann comes over from Mississippi State after hitting 32-40 field goals during his stint in Starkville while Australian product Jeremy Crawshaw takes over the punting duties. Replacing Kadarius Toney in the return game won’t be easy, but overall the gators should be in good shape on special teams.

Final Thoughts: Mullen accomplished some big goals last year in beating Georgia and winning the East, but 3 straight losses to end the season soured an otherwise special season. Expectations are the gators will take a step back, but I believe they are a legitimate threat to win the east and maybe more. Playing both Alabama and LSU as crossover opponents is going to leave little room for error however and that should probably be enough for Georgia to win the East.

2020 RESULTS: 8-2, 7-2 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 11-1, 8-0 (SEC)

GEORGIA BULLDOGS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

CLEMSON (CHARLOTTE)

9.11

UAB

9.18

SOUTH CAROLINA

9.25

@ VANDERBILT

10.2

ARKANSAS

10.9

@ AUBURN

10.16

KENTUCKY

10.23

OPEN DATE

10.30

FLORIDA (JACKSONVILLE)

11.6

MISSOURI

11.13

@ TENNESSEE

11.20

CHARLESTON SOUTHERN

11.27

@ GEORGIA TECH

2020 RESULTS: 5-6, 4-6 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 8-4, 5-3 (SEC)

KENTUCKY WILDCATS 2021 SCHEDULE

JAMES COOK

Overview: 2020 was a disappointment in Athens, losing only to Alabama and Florida, but still a disappointment. Hope did arrive however in quarterback JT Daniels who didn’t lose after taking over the starting role against Mississippi State. Daniels looks the part and he has a bevy of talent in the backfield with him, but injuries, trouble with the law and transfers have put a dent in experience at wide receiver. If Arik Gilbert can qualify he will be an immediate impact player at tight end, but that is a wait and see situation. Defensively the Dawgs are absolutely stacked, but they were last year as well, so the offense has to sustain drives and keep them rested to achieve their ultimate goal.

Offense: JT Daniels looked good against lesser competition, but everyone will know if he is ready for primetime quickly as game one is a neutral site clash with the fighting Dabo’s of Clemson. Having a nasty offensive line along with Zamir White and James Cook to hand the ball to should help his cause while he finds his footing with his receivers. Kearis Jackson is a playmaker, but with George Pickens sidelined with a torn ACL, someone else will have to step up and make plays down the field.

Arik Gilbert could be a go to target, but even if he doesn’t see the field the 6’7” 270 lbs, Darnell Washington should soften up with coverage and cause problems for opposing defenses. With three of five starters returning on the offensive line and plenty of blue chip recruits salivating to prove themselves at the skill positions, Georgia’s offense could take a huge leap forward in 2021, but it will only go as far as the right arm and leadership of JT Daniels can take them.

Defense: If you want to talk big nasties, Georgia has them. Three seniors return to form the most formidable defensive front in the SEC. Devonte Wyatt, Julian Rochester and most importantly Jordan Davis all chose to dawn the red and black one more

season and teams trying to establish the run will have their work cut out for them.

On the edge Adam Anderson put on some weight in the off-season that should allow him to be more sound in the run game, but won’t slow him down when it comes to his specialty of getting after the quarterback. Expect a breakout season from the former Rome Wolf.

Behind the line Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker shouldn’t be a step back from the departed Azeez Ojulari and Monty Rice. They have experience and the ability to hold down the middle while Anderson and Nolan Smith wreak havoc off the edge.

In the secondary Lewis Cine is a head hunting safety that would make Ronny Lott proud, while they will depend on youth at the cornerback position.

Cue the broken record, but Smart has recruited well enough to not miss a beat. Kelee Ringo was the #1 corner in the 2020 recruiting class and there is no shortage of blue chip talent around him that can step up.

There shouldn’t be much time in the pocket for quarterbacks or running lanes available with the front being such a strength, so that should help any potential growing pains in the secondary.

Special Teams: The Dawgs are solid as always on special teams with senior punter Jake Camarda and junior placekicker Jack Podlensy both back to assume the kicking duties. Kearis Jackson is scary with the ball in his hands as well so the return game should be strong.

Final Thoughts: Georgia is going to be nasty on both lines of scrimmage and has talent all over the field. The receiving corps is the position to watch as they need to establish playmakers outside of Jackson.

If Daniels is the chosen one and this offense can reach its explosive potential, the SEC is theirs for the taking.

9.4

ULM

9.11

MISSOURI

9.18

CHATTANOOGA

9.25

@ SOUTH CAROLINA

10.2

FLORIDA

10.9

LSU

10.16

@ GEORGIA

10.23

OPEN DATE

10.30

@ MISSISSIPPI STATE

11.6

TENNESSEE

11.13

@ VANDERBILT

11.20

NEW MEXICO STATE

11.27

@ LOUISVILLE

Overview: Coming off a 5-6 campaign that did include yet another bowl appearance, a 23-21 win over NC State in the Gator Bowl, Mark Stoops has now taken the Kentucky Wildcats to five straight bowl games. That’s quite an achievement at Kentucky, but Stoops wants more. With a passing game that has ranked last in the SEC for the past three seasons, he opted to bring in an NFL mind in Liam Coen to call the plays in Lexington this season. The new signal caller and a few transfers could help solve the Cats woes in the passing game, while Stoops defensive prowess should produce another stingy unit on the other side of the ball.

Offense: The Terry Wilson era had some high moments, but it ended with a thud. Wilson transferred to New Mexico after the 2020 season and the battle to replace him is a three man race between last year’s back up and former Auburn Tiger, Joey Gatewood, Beau Allen and Penn State transfer Will Levis. According to reports, it’s anybody’s job and whoever gets the nod will have some much needed help by the arrival of Nebraska transfer Wan’Dale Robinson at wide receiver.

The backfield has talent and experience returning in a by committee approach. Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Kavosiey Smoke will likely get the lion’s share of the carries behind an offensive line that loses All-SEC center Drake Jackson and left tackle, Landon Young. While there is some experience with players like Darian Kinnard and Luke Fortner this is definitely the unit that will make or break the Wildcats offense in 2021.

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2020 RESULTS: 5-5, 5-5 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 6-6, 3-5 (SEC)

MISSOURI TIGERS 2021 SCHEDULE

CHRIS RODRIGUEZ JR.

Defense: The Cats lost a few quality players to the NFL, but Stoops used a 3 man rotation last season and plenty of experience returns. Josh Paschal is an absolute beast and several blue chip youngsters like five-star Justin Rogers are poised to burst onto the scene in 2021.

With middle linebacker Jamin Davis gone to the NFL, DeAndre Square will take over as the quarterback of the defense. He is more than capable of filling that role, but outside of square there is a lot of production from 2020 lost, that new faces will have to make up for.

The Cats are stacked with talent and experience at safety and senior Cedrick Dort Jr. has one of the corner spots locked down while the other is an open competition between Carrington Valentine and Quandre Mosely.

Bottom line for this unit is that Mark Stoops knows how to get the most out of his players on defense. The question is can the offense stay on the field enough for them to last four quarters.

Special Teams: Losing Ray Guy award winner Max Duffy will hurt, but Wilson Berry comes from an NFL pedigree and will try to fill those shoes adequately. Matt Rufolo returns at placekicker after hitting 12-14 field goals in 2020, while Zach Johnson returns as the primary kick returner.

Final Thoughts: Mark Stoops is doing everything he can to break through and compete in the East. The schedule sets up nicely with crossover games at home against LSU and on the road against Mississippi State, but it still feels like eight wins is likely the ceiling for this team.

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9.4

CENTRAL MICHIGAN

9.11

@ KENTUCKY

9.18

SE MISSOURI STATE

9.25

@ BOSTON COLLEGE

10.2

TENNESSEE

10.9

NORTH TEXAS

10.16

TEXAS A&M

10.23

OPEN DATE

10.30

@ VANDERBILT

11.6

@ GEORGIA

11.13

SOUTH CAROLINA

11.20

FLORIDA

11.27

@ ARKANSAS (LITTLE ROCK)

Overview: Eliah Drinkwitz first year at the helm in Columbia may not have wowed anyone, but the 5-5 finish was well above what most people expected from the Tigers in 2020. Can Mizzou make the 2nd year leap in 2021? They are certainly capable of finishing over .500, but will need to figure things out on the defensive side if they are to go any further than that.

CONNOR BAZELAK

Offense: Drinkwitz found his quarterback of the future in Connor Bazelak. His numbers weren’t amazing, but he showed a lot of moxy for a true freshman being thrown to the wolves. It didn’t hurt that he had Larry Roundtree to hand the ball off to.

Roundtree fought for every yard and will be tough to replace. Tyler Badie and Elijah Young will look to fill those shoes, but it won’t be easy behind an offensive line that struggled in 2020.

If the line can improve, and they do return six players that were in the rotation last season, this offense could take a major step forward. If they can pound the rock, the receivers should find more room to get open and though the group lacks a super star, there is plenty of talent from which one could emerge.

Niko Hea had an excellent spring and should lead a proven group of tight ends while possibly being Bazelak’s favorite target.

Defense: Missouri showed they can score and should be able to do that with more consistency in 2021, but stopping the other team was a serious problem. Teams with a pulse on offense averaged over 40 points a game against the Tigers once vaunted defense. Drinkwitz hired Steve Wilks to take over at defensive coordinator in hopes of improving on a historically bad unit this season.

To be fair the injury bug wasn’t kind to the Tigers on defense last season and if Kobie Whiteside, Darius Robinson and Akial Byers can all stay healthy, depth on the defensive line should be pretty solid.

At linebacker, Nick Bolton’s departure to the NFL will certainly hurt, but Rice transfer Blaze Alldredge brings some much needed experience to the group. In the secondary a group that only tallied 4 interceptions last season gets a big boost with the return of Jarvis Ware from a torn ACL and the arrival of four-star transfer Jadarrius Perkins at Cornerback. There are still question marks at safety, so expect a shift from almost exclusive man coverage to more zone looks in order to make up for that potential weakness.

Special Teams: The Tigers return all three kickers in kickoff specialist Sean Koetting, placekicker Harrison Mevis and punter Grant McKinnis, while Mookie Cooper could provide a much needed spark in a lackluster return game.

Final Thoughts: Drinkwitz was brought to Columbia to provided offense after the end of defensive minded Barry Odom’s tenure. After a good recruiting class and year of experience, the Tigers should be able to put up points, but can they keep the other team out of the endzone? Missouri’s win total will hinge on that factor and the performance of the offensive line. They are bowl eligible this season and I’d at least expect them to enjoy a post season appearance in 2021.

2020 RESULTS: 2-8, 2-8 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 4-8, 1-7

SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

EASTERN ILLINOIS

9.11

@ EAST CAROLINA

9.18

@ GEORGIA

9.25

KENTUCKY

10.2

TROY

10.9

@ TENNESSEE

10.16

VANDERBILT

10.23

@ TEXAS A&M

10.30

OPEN DATE

11.6

FLORIDA

11.13

@ MISSOURI

11.20

AUBURN

11.27

CLEMSON

Overview: Shane Beamer may have won SEC Media Days with his energy and enthusiasm, but that will only take his Gamecocks so far in 2021. There are simply too many holes to fill on both sides of the ball to expect too much in year one.

Offense: An offense can only go as far as their quarterback can carry them, and just who will be taking snaps for the Gamecocks is up in the air. Luke Doty started the final two games of the season, but freshman Colten Gauthier and FCS transfer Jason Brown are in position to battle it out for the starting job. No matter who wins, the Gamecocks enter the season unproven at the most important position on offense.

They do have a pair of excellent tailbacks in Kevin Harris and MarShawn Lloyd and 3 of five starters return on the offensive line. With no proven leaders at receiver, it’s not rocket science to assume this will be a run heavy team in 2021. If they can find some success in the passing game they may overachieve, but expectation for this offense should be tempered in Beamers first season.

Defense: The most shocking aspect of the Will Muschamp era at South Carolina was just how bad the defense had fallen off year by year. Coach Boom couldn’t have been happy with a unit that allowed 36 points a game and 450 plus yards a contest.

While the defensive line returns a lot of talent and should certainly be the strength of the defense this season, it might not be enough to overcome the deficiencies at linebacker and in the secondary.

Ernest Jones and Jaycee Horn were the leaders of those two units and there seemingly is no heir apparent to replace their production. Damani Staley was often exposed last season and will be the most experience linebacker returning while everyone and anyone that made plays in the secondary last season no longer resides in Columbia. That spells trouble.

Special Teams: Both Parker White and Kai Kroeger return to handle the kicking duties, shoring up the most stable unit outside of the running back position.

Final Thoughts: Shane Beamer will get a long leash at South Carolina and he will need it. This is not a knock on him in the slightest. The cupboard is just too bare in Columbia to achieve an immediate turnaround. The Cocks could still surprise a few teams this season, but bowl eligibility is a reach.

Especially with Auburn and Texas A&M serving as crossover games along with Clemson waiting to cap off the season.

2020 RESULTS: 3-7, 3-7 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 6-6, 3-5

TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

BOWLING GREEN

9.11

PITTSBURGH

9.18

TENNESSEE TECH

9.25

@ FLORIDA

10.2

@ MISSOURI

10.9

SOUTH CAROLINA

10.16

OLE MISS

10.23

@ ALABAMA

10.30

OPEN DATE

11.6

@ KENTUCKY

11.13

GEORGIA

11.20

SOUTH ALABAMA

11.27

VANDERBILT

Overview: Here we go again Vols fans. For the fifth time since 2008 a new coach takes the reigns at Tennessee. Lane Kiffin, Derek Dooley, Butch Jones and Jeremy Pruitt paved the way for Josh Heupel to take over in Knoxville. It’s been a painful run, but a new Athletic Director and Head Coach that come off an amazing run at UCF may be the ticket to repairing over a decade of turmoil for the former powerhouse program.

Offense: Heupel is a proven offensive mind after leading the most up-tempo attack in the nation at UCF. Implementing that attack in year one, will be tricky due simply to a lack of repetition. Virginia Tech transfer Hendon Hooker does provide some upside at quarterback and is now almost certainly going to be the starter after Kaidon Salter was dismissed from the team. How well he picks up Heupel’s offense will determine just how fast the Vols can go, but if you didn’t see the blur that UCF was getting the ball snapped in 2020, you missed an impressive show. It was tough for defenses to rotate players in and even get set for the next play, but it is going to take time to get Tennessee’s attack up to that speed.

The Vols lack experience and production at running back after Eric Gray bolted for Oklahoma.

They will lean on Tiyon Evans and Jabari Small, but neither is a proven commodity. The receiving corps has talent, and Heupel will run a scheme that should get them open, but the pass blocking will have to improve dramatically after a nightmare of a season in 2020. Trey Smith is gone, but Cade Mays and Darnell Wright are former five-star recruits that need to live up to their billing this season if the line is going to improve. Scheme can go a long way READV3.COM | AUGUST 2021 V3 MAGAZINE

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2020 RESULTS: 0-9, 0-9 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 2-10, 0-8 (SEC)

VANDERBILT COMMODORES 2021 SCHEDULE

JALIN HYATT

to improving and offense and Heupel brings that acumen, but you still need skill and experience to succeed in the SEC.

Defense: Five seniors on the defensive line utilized the Covid-19 exemption and will return for the 2021 season to lead the most experienced unit on the Vol defense. Matthew Butler, LaTrell Bumphus and Aubrey Solomon are three of those vets that should give stability to the defense, but it may not be enough to overcome the mass exodus at linebacker. Losing leading tackler Henry To’o To’o and his side-kick Quavaris Crouch leave gargantuan holes to fill and a pair of former running backs turned linebackers are the leading candidates to play sand bag in Jeremy banks and Aaron Beasley.

The secondary however is stacked and should be the strength of the defense. Led by Alontae Taylor at cornerback, they return a bevy of experience at safety in Trevon Flowers, Theo Jackson and Jaylen McCollough, while the other corner spot is down to a healthy competition between Warren Burrell and Kenneth George Jr. The front and back end of the defense should be solid, but the inexperience at linebacker could neutralize those strengths.

Spec ial Teams: The Vols return an excellent punter in Paxton Brooks, but had to look to the transfer portal to replace the departed Brent Cimaglia with former South Carolina kicker Chase McGrath, who went 32-42 on field goal attempts while in Columbia. Velus Jones is provides gamechanging ability in the return game, so all in all, special teams should be a strength for the Vols this season.

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9.4

EAST TENNESSEE STATE

9.11

@ COLORADO STATE

9.18

STANFORD

9.25

GEORGIA

10.2

UCONN

10.9

@ FLORIDA

10.16

@ SOUTH CAROLINA

10.23

MISSISSIPPI STATE

10.30

MISSOURI

11.6

OPEN DATE

11.13

KENTUCKY

11.20

@ OLE MISS

11.27

@ TENNESSEE

Defense: The defensive woes of 2020 have already been mentioned, so what is the outlook for 2021’s unit? Sayo Odeyingbo and Andre Mintze were the anchors of the Dores d-line last season and both are now playing in the NFL. They have some meat left in the middle, but with the defense moving to a 4-2-5 scheme, the experience on the interior may struggle to make that transition. Feliti Afemui is another player that opted out in 2020 that returns this season and he will be relied upon to lead the linebacking corps.

The secondary has proven safeties in Dahaun Jerkins and Brendon Harris, but are paper thin at cornerback. With a lack of proven edge rushers and interior linemen that are solid, but don’t generate much of a pass rush, the corners could be in for a painfully long season.

Special Teams: The Commodores addressed a serious need at placekicker by luring former Alabama kicker Joseph Bulovas, which should provide some stability after Pierson Cooke converted just 4-9 field goals in 2020. Harrison Smith is back at punter and is as good as anyone in the SEC at that position.

Overview: The Derek Mason era is over and

Final Thoughts: Like all of his predecessors,

the Clark Lea era begins in Nashville. Mason’s tenure featured some really good defensive units, but 2020 was not kind to the Dores on that side of the ball. They surrendered 37.3 points per game in 2020, while the offense only mustered up an average of 14.8 points per game. That adds up to a winless season and Lea has his work cut out for him if he wants to improve on that record. So much so, he introduced a 10-year plan to bring the program where he believes it can be. Good luck coach.

Lea has his work cut out for him at Vanderbilt. One thing he will receive in Nashville is patience from the fanbase and administrative staff to make a run at building the program. I don’t know how many coaches present a 10-year plan in this day and age.

Only at Vandy. Good luck coach!

Offense: Ken Seals was an absolute bright spot for Vandy in 2020. The true freshman didn’t have much help while putting up respectable stats against a brutal schedule. His favorite target, Cam Johnson returns, giving Seals a reliable target that accounted for 56 receptions for 545 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2020.

Amir Abdur-Rahman and Chris Pierce also return at receiver, which is the deepest unit on the offense.

Running back is a huge question mark after Keyon Henry-Brooks opted to transfer, leaving the Dores to scramble and pick up a transfer of their own in former Temple Owl, Re’Mahn Davis. Davis tallied 936 yards as a freshman for the Owls and will be relied upon to produce immediately in Nasvhille.

Up front Vandy gets a big boost to a unit that struggled last season via the return of three players that opted out of the 2020 season. Cole Clemens, Bryce Bailey and Jonathan Stewart are all back and bring experience to go along with Tyler Steen at left tackle. The Commodores were the worst pass blocking team in the SEC last year, and with the strength of the offense being the quarterback and receivers, they must improve greatly for the offense to succeed.

CAM JOHNSON

ENTERPRISE AWARDS $10,000 TO ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN Advocates for Children received $10,000 from the Enterprise Holdings Foundation to advance social and racial equity in Cartersville.

The contribution is part of the Enterprise Holdings ROAD Forward commitment to allocate $35 million to more than 70 global Enterprise operating teams to drive local impact as part of its broader commitment to donate $55 million over five years to organizations that advance social and racial equity in the communities where it operates.

The local grants program empowers Enterprise Holdings employees to take the lead on identifying organizations that are best equipped to address social and racial equity gaps in their own communities across three areas: • early childhood development, • youth health and wellness, and • career and college preparation.

“We are so grateful to accept this award from Enterprise Holdings Foundation,” said Rachel Castillo, President/CEO of Advocates for Children. “We look forward to using these funds to continue supporting the children, youth, and families, many of whom have been disproportionately affected by the ongoing health crisis in our communities.”

In presenting the donation, Daffany Murphy, Vice President of Human Resources said, “We are proud to support Advocates for Children in its mission to provide services to children and families who have been the victims of abuse and neglect. Advancing diversity, equity and inclusion is a company-wide priority for Enterprise Holdings, and we’re committed to strengthening our community with the help of outstanding organizations like Advocates for Children.”

This summer, Enterprise Holdings awarded its inaugural local ROAD Forward grants to nearly 700 nonprofits addressing social and racial equity gaps facing youth and families in local communities. Combined, the grants total more than $7 million.

Advocates for Children is a non-profit organization that is committed to the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect. Founded as a children’s shelter in 1983, Advocates for Children has since expanded and now includes eight different programs across eleven counties. The mission of the organization is “To strengthen our community of families by offering safety, comfort and hope to children and preventing child abuse in all its forms.” If you would like to learn more about Advocates for Children or how to get involved, contact development@ advochild.org.

TO DONATE VISIT ADVOCHILD.ORG

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WILD, WILD WEST SECWEST 2020 RESULTS: 13-0, 10-0 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 11-1

ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

VS. MIAMI (ATLANTA)

9.11

MERCER

9.18

@ FLORIDA

9.25

SOUTHERN MISS

10.2

OLE MISS

10.9

@ TEXAS A&M

10.16

@ MISSISSIPPI STATE

10.23

TENNESSEE

10.30

OPEN DATE

11.6

LSU

11.13

NEW MEXICO STATE

11.20

ARKANSAS

11. 27

@ AUBURN

Everyone and their cousin projects Alabama to once again be one of the favorites if not THE favorite to win the national championship again METCHIE JO

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this year. In typical Bama fashion, the Crimson Tide saw a load of players go high in the NFL draft and watched their offensive coordinator leave to take a head coaching position.

This is nothing new in Crimson Tide land, but the one aspect of this team that no one seems to focus on is the quarterback position. For the first time in close to seven years, Alabama enters the season without a proven commodity with true college football playing experience at the position.

Heir apparent Bryce Wood has had plenty of time to grow and mature in the system, but he hasn’t taken meaningful snaps with games on the line. A new offensive coordinator and younger, less-experienced weapons surrounding him means Bama’s offense which has been a fine-tuned machine for the last few years could have some sputters this season.

Defensively, the Tide are once again loaded with a plethora of talent. The defensive line doesn’t have as much experience, but many people believe the Tide’s linebackers might be the best in the nation. They also return almost the whole defensive secondary, meaning that even if Alabama experiences some offensive hiccups, they can possibly offset it with a tougher, more stringent defense.

Any serious questions about the Tide should be answered by the second Saturday of October, as Alabama plays three intriguing games in the early part of the schedule this season. The Tide opens at Mercedes Benz stadium against Miami before travelling to play Florida in Gainesville two weeks later.

Those two early-season litmus tests will give fans a good glimpse into what Alabama might have. The Oct. 2 date against Ole Miss should be must-see viewing as Lane Kiffen and his Rebels might be able to put up some points on the Tide.

And if pundits are to be believed, the battle for the SEC West comes the next weekend as Alabama travels to play Texas A&M. Bama draws LSU at home after a bye week in early November and ends at Auburn, but both of those squads have major question marks entering this season. Naysayers have predicted that one of these years Alabama’s reload might not go as planned, but for the most part Saban and his charges have proved them wrong time and again.

If Alabama’s offense can get on track early and the defense is as promised, Tide fans can go ahead and book tickets to the playoffs again.

2020 RESULTS: 6-5, 6-4 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 7-5

AUBURN TIGERS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

AKRON

9.11

ALABAMA STATE

9.18

@ PENN STATE

9.25

GEORGIA STATE

10.2

@ LSU

10.9

GEORGIA

10.16

@ ARKANSAS

10.23

OPEN DATE

10.30

OLE MISS

11.6

@ TEXAS A&M

11.13

MISSISSIPPI STATE

11.20

@ SOUTH CAROLINA

11.27

ALABAMA

Perhaps the biggest wildcard in the SEC West in 2021 resides across the state from the defending national champions. Former Boise State coach Bryan Harsin now helms the Auburn Tigers after Gus Malzahn’s crazy, sometimes brilliant and often times down letting tenure ended last season.

Harsin inherits a team with talent at numerous positions and a reputation for underperforming at

times when it needed it most. Junior quarterback Bo Nix didn’t look comfortable in the offense in 2020, and it showed in several games as Nix threw into coverage too much and seemed willing to run out of the pocket on almost every down.

Auburn’s offensive line didn’t help last season.

Basically the whole line returns, but it has a lot to prove. Auburn has potential across the board at both tight end and receiver but not tons of experience.

The backfield depth is almost non-existent, so if Tank Bigsby goes down with another injury, the Tigers might be stuck using some walk-on players at running back.

Mike Bobo takes over as offensive coordinator and inherits the task of calming Nix and trying to get the junior signal caller back on the same page as his freshman season when he played a superb game in Auburn’s upset win over Alabama.

Defensively, the Tigers have a solid corps of linebackers returning but the defensive line took some hits as did the secondary. Former Vanderbilt coach Derek Mason takes over as defensive coordinator and will most likely bring a few new schemes to the defensive side of the ball.

Kicking shouldn’t be a major problem for Auburn as Anders Carlson returns. The punting situation is a bit more up in the air as is the kick returner situation.

As usual Auburn’s schedule doesn’t do the Tigers any favors with an early road game at Penn State and an early visit from Georgia as well as the typical slate of tough SEC West games, including a game at LSU where Auburn hasn’t won since 1999 as well as a road game at Texas A&M. Many Auburn fans remain split over Harsin’s hiring, but the former Boise State coach did wonders for the Broncos and always fielded highly-competitive teams that could win. Of course the SEC West is a far different story than the Mountain West. Only time will tell if Harsin can work his magic at Auburn.

BRENNAN MYLES

2020 RESULTS: 5-5, 5-5 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 9-3

LSU TIGERS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

@ UCLA

9.11

MCNEESE STATE

9.18

CENTRAL MICHIGAN

9.25

@ MISSISSIPPI STATE

10.2

AUBURN

10.9

@ KENTUCKY

10.16

FLORIDA

10.23

@ OLE MISS

10.30

OPEN DATE

11.6

@ ALABAMA

11.13

ARKANSAS

11.20

ULM

11.27

TEXAS A&M

Crazy to ask, but could LSU coach Ed Orgeron be sitting on a hot seat before the middle of the season in 2021? Remember this is the SEC and although Orgeron led the Tigers to the national title two years ago, last season’s fall to .500 ball set off warning sirens around Baton Rouge.

While LSU parting ways with Orgeron so soon after a national title might seem weird, something similar happened at Auburn a decade ago after those Tigers won a national championship with a Heismanwinning quarterback and then fell back to Earth the next two seasons.

The two big questions facing LSU now revolve around who plays quarterback and if the Tigers can regain their lofty standing from two years ago.

Offensively, Myles Brennan and Max Johnson will vie for starting duties at quarterback. The Tigers have several good young receivers but will need a lot more from tailback. Most of the line returns, giving the Tigers a solid foundation for the offense. But as in years past, the biggest question is can LSU find the right quarterback to lead the offense.

The Tigers struggled for several years at quarterback before Joe Burrow transferred in and worked his magic.

LSU’s defense gave up way too many passing yards and the defensive line was weak against the run in 2020. Look for both areas to improve with new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones. Derek Stingley Jr. projects as one of the best defensive backs in college football and the linebacker and defensive line rotations look solid. If the Tigers can rebound on defense, it will help the offense out a good bit.

By mid October, fans should have a good guess as to how good LSU can be. The Tigers open against UCLA and draw home games against Auburn and Florida in early and mid October as well as a late September date against Mississippi State, the team that upset LSU to start off last season.

If the Tigers can topple UCLA and handle the two early season SEC opponents, they might be set until they have to travel to Tuscaloosa in early November. However, if LSU stumbles early and exits the SEC West race by early October, Tiger fans may not be forgiving of Orgeron no matter what his team did two years ago.

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2020 RESULTS: 5-5, 4-5 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 8-4

OLE MISS REBELS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.6

LOUISVILLE (ATLANTA)

9.11

AUSTIN PEAY

9.18

TULANE

9.25

OPEN DATE

10.2

@ ALABAMA

10.9

ARKANSAS

10.16

@ TENNESSEE

10.23

LSU

10.30

@ AUBURN

11.6

LIBERTY

11.13

TEXAS A&M

11.20

VANDERBILT

11.27

@ MISSISSIPPI STATE

A solid returning quarterback and a promising start to Lane Kiffen’s Ole Miss tenure in 2020 have many pundits thinking the Rebels could be up and comers in the SEC West.

Of course, no one is going out on a limb to predict they can sweep past Alabama or Texas A&M but several prognosticators think the Rebels can move past LSU and Auburn and possibly finish as high as third in the daunting SEC West.

Kiffen’s offense looked good in 2020 and the return of quarterback Matt Corral, who threw 29 touchdowns and rushed for more than 500 yards in 2020, bodes well for an Ole Miss offense that has plenty of stalwarts.

All-SEC taiblack Jerrion Early returns for the Rebels and while the offense lost talent at wide receiver and tight end, the Rebels have plenty of young talent hoping to step up. With four of five offensive line starters returning, the Rebel’s offense could be set to be even better in 2021 than they were in 2020.

Defensively the Rebels have recruited well and brought in a couple of transfers who should make an impact, but they will need to get a lot better to improve on the squad that ranked 126th in total defense in 2020.

The linebacking group does look strong and if the defensive line can gel and keep blockers off of the backers, it could free them up to cause some havoc and mayhem with other team’s offenses. The secondary has a good mix of returning starters, transfers and several good recruits giving Ole Miss some depth if not tons of experience.

The schedule is tough but should allow Ole Miss time to get ready. After opening against Lousiville to start the season, Ole Miss gets games against Tulane and Austin Peay and a bye week before they travel to Tuscaloosa to face Alabama.

The Rebels also catch LSU, Auburn and Texas A&M later in the season, giving them time to grow on defense and get the offense clicking. Kiffen has already brought back fun and excitement to Ole Miss.

If the Rebels can improve on defense, they could pull an upset or two in the SEC West.

WILL ROGERS

2020 RESULTS: 4-7, 3-7 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 5-6

MISSISSIPPI STATE BULLDOGS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

LOUISIANA TECH

9.11

NORTH CAROLINA STATE

9.18

@ MEMPHIS

9.25

LSU

10.2

@ TEXAS A&M

10.9

OPEN DATE

10.16

ALABAMA

10.23

@ VANDERBILT

10.30

KENTUCKY

11.6

@ ARKANSAS

11.13

@ AUBURN

11.20

TENNESSEE STATE

11.27

OLE MISS

There were moments early in the 2020

MATT CORRAL 30

V3 MAGAZINE AUGUST 2021 | READV3.COM

season where Mississippi State looked ready to prove that Mike Leach’s offensive wizardry would work wonders in the SEC. However those moments came few and far between as the season rolled along, and the opening campaign for the new Bulldog’s coach sputtered to a 4-7 ending Without a doubt the key question the Bulldogs face entering the 2021 season is who will start at

2020 RESULTS: 9-1 2021 PROJECTION: 11-1

TEXAS A&M 2021 SCHEDULE

quarterback. Will Rogers had moments of greatness in 2020 but never truly found his groove. Incoming freshman Sawyer Robertson could give Rogers a run for the starting job.

No matter which quarterback triumphs and ends up leading the way for the offense, expect State to be able to put up some numbers with almost the whole offensive unit returning from 2020. That means the offense has had a full year to digest and learn the new offensive system Leach brought with him. That familiarity should help pay dividends.

Defensively, the Bulldogs have good returning players across the defensive line, linebacking corps and defensive secondary, but their depth is a huge problem. After the first teamers, State doesn’t have tons of experience, so a few injuries could spell trouble for the Bulldogs especially when the defense could be called on to play a lot more snaps if the offense gets humming.

The Bulldogs’ schedule doesn't do them any favors with early games against Louisiana Tech, N.C. State and Memphis, all teams poised to make bowl games in 2020. The SEC West slate starts early and tough as well with the Bulldogs facing LSU, Texas A&M and Alabama by mid October, meaning they could be out of the SEC West race before Halloween rolls around.

The second half of the schedule isn’t as brutal, and if the Bulldogs can weather the injuries on the defensive side of things and get the quarterback position straight early, they could pull out enough wins to get to a bowl game.

The biggest question will be whether Mike Leach and his offense can make a big enough jump in year two to become a big thorn in the side of other SEC West coaches.

9.4

KENT STATE

9.11

VS. COLORADO (DENVER)

9.18

NEW MEXICO

9.25

ARKANSAS (ARLINGTON)

10.2

MISSISSIPPI STATE

10.9

ALABAMA

10.16

@ MISSOURI

10.23

SOUTH CAROLINA

10.30

OPEN DATE

11.6

AUBURN

11.13

@ OLE MISS

11.20

PRAIRIE VIEW

11.27

@ LSU

A load of returning talent, a much nicer non-conference schedule and Alabama having to play at Texas A&M this season has Aggie fans chomping at the bit for the 2021 season.

Head coach Jimbo Fisher has worked his magic and gotten the Aggies to the doorstep of college football greatness and some people think this might be the year where A&M manages to not only knock on the door, but maybe kick it down.

Starting on the offensive side where the Aggies return a slew of talent but must find a new quarterback and replace four of their five offensive linemen.

Whether Haynes King, Zach Calzada or someone else ends up taking over as signal caller, that quarterback will boast about a depth of talent at wide receiver and running back to help. However, the new quarterback will also be standing behind a brand-new offensive line including two new tackles.

Defensively, the Aggies return nine starters and a ton of depth from a unit that was solid in 2020.

The line and the secondary are almost intact, but the Aggies will have to replace their leading tackler from last year. If they can manage that, the defense can possibly step up and help if the offense has some early struggles.

The schedule shapes up quite well for the Aggies, as they don’t face top-notch, out of conference talent instead drawing Kent State, Colorado and New Mexico to start the season. They also get the bulk of their daunting SEC West games later in the year, facing Auburn, Ole Miss and LSU all in November.

The key date looms on Oct. 9 when Alabama comes to town. That game could see both Alabama and Texas A&M undefeated and both ranked in the top 10 and possibly the top five depending on how the early season plays out.

As most people note, Texas A&M appears to be on the verge of great things. For the Aggies to zoom past the verge, they have to be able to beat Alabama.

A loss to Alabama doesn’t eliminate A&M from playoff contention, but it means they have no room for error throughout the remainder of the season.

ISAIAH SPILLER READV3.COM | AUGUST 2021 V3 MAGAZINE

31

2020 RESULTS: 3-7, 3-7 (SEC) 2021 PROJECTION: 4-8

ARKANSAS RAZORBACKS 2021 SCHEDULE 9.4

RICE

9.11

TEXAS

9.18

GEORGIA SOUTHERN

9.25

TEXAS A&M (ARLINGTON)

10.2

@ GEORGIA

10.9

@ OLE MISS

10.16

AUBURN

10.23

UAPB

10.30

OPEN DATE

11.6

MISSISSIPPI STATE

11.13

@ LSU

11.20

@ ALABAMA

11.27

MISSOURI (LITTLE ROCK)

There is new hope at Arkansas where Sam Pittman enters his second year at the helm of the Razorbacks. Although they only won three games in 2020, Arkansas lost several close contests and had chances to win a few of them.

The Razorbacks return 17 starters from last year but must initiate a new quarterback, KJ Jefferson.

Jefferson has the luxury of having almost his entire offense back around him, but he must still learn the ropes of being a starting quarterback in the SEC. While Arkansas brings back the whole offensive line, their depth and size is a cause of concern against the massive defensive fronts they will face game in and out.

The Razorbacks’ defensive front also faces the size issues and last season it had major problems generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Arkansas plans to switch to a 3-4 defensive scheme, hoping to free up some space to get more pressure and hopefully utilize returning linebackers Grant Morgan and Bumper Pool, who each had 100+ tackle seasons in 2020.

Arkansas’ schedule doesn’t do it any favors with games against Texas and Georgia Southern early as well as a road trip to SEC East power Georgia on tap. Not to mention the typical SEC West gauntlet the Razorbacks face every year.

Arkansas hasn't been to a bowl since 2016 and to get back to a bowl this season, they will need to pick up a few upset wins. If the offense can gel with Jefferson at quarterback, the Hogs might be able to pull out enough wins to reach that level and then can focus on trying to get to the middle of the SEC West standings.

PROJECTED FINAL STANDINGS IN THE EAST IAN'S 1 GA

JIM'S 1 GA

2

FL

2

FL

3

KY

3

KY

4

MS

4

MS

5

TN

5

TN

6

SC

6

SC

7

VB

7

VB

PROJECTED FINAL STANDINGS IN THE WEST IAN'S 1 AL 2

LSU

JIM'S 1 AL 2

TXA&M

3

TXA&M

3

LSU

4

OLE MISS

4

OLE MISS

5

AU

5

AU

6

AK

6

MISS STATE

7

MISS STATE

7

AK

SEC CHAMPIONSHIP IAN'S & JIM'S PREDICTION

ALABAMA VS. GEORGIA WINNER: ALABAMA JALEN CATALON 32

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2101 Rockmart Road SE • www.siliconecs.com • 404-825-3174 READV3.COM | AUGUST 2021 V3 MAGAZINE

33

THE HUMAN MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM

might not be on the forefront of a person’s mind on a daily basis. That is, until something goes seriously wrong with it, then it is all they can think about.

Fortunately for the people of northwest Georgia, the staff of Rome’s Harbin Clinic Orthopedics & Sports Medicine is here to help.

One of those stellar professionals is Dr. Brandon Bushnell, MD, MBA. The way he sees it, his job consists of three parts.

First, to educate, to clearly lay out all the patient’s options. Second, to recommend, to help guide the patient through the decision process of choosing the best course of treatment. Lastly, to execute, to put that treatment plan into action.

“For me, it’s a job, but it’s also a calling,” Bushnell says.

internal medicine for an unheard-of 59 years. “He knew everyone in town,” Bushnell says. “He treated multiple generations of the same families. I knew early that’s what I wanted to do, too.”

That dream came true for Bushnell when he joined Harbin Clinic in 2009.

“Now I get to take care of my friends and

neighbors,” he says, “old, young, acute, chronic. A big spectrum of ages and people. It’s been a lot of fun practicing here in Rome.”

“I discovered early on that I really liked working with my hands and fixing things,” says Bushnell. “I liked the immediacy of trauma surgery. I liked being able to take

IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY

Growing up in Athens, Georgia, Bushnell had a front row seat to see how wholehearted community medicine was done. His grandfather (who graduated medical school at 22) practiced general

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V3 MAGAZINE AUGUST 2021 | READV3.COM

L-R: Robert Baudier, OPA, ATC, Brandon Bushnell, MD, MBA, Dutch Masters, and Ashley Gaulin, PA‑C.

worn-out joints and make them new again, giving people hope and a new lease on an active life.”

EDUCATING, RECOMMENDING, EXECUTING Dr. Bushnell’s philosophy of medicine is well illustrated by his relationship with one of his patients, Dutch (Gregory) Masters.

Then in his 50s, Masters first came to Harbin Clinic Orthopedics & Sports Medicine with shoulder problems: the left shoulder suffered from basketball wear and tear, and the right shoulder had an old football injury (from flag football, no less). Masters, then still an airlines pilot, says he was impressed that Dr. Bushnell did not use surgery as his immediate default solution. As Masters puts it: “He said, ‘Here’s what we can fix, but here’s the downside to surgery…it might help you play basketball, but it may make pulling the yoke on the aircraft more difficult on takeoff.’” After weighing their options, they finally agreed on foregoing surgery and

pursuing physical therapy instead, about which Masters says, “That worked out great!”

Eventually, playing basketball caused a tear of Masters’ meniscus (cartilage in the knee joint). Again, Dr. Bushnell gave him options: “We can do surgery, but let’s try steroid shots first, and if that doesn’t work, we can do surgery later.”

Masters says, “After only two injections, I was running up and down the basketball court virtually pain free for years…until I completely wrecked my ‘good’ knee.”

WHEN PHYSICAL THERAPY ISN’T ENOUGH When Masters was 58 years old, he finally had an injury that could not be treated with physical therapy alone. Bushnell says, “Dutch had an injury that we associate with teenagers and twenty-somethings, an ACL tear. (The ACL is the ligament inside the knee that keeps the shinbone from shifting out of place.)

Even today at age 60, running stadium stairs or playing tennis with a

reconstructed ACL, a partial meniscus, and a torn meniscus on the other knee, he pays close attention to what his body is saying to him and bears in mind what Bushnell told him: “If it hurts, stop doing it.” (Sage advice from the doctor’s own physician grandfather.)

“If you have a great attitude and you commit to the rehab,” says Bushnell, “you can get back to what you love. It’s the power of the body that God designed.

Sometimes it can heal on its own, and sometimes it needs help.”

Masters’ physical therapist told him, “We’ve never had a patient recovering from this kind of surgery at your age… by thirty-five years!” That’s a testament to Masters’ determination to continue living an active lifestyle and Dr. Bushnell and his team's determination to help him make that happen.

To learn more about Harbin Clinic Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, visit harbinclinic.com/orthopedics

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35

Jamie Doss, CRPC® Financial Advisor Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM

Gentle and caring dentistry for the whole family!

Official Dentist of the Rome Braves 19A John Maddox Dr • (706) 235-5899 Find us on Facebook @KentCEllingtonDMDPC

1 S Broad St SW, Rome, GA 30161 ameripriseadvisors.com | 706-295-4008

TSHIRT FUNDRAISER Buy a tshirt or hat, and enjoy a complimentary year-long individual membership (a $35 value) Shipping and local drop-off available

Purchase at www.coosa.org/shop 5 B ro a d S t. R o m e, GA 3 0 1 61 • 7 0 6 -23 2-27 24 • w w w.co osa .org

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DON’T MISS A RIDE THIS SUMMER SERVICE YOUR BIKE TODAY!

Check out our new location!

300 N 5 TH AVE ROME, GA HIGH QUALITY BICYCLE REPAIRS & SERVICE WWW.REVIVECYCLEWORKSROME.COM • 706-204-8429

NEED FRAMES?

HOURS:

TUESDAY - FRIDAY 11am - 5pm Classically AFTERCrafted HOUR

APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! Online at 519 BroadShop St. Suite 101/103

www.FarrellsFrameAndDesign.com Rome, GA • 706.584.7816 Classically Crafted

amanda@farrellsframeanddesign.com www.FarrellsFrameAndDesign.com

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It’s All In Our Name...

nissan • hyundai • honda 38

HeritageRomeHyundai.com • RomeNissan.com • HeritageRomeHonda.com 706.291.2277

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Give where you live.

A small donation can make a big difference in your community. Through Project SHARE, Georgia Power will match $1.50 for every $1 you give to help people in your county facing a temporary crisis. You can even donate directly from your electric bill. Learn more or apply for assistance at georgiapower.com/projectSHARE.

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The

Sweet Taste Italy

of

Text: Debbie Rasure Photos: Andy Calvert

Honeycream owners Mike and Christie Meyers invite the public to gather, relax and embrace the European dessert experience with their sweet treats and drinks.

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Imagine strolling down Broad Street AFTER ENJOYING A DELIGHTFUL MEAL AT A DOWNTOWN EATERY. Overhead, the stars are

twinkling from a velvety, indigo sky. A soft, warm breeze kisses your cheek. It’s been a lovely evening, and you’re not quite ready to bid your dining companion adieu. You turn a corner and are drawn toward a soft glow, the sound of muted laughter, and an irresistible aroma. A few steps later, you discover a charming European style café serving a mouthwatering array of irresistible treats: Italian cream soda, espresso, affogato, liege waffles crusted with Belgian pearl sugar, sorbetto, and its close cousin – the star of the menu – sweet, creamy, rich gelato, handmade in the Italian tradition.

Welcome to la dolce vita, the sweet life, served with Southern hospitality at Honeycream, Rome’s first artisan gelato café, or gelateria, as the Italians would say.

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More joy, less busy

Launched this summer, Honeycream is the realization of a long-held dream for retired Air Force pilot Mike Meyer and his wife Christie. The pair, along with their children, Naomi (19), Tovah (17), and Jonah (14), settled in Rome shortly after Mike’s retirement so he could pursue the next phase of his career, flying for Delta Air Lines.

Almost as soon as the Meyer family adjusted to the rhythms of their new life, COVID-19 swept the nation, bringing everything to a halt. Now in isolation together, the family had plenty of time to take long walks, talk, and share their dreams.

“We’d been a military family for 20 years,” Christie said. “We had lived a whirlwind life, and when COVID hit, it gave us time to take a deep breath and re-examine our lives. We realized we needed more joy and less busy. The great pause gave us time to consider doing the thing we had dreamed about for years, opening a gelato shop.”

When in Rome

Mike had fallen in love with gelato when he was stationed in Italy, and the more the family talked about making their dream a reality, the more the rich confection seemed a perfect fit for where they were in their lives, both literally and figuratively.

“We wanted to do something really special,” he

More than simply Italian ice cream

While it’s true gelato is a sweet, creamy frozen dessert, three important qualities distinguish it from ice cream: texture, fat content, and serving temperature. Gelato is mixed slowly to create that silky, luxurious mouthfeel it is known for, while ice cream is mixed quickly to add air bubbles for a light, fluffy texture. Gelato is made with less cream, making it a lower-fat treat, and it is served at a warmer temperature than ice cream, allowing its vibrant flavors to dance across the tongue with joyful abandon.

Made from only the freshest natural, locallysourced ingredients, Honeycream’s gelato is all that, and more.

The art and science of gelato

said, “and when we discovered Rome didn’t have an authentic, artisan gelato shop, we knew that was it.”

With the decision made, the Meyers reached out to an old Italian friend who owns and operates a gelato shop in Utah. Taking the Meyers under his wing, he taught them about running a business and helped them make a connection with another Italian gelato maker living in the U.S. who mentored them in the fine art of gelato making.

The process of creating authentic gelato involves a delicate balance of sugar, liquids, fats, and solid ingredients like fruit, chocolate, and nuts. It’s a skill best learned at the hands of a master, like the Italian gelato maker the Meyers met through their Utah friend. Under his tutelage, the Meyers learned all they needed to know about how to balance ingredients and flavors to create the most delectable confection.

Making a batch is a multi-step process beginning with blending milk, cream, three types of sugar, and skim milk powder into a liquid concoction that is refrigerated and aged for a few hours. Next, flavorings are added, and the mixture

is gently churned to create the unmistakable texture that makes gelato distinct.

Ultimately, the Meyers plan to offer a menu of about 18 flavors, depending on the season and the availability of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Following Honeycream on social media is the best way to stay up-to-date on the new delights and flavors on offer. Recent selections include the standard favorites – vanilla, salted caramel, and cookies and cream – along with some unique varieties such as plum, pistachio, hazelnut, and of course, their signature flavor, honeycream.

The birth of a business

After perfecting their gelato making skills, the Meyers turned their attention to the more practical matters of entrepreneurship, like a name for their fledgling business and a place for it to call home.

“We knew we wanted the name to have something to do with milk and honey,” Christie said. “Our youngest son, Jonah, raises bees, so honey had to be in there. We spent a lot of time staying up past our bedtime thinking about it,

An ancient treat

Gelato traces its origins back 12,000 years to Mesopotamia where ice and snow was collected from mountains and used to cool drinks served during royal banquets and religious ceremonies.

Later, Arabs added sugar syrup, creating the predecessor of sorbet. Gelato, as we know it today, began in the Renaissance when alchemist Cosimo Ruggieri served the first gelato flavor, fior di latte, or flower of milk, at the court of the Medici family in Florence. Made of milk, cream, and sugar, the concoction was a hit, but one only to be enjoyed by the wealthy. Many years later, architect and amateur cook Bernardo Buontalenti refined the recipe, and in 1686, Francesco Procopio Cutò introduced gelato to the world when he opened Café Le Procope in Paris. Today, the celebrated treat even has a museum dedicated to it, the Gelato Museum Carpigiani in Bologna, Italy.

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43

trying different combinations of words and working out what kind of name would help us create the atmosphere we wanted. Finally, it came to us. Honeycream.”

With the name settled and a business license and domain name procured, the Meyers set out to find the perfect home where their dream could flourish. They found it in one of the oldest buildings on Third Avenue.

“We saw the potential of the building, with its beautiful beams and towering windows,” Mike said. “We immediately wanted to pay homage to its past, and I knew Christie had a vision for what it could become. We wanted to do everything we could to bring back the historic character of the 1879 structure.”

The Meyers proceeded with renovations, taking out the tile floor and, much to their delight, discovering the original hardwood floor beneath. Months of painstaking work followed – installing new electrical, heating and cooling systems, purchasing specialized freezers and other equipment from Italy, finding just the right lighting, paint color, and cozy décor to not only revive the building but also to create a beautiful setting for customers to enjoy.

Finding – and making – community

The Meyers knew Rome was a special place from their first visit, but that truth came home to them as they worked to establish their new business.

“We quickly discovered that Rome is a closeknit community that takes care of its members,” Mike said. “From the beginning, local merchants all up and down Broad Street and along the side streets reached out, offering their support, encouragement, and even recommendations of local craftsmen to use for our renovations and products. Everyone’s been wonderful to help us realize our dream.”

A greater purpose

For the Meyers, their business is about more than a product, it’s about creating a special place for Romans to gather, relax, linger, talk, connect, and enjoy.

“We wanted to bring something special to Rome, a little taste of that European experience,” Mike said. “We hope Honeycream becomes a place where relationships can be built, where people can just embrace and enjoy the sweet life.”

If the comments and reviews on social media are any indicator, that hope has already been realized.

Honeycream is located at 4 E 3rd Ave, Rome, and is open Thurs 11-9, Fri and Sat 11- 11, and Sun 12 – 5 44

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Mike & Christie Meyer

a gathering place...

Great Bar • Great Food • Great Friends Beer • Cocktails • Wine • Hot & Cold Appetizers • Soups • Salads Entrees • Burgers • Sandwiches • Desserts • Coffee • Tea

Mon - Thurs 5-10pm Fri - Sat 5pm-1am For takeout, call 706-378-4837 bar ext. 407

Catering & Event Space Available

100 W. 2nd Avenue, Rome, Georgia • 706.378.4837 • hawthorn.com READV3.COM | AUGUST 2021 V3 MAGAZINE

45

FOR THE INJURIES. FOR THE COMEBACKS.

For everything in life. For the setbacks and for the championships. For the tackles and for the touchdowns.

At Harbin Clinic, we are here for you and with you every step of the way when an unexpected injury puts you on the sideline. Our team includes a dynamic group of physicians from a wide range of specialties who are available to assist athletes with everything from minor injuries to major accidents. Top-rated orthopedists, primary care specialists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, cardiologists, chiropractors and physical therapists make up the team for a truly integrated approach to delivering exceptional patient care for athletes. Led by fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians with a wealth of combined experience caring for high school, collegiate and professional athletes, we take a comprehensive approach to treating sports injuries. When an injury forces you to take a time-out and you're ready to get back in the game, Harbin Clinic is here to care completely. For you. With you.

We care completely.

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stro

THE DISH MEDITERRANEAN

bistro

www.lascalaromega.com 413 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

706-238-9000

www.mellowmushroom.com Hours: Mon - Sat: 6pm - 10pm 400 Block Bar & Lounge: 4pm-1:30am Live music each weekend.

La Scala offers both first-rate service and terrific Italian Cuisine in an upscale casual atmosphere.

50% off cafe menu from 4-6 p.m.

www.schroedersnewdeli.com 406 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

706-234-4613

Hours: Mon-Thur: 11am-9pm Fri-Sat: 11am-10pm Sun: 11:30am-3pm

Schroeder’s menu includes sandwiches, calzones, soups, salads, potato skins, nachos, wings, and more. And don’t forget our pizza! It’s the best in town... and for a sweet treat, try our Cheesecake Calzone! (Draft and Bottled Beers & Wine also offered) Famous for: Their Roast Beef Relief!

www.hardees.com

1204 Turner McCall Blvd • Rome, GA 30161 2300 Shorter Ave • Rome, GA 30165 3110 Cedartown Hwy • Rome, GA 30161 104 S Tennessee St • Cartersville, GA 30120

We’re known as the place to go for juicy, delicious charbroiled burgers & made from scratch biscuits. Because if you’re gonna eat, you should Eat Like You Mean It!

429 Broad St Rome, GA 30161

706-295-5330

470-227-7049

Hours: Sun-Wed: 11am - 9pm Thursday: 11am - 9:30pm Fri-Sat: 11am - 11pm

Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas.

www.moesoriginalbbq.com/rome 101 West 1st Street Rome, GA 30161

Hours: Sun-Thu: 11am - 10pm Fri- Sat: 11am - 2am

706-622-2977

Moe’s Original BBQ is a Southern soul food revival where great food is served in an atmosphere that is relaxed, spontaneous, yet civilized….well, sometimes.

www.swheatmarketdeli.com Hours: Mon-Sat: 5am-10pm Sun: 6am-10pm

706.291.2021

www.elzaraperome.com

28 S Wall St Cartersville, GA 30120

5 E Main St Cartersville, GA 30120

Hours: Mon - Sun: 11am-3pm

770-607-0067 Casual counter serve offering sandwiches, salads & American comfort food

www.maineonmain.com Hours: Mon - Thu: 11am-9:30pm Fri - Sat: 11am-10:30pm Sunday: 11am-4pm

Colorful, casual outpost serving Mexican street tacos & fajitas, plus beers & tequila drinks. Join us every Sunday for Brunch from 11-4pm.

24 W Main St Cartersville, GA 30120

770-334-3813

Hours: Mon - Thurs: 11am - 9pm Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm Sun: 11am - 8pm

At Maine Street Coastal Cuisine, in the heart of historic downtown Cartersville, we pride ourselves on sourcing seafood from sustainable fisheries. Our passion is to provide a restaurant free of artificial flavors and ingredients.

Make it a meal worth remembering. Where to eat in Northwest Georgia.

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The 72nd Annual

COOSA VALLEY

FAIR

Is back for the year of

Featuring:

Jurassic Kingdom

for Kids Young and Old

Aquatic Acrobatic Show Bickerin’ Blacksmiths

OCT 5 - 9 2021 www.CoosaValleyFair.com Like us on Facebook 48

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EXCHANGE EXCHANGE

EXCHANGE CLUB OF ROME, GA EXCHANGE CLUB OF ROME, GA

SPONSORED BY THE EXCHANGE CLUB OF ROME WADE SHOWS INC. RIDES