Rethinking Georgia

F our weeks ago, I thought Alabama had no chance to defeat Georgia. I was convinced of Georgia’s strength due to good coaching (Mark Richt), a solid sophomore quarterback (Matt Stafford) and a weak Alabama defense.

Alabama’s defense is still weak, but my estimation of Richt and Stafford has changed.

Stafford is a good quarterback, but I’m not convinced his offensive line and supporting skill position players are as good. In the end, a quarterback is only as good as those who block for him and catch the ball. Not being able to effectively score on South Carolina is a big black mark against the Georgia offense. While Alabama’s defense is weak, I don’t think it is weaker than South Carolina.

As for Richt, I’m not impressed with his cowardly and disingenuous reasons for closing practice the week of the Alabama game. I’ve said it before, it is a cynical attempt to manipulate the media’s hatred of Saban and provides a ready-made excuse for his loss to South Carolina and a potential loss to Alabama. Richt has a great reputation as a man of principal, but this is the most calculating and cynical move since Caligula made his horse a consul.

Obviously, Richt is more worried about Nick Saban than he should be. Richt may win the game, but letting Saban get into his head isn’t the way to accomplish a victory. In fact, spending time disrupting routine and creating controversy is a good way to lose a game.