12/9/08
Finishing as one of the bigger disappointments in ’08 should motivate the Dawgs to avenge their reputation as a major player in the national title race. This will again be a strong squad, with tons of four- and five-star recruits to bolster any turnover. Coach Richt will have his work cut out – Massaquoi definitely graduates, but the prospect of Stafford and Moreno also vacating would seem to force the offense to find itself yet again. But a closer look shows that, even with the WR turnover, depth exists at the ball-handling positions. RB Caleb King will live up to his five-star hype once given the “workhorse” role, while true soph-to-be A.J. Green has already proven that the corps will have a “go to” guy. The biggest questions that will define the team’s ‘09 possibilities - 1. What level will Joe Cox rise to if he is the new starter? 2. Can the OL find depth? And 3. Can the defensive schizophrenia end (six foes were held to 14 points of less, but five were allowed 38 or more)? Cox has the pedigree, and the line has candidates out the wazoo. But, moreover, the defense will need some serious retooling if UGA is to take a bite out of East Division king Florida. The loss to in-state rival and blossoming Tech has many wondering if this team can even be the best in the Peach State next year, let alone the ever-toughening. A top 10 ranking should buoy hopes and tell of this team’s 2009 potential, but like in ’08, any promises are only to be believed upon delivery, and not before.