Dawgs' NFL Draft talent preview - one on hold, but ten with eyes on Sundays

Deandre Baker Was All Set for the NFL - Then This Happened
For Deandre Baker, it’s hard to forget: his University of Georgia team came within an inch of winning a national championship. In his head, he continues to recall how the game against Alabama came to an end. Georgia got behind the line to take down Alabama passer Tua Tagovailoa in overtime and take his team out of field goal range. Georgia believed that they were about to secure the University’s first national championship since 1980.

Then it happened. Tagovailoa threw a 41-yard TD bomb to DeVonta Smith to rewrite the Bulldogs’ story.



Baker could only watch as that play unfolded. That his team fell just one game shy of winning a championship was motivation enough to ignore the NFL draft and return to the program. Another factor in Baker’s decision was that he was watching ESPN on the very day of the deadline for players to make a decision on whether or not to declare. Then they replayed the TD. If there was any chance that Baker would change his mind, it had just been blown to smithereens.

In the lead up to the early entry deadline for the draft, Baker said that he had heard that he would be taken anywhere within rounds one to three. Both DC Mel Tucker and HC Kirby Smart had expressed their surprise in his decision to return to the Bulldogs.

Lockdown corner
Throughout last season, Baker, who recorded nine pass breakups and three interceptions, saw a limited number of balls thrown in his direction. Pro Football Focus revealed that the DB went 272 defensive snaps in a row without giving up a touchdown.

When Baker was given a national audience, he appeared to play some of his best football. While the Bulldogs were given a lesson in passing the football by Oklahoma in the first half of the Rose Bowl, he went on to make one of the game’s biggest plays.



On 3-and-12 in double overtime and making his way through traffic, Baker saw that Oklahoma was executing a misdirection play. He avoided any receiver looking to divert his angle and forced Marquise Brown out of bounds and shy of the first down.

This set up a Lorenzo Carter blocked field goal attempt, before a Sony Michel walk-off touchdown put them into the national championship.

In the title game, while Calvin Ridley scored a late TD, Baker held him to just 23 yards on 4 catches.
Baker first came to the fore as a sophomore. He started 2016 as a backup, with Juwuan Briscoe and Malkom Parrish on the outside. After week four’s 45-14 loss to Mississippi, however, Georgia decided to give Baker a chance to start.

It soon became clear that the move was a good one.

With safety Dominick Sanders, DB Aaron Davis, and CB Malkom Parrish all graduating, Baker is now the secondary’s only seasoned veteran.

Bulldogs could make draft history
This year’s draft, however, could prove to be a historic one for Georgia. Some 10 Bulldogs took part in the recent NFL combine. Should nine of those players be picked, it would be UGA’s largest-ever draft class.

The quality of Georgia’s class, however, isn’t just about depth. UGA can refer to a handful of their players as some of the best in the draft and could see up to three players taken in round one: a program record. Two UGA players have been selected in the first round of a draft seven times in the past.

In an NFL.com mock draft, Chad Reuter predicted that three Bulldogs would be selected in the first round: Roquan Smith to the San Diego Chargers (pick 23), Sony Michel to the Pittsburgh Steelers (pick 28) and Isaiah Wynn to the Jacksonville Jaguars (pick 29).



Reuter named six Bulldogs in total that he believes will be selected within the first four rounds of the draft. He predicts that RB Nick Chubb will be selected by the 49ers with the 59th pick, Lorenzo Carter by the Browns with the 84th pick, and Trenton Thompson picked up in the fourth round by the Chargers. If Reuter’s prediction comes true, the Bulldogs would only need to see three of its four players who were at the combine selected to set a single draft record.

According to many betting sites, how these draft departures will affect the 2018-19 Bulldogs remains to be seen. For a team that was three points away from a national championship, they are only fourth in the betting to win it, with Oddschecker listing bookies that place them at 10/1. On the one hand, Bulldogs fans may feel insulted but, on the other, they may be tempted to take advantage of the free bets available, with such favorable odds on offer. The champions, Alabama Crimson Tide, are favorites to retain their title at 11/4. The Clemson Tigers and Ohio State Buckeyes are both favored above the Bulldogs, at 8/1 and 9/1, respectively.

Different paths
When it comes to two of these players (Smith and Thompson), their paths may have begun in similar fashion, but they’ve since taken very different routes along the way. Both were juniors last year and had one year remaining of eligibility when they make the decision to turn pro in January. Smith, however, is believed to have had a difficult time in making the decision, whereas Thompson supposedly had no doubts at all.



As each sit and wait, with the draft less than a month away, it’s Smith alone who seems to be destined for stardom in the NFL. It’s uncertain as to what will become of Thompson. He’s almost certain to be drafted, but it’s open to debate as to how long he will have to wait until his name is called.

The talk at Georgia’s Pro Day was that the best Thompson can hope for is the third or fourth round. Smith, however, looks likely to be a top-15 pick. He was told as much in December when he completed his underclassman evaluation application form. He claims his decision to enter the draft this year, however, was not the no-brainer that many assumed it to be. Smith, who led the entire SEC in both sacks and tackles for loss, said that he struggled in letting go of his Bulldogs family.

Sony Michel, Davin Bellamy, Nick Chubb, and Lorenzo Carter each returned for their senior seasons last year for largely the same reason. Not one of them, however, was given the same kind of high praise that went to Smith. Instead, they were given similar feedback to that of Thompson.
Such decisions are rarely based on contract potential and draft grades, however. There can be extenuating factors.

Tough time for once top prospect
The 6-foot-4 Thompson has suffered with injuries throughout his collegiate career. He underwent shoulder surgery last year, in addition to struggling with knee injuries. He also suffered a medical episode that led to him being hospitalized and forced to withdraw from school.

While it created health worries for Thompson, it also caused him further trouble, academically. It’s unclear as to whether he would have been eligible for another season, but most felt that it was the right time for him to make the leap to the NFL.

When Thompson arrived in Georgia from Westover High School, he was the top prospect in the country, according to 247Sports composite rankings.

At times, he lived up to his reputation, with 56 total stops in his sophomore year. Between recovering from shoulder surgery and suffering from a knee sprain, however, he saw fewer snaps in 2017. He missed a pair of games and finished with 38 tackles, including 3.5 for a loss.

Thompson seemed to struggle at Georgia’s recent Pro Day, appearing to be favoring his right leg during step-overs and timed runs. Smith’s workout was almost flawless, even though his status indicated that he wasn’t obligated to participate. Only time will tell how each of these players progress from here. For now, at least, it appears that their careers are destined to take very different paths.

When JazzHands turn to pen...

...it gets a little dusty up in here.

Sony Michel asks for our forgiveness and gives humble thanks. And all I can say is, "Same here Sony. Same here."

Mostly, though, I’m going to miss you all. My people. Dawg Nation. You all mean the world to me, and it’s been like that since Day One.

I often think back to when I took my official visit to UGA. Being there for that game against South Carolina, between the hedges? I mean….

I just knew.

I immediately got this feeling that Georgia was the place for me. And it wasn’t even about, you know, Ohhh, these facilities are the best I’ve ever seen. (They were!) Or Wow, this gear is the best-looking college stuff out there. (It is!) It just came down to all the amazing and kind people I met. Georgia fans, and everyone associated with UGA, are just the coolest, most supportive people in the world. You’ve been there for me every step of the way during my four years in Athens.

And now it’s time for me to pay back some of that love you’ve shown me by doing big things in the NFL and making you all proud.

Charles Johnson Foundation Receives NFL Youth Football Camp Grant

I've neglected my inbox recently, but found this as I was catching up this morning. Thought it was worth sharing. Damn Good Dawg!

HAWKINSVILLE, Ga., August 3, 2015- The Charles Johnson Foundation received a $3,250 NFL Youth Football Camp Grant, recognizing the foundation’s hard work and dedication to its community. The NFL awards these grants to players and coaches making a difference in their hometowns or team cities by hosting free, non-contact youth football camps in the summer. The grant also recognizes efforts to promote sportsmanship and community-wide charitable projects.

Coaches at the camps must complete the NFL’s online Coach Smart course, which included an updated CDC concussion awareness video. The course paralleled a Safe Tackling Clinic at the 2015 Charles Johnson Foundation Sports Academy & Community Weekend. Carolina Panthers Defensive Line Coach Eric Washington held the clinic for local youth football coaches to teach proper tackling techniques and safety. Coach Washington was assisted by two fellow Panthers Coaches Sam Mills (Assistant Defensive Line Coach) and Steve Wilks (Assistant Head Coach/Secondary Coach).

“I’m honored that the NFL recognized my foundation with this grant and the funds will go towards helping us keep this event free of charge,” Johnson said. “I’m also grateful to have had the support of three of my Panthers coaches at my Sports Academy helping to teach safe tackling techniques. It’s an important topic and I’m glad we could find a way to highlight it at my event.”

June marked the fourth year of the foundation’s Sports Academy & Community Weekend. Beyond football, dance, tennis, cheer and dance clinics, the two-day event included a Community Night where the foundation presented two $20,000 college scholarships. The Hawkinsville Board of Commissioners also surprised Johnson by presenting him with the Key to the City of Hawkinsville, recognizing his endless effort to give back to his hometown.

For more information on the NFL Youth Football Camp Grant or the Safe Tackling Clinic, contact Meredith Geisler atmgeisler@tandemse.com or 703-740-5015. For more information on the foundation and its mission, visitcharlesjohnsonfoundation.org.

ABOUT CHARLES JOHNSON & THE CHARLES JOHNSON FOUNDATION

Charles Johnson is a native of Hawkinsville, GA, and a proud alumnus of Hawkinsville High School. After attending the University of Georgia where he starred at defensive end, Charles was drafted by the Carolina Panthers of the NFL in 2007 and now serves as a captain of the team.

Through eight professional seasons, Charles has received All-Pro recognition on the strength of 62.5 career sacks, placing him among the premier pass-rushers in the league.

In 2012, Charles’ passion for philanthropy and loyalty to Middle Georgia led him to launch the Charles Johnson Foundation. A non-profit organization, the Charles Johnson Foundation is dedicated to fulfilling a two-fold mission:

• Providing opportunities for under-served youth to reach their full potential through athletic, recreational, and educational programs and initiatives; and
• Providing support for single African American mothers through proven programs and initiatives.

The Charles Johnson Foundation Sports Academy and Community Weekend is the flagship annual event for the Charles Johnson Foundation, combining his efforts to advance education with free sports clinics in football, basketball, tennis, dance and cheer.

"Competition brings out the best in everyone."

Emerson is out in Kansas City catching up with the Chief's roster of former Dawgs. Here he asks Aaron Murray about the QB competition back in Athens.

He’s never met Lambert, the Virginia transfer. But he was in the quarterback room with Bauta for two years, and with Ramsey for one.

“Both great kids. I think a little different quarterback-wise,” Murray said. “Brice is a very pure thrower. That’s probably one of the most beautiful releases you’ll ever see from a quarterback. From day one I was like: That man can throw a football. Good kid, works hard, smart kid.

“Faton, he’s more athletic, can run, bigger kid, can do a lot with zone option read, running, does things like when things break down being able to run. Can also make all the throws as well.”

As Emerson points out, Murray can relate as he went through a competition for the job back in 2010 and then spent four years looking over his shoulder at Hutson Mason. And currently he's the third string quarterback for the Chiefs.

Of course, the paycheck is probably some consolation.

Dawg + Dolphin

Thought this new profile pic in Ray Drew's facebook page was cool. Wish him the best.

Happy Demarcus Dobbs Day!

He's the only Dawg in the fight. But I thought this video was pretty funny. Enjoy. (h/t Rex)

Charles Johnson Foundation update

Charles Johnson donated 750 pairs of Nike shoes to the Pulaski County Schools Superintendent’s Office, the Charles Johnson Foundation announced.

Within the donation, Johnson supplied the Hawkinsville High School football team with cleats and the girls and boys basketball teams with basketball shoes. The additional shoes will be distributed by the Superintendent’s Office.

“I want to continue to take advantage of any opportunity I have to give back to Hawkinsville and Pulaski County,” Johnson said. “I never forget where I came from and I’m proud to be able to continue to give back.”

The donation comes shortly after Johnson hosted the third annual free-of-charge Charles Johnson Foundation Sports Academy and Community Weekend in Hawkinsville, GA, on June 20-21. The event brought more than 1,000 participants to football, basketball, tennis, dance and cheer clinics, which were led by Johnson and some of his NFL and NBA friends. The foundation also hosted a college fair and a community night. Additionally, Johnson presented two $20,000 scholarships to one male and one female senior student-athlete at Hawkinsville High School.

For additional information on the shoe donation or for media requests, contact Meredith Geisler at (703) 740-5015 or mgeisler@tandemse.com. For information on the distribution of the remaining shoes, contact the Pulaski County School System at (478) 783-7200.

ABOUT CHARLES JOHNSON & THE CHARLES JOHNSON FOUNDATION

Charles Johnson is a native of Hawkinsville, GA, and a proud alumnus of Hawkinsville High School. After attending the University of Georgia where he starred at defensive end, Charles was drafted by the Carolina Panthers of the NFL in 2007.

Through seven professional seasons, Charles has received All-Pro recognition on the strength of 54 career sacks, placing him among the premier pass-rushers in the league.

In 2012, Charles’ passion for philanthropy and loyalty to Middle Georgia led him to launch the Charles Johnson Foundation. A non-profit organization, the Charles Johnson Foundation is dedicated to fulfilling a two-fold mission:

• Providing opportunities for under-served youth to reach their full potential through athletic, recreational, and educational programs and initiatives; and
• Providing support for single African American mothers through proven programs and initiatives.

The Charles Johnson Foundation Sports Academy and Community Weekend is the flagship annual event for the Charles Johnson Foundation, combining his efforts to advance education with free sports clinics in football, basketball, tennis, dance and cheer.

Bubba Gurley

He may not qualify for the 2015 Masters Tournament, but it doesn't take long for the nation's best running back to learn the old golfing motto - You drive for show and you putt for dough.

Gurley took up the sport in May at the recommendation of Bulldogs kicker Marshall Morgan and punter Collin Barber, both avid golfers. He’s just as blunt in his critique of his early trips to the driving range. “I sucked pretty bad,” Gurley said.

But Gurley is much improved now after visiting the range two to three times a week this summer. So far, his greatest golf accomplishment is making a birdie. He’s also figured out one of his strengths: putting. “That’s where the money’s at,” Gurley said with a laugh.

And a former UGA golfer can show you how to spend some of it too.

Monday's Meatloaf - a tale of two gameday Saturdays

Mike is a Georgia fan. And like the rest of us he has been looking forward to spending Saturdays this fall in Athens. It's been a long off season and the time has come to make plans for tickets, tailgates, away trips, and ringing that Chapel Bell!

But Mike gets busy. Between work, mowing the yard, feeding the dog, watching 13+ hours of the SEC Network a day, and reading Bernie's Dawg Blawg he loses track of time and the suddenly the Clemson game is here!

The excitement is at a fever pitch. Mike hurries home from work the Friday before and begins to pack the car for the next day's journey to Athens. "Did I remember the tailgate chairs?" he asks himself. "Check! Did I remember the tickets? Check!...Have I checked the latest football odds? Check! Did I get enough beer? What about the gas for the generator? I'll get that on the way in the morning."

Todd drifts off to sleep and awakens the next morning eager to hit the road, and with no idea how greatly complicated things are about to get.

Once at the tailgate things slowly unravel. It's unnoticeable at first. But between the drinking, the eating, catching up with old friends Mike hasn't seen in a year, not to mention the big win 'tween the Hedges, by late evening he finds himself wishing he didn't have to make that drive back home. All of his buddies are asking him for a ride downtown on his way out so they can continue the party. The hotels are booked and his friends only have floor space left. He's left with listening to the late games on satellite radio while he makes the trip back home.

From reader Trey, Lorenzo Carter strikes a selfie
pose a very happy Dawg fan.

"Do I really want to sleep on a floor, or should I just call it a day and head home?" Frustrated, Todd ponders his limited options wishing he'd planned a little further ahead.

Today's Ingredients
- With only days to go before the opener, Blutarsky looks at where things stand in terms of position battles.
- The wide receiver position has had some bumps and bruises so far, but Kimberley focuses on one that is ready to make a name for himself.
- MaconDawg wonders who wants to be a "star" and how that position may be different under Pruitt than it was behind the towel in recent years.
- Tyler looks at a "blogger-sized" player that we hope will be the next Damien Gary.
- Groo peeks at the schedules of the Dawgs' opponents.
- Krisi found Trip Frix's in this week's Dawg Tweets.
- Picture day was Saturday and Greg has some photos from Rob Saye of the players behind the scenes.
- Garbin uses the Georgia-Clemson rivalry as a backdrop in recalling one of his favorite players from the 1980s - John Little.
- From the Blogging doesn't pay the rent file, do you have all the tickets you need this season? That link gives you access to parking passes, season tickets, individual game tickets, both home and away! 100% Guaranteed and No Fees!
- Saturday's post got AHD all reminiscent and he fell into a google hole that helped him find Robert Edwards as the head coach of the Greene County Tigers. How 'bout that Dawg!
- Lastly, hey Chiefs fans....you're welcome.

Bernie is a Georgia fan. And like the rest of us he has been looking forward to spending Saturdays this fall in Athens. It's been a long off season and the time has come to make plans for tickets, tailgates, away trips, and ringing that Chapel Bell!

Athens Football Rentals

But Bernie gets busy. Between work, mowing the yard, feeding the dog, watching 13+ hours of the SEC Network a day, and writing for Bernie's Dawg Blawg he loses track of time and the suddenly the Clemson game is here!

The excitement is at a fever pitch. He hurries home from work the Friday before and begins to pack the car for the next day's journey to Athens. "Did I remember the tailgate chairs?" he asks himself. "Check! Did I remember the tickets? Check!...What about the gas for the generator?...I'll get that on the way in the morning." And then his lovely wife reminds him, "You big dummy, remember how you planned ahead and booked a house through Athens Football Rentals just last week and now we get to spend the whole weekend in Athens, not just most of the day...ya big Dummy??!??"

The family gets loaded into the car. They head towards Athens where they have a nice dinner, a comfortable night's sleep, a short walk to their friends' tailgate, thoroughly enjoy a big win at Sanford that night, celebrate with some friends, a short walk back to their rental home, and then another good night's sleep.

Twelve days folks. We got this!

Bernie

Charles Johnson spends off season giving back to community

HAWKINSVILLE, Ga., July 23, 2014 – As training camp approaches, Charles Johnson of the Carolina Panthers knows he has stayed busy in the off season. He clocked in endless hours of workouts and strived to improve every aspect of his game. But Johnson’s time was not spent just focusing on improving himself as a player. He also worked endlessly to hold a Sports Academy and Community Weekend in his hometown, which included awarding two $20,000 scholarships, hosting an area college fair and donating equipment to his former high school.

Johnson is confident in the success of every workout he completed and every life that he touched and child he inspired. He continually emphasizes the importance of remembering where he came from, but also the potential that each individual has if they work hard and strive to succeed in school.

The Charles Johnson Foundation held its third annual Sports Academy and Community Weekend in Hawkinsville, Ga. on June 20 and 21. The event brought more than 1,000 participants to football, basketball, tennis, cheerleading and dance clinics.

Participants in the various Sports Academy clinics were guided by volunteers, current and former members of the NFL and NBA, as well as Charles Johnson and his defensive line coach for the Carolina Panthers, Eric Washington.

In addition to Johnson and Coach Washington, NFL and NBA participants included: Devean George (Former NBA player), Thomas Davis (Carolina Panthers), Anthony Dixon (Buffalo Bills), Fernando Velasco (Free Agent), Captain Munnerlyn (Minnesota Vikings), Leonard Pope (Free Agent), Stephen Tulloch (Detroit Lions), Corvey Irvin (Free Agent) and Justin Houston (Kansas City Chiefs). Johnson’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, attended the event as well.

The foundation hosted a Community Night, which brought nearly 400 people out to celebrate Hawkinsville. With extra food from the Community Night, the foundation was able to serve 110 warm meals to those in need through its partnership with Deacons & Stewards, Inc. The foundation also donated water bottles and tennis rackets to Hawkinsville High School.

In addition to holding this event free-of-charge, Johnson and his foundation awarded two $20,000 scholarships to Hawkinsville High School senior student-athletes for the third consecutive year.

The foundation also hosted a college fair to educate students on higher education opportunities. Colleges in attendance included Albany State University, Central Georgia Technical College, Georgia Southwestern State University, Middle Georgia State College and South Georgia State College. Additionally, U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Officers from the Warner Robbins Recruiting Office were in attendance.

“Hawkinsville is a very special place to me and it means a lot to be able to give back to my hometown,” Johnson said. “I really value the opportunity to help these kids make it to college through awarding scholarships, and through simply getting them thinking about pursuing higher education through the college fair.”

Many sponsors and volunteers donated their time and efforts and helped the foundation continue to hold the Sports Academy and Community Weekend free-of-charge for all participants. Sponsors for the event included Nike, Rosenhaus Sports Representation, Qixie 103.9, Dairy Queen Grill & Chill, Harveys Supermarket, Preston and Traci Moss, Papas' Pizza To-Go, Walgreens, Joseph Sapp and Innovative Therapy Concepts, Ace Hardware, popchips, Vita Coco, Pasta Chips, Quest Bars and Dick's Sporting Goods.

ABOUT CHARLES JOHNSON & THE CHARLES JOHNSON FOUNDATION

Charles Johnson is a native of Hawkinsville, Ga., and a proud alumnus of Hawkinsville High School. After attending the University of Georgia where he starred at defensive end, Charles was drafted by the Carolina Panthers of the NFL in 2007.

Through seven professional seasons, Charles has received All-Pro recognition on the strength of 54 career sacks, placing him among the premier pass-rushers in the league.

In 2012, Charles’ passion for philanthropy and loyalty to Middle Georgia led him to launch the Charles Johnson Foundation. A non-profit organization, the Charles Johnson Foundation is dedicated to fulfilling a two-fold mission:

•             Providing opportunities for under-served youth to reach their full potential through athletic, recreational, and educational programs and initiatives; and

•             Providing support for single African American mothers through proven programs and initiatives.

The Charles Johnson Foundation Sports Academy and Community Weekend is the flagship annual event for the Charles Johnson Foundation, combining his efforts to advance education with free sports clinics in basketball, dance, tennis, football and cheer.

Video - Aaron Murray watches draft at home

From NFL Films, Murray's part begins around the 7:45 mark. We've watched this guy develop the last 4+ years and break all those school and SEC records, so it's pretty cool to get a sneak peak at his professional dream realized. (h/t SicEmDawgs)

Was it something I said?

I saw this picture yesterday. Reminded me of those times when a person gets dumped. Things are swell and the world is grand. Then the relationship grinds to a halt. The dumpee realizes things have moved on without him or her, but is still grasping for another chance. Praying for another opportunity to make things better. Desperate for a conversation when he/she can prove that things will be different this time!

And then the dumpee sees the dumper at the back of the cineplex on second base with someone new.

Yes. Murray has new threads y'all.

Dawgs in the Draft - Chasing (and living) the Dream

My kids have all A's and B's. I don't say that to brag. (Ok, well a little bit.) But when I look at their grades and then hear them verbalize being overly anxious about a test that the state has mandated, it really sticks in my craw. They're good kids and have worked hard. They have incredible teachers who have pushed them to realize their academic potential. And yet there's still this assessment that's supposed to tell us more than all of the classwork, homework, projects, quizzes and tests combined.

Something Garrison said in that last podcast really resonated with me. Probably because of this state testing thing that has me a bit distracted. But he alluded to the fact (a couple times) that too much attention is given to what these NFL Draft "experts" are saying and the numbers put up at the combine. For hours upon hours and days upon days they've been talking more and more about a glimpse taken through a window as opposed to the view one can get from just opening the door.

Tuesday Busted Coverage was sending out some informative and historical tweets related to the poo that these experts like to fling around. I grabbed a screen shot for you of some of the best ones to the right, but you can read more of them here if you're so inclined. The point being that sure, these guys get some things right. But Jimmy Clausen was a solid enough pick to bet one's career on it?

So Clowney is the jewel of the 2014 draft. As the saying goes, he looks good getting off the bus. He's a freakish blend of size and speed. Many teams covet his potential at the professional level. So will they overlook the fact that he took some sick days this past season and that his stats took a significant drop from his sophomore to his junior year? Most certainly, yes. And one team will pay him handsomely in hopes that the potential they think they see is realized.

Brown was an overwhelming success in his rookie season in Baltimore. (via)

No wonder a guy like Garrison Smith, whose numbers dwarf the defensive lineman Todd McShay calls a "once in a decade type of natural talent", is turned sour by the spectacle that is the NFL draft coverage these days. After all, Smith had twice as many sacks as his SEC East counterpart, the guy considered to be the best pass rusher in this year's class.

Which leads me to something else Smith said. When asked if he was nervous about the draft or where he may end up living in a couple of months he quickly responded no, that he was excited for the opportunity and would be happy with whatever comes to pass. That's a sentiment echoed by former teammates like Rantavious Wooten:

“I did everything that I could do,” Wooten said after Georgia’s Pro Day last month. “I’m going to sit back, relax and whatever happens, happens. I’m not going to stress about the draft or sit here and put so much pressure on myself or everything like that. I did everything I could do. If it works out for me, great. If I get drafted, great. Free agent, whatever I have to do, I’m fine with it.”

While most of us would have trouble relating to what it's like to be on the verge of breaking into professional football, we've all found ourselves yearning for certain job situations, promotions, advancements. You work hard towards getting to a certain position where you can validate all of those long hours of preparation. It's rewarding to realize that level of success.

As Weiszer points out, some of the Dawgs in this year's class of draft eligible players may find themselves in Marlon Brown's shoes from a year ago - for whatever reason, having to prove themselves further and having to beat someone out of a roster spot. They are chasing the dream, one that they've had for years. Decades even, as many of them have been aiming for it since they were learning their ABC's. Some have watched friends and family make made poor choices, using those experiences as motivation for a better life. They've overcome injuries and even endured coaching changes, all while balancing the life of a student and an athlete.

The obstacles lay behind these Dawgs now. They have have refused to settle for what might have been. And are pursuing the answer to what will be.

Dawgs in the Draft - remembering Terrell Davis

Was reading up last night on some red and black draft history for a post that will come out tomorrow, and I rediscovered a story I had forgotten. So I started to wonder if you had forgotten it too.

Terrell Davis came to Athens by way of Long Beach State. He redshirted his freshman year, rushed for a modest 262 yards his first season and then found himself without a field when the program there was eliminated for budget reasons.

So he came all the way out east to play for Georgia, but quickly found himself on the bench behind future 1st round draft pick Garrison Hearst. Once the star tailback was officially an Arizona Cardinal, Davis seemed to blossom as an every down back while rushing for over 800 yards and as a receiver out of the backfield for another 160. He ran with power and had good speed for a tailback with his size. With really just one full season of college football experience, he decided to remain his senior season in hopes of becoming a top pick the following April.

But his senior season was marked by a hamstring injury and disagreements with head coach Ray Goff. The hamstring was a nagging injury that forced him out of the backfield for three games. Meanwhile, Goff insisted Davis practice or ride the bench his senior season. I remember hearing stories of disputes between the two both at the time and later after Goff was let go. In one the head coach had an all out meltdown in the locker room at the half insisting Davis man up and find his helmet.

And while that is mostly a matter between the coach and the player, it came to a true boil when Davis was trying his best to get drafted. He'd showed great promise as a potential every down back for an NFL roster, but there were questions about his health and durability. According to Davis, Goff was not only of no help in this regard, but he made matters worse. Much worse.

"The head man there didn't go out of his way to even sit down with the scouts and tell them about my situation, " Terrell complains of his former coach. "And that goes a long way, because they are going to go with who knows you best. He was just real derogatory in everything he did...when the scouts would come down there, he would lock up the film room and go home! He was just mean to everybody - he's hurt countless players that way,"

Of course, we all know eventually Davis went on to a great albeit short NFL career in Denver. He joined the 2000 yard club in 1998 with the Broncos and has a couple of Super Bowl rings, not to mention a Super Bowl MVP trophy as well as an NFL MVP trophy.

All that to say (and to help lead up to tomorrow's post), that many times the best players aren't even given a look on draft day(s). And many sure as hell aren't ever mentioned by guys like Mel Kiper and Todd McShay during their endless coverage leading up to the selection show(s). Terrell Davis was one of three tailbacks in the history of the NFL to rush for as many yards as he did (6,413) in his first four seasons. The other two are also Hall of Famers, Eric Dickerson and Earl Cambell. And yet, Davis was the 21st running back chosen in the 1995 NFL draft, landing in the 6th round as the 196th player overall. Ahead of him were the likes of Kijana Carter (1st overall) and Tyrone Wheatley (17th). Carter amassed just over 1,100 yards in his injury-ridden career; Wheatley eventually passed Davis' four year total in his last season with the Raiders in 2004.

There may not be many names from the University of Georgia called during this year's NFL draft. At least not as many as we've grown accustomed to in recent years. But there's also a rich history of former Dawgs overcoming many obstacles to make rosters, further their career, provide for their families and make a name for themselves.

Super Dawgs

Clemons and Jones vs Knowshon and Champ. Either way, Dawgs on top!

The best thing to happen in Champ's career...

Wife is from a state way up north called Virginia. Yesterday she taught us all how to make a good snowball when the snow isn't exactly suited for such construction. She was proud of that life skill developed while surviving the arctic climes above the 35th parallel. I told her I was prouder to come from a place the knew how to utilize sugar when constructing a pitcher of tea.

Anyway, shortly after we were married, Champ Bailey was selected in the first round with the seventh pick by the Washington Redskins. This was welcome news for both of us; her for the obvious reasons, and me because while growing up I had to choose other NFL teams to cheer for on Sundays as the local one was never on television. Often, the Redskins were it.

The other day we looked at how being a Redskin helped shape Bailey's career. Getting to learn the ins and outs of being an NFL corner is a richer experience with Darrell Green in the meeting room. But it was even more beneficial when Bailey was ushered out of DC in exchange for Clinton Portis. Yesterday he talked some about that experience.

Wonder if Dan Snyder will be watching with just a twinge of regret.

Super Bowl bound - Champ Bailey

Have been enjoying the extra publicity for Champ this week. Hope he's being talked about even more the week after the Super Bowl. Bailey has always kept a close eye on things around Athens, so it's nice that DawgNation can return the favor on the game of football's biggest stage.

Read a nice piece in Sports Illustrated this week. It was really well done and went into Champ's history in the league: playing with and learning from Darrell Green in Washington, his stellar career setting a record for Pro Bowls among cornerbacks (he's been to 12 in 14 years), his injury and how he's adjusted to his role as a nickelback...with the help of his brother Dawg, Boss:

"It's not like when you're on the outside and can see the quarterback," says Boss. "The slot takes a different kind of discipline, a different kind of thought process. Stay deep-to-short; [don't] jump on anything deep."

I'd link to the article, but it's not online as far as I can tell. Hopefully you've got a copy. It shows Champ as the skilled, smart and ultra-talented team player we grew to love during his time in Athens.

Also, with the help of Jim, found this article that is online. More great stuff that talks about Bailey's role and especially how he's come full circle as an NFL corner like his former mentor Green. This part is fantastic:

GATA Champ! Go Broncos!

The Knowshon crawl

Thought this was funny.

Gameday! Homecoming! Let's do this!

Hey, if you're in Athens, have a great day! The opponent may not spark the typical gameday ignition. But Homecoming is such a great time to be in Athens. Teach your kids about some traditions. Give a stranger a fistbump. Ring the bell!

If you're not joining us, hunker down and relax. We got this. We're gonna have a great game, reminisce with friends and get after it!

Now, some other thoughts for the day.

• Right off the bat, LSU beats Bama tonight. Mark it. Lester is Nicky's kryptonite.
• How long does Gurley play? Probably as long as he wants. But I tend to think midway through the second...quarter.
• How many points do the Mountaineers score? I'd put the over/under at 17 and bet the under.
• Who do y'all think is the offensive star today? I'm hoping someone like Reggie Davis or Jonathan Rumph. But I'd hazard a guess with JJ Green first.
• Other action: Florida rebounds against Vandy, Mizzou handles Kentucky, Auburn rolls on Rocky Top, Ole Miss beats Arkansas and A&M trounces Missy State. Chickens take a nap.
• Elswhere, FSU sleeps its way to another win, Oregon wins loses, Clemson and Tech rest up for a weekday meeting.
• Aaron Rodgers' injury has left the door open for a former Dawg. Can Matt Stafford get the Lions on top up there? Here's some analysis on the Lions vs Bears. 
• Seahawks are wondering if Roddy White's return could bolster the Falcons' roster.
• And my little flag football team finishes their season tomorrow. Please pray they all show up with their flags, and the fortitude to make it through an entire game without having to go to the bathroom. Or chase rogue butterflies.

Lastly, here's a list of top betting sites if you're really bored. And really, Bama could run away early. Maybe. I just think LSU has a better shot than most think.

A diamond 'tween the hedges

Georgia has former players all over the NFL landscape. And they're not just filling out roster spots. They're making an impact on games from positions all over the field. You didn't have to watch much of this weekend's NFL slate to see a former UGA player on the field.

And the one I find most intriguing is Marlon Brown. The guy who once donned a Georgia cap on national television before finishing out a lackluster career in Athens is now taking full advantage of a roster need in Baltimore. (h/t Weiszer)

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The 6-foot-5, 205-pound former Georgia player has emerged as one of quarterback Joe Flacco's most frequent targets, catching eight passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns.

Brown leads the team in touchdown catches, ranks third in receptions, second in receiving yards and has a 13.8 average per reception.

"To come into a team where they have some wide receiver issues, I had an opportunity to come in and start playing early," Brown said. "I've just been trying to seize every opportunity I get."

To say the Ravens are pleased with Brown despite a dropped pass Sunday during a 14-6 win over the Cleveland Browns would be an understatement.

"Marlon Brown is a humble, hungry, hard-working guy," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. "There are plenty of things he can get better at, route-running wise and playmaking-wise. He stays after it, and he made some big plays for us."

That's a guy that only made 11 starts and 55 catches in his college career, and he's now turning heads in the infancy of his NFL career. And before everyone starts griping about this and that, I chalk this up to a "late-bloomer" situation. Both on and off the field.

We all knew Brown had this kind of talent in him, and to be honest we saw a lot of it last season before he was injured. But he played in high school against competition that, by my untrained eye at least, did not ready him for the SEC. So it took awhile for him to rise above the coverage.

Regardless, really proud of what Brown has done thus far. Coach Harbaugh got a good one at a cheap price - 3 years for $1.5 million. Not a bad value. But hopefully the diamond has only begun to shine.