From the other side, Part 9


November 01, 2007

By Drew Champlin


A big thanks to David Ching of the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer.

What has made freshman RB sensation Knowshon Moreno so special?
A popular question before and after practice today was to compare Knowshon to former Auburn tailback Carnell Williams. They’re similar in that their energetic running and surprising power for their size make them tough to bring down. I don’t know that I’ve seen a more energetic running back than Moreno. He just wears people down and never seems to tire.

Do you see UGA overlooking Troy for Auburn next week?
They know Troy is a game they can’t look past, but this is a classic “trap game” scenario. They had Florida last week and Auburn next week, so it would be understandable if they had difficulty getting up for Troy. I’m sure the coaches are continuously reminding them this week about how dangerous that could be, as if watching the game tape from Troy-Oklahoma State wasn’t evidence enough.

With Troy either having an inexperienced QB or a QB who might not be 100%, does that change UGA’s plan of attack?
I’d think Georgia would probably attack Haugabook—if he plays—the way it did Tim Tebow last week.
The Bulldogs brought continuous pressure with linebackers and safeties under the assumption that he wouldn’t be as effective a runner because of his injury. Same this week. I’d expect them to send similar pressure at the backup QBs if Haugabook doesn’t play in an effort to force turnovers and other mistakes.

What areas about Troy can UGA exploit?
Let’s be honest, Troy’s defense isn’t going to be confused with the 1985 Chicago Bears. Sure, they’ve been holding their conference opponents in check, but they’re allowing 43 points per game to non-Sun Belt teams. Considering Troy is ranked 101st in the nation in rushing defense and Darren McFadden and Felix Jones racked up 280 rushing yards against them, I tend to believe Troy might have some difficulty stopping Knowshon Moreno.

What about UGA could Troy exploit?
Georgia’s win over Florida was a bit deceptive in that the Bulldogs didn’t exactly stifle the Gators’
offense. The combination of Tebow’s hesitance to run and a few untimely Gator mistakes helped Georgia slip away from Jacksonville with a win. Georgia’s secondary is erratic and very much vulnerable to a strong passing attack. If Haugabook is healthy enough to play, I think he could certainly give the Bulldogs some problems.

Make a prediction
Georgia 35, Troy 21



Posted by Drew Champlin on 11/01 at 03:00 PM (0) Comments | Permalink

Thursday update


By Drew Champlin


It’s still going to be a gametime decision on Omar Haugabook, but I’m pretty sure he won’t be ruled out, if at all, until 5 minutes before game time.

He took minimal reps yesterday and threw, but didn’t run. Again - that’s the key - the running, since that’s what sets him apart from the rest. This offense requires someone who can make plays with his arm and his feet and if Omar can’t make plays with his feet because of the hamstring, he won’t be effective because UGA will sit back in a zone and dare him to throw.

I’m staying at the team hotel in Duluth tomorrow, so if I see someone before I head to the Hawks-Mavs game, I’ll let you know.



Posted by Drew Champlin on 11/01 at 10:57 AM (0) Comments | Permalink

Thursday links


By Drew Champlin


From me, you’ve got notes, leading with some Troy players from Georgia’s thoughts on the game.

From the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, did you know that Kenny Cattouse and Knowshon Moreno were Pop Warner teammates in New Jersey?

From the Macon Telegraph, the Bulldogs must avoid another fall.

From the AJC, it looks like Sean Bailey will play after all, and a feature on Knowshon Moreno.

From the Athens Banner-Herald, the Bulldogs’ red zone performance is better.

Check back later today for some thoughts from UGA beat writer David Ching of the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer.



Posted by Drew Champlin on 11/01 at 07:44 AM (0) Comments | Permalink

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