Chick-Fil-A Bowl Preview & Prediction

The last game of a great season is almost upon us.  Tomorrow night at the GA Dome, the Yellow Jackets of Georgia Tech host the Tigers of Louisiana State (7:30, ESPN) for the 41st edition of the Peach/Chick-Fil-A Bowl.  Tech will be shooting for its first 10-win season since the days of Joe Hamilton while the Bayou Bengals will be trying to salvage what has been an absymal season, going 7-5 and losing four of their last six only a year removed from winning the national championship.  I'll do my best to provide a breakdown of tomorrow night's anticipated matchup.  You can read the AJC's preview here, but I'll be going more in-depth than they did.

When Tech has the ball...

GT Run Offense vs. LSU Run Defense

This matchup will quite possibly the most important in deciding the outcome of the game.  LSU's defense comes in ranked 17th in the country against the run (allowing 105 ypg), while Tech is 3rd in the nation in rushing (282 ypg).  Tech also features the ACC POTY in 1000-yard running back Jonathan Dwyer, who has had nine 100-yard games this season.  The offense has seen its first and third best rushing outputs of the season in our last two games, reaching 472 yards against Miami and 409 against UGAy.  Up to this point, success against the run has not translated to success against our offense.  Just ask Willie Martinez.

However, LSU's defensive line is composed of well-seasoned veterans, including future NFL stars DE Tyson Jackson and DT Ricky Jean-Francois.  Unfortunately for the Tigers, the D-line has largely underachieved all season, only generating 27 sacks and allowing 17 rushing TDs.  If they are unable to consistently contain Dwyer's dive plays (or anything else up the middle), it will be a long night for Miles' Tigers.

Edge: Georgia Tech

GT Pass Offense vs. LSU Pass Defense

Probably the biggest question mark of all for this game -- will we even pass enough for this to be a factor?  If/when we do pass, will our guys be wide open like they have been a lot this season (see: Roddy Jones TD catch vs. VPI and DeMaryius Thomas TD catch vs. Miss. State)?  LSU's secondary hasn't exactly been a defensive stalwart this season, giving up 220 yards a game through the air while only intercepting seven passes (and Tech has only thrown seven picks).  Pass rush has been an issue as well (27 sacks as mentioned above - well below the normal level of sacks for the Tigers) which may have resulted in the issues in the secondary.  There have been numerous bad plays by the back four for the Tigers, including a blown assignment on the opening drive by Ole Miss and bad coverage on the GW TD pass by Arkansas (I believe both were the responsibility of LSU CB Chris Hawkins).  Good news for the Tigers: Tech's high on the season in terms of passing was 230 yards (all from Jaybo to Be-Be) against Miss. State. 

CPJ has also discussed instituting some run-and-shoot plays for the bowl game to expand LSU's defense a bit.  But will this really be necessary?  It could be a coaching trick used by CPJ to give the LSU staff something else to worry about.  It would be nice to see some of this though if the ground game stalls early (then again, we were down by 16 to UGAy at half and made the right adjustments at halftime to come out really strong in the 3rd and 4th quarters), but it may not be so effective (Tech has only passed 140 times this season - good for 117th in the nation - which is 102 attempts behind the next closest team, Slow-hio State).  You can learn more on the run-and-shoot offense here.

I think LSU wins the matchup, but mostly because Tech just won't be passing the ball (only 11.7 attempts per game so far).

Edge: LSU

When LSU has the ball...

LSU Run Offense vs. GT Run Defense

LSU features one of the nation's most underrated running games, in which RBs Charles Scott (1109 yards, 15 TDs) and Keiland Williams (375 yards, 1 TD) get the bulk of the carries.  Though their production has tailed off in the second half of the season (as has their whole team), they still present a problem to the Tech defense.  Scott and Williams will be running behind one of the best O-lines in the country, featuring Ciron Black, Brett Helms, and big-man Herman Johnson.  Johnson vs. Johnson should be one of the best "game-within-the-game"s of the CFA Bowl. 

Tech will counter with the nation's 51st best rush defense (117 ypg), featuring a seasoned D-line with the likes of seniors Vance Walker, Darryl Richard (from Destrehan, LA), and Michael "the Freak" Johnson -- a D-line that has generated lots of pressure (32 sacks) and has a safety and pick-six to its credit.  Don't forget about sophmore DE Derrick Morgan, who has taken advantage of double teams on his fellow linemen to lead the team in sacks this year.  Tech has only allowed one 100-yard rusher all season in UVA tailback Cedric Peerman, who forced a lot of missed tackles and threw a lot of stiff arms against out D.  As a group, Tech has only allowed nine rushing TDs all year, and no more than two to any back.

Edge: tie

LSU Pass Offense vs. GT Pass Defense

Les Miles has to be asking..."Do we have to have a QB for this game?"  The passing game for LSU is shaky at best, and a liability at worst.  Their probable starter, Jordan Jefferson, is a true freshman who has only made one start (a loss to Arkansas) and his only other major PT was in the second half against Ole Miss (another LSU loss).  The likely backup, Jarrett Lee, has been a defense's best friend all year, throwing 16 picks including eight returned to the house (that leads the nation).  Meanwhile, Tech's secondary has been it's weakest point this season.  That being said, they have still amassed 18 picks, including seven by sophmore safety Morgan Burnett (tied for the national lead).  The bad news for Tech is that LSU will bring out a solid WR corp, which will feature the SEC leader in receptions (61) in Brandon LaFell.  Terrence Tolliver, Chris Mitchell, and Trindon Holliday will also be forces to be reckoned with, if Jefferson/Lee (gotta love that name duo) can get them the ball.

Edge: tie

Special Teams

The biggest gap in a unit-by-unit analysis is special teams.  LSU will trot out the all-time SEC leading scorer in K Colt David AND super-fast returner Trindon Holliday (this guy runs a 10.02 100-meter dash, folks).  Holliday is a threat to break a TD everytime he touches the ball.  Watch out, Tech fans, if our punters outkick our coverage. 

On the flip side, our special teams have been anything but special.  We haven't been able to muster much in the return game, and kickoffs and FGs have been OK (though I give Scott Blair a ton of credit for improving all season and most importantly, for saving the game on more than one occasion by making a tackle on a kickoff.  For those of you who are wondering, Blair has nine tackles on the season).

Edge: LSU

Coaching

Two words: Paul Johnson.

Edge: Georgia Tech

Intangibles

Has LSU written this season off?  They won it all last year, then followed it up with a Gailey-like 7-5, while becoming the only defending NC ever to have a losing conference record the following season (3-5 in the SEC).  They'll have to be super-sharp anyway against the UCOBS, and mental lapses certainly won't help.  Tech however is coming in hot and really confident.  Not to mention, this will be a home game for the Jackets - though the LSU fans will be there, and will be loud.

Edge: Georgia Tech

More Numbers

Tech is 0-3 all-time in the Peach/CFA Bowl while LSU is 4-0.  Tech leads the all-time series with LSU, 12-6.

Tech will win if...

...we win or tie the turnover battle or rush for over 300 yards. 

LSU will win if...

...they do four of the following things:

• Win the turnover battle
• Pass for over 200 yards
• Charles Scott/Keiland Williams have 150+ yards combined
• Trindon Holliday has a 30+ yard punt or kickoff return
• Hold Tech to <250>
• Les Miles tells the media that he is "damn proud of his football team" before the game

Prediction

LSU's undisciplined defense has been a problem all year, and no amount of preparation will overcome that attitude.  Tech will be ready and maybe most importantly, healthy.  Tech rolls in front of the home crowd, 38-21 on our way to the first 10-win season since 1998.

Geaux Jackets!

Christmas Week - In Review & Bowl Picks for Week of 12/28

Quick congrats to the Dirty Birds for gettin the W over the Rams this afternoon (though I apologize on behalf of the Saints for not completing a 4th-quarter comeback against the Panthers that would have locked up the #2 seed in the NFC, which would have meant at least one home game and a first-round bye).

Christmas week was awesome.  With the exception of some rain, Christmas day was lots of fun...opening presents (my favorite gift was Bill Curry's book, 10 Men You Meet in the Huddle - I'd highly recommend it), then went with the paren

ts to see Valkyrie (pretty solid).  Then my cousin and his girlfriend came in Friday night from Vicksburg and left about an hour ago.  We had a great time, including seeing two movies yesterday (Seven Pounds GOSEEITNOW and Valkyrie).  I'm sad they had to leave...and Daniel if you're reading this, remember that I'm 2-0 against you in ping-pong ;)

So now for a recap of last week's bowl games...after a bad start to the week, I finished strong by going 3-0 yesterday to finish 4-3.  Here goes the picks for this week, which include the bulk of the games...

SUNDAY

• Independence: Louisiana Tech vs. Northern Illinois

MONDAY

• Papajohns.com: Rutgers vs. NC State
• Alamo: Northwestern vs. Missouri (lock)

TUESDAY

• Humanitarian: Nevada vs. Maryland
• Holiday: Oklahoma State vs. Oregon
• Texas: Rice vs. Western Michigan

WEDNESDAY

• Armed Forces: Houston vs. Air Force
• Sun: Oregon State vs. Pittsburgh
• Music City: Vanderbilt vs. Boston College
• Insight: Kansas vs. Minnesota
• Chick-Fil-A: Georgia Tech vs. LSU

THURSDAY

• Outback: Iowa vs. South Carolina
• Capital One: Georgia vs. Michigan State*
• Gator: Nebraska vs. Clemson
• Rose: USC vs. Penn State
• Orange: Cincinnati vs. Virginia Tech

FRIDAY

• Cotton: Texas Tech vs. Ole Miss (upset special)
• Liberty: Kentucky vs. East Carolina
• Sugar: Alabama vs. Utah

SATURDAY

• International: UConn vs. Buffalo

*I am absolutely confident that UGAy will destroy Sparty, but I will not go on record as picking the pups in any game ever.  

Great verse from this morning's sermon posted below.  I feel like I have recently been comforming to the world view associated with the "me first" attitude.  But God clearly asks us to help others and put others before ourselves.  It's a personal battle I've been fighting for a while now, and I'm not sure if "winning" is possible.  But I'm comforted by the fact that God has won the ultimate victory on my behalf, and so thankful for that...

I'll publish a preview and prediction for our game sometime on Tuesday.  Until then, have a great Monday!

What Christmas is all about

Tomorrow the world will celebrate the anniversary of the most important event in human history - the humble birth of Jesus Christ.  Too often we forget the true meaning of this most special holiday, most of which is brought on by the societal pressures of commercialism and such "politically correct" phrases as happy holidays and seasons greetings.  I gladly take this chance that has been afforded me by the technological innovations of the internet and the personal computer to remind us all of the true meaning of Christmas.

As humans, many times we tend to overcomplicate things.  Which is why I choose to choose a very simple adaptation of the Christmas story -- that of Linus from A Charlie Brown Christmas.  For those of you who have never seen the movie *gooutandbuyitandwatchitnow*, I have his monologue from the end of the movie posted below.  He quotes from Luke 2:8-14.

"'⁸And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. ¹⁰And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. ¹¹For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. ¹²And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. ¹³And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, ¹⁴Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.' That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

You can also watch the clip here:

I would also recommend reading this piece about what Reagan knew about Christmas (and he wasn't afraid to admit it).

Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown. 

"Yetman" Strikes Again

For the first time (at least that I've noticed) since the AJC's article about the whiteout for the Tech-Miami game back on Nov. 20th, another Yetman has appeared.  This time Yetman returns in the form of TechMan91 on the AJC's recent post about who Tech's big-name players thought were the unsung heroes for the Jackets this year.  This new Yetman takes a cheapshot at the non-alum or alum family Tech fans ("sidewalk" fans according to him).  Check it out:

"To all of you Tech grads and honorary members of the Tech family, I respect your thoughts and comments.  The others, I could care less.  The sidewalk lot gets a little worked up when you separate yourselves from them."

Gotta be honest, I wasn't aware that Scrooge was computer-savvy and posting on the internet these days.  Good grief.  Where's your Christmas spirit, TechMan91?  Show a little love to the Tech fans who aren't affiliated with the school, there aren't too many of them.  

No 3-4, Apparently

Looks like the Jackets will be sticking with the usual 4-3 defense next season, according to the folks at StingTalk at least.  It seems we've picked up 5 DL recruits for next season, which will be nice considering we're losing Darryl Richard, Vance Walker, and Elris Anyiabe.  They claim that we'd need NFL-quality LBs to be able to run the 3-4 well.  Not sure if we'll have a chance to see for ourselves next season (or any time in the future), but I'm confident that Dave Wommack knows what he's doing.

Tech Hoops take on USC-West in LA

Tonight the basketball Jackets (7-2) take on the Trojans of Southern California (10:30 on FSN South).  The Trojans boast a 7-3 record, but haven't exactly played the Kansases or Dukes of the college basketball world.  Their 7-0 home record includes wins over such powerhouse schools as UC-Irvine, New Mexico State, UT-Chattanooga, and North Dakota State (they have basketball in North Dakota?).  After a convincing 28-point win over Pepperdine on Saturday night, picking up a W against the former Fighting OJ Mayos (they just love OJ out there at USC-West) would be nice for the ole RPI.  Note: GT Forward Gani Lawal leads the ACC with six double-doubles, and even averages a double-double.

Bowl Picks - Week of 12/21

I've never really been good at picking games (especially football), but I figured I'd give this week in bowl season a shot.  My success (or lack thereof) this week will determine if I pick next week's games.  

*Winners in bold

SUNDAY

• New Orleans Bowl: Troy vs. Southern Miss
  

TUESDAY

• Poinsettia Bowl: Boise State vs. TCU
  

WEDNESDAY

• Hawaii Bowl: Hawaii vs. Notre Dame
  

FRIDAY

• Motor City Bowl: Florida Atlantic vs. Central Michigan
  

SATURDAY

• Mieneke Bowl: North Carolina vs. West Virginia
  
• Champs Sports Bowl: Florida State vs. Wisconsin
  
• Emerald Bowl: California vs. Miami
  

Recruiting Update

After his official visit this weekend, DE Izaan Cross (Flowery Branch HS - GA) committed to play for the Yellow Jackets next season.  Only a 3-star guy according to Rivals, but at 6-3 and 250, he looks to be a force to be reckoned with in the future for the Jackets.  Glad to have another recruit onboard for the 2009 season.  

TIME After TIME - Obama is POTY?

I'm not too sure how I feel about Obama being named Time magazine's Person of the Year, but I'm also not sure how much credibility I'd give Time mag. in the first place.  I have to ask myself whoelse could've been POTY...Michael Phelps maybe?  Actually, it probably should be "The Media" for getting Obama elected in the first place.  And for providing most Americans with (mis)information.  But I digress...

Update: life w/o high-speed internet is still tough, but I'll press on.  I really am thankful to have fast internet most of the time (sorry if that sounds like complaining, but I imagine most of you remember the joys of dial-up).

One more thing to check out: an LSU fan made a CFA Bowl preview video...it's pretty sweet, not gonna lie.  Posted below for your viewing pleasure:

Mid-Week Updates

Man, I do miss high-speed internet.  I have very much enjoyed being able to relax in the first two days at home on Christmas break, but one thing we get for living in the middle of nowhere is having to put up with dial-up internet.  Yep, dial-up still exists.  "You don't know what you have until you don't have it" definitely applies here.

A few updates on the GT football front:

Heather Dinich phone interview with CPJ

Heather Dinich interviewed GT headman Paul Johnson via phone earlier this week, and posted the interview on her blog.  I've posted the whole thing below.

I got a chance to speak with Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson, who earned the ACC Coach of the Year award after a nine-win season that included a road win over rival Georgia. Here are the highlights of our recent phone interview:

Heather Dinich: What is the focus on recruiting for you guys at this point? Are there any specific positions you're going after?

Paul Johnson: I don't know that there is anything specific. We're going to take several linemen, offense and defense. We're almost finished. We've got about six or seven spots. We're looking at juniors now for next year.

HD: What's the deal with the scholarships now, because I know you played this season below the limit?

PJ: I think we can sign 25 and get back close to the 85. We'll catch up.

HD: Can you help me explain to fans how much tougher it is to play under that limit?

PJ: It's unbelievable. Jonathan Dwyer, his backup, Lucas Cox, was a starter at another position. And then we had a freshman walk-on that was the next guy up. So when he gets the wind knocked out of him or needs a blow or whatever, you have to change two or three guys or just make him stay in. There were some positions we had no flexibility. We were down to walk-ons as backups. From a planning standpoint, being able to rest guys and all that, it created some problems.

HD: What's the ideal offensive lineman you look for in terms of athleticism and size?

PJ: It's not that much different than anybody else. The biggest difference is we're not looking for the real big slow guy that can't move. Our guys need to be athletic. Sometimes in a passing offense you can take tall guys with long arms that really can't move. We're just looking for good players. The guys that will be good in our offense will be good in others, too.

HD: As you're hitting the recruiting trail, are you getting a lot of questions about your offense from players and their parents?

PJ: No, not now that we've been here for a year. We've got most of all our offensive guys committed, really. We had two receivers committed really early. We've got three quarterbacks, we may even take another one. We've got three running backs committed.

HD: Where do you see the next step being in terms of progress for next year?

PJ: We'll try to be more consistent and continue to get better. I think we got better as the year went along. We still laid an egg a time or two and we have to be more consistent. With a young team that's always a problem. As we get more depth and keep working at it, hopefully we can challenge for the conference championship every year. That's the goal.

HD: I'm sure you don't like to lose any game, but was there one in particular that stung a little more because of the Coastal Division race?

PJ: They're all tough. The Virginia Tech game early in the year, we felt like we had a good shot. That one hurt. They all hurt. We fumbled the ball away down here and they probably played as well as they played all year, that game. And then North Carolina, they played well and we didn't even bother to show up. But they all hurt.

HD: With the way you guys finished the season, the win over Georgia, and looking so strong down the stretch, was it hard for you to accept not being in the ACC championship game considering how well you guys were playing?

PJ: We had our chances and didn't get it done. You can't cry over spilled milk. Maybe we learned a lesson. You've got to take care of it yourself. When you've got a chance, you have to finish the job. We didn't get it done.

HD: What was the win over Georgia like for you?

PJ: It was good for the program. It's such an important game to our alumni. I was just happy for our seniors because they had never beaten them. Hopefully it's something we can build on.

HD: How are you going to replace that defensive line?

PJ: Well that's going to be tough. Derrick Morgan is back and probably played as well as anybody up there. We've got a couple inside guys we redshirted we think are going to be really special players. I'm anxious to watch them play. We've got some young guys that have played some, Robert Hall, Ben Anderson, Jason Peters. Those guys played some. You couple that with who we had sitting out, we think we'll be ok.

HD: What's the scouting report on LSU?

PJ: They're very talented. They're big and they run well. They're one year removed from playing in the national championship. A lot of guys played on that team.

HD: What about in terms of their offense? I know they've had some trouble at quarterback.

PJ: They've had some trouble being consistent. They've got a new quarterback and I'm assuming they're going to start the freshman they say they are and he's very talented. He's got a strong arm, he's elusive, good runner. He presents a whole new set of problems for you.

HD: In retrospect, what are your overall feelings on the job you did this year?

PJ: I was really proud of the players. They bought in and worked hard and the assistant coaches did a good job getting them up to speed on things. It was a good place to start. We laid a good foundation. You're always disappointed anytime you don't win the league and you lose. If we can win the bowl game and get 10 wins, it's a good way to start.

HD: No kidding. What do you think you guys are capable of there?

PJ: Oh I think we can compete for championships. If I didn't believe that, I wouldn't have taken the job.

(end)

Certainly gotta be happy that this guy is the lead guy for our program.  Whether or not what he's saying is "coachspeak", you love to see a guy deflect positive questions about himself to his team and his players.  

Speaking of CPJ...new deal in the works almost done

In the wake of numerous coaching changes across the country and in the Southeast (like Auburn...good grief), D-Rad wanted to lock up CPJ long term (his current contract is for seven years, ~$1.6 mil a year) and give him a raise in the process (he certainly deserves one).  Reports indicate that CPJ's agent and the GT Athletic office have neared reaching a new deal, which is good news for everybody - except for the rest of college football ;)

Tech loses an AB recruit

Carver-Atlanta RB Demond Dennis has apparently switched his commit from Tech to Troy because he wouldn't be the "featured back" in our offense (he'd be a good fit for A-back).

Not the featured back?  Really?  Did he watch what Roddy Jones (not the "featured back") did against UGA?  I mean, he must have not been impressed, considering Roddy only had 214 yards and two TDs on 13 carries.  He may never lead the team in carries, but he'll get his numbers (well, he would have).  I guess this is probably a good thing for us in the long run, since CPJ would probably not have much patience (or playing time) for an "all about me" guy (esp. at running back).  

Dennis' teammate, S Darren Myles - the highest rated uncommitted safety (and No. 6 safety in the nation according to Rivals.com) - recently had an official visit to LSU, where things apparently went well.  Myles is originally from New Orleans, but maybe he should watch the CFA Bowl before he makes his decision, which will feature the two teams which have pursued him the most.  IMO, it'd be great to see Uno and Myles in the secondary at the same time.

That's all for now.  For anyone who hasn't seen them, I'd recommend the following two Christmas movies: Charlie Brown Christmas and Jingle All the Way.  I watched both with my parents last night, and the following conversation (if that's what you want to call it) actually happened while watching Jingle All the Way:

Dad (completely serious): What time is it?
Mom: "It's Turbo-time!"

Priceless.

LSU Chimes in on CPJ's UCOBS

I posted a link to some LSU fan opinions on LSU's chances against our offense in the Peach Bowl in a post about a week ago, and today some of the LSU reactions and opinions of it. LSU officially accepted their Peach Bowl invitation today, and the media was there to take down some comments, etc.

Head Coach Les Miles

On Georgia Tech’s offense running option ...
“You have to be disciplined when you play them. There has to be relentless effort to pursue it. Let’s not forget (Georgia Tech’s) defense. They are very talented up front with two big, strong defensive ends and a defense that is ranked about 32nd in the top division in the NCAA rankings. We understand that this will be a great test. This is what we need. We need to play a really good football team and we are fortunate to have that opportunity.”

On if Georgia Tech’s offense will cause LSU to prepare in a different manner ...
“I think our team understands the direction and the very specific preparations that when it comes to this offense, it will require a different practice schedule. Frankly, we will seldom be in a third down and long and have a nice pass rush in the quarterbacks face. They don’t quite throw it that often. It is going to be gearing ourselves toward our opponent. It will be a great, new challenge to be honest with you. There isn’t anyone in our program that doesn’t understand where we want to be. You don’t have to enlighten anyone, there is no re-gear. It’s more like we ‘We understand. Let’s get it going.’ The opportunity is right here.”

RB Charles Scott

On what the defense will face with Georgia Tech’s option offense...
“They have a great rushing attack, but I think our seven guys upfront are pretty good too. As long as we prepare, keep our minds right, come into the game focused on our assignments and be disciplined, I think we’ll have a pretty good battle.”

TE Richard Dixon

On what the defense will face with Georgia Tech’s option offense...
“I ran Georgia Tech’s type of offense in high school, and it’s a tough offense. We’ve got great guys on defense. We’ve got great speed and some of the greatest defensive linemen in college football. I think they’re going to do great. We’ve got three weeks to prepare for it, and it should be fun for us.”

Clearly the LSU staff and players have a lot of respect for what our offense has done (for good reason - we're 3rd in the nation in rushing ypg). Everyone keeps saying that the three weeks will help LSU prepare for our offense, but no one is mentioning that CPJ and his staff will have three weeks to get ready for the LSU defense (which btw is a respectable 17th in the nation against the run). Should be an interesting matchup of two coaches with different stories this season...one program has overachieved while the other has underachieved.

What Christmas is all about...Giving

Tomorrow (today?) marks the last day of finals week for Fall 2008 at GT land. Of course I'm stuck with two of them, in the last two periods no less. But no big deal, I've crammed enough for them, and am actually pretty thankful that my finals were heavy at the end of this week rather than at the beginning (my first one wasn't til Wednesday, which went really well).

Before I go to bed, I wanted to post this video that I first saw in church a few weeks ago, and it's actually caught on well I think. Unfortunately Christmas in the US has become over-commercialized (obviously it doesn't take me saying that to make anyone realize that). It has become too much about material gifts and receiving things that have little or no meaning. But what if we as a nation and culture gave something bigger than gifts? What if we instead focused our giving to those who have very little than to those that we normally give to who have very much? I'm certainly not suggesting that we stop getting presents for our friends and loved ones altogther. But I just want yall to think about how much we could change the world for the better. Hope yall enjoy...


Merry early Christmas!

Finals week...pshh

This week marks my 7th trip to the five days in april/may and december...the epic finals week. For me, it's actually not a big deal. IMO, finals week is the second best school week of the year (the first being the first week of class)...for one, there's no class. During a stretch where I'd normally have to go to class on 13 separate occasions, I only have to go to three (this semester at least). Second, things are usually quieter since most people are studying. All this results in a lot of free time - one of my favorite things.

Chick-Fil-A Bowl Updates...Geaux Jackets!

So it's official (as of yesterday)...we'll be playin LSU in the Chick-Fil-A (Peach) Bowl on New Year's Eve at the GA Dome. As of now, I've heard two conflicting reports on what to expect in this game (even though I know what's gonna happen). CFN is gettin pretty screwy, saying that the time off between now and the bowl game will give LSU enough time to prepare for CPJ's UCOBS. Does the time off not also mean that we'll have time to prepare for LSU's defense? I mean, I doubt CPJ and the rest of the coaching staff will be picking their noses for the next three weeks and two days. Granted, LSU does have the 17th best run defense in the country, but that's probably attributable to the fact that most teams have been destroying them in the passing game, where LSU is 82nd in the nation. On the flip side, Kirk Herbstreit finally got something right. Today he did a quick spot on the Buck & Kincade show, stating that Georgia Tech would "handle" LSU in this matchup. Well said, Kirky.

Where Are They Now - Tashard Choice & Calvin Johnson

Both Tech boys clean up on Sunday against their respective opponents...sorta. Deuce got his first NFL start yesterday...against the NFL's best rushing and pass defense (@ Pittsburgh), no less. But he did pretty darn well. On top of 88 yards on 23 (that's also his jersey #) tough carries, he was the Cowboys' leading receiver with 78 yards on only five catches. Way to go, Deuce. Not sure when Marion Barber will return, but hopefully we'll get to see the former Jacket get some more carries and receptions before all is said and done.

CJ got some solid numbers too yesterday. Too bad this guy is stuck with the now 0-13 Lions. I'd recommend checking out this highlight video and watching his 70-yard catch-and-run TD reception. You'd think a guy his size would be slow...which I guess is what NFL DCs still think (though maybe not after yesterday). He just outran the Viking DBs...ridiculous. Could anyone imagine what CJ might do with a Peyton Manning or Drew Brees (go Saints!) or Matt Ryan throwing him the pigskin? Neither can I.

But the Lions can't expect to win a game when CJ has only three catches (for 84 yards though). They're a mere three games away from the second 0-16 NFL season ever. Not something to be proud of, I imagine. CJ's gotta find a way to get out of Detroit...New Orleans maybe? (I can be hopeful, can't I?). I'd love to see him as a Falcon too, that'd be solid.

Get this...CJ has 56 receptions, 1055 yards, and 9 TDs. His 56 receptions barely get him in the top 25 in the NFL, but his 9 TDs is good for a second-place tie. He averages one TD every 6.22 catches, good for 6th in the NFL. However, in terms of 1000-yard WRs, he's first on the list. The #2 guy w/ at least 1000 yards receiving is Anquan Boldin of the Arizona Cardinals, coming in at 7.55 catches/TD. This means that it takes over one catch more for Boldin to get a TD than it does Calvin. CJ is also the #4 WR in the NFL when it comes to yards per catch, and again the #1 guy w/ at least 1000 yards, with 18.8 yards per catch. The #2 again is pretty far behind, with Greg Jennings of the Packers coming in at 17.1 yards per catch...over a full yard behind Calvin. Ladies and gentlemen, when it comes down to it, this guy in a bona fide freak. No DB in the league can really defend him. All they can hope for is that they don't throw it to him...which is what is going on. If you have any doubt about CJ's ability, just watch this video and look for the clip of him running a reverse at the 3:10 mark. Those aren't high school defenses that are trying to tackle him...those are NFL defensive players. The best. And he was only a rookie last year.

Louisiana #1 for all the wrong reasons...again

Can't say I'm too proud of my home state for this one. A recent Forbes report shows that the real LA is 50th out of 50 states (or is it 58?) in terms of total health (they use binge-drinking, pollution, and disease as indicators). C'mon guys. Put the eighth beer down, and go workout some. Sheesh.

The most wonderful time of the year...

Christmas is right around the corner, a mere 17 days away. Today's Christmas question:

What's your favorite Christmas song? (bonus points to anyone who responds with "Christmas Shoes")

Dead Week Friday

Despite it being the week before finals, today was actually quite interesting...

Expired fire extinguishers = reason to burn stuff

We had a lot of fun this afternoon burning a few things thanks to a few fire extinguishers around the BCM that had expired :D The aftermath is pictured below:


Lady Jackets beat UGAy Lady Dogs

UGAy fans must be really upset now. Six days after beating the football dogs on the gridiron, and for only the 3rd time in 31 tries, the Lady Jackets beat the Lady Dogs in basketball tonight at the Thrillerdome 57-42. However, those three W's have all come in the last seven years, a testament that program is headed in the right direction (we also got the school's first NCAA Women's Bball Tourney invite in 06(?)).


Center Street Christmas

This year marks round three of Center Street Christmas (it'll be my last one). We started early tonight with some movies and gingerbread cookies. Tomorrow morning we'll be doing secret santa with everyone, should be lots of fun (again). It makes me sad that this is my last Christmas at Tech. The previous three have been a lot of fun, there's no doubt about that. Those times have reminded me that Christmas isn't about the gifts, but being with the people you love.

Championship Weekend Predictions

Bama vs. UF: No one's giving the Tide a chance, which is why I think they win. They've been underappreciated all year, "winning games they shouldn't have won", whereas UF's opponents haven't been on the same planet as the Gators (except for the Fighting Nutts). There's a reason you don't lose a single regular season games, so Saban and the boys must be doin something right. Tide win 28-24.

BC vs. Virginia State: IMO, neither of the best teams in the respective divisions are represented in Tampa tomorrow. I think everyone wishes it could be a rematch of Tech and F$U. But I digress...BC is without senior QB Chris Crane, who broke a collarbone a couple weeks ago against Wake. Now QB Dominique Davis will be making his second career start ever - against the 6th best defense in the country. BC's defense will force a few TOs, but it won't be enough with no offense (yes, even less than the chokies). VPI wins 17-13.

Mid-Week Updates

A lots been goin on since Saturday's beating of the doggies on their turf. Yesterday was actually a big day in the state of Georgia, and today was a big day for our Jackets.

Saxby wins Runoff

Thank goodness for that. Chambliss (unofficially) beats Martin by a 57%-43% margin, though Martin conceded last night. Big win in terms of the dems not having a super-majority in the Senate (which is bad for everybody).

Braves Trade for Pitching

Last night, the Bravos picked up former ChiSox starting pitcher Javier Vasquez in a six-player deal. To acquire Vasquez, we gave up SP Jo-Jo Reyes (who was good, but never consistent) and SS Brent Lillibridge (a solid prospect). With the recent loss of Mike Hampton to the Astros, Vasquez looks to bolster our rotation for next year, which is still the biggest concern of the offseason.

Paul Johnson - 2008 ACC Coach of the Year

Huge congrats to CPJ for this award. It's Tech's first ACC COTY since O'Leary won it back in 2000. CPJ got 46 of the 67 possible votes, and looks to have an early edge on the national competition.

Jonathan Dwyer - 2008 ACC Player of the Year

Big, big congrats to the big man in the backfield for the Jackets for picking up some more hardware. Dwyer is by far the most deserving player in the conference, picking up 12 TDs on a total of 1328 yards (no other ACC back had more than 1000), including nine 100+ yard games. Dwyer is the first player to win this honor since CJ did it in 2006. This guy's just a sophomore, and will only get better and grow in CPJ's system. Let's just hope he stays after next year.

ACC/Big 10(11) Challenge continues tonight as Tech hosts Penn State

The Jackets (4-0) welcome the Nittany Lions (6-1) to the ThrillerDome tonight for game 7 of the ACC/Big 10 Challenge. The ACC is 9-0 all time in this challenge, but the conferences are tied as of last night at 3 wins a piece (Boston College, Clemson, Duke, Minnesota, Ohio State, and Wisconsin have all won). Tech beat PSU 77-73 a couple years ago at AMC; the only active Tech player from that game was Zach Peacock. The Jackets are 1-1 all time against the Nittany Lions on the court. Tech looks to go 5-0 for the first time since that 06-07 season.

Going Bowling - Close to Home

Last night, Tech officially received an invitation to play in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl (Dec. 31, 7:30 @ the GA Dome). This is big for the Jackets, who have had to travel to the West Coast for many of the past bowl games (Humanitarian in 07, Emerald in 05, Humanitarian in 03, Silicon Valley in 02, Seattle in 01).

Our opponent is TBD, but will likely be either LSU or South Carolina. LSU fans are already sweating over a matchup against CPJ's UCOBS, and rightfully so. The Bayou Bengals are giving up 326 yards and 26 points per game, but have struggled mightily against the big boys (27 to Bama, 31 to Ole Miss, 51 to UF, 52 to UGAy). South Carolina, however, is only allowing 288 yards and 20 points per game, good for 11th and 27th in the nation, respectively. Keep in mind though that the Fighting Spurriers got bombed by the only real option team they faced in Florida, giving up 56 to Urban Meyer's squad (that's 8 TDs, folks).

If we are to in fact play LSU on New Year's Eve, it will be an interesting matchup from a personal perspective. I have four relatives who are LSU alumni, and two really good friends who are current students. Those in my family who aren't LSU alums still cheer for the Tigers, like I have most of my life (not to worry boys and girls, I'll be rooting for the guys in White and Gold and would be very happy for us to get a W over the Tigers). So this game could create a rift of sorts in my family; should be interesting to see. I'm sure I'll never hear the end of it if LSU beats us, and there might be some extended silence if the Jackets win.

Regardless, I'm looking forward to Tech's bowl game. I'm not sure anyone could stop our offense - only outscore us. With the CFA Bowl being 4 weeks from today, we'll have plenty of time to rest up, get healthy, and prepare for our opponent. Bowl practice starts next Friday for the Jackets.