Just one in a million faces

GT Football Twitterers - Top 10

2009-11-09T10:07:00.003-05:00

The guys over at Jolly Good Fellows recently compiled a list of the top 10 GT football tweeters...and I made the list at #5!

Other news/links:

-Ever wonder what to do? You could just read here to find out what Paul Johnson would do.

-Speaking of Paul Johnson, if you haven't voted for him for Coach of the Year, DO IT NOW. Remember, you can vote once per day per browser (Chrome, Firefox, IE, etc.)

-As most of you know, the Heisman race is still wide open. Here's a great article on the reasons why Josh Nesbitt should be the winner.

Have a great week everyone!

Top Twenty Things Obama Doesn't Say/Hasn't Said

2009-10-15T21:42:00.003-04:00

A quick disclaimer...this is straight up taken from American Thinker (read the whole article here) but I felt like it was worthy of reposting. Feel free to leave your thoughts and comments, I'd be interested to hear them.

---

1. Not everything is a federal issue; some things are for the states to decide.

2. I hear what you're saying and you have a good point.

3. One of the beautiful things about our constitution is the liberty given to individuals to pursue their dreams. There is great opportunity in our country to succeed.

4. In an effort to stimulate job growth and despite the objections from my party, I am working with Congress to reduce taxes for small businesses.

5. I am saddened by the cycle of poverty that exists in our major cities, and here is a way we can empower the next generation to break the cycle and fulfill their God-given potential....

6. The folks at the town hall meetings and those who came to Washington on 9/12 were exercising one of the greatest rights we have as Americans, freedom of speech.

7. Stop already with all forms of ‘cult of personality' behavior. I am a public servant, just like all those who have served before and all who will come after my term is complete. It's not about me, it's about the country.

8. I heard a great message Sunday morning at church.

9. History teaches us that evil exists in the world; for this reason the United States must remain strong, ready to defend itself and its allies.

10. I didn't realize a communist was part of my administration. It won't happen again.

11. The billions siphoned out of health care into lawyers' pockets never healed a single person.

12. No other country on earth offers its citizens the opportunity to pursue life, liberty, and happiness as does the United States of America.

13. The experts have looked at the proposed (fill-in-the-blank) program, and when it is extrapolated out beyond just the initial offering there is clear evidence it will cost too much money and will eventually fail.

14. I disagree 100% with the Cloward-Piven strategy of increasing the welfare rolls and overwhelming the financial system, and I am not affiliated in any way with the implementation of such an idea.

15. I don't know the answer to your question but I will give it some thought.

16. The goal of my presidency is not to implement a political ideology, but to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.

17. Every person has value regardless of age, gender, color, physical characteristics, or any other factor.

18. Any healthcare bill I sign must include a provision to exclude the rationing of care, keep the door open for competition among insurers, and promote the opportunity for our young people to pursue an education in the medical fields to ensure future supply meets future demand.

19. It is important for legislators to remember that what helps someone in the short-term may actually hurt them in the long-term, and we must avoid this kind of scenario.

20. It has become clear to me after meeting with military experts that their recommendations should be implemented in our current situation; this is not an area in which politics can be allowed to interfere.

VPI Game Week Linkfest & Life Recap

2009-10-13T22:03:00.006-04:00

Wow it's been a while since I've been on here. Can't say that much has been goin on since the summer. But I guess some has. Quick rundown of events:

-still workin at Wieuca Afterschool

-still lookin for that full-time job

-took the Air Traffic Controller exam today...should find out results on Thurs. or Friday

-went to Tallahassee this past weekend to watch my Jackets pound it out on the ground against the Noles (awesome awesome weekend)

-joined in on Twitter

That's all for now. I'll post a bunch of links, some related to the upcoming GT-VPI game (Saturday @ 6 on ESPN2).

Linkz:

-Bunch of quotes from VPI defensive folks about how to stop/manage/not allow our offense to run wild.

-Even better...VPI's star strong safety, Kam Chancellor, has all but figured out how to stop our offense. Why even bother showing up?

-The guys over at Fromtherumbleseat.com (formerly The Legacy x4) continue their excellent work with a nice, semi-motivational piece on the upcoming game. A "Hokie"? Stupid mascot indeed.

-Apparently our offense is tough to defend. Who knew?

-Still not getting much respect from the folks over at SI...even after a huge win in Tally (and a 5-1 record) we're only 18 on SI's latest CFB power rankings.

Bonus video:

Ole Bobby tries to explain why his defense came up short against the UCOBS...and fails. See below.

On bookshelves tomorrow!

2009-05-26T23:29:00.004-04:00

How to lose a baseball game

By Kris Medlen

Step 1. Catch a big break that builds momentum for your team (conditional on you getting the next out).

Step 2. Kill that momentum by walking the pitcher to load the bases with two outs.

Step 3. With all confidence and momentum gone, give up back-to-back two-RBI hits to blow open a scoreless game.

The End.

For future reference: see 2nd inning of Braves vs. Giants, Tues. May 26th, 2009.

At least Tech will be hosting a regional this weekend. Go Jackets!

Wow, it's been a while...

2009-04-10T16:09:00.003-04:00

Guess i've just been super-busy (senior design, trying to find a job, resident managing, watching GT sports, March Madness...) to post in a while. Quick hits:

-Graduation is three weeks from tomorrow!

-Braves home opener is tonight!

-I joined LinkedIn yesterday...it seems pretty legit. Click here for a link to my public profile (and feel free to add me to your network!)

GO BRAVES!!! (starts chopping)

Memo from the Boss

2009-03-27T09:56:00.002-04:00

Got this from my grandpa this morning. Thought it'd be worth sharing.

---

To all employees

As the CEO of this organization, I have resigned myself to the fact that Barrack Obama is our President, and that our taxes, and government fees will increase in a BIG way. To compensate for these increases, our prices would have to increase by about 10%. Since we cannot increase our prices right now due to the dismal state of the economy, we will have to lay off six of our employees instead. This has really been bothering me, since I believe we are family here and I didn't know how to choose who would have to go.

So, this is what I did. I walked through our parking lot and found six 'Obama' bumper stickers on our employees' cars and have decided these folks will be the ones to let go. I can't think of a more fair way to approach this problem. They voted for change; I gave it to them.

I will see the rest of you at the annual company picnic.

Are you a lumberjack?

2009-03-14T20:14:00.002-04:00

If so, that's ok.

Get out your wallets...

2009-03-09T19:37:00.003-04:00

Cause if this video doesn't convince you to get season tickets, I don't know what will.

Can't wait for next season!

Caption Contest

2009-02-22T23:13:00.002-05:00

UGAy's Jeff Owens. Leave a funny caption. Winner gets \insert cool prize here\.

Bye Kid, Hello Mr. Anderson

2009-02-22T19:32:00.004-05:00

Only four days after Ken Griffey Jr. retracted his "decision" to play for the Braves and instead bolted for the Mariners, the Braves pick up a big bat in the OF in Garret Anderson.

Not sure what Griffey saw in Seattle (other than his former team), but IMO Anderson will be a better player than Griffey. I'm gonna go ahead and call this - Anderson will have a higher BA and more RBIs than Griffey in '09.

Random tidbit - Tech baseball sweeps Lipscomb to start the '09 season! Yeah Jackets!

Braves' Huge Pick-up

2009-02-17T15:27:00.002-05:00

Earlier today, former ChiSox OF Ken Griffey, Jr. signed what is likely a one-year deal to play for our hometown Braves in 2009. This is a big pickup for the team that finished last in homers by outfielders last season. Interesting side note: Ken Griffey Sr. was a starting OF when SP Tom Glavine made his career debut nearly 22 years ago - how cool is that!

Welcome to Atlanta, Griffey!

New Link and Great Read

2009-02-11T18:53:00.003-05:00

It's been a week since I've written anything on here, probably because a) there hasn't been much to say on my end or b) a lot's been going on. I'm gonna go with b.

A friend of mine posted a link on his blog to Stuff Christians Like (thanks David). I would especially recommend their latest post - it asks a very tough question at the end.

I feel like I should write more about what's been going on the last few weeks or so, but I'll save it for another time. All I'll say now is that it's been a tough go.

In other news - good luck to GT and Big Cuddly Men bball tonight!

GT Recruiting Recap

2009-02-04T19:00:00.003-05:00

Three words: we kicked face. We're gonna be loaded on offense next year, though defense remains a concern. I'm hoping Dave Wommack can prove me wrong.

That's really all I have to say. You can read more about our recruiting here, here, and here.

Some video highlights: David Sims, Stephen Hill, and Jordan Luallen (he's one of the QBs, not sure which).

25 Things...

2009-02-02T22:54:00.007-05:00

I really was against this to begin with, but after deciding that my blog might actually be a more suitable place for this (for those of you unaware, there is an epidemic of these things going around Facebook right now), I decided to go ahead with it.

So here it goes:

1. I have been a follower of Christ for 10 years now. I'd like to say that He defines all that I am, but I'm not at that point yet (though He's slowly growing me in Him) and I continue to fail Him every day. But I'm so grateful that His grace is more than enough for me.

2. I am really fidgety almost all the time. I don't think I could sit still for more than 10 minutes.

3. I do the following things with my left side: eat, write, play ping-pong, brush my teeth, bat; right side: throw, kick, drive (most of the time).

4. My dream job would be to be the statistician for the Braves.

5. I've never broken a bone, and the worst injury I've ever had was when an unweighted basketball goal's rim fell on my head during a mission week at church in summer 2002 after I (unsuccessfully) tried to dunk.

6. Riding (and sometimes driving) in a car makes me sleepy.

7. Speaking of sleep, I average around 8.5 hours of sleep each night. I'm really tired the next day if I only get 6-8 hours, but strangely I'm not tired if I get less than six hours.

8. I have pointy ears and attached earlobes. This combination led to my campers asking me all the time if I was an elf this past summer.

9. "PDiddy" is the only nickname I've consistently had. It started back in 8th grade by a couple of friends of mine, one who is currently at Tech, for reasons that I'm unaware of. Past nicknames include "PB", "P", and "Patrick Star" (like from Spongebob, which was a TV favorite of my campers).

10. The first CD I ever bought was the "Remember the Titans" soundtrack (it's still awesome, btw).

11. The three things I'm going to miss most from college are the people, the free time, and intramurals (in that order).

12. I have a very hard time driving without sunglasses, though that's a price I'll gladly pay for 20/20 vision.

13. I'm an only child, and as a result I've almost always found it easier to relate to adults and kids than people my age.

14. I walk too fast.

15. My favorite song is "Passion" by Kutless.

16. I would seriously consider pursuing a career in politics if I wasn't so honest.

17. The one thing that I wish I had is a Southern accent. I somehow managed to miss out on this, despite my Southern roots (Louisiana, Texas, and Georgia).

18. I've never really been a big fan of non-sports video games, though they offer a nice distraction from the real world every now and then.

19. I drink a whole lot of water throughout the day, which is a habit I wish I had started back in high school.

20. I'm currently reading "Do the Right Thing" by Mike Huckabee. Too bad he's not our current president.

21. I've never been in an accident or gotten a ticket. I'll give God the credit for this one, I'd be fooling myself if I said it was because of my own abilities and awareness.

22. I hardly watch any TV (except for sports and the Office) but I spend too much time on my computer.

23. I'm hardly ever in a bad or negative mood, and it takes a LOT to offend me and/or make me mad.

24. I would go crazy without the following: laughter, milk, music, useless facts, the ability to play sports, numbers, and friends.

25. If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone it would be this: "The wise man learns from his own mistakes, but the wiser man learns from the mistakes of others."

Mmmmmmm Fried Sea Kittens...

2009-01-29T23:51:00.002-05:00

lol @ peta. this is just too good. apparently fish are now to be referred to as "sea kittens". I really can't stop laughing. You can't make this stuff up folks.

Great video on the topic shown below. Props to this girl for calling peta out on their retardedness.

Dodgeball - Week One

2009-01-26T14:13:00.003-05:00

Last night marked week one of intramural dodgeball for 2009. We have three teams this season - which is really exciting - and they were all in action last night. Monstars had a tough go, but considering they hadn't played together before, were a man down, and playing FIJI, there was no shame in the loss. Lasercats also lost, but it was another hard-fought game. A-Team picked up a hard-earned W last night though, I was really proud of our team.

All in all, can't complain about week #1. There are some improvements to be made, but a lot of it will come with experience. Great job to everyone (and of course, thanks to our fans for showing up)!

I've also posted a highlight video of last night below, compliments of Adrianne (another big thanks here!).

Today's Question

2009-01-20T14:01:00.002-05:00

This past Friday, I went with some friends to see Gran Torino (great movie, I'd recommend it if you can handle more than a few f-bombs). "Becoming a man" is a theme throughout the movie...which made me think - what exactly does "being a man" mean? I have a few of my own thoughts, but I want to know what yall think first.

So I ask...what do you think it means to be a man?

(leave your thoughts in the comments below)

"Terrorists" Strike Al-Qaeda

2009-01-19T15:20:00.003-05:00

In your face, Al Qaeda. Looks like "what goes around comes around" holds true for you cowards too.

Just last night, Al Qaeda terrorists in Algeria faced a silent, but deadly enemy- the bubonic plague - and lost bigtime. According to one news report, AQ suffered at least 40 casualities from a virus of which most of the world is free (thanks to advances in modern medicine, which are made possible by the freedoms that groups like AQ fight against). AQ simply does not have adequate medical supplies, and is suffering the consequences of it. To further prove their cowardice (or their stupidity?), the AQ leaders fled in an effort to escape what was referred to as the "Black Death" when it hit Europe back in the 1600s.

A particular verse comes to mind..."for it is written, 'It is mine to avenge, mine to repay'," says the Lord". - Romans 12:19b

Plague 40, terrorists 0.

Doin us a Favor

2009-01-14T23:33:00.002-05:00

Mr. Favors, I must say, you made the right choice. About 15 minutes before tipoff of tonight's Tech-Duke game at the Thrillerdome (a 70-56 win by the Dukies, btw - lame), the nation's top recruit out of South Atlanta HS verbally committed to play for the White and Gold next year.

If nothing else, this will bring some "hope" to the program and may silence CPH's critics for at least another year. Granted this season hasn't exactly been spectular, but things have gotta be looking up for next year with Favors on the court.

You've got to be excited about a guy like Favors who is an absolute beast down low. In fact, in a recent game against Eagles Landing, Favors scored 30 points in just three quarters of play - no doubt with most of the ELCA team focused on stopping him.

I've posted two of his highlight videos below. You can look up more videos here.

Congratulations on choosing Georgia Tech as your future home, Derrick! We look forward to what you will bring to the table next year, even if it is your only year in the white and gold!

Flashback: Tech Hoopsters beat the Dukies, 74-63 (1/10/07)

2009-01-14T09:56:00.003-05:00

Tonight at 7 pm at the Thrillerdome, Tech hoops hosts our first ranked team of the year in the form of the 14-1 Duke Blue Devils. Hardly anyone is expecting us to win tonight (for good reason too - the Jackets are 9-6 and haven't exactly played fundamental basketball). But two years and four days ago, that same attitude proliferated our campus - and our boys pulled off a big win.

Tech overcame 28 turnovers (sound familiar?) by shooting a lights-out 56% from the floor to pick up the 74-63 win over Duke. It was Tech's first home win over Duke since the 95-96 season.

In a game featuring current NBA-ers Javaris Crittenton, Anthony Morrow, Mario West, and Thaddeus Young, the boys in white and gold had a +9 rebounding margin (32-23) AND shot a whopping 79% from the line (23-29). In terms of invididual play: former Jacket Ra'sean Dickey had a career-high 21 points, A-Money hit 3 of 5 from behind the arc, but the biggest contribution of them all was J-Crit getting 9 of his 11 points in the final 3 and a half minutes. Meanwhile, Tech held the Dukies to a 43% clip from the floor, including only 4 of 20 (20%) three's made.

Personally, the coolest part of this game was rushing the court at the end. Being there, surrounded by Tech students and fans - that energy was awesome. Plus, one of the best quotes ever (from my good friend, Will, after high-fiving Ra'sean Dickey) came from that night: "I've got Dickey sweat on my hand!"

So lets start a new home streak of our own tonight against dook to make it two-in-a-row at the Thrillerdome! Go Jackets!

Saturday links (no, not golf...)

2009-01-10T10:58:00.004-05:00

Palin Fights Back

Rightfully so, Sarah Palin sounded off on Monday on a radio show with John Ziegler in regards to the way the media treated her during her run as McCain's VP candidate. She brought up a few of the issues that pervade our news media today, including sexism, "class"-ism, and bias towards the Left. Funny this article was on MSNBC...

Firefighters help out in NFL Practice

The Baltimore Ravens have enlisted the help of 13 local firefighters as a de facto scout team for their walkthroughs in preparation for the playoffs (though they've been helping all season). This is a great story, and it's nice to see a franchise give back to their community like this.

New Comics!

My roommate and fellow resident manager extraordinare has been making comics for a while now, and has recently posted two new ones (pirate attacks and "the instrument that only lasted one concert"). Check his site out here.

Jon Dwyer - Best Back in 09?

At least Sporting News thinks so. Can't actually find any links on this one, other than the (scanned-in?) pic of the article on GT's Play at GaTech blog. Dwyer is a solid pick for this honor, considering he averaged seven yards a carry and was named ACC POTY in 08. This guy's only a sophmore, folks. Let's hope he stays around for two more years.

Too good to pass up (plus some updates)

2009-01-09T15:48:00.006-05:00

Found this pic on StingTalk today, and I just had to post it (for the record, I have no opinion on the University of Oklahoma, but this pic is just awesome (apologies for the small size):

Other updates...

Dumb move of the MILLENIUM: Braves GM Frank Wren decided that Smoltz was too "injury-prone" and that he only deserved a $3 mil contract (plus bonuses), but the Red Sux offered him $5.5 mil - and Smoltz took it. Here are some responses from Chipper and some of the others associated with the Braves.

Really Frank Wren? This is truly an atrocity that will no doubt come back to bite the Braves. In an offseason of frustrations, this is no doubt the worst thing that could happen (well, they could have let Chipper go too...knock on wood that that doesn't happen). As if in an attempt to recover some of what was lost, word on the street is that the Braves are entertaining SP Derek Lowe. Lowe is certainly no Smoltzie, but would be a nice addition to the currently lackluster rotation.

We'll miss you, Smoltz. Thanks for all you've meant this team, franchise, and city over the last 21 years. Though you are no longer on our roster, you are forever in our hearts.

Illinois did something right this time...by impeaching Governor Rod Blagojevich. Considering he was "allegedly" trying to sell Obama's empty US Senate seat, this was probably the right move for the Illinois state HOR. He had been called by many to step down from his position as governor, but to no avail. Now Blago (as he's known?) vows to fight the impeachment, claiming that it was politicially driven and that he has done no wrong.

The Gators do it again. For the 2nd time in three years, the Gators from the University of Florida have captured the national championship in football, this time by way of an impressive 24-14 win over the Oklahoma Sooners.

Huge hats off to the Florida defense. To put the final score in perspective, let me throw out a few stats. Oklahoma set a NCAA record by scoring 702 points this year (excluding last night...that's 54 points a game folks). There season low was 35, which happened against TCU and Texas. They had scored 60+ in their last five. Onto last night - OU scored a total of 14 points. That's two TDs. Not only that, but Florida stopped two Sooner drives in the red zone - the first on a goal-line stand midway thru the 2nd qtr, followed by a strange INT on the UF 2 with about :03 left in the first half.

Lots of talk has been made regarding Tebow's possible status as the best college football player ever. One credential has to be this - Tebow is one of only three players ever to have a Heisman trophy and two championships (the other two being Johnny Rogers of Nebraska and Gino Torretta of Thug U). Tebow is also the only guy ever to have 20 rushing and passing TDs in the same season (2007). On top of the stats, Tebow is also a great person - giving sermons at prisons and performing medical work in the Phillipines with his missionary parents are two of the tangible things that he does, but his leadership, character, and integrity are outmatched among athletes. You can read more about Tebow as a person here.

Only 41 more days til GT baseball!

It's just a bad season for georgie fans...

2009-01-07T19:10:00.005-05:00

The folks in red and black must really be hurting now. Less than 24 hours after losing to us on the hardwood known as the Thrillerdome 67-62 (the fourth straight sports win by Tech over the doggies btw - the other three were women's basketball, volleyball, and of course, football), the Fighting Mark Richts lose twice - that is, Stafford and No-Show Moreno to the NFL (if they get drafted, of course).

Gone with Stafford and Moreno are 95.5% of Georgie's offense from last season. Let me repeat that -- 95.5%. To put that in perspective, let's say you make $100,000 year. If you pay 95.5% taxes, you are left with $4500 at the end of the year.

In the end though, this just means the football team in Athens will have to find another "master cuddler". Reports indicate that Stafford will be sorely missed (pun intended?)...

2008 LOL Awards

2009-01-05T22:17:00.004-05:00

So I'm gonna give this a shot...my awards for funny things that happened (that's probably not the best description but oh well). Hopefully you'll get the point. Enjoy.

Football in the State of Michigan

Oh boy. This is a great one. I guess the biggest story is the first ever 0-16 season by the hapless Detroit Lions (sorry Calvin). But it gets better...three Michigan college teams make it to bowls - and none of them is Michigan (Michigan State, Western Michigan, and Central Michigan - all three lost btw)! Gotta love Rich Rod gettin the job done in his first year like CPJ...oh wait...

The American and Minnesotian(?) Voting Public

...for electing Barack Hussein Obama and Al "the clown" Franken(stein), respectively. I guess McCain's not a great choice either, but the way the media deceived the voting public was truly astounding. Then somehow, fellow super-liberal Al Franken (yes, the same Al Franken who has a show on liberal radio network Air America) gets elected to one of the US Senate seats from the state of Minnesota in an epic runoff in which votes magically appears in Franken's favor). Now we just gotta figure out who won the races in the other seven states...

OJ "I didn't do it...but this is how I woud've done it" Simpson

I bet USC fans aren't too happy about this one. Over a decade after the "trial of the century", Orange Juice was found guilty of armed robbery and kidnap after he robbed two sports memorabilia dealers at gunpoint at a Vegas hotel. Way to be a role model, OJ.

Honorable Mention: The FCC

Our favorite censorship panel pulled a move that most of us would be reprimanded for -- they cited Wikipedia (in a March 27th release regarding satellite providers' offering local channels...or something like that). Glad to see our government is taking steps to ensure accurate data collection methods. I certainly don't question the vast usefulness of Wikipedia, I have to say I'm bothered that a group affiliated with the US Government is attempting to legitimately use information from a website whose disclaimer reads: "WIKIPEDIA MAKES NO GUARANTEE OF VALIDITY". At least our tax dollars are doing something these days.

Improv Everywhere - Food Court Musical

2009-01-04T22:29:00.003-05:00

If you've never heard of Improv Everywhere, I'd first off recommend checking them out.

Anyway, back in March, they conducted the musical below in a food court in a Los Angeles mall. Enjoy.

2008 College Football Predictions - A Look Back

2009-01-04T17:08:00.002-05:00

Back in August, I took a shot at making some predictions about the 2008 season of college football. Below I examine how I did.

1. Appalachian State will NOT pull another Appalachian State. Turns out I was right...App State's first game was in Death Valley to take on the LSU Tigers...and they lost 41-13. Quite a different environment than the "Big House" of UMichigan. If anything, last year's upset by the Mountaineers over the Wolverines tipped off the LSU coaching staff that they were for real, and it showed in the final score.

2. The USC-West/Slowhio State will be radically overhyped, and a blowout. Right again...the media was all over this one, but I think everyone knew that USC was gonna win this one (and that they did...35-3). Slowhio State had only 35 second-half yards. Maybe Jim Tressel should've started Pryor...

3. It won't be pretty for the new SEC head coaches. Well, I was kinda right. Arkansas finished 5-7 under the leadership of Bobby Petrino, but Ole Miss did very well under headman Houston Nutt, who went 9-4 including an upset win over Texas Tech in the Cotton Bowl.

4. The SEC will not be represented in Miami on January 8th of [this] year. Strike one for Patrick. Florida locked up a spot in the BCSNC game by going 12-1 and beating #1 Bama in the Dome 31-20 to win the SEC. They deserve to be there, and most people probably have them beating the Sooners.

5. Instead, the NC game matchup will be Slow-hio State vs. Oklahoma. Again, half right. OSU was kinda close following a 10-2 campaign, but the Sooners earned locked up their spot after beating Mizzou to win the Big 12.

6. Tim Tebow will not repeat as Heisman winner. After the season Tebow had and they way they destroyed their opponents after the Ole Miss loss, I should've been wrong about this one. Instead, Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford picked up the Heisman, which makes Thursday night's game the 4th (?) ever matchup of teams w/ Heisman winners on their rosters.

If you have any doubts about Tebow's abilities, just watch this video.

7.The mighty Red Raiders of Texas Tech will be amazing this year...or we'll all be disappointed. I'll count this one right, considering Texas Tech finished 11-2 (losses to OU and Ole Miss - no shame in that).

8. Kansas will neither return to a BCS bowl nor come close to an undefeated season. Another W - Kansas finished 8-5 with an Insight Bowl victory over Minnesota.

9. The under-center-based option offense will work in a major conference...if the Jackets can hold on to the ball. And thankfully, it did. I think I speak for most college football fans when I say that this season was a huge success for the Yellow Jackets, despite the blowout loss to LSU in the Peach Bowl. Tech finished 9-4, including wins over Florida State, Clemson, Miami, and Georgia...all this despite an ACC-leading 33 fumbles, of which Tech lost 18. (that's ~2.5 fumbles and ~1.4 lost fumbles per game). My magic number for the Jackets was 1.5, and it turned out I was right on.

Recap: Seven out of nine...not bad.

Later this week (if time affords it), I'll present my 2008 LOLAwards here. Until then, I wish everyone a great first day back to the grind.

One more go around the block...

2009-01-04T15:40:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow marks my last first day of classes for any semester. This should be my toughest semester yet, and my final battle with the forces known as the Georgia Institute of Technology. It's gonna be a tough one, but I'm looking forward to the challenge.

I have a few words for you, classes: bring it on.

Ouch.

2009-01-01T00:36:00.004-05:00

Not much else to say. A 35-point loss to a mediocre 7-5 team is painful enough. You'll see no further postgame stuff here.

In other news, happy new year everyone.

Chick-Fil-A Bowl Preview & Prediction

2008-12-30T19:26:00.003-05:00

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

2008-12-28T16:53:00.012-05:00

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

2008-12-24T16:14:00.001-05:00

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

2008-12-22T15:35:00.004-05:00

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

2008-12-21T19:45:00.004-05:00

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?

2008-12-20T17:49:00.003-05:00

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

2008-12-17T09:27:00.004-05:00

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

2008-12-13T00:04:00.005-05:00

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

2008-12-12T00:33:00.002-05:00

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

2008-12-08T23:01:00.007-05:00

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

2008-12-05T23:42:00.004-05:00

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

2008-12-03T09:50:00.004-05:00

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.

The Streak is over, "the Drought" remains...45-42 Tech!

2008-11-30T16:43:00.009-05:00

Wow wow wow wow. What a great game. Some afterthoughts:

Key stat: 0. Number of Tech fumbles. More importantly, only one giveaway yesterday (Nesbitt's hail mary INT at the end of the first half). Like I said in a previous post, we would win with less than 3 giveaways...and that's what we did.
Nothing short of a huge win for our program. We stopped their 7-game win streak against us. We did it after trailing by 16 at the half. We did it against the preseason #1 team. We did in their house. I really still can't believe it. It especially means a lot to me, after putting up with 7 years of misery and UGA fans' trash talk, then having to put up with the games since I've been here (14-7 freshman year, 15-12 sophomore year, then 31-17 last year). I was almost to a point of tears after Dwyer's second TD to give us the lead. It was certainly a special day that will live on in the hearts of Tech fans.
Great showing by Tech fans. We brought a surprisingly large contingent to the cesspool yesterday, including the whole upper section. We made a ton of noise too, especially after Dwyer's 2nd TD which gave us the 35-28 lead.
High-scoring affair. I never woulda thought we'd put up 45 on UGAy in Athens. I never thought we'd win by giving up 42. According to ESPN, UGA is (WAS) 25-0 when scoring 40 or more since 2001.
Roddy for Heisman. How bout Mr. Roddy Jones, RS freshman A-back from Chamblee, getting 214 yards on the ground against the mutts. 214 on only 13 carries, for a Tech record of 16.5 yards per carry. Ridiculous. He added two scores, first from 8 yards out, then the back-breaker from 54 yards, which put Tech up 45-35 midway through the 4th quarter. Not to mention a 62-yard 3rd quarter run which set up a Scott Blair FG.
"The Drought" remains. Tech's series-long streak of 8-straight wins remains. Bobby Dodd beat the dogs from 1949-1956. UGA was one win away from tying it (they were also one win away in 98), but yesterday's win assures that "the Drought" will remain for at least another 8 years.
No ACCCG trip, but who cares? Yesterday's win by the Chokies over the Cavs of UVA locked up their spot in the ACCCG against BC, who also locked up a spot by beating the twerps last night. It would've been icing on the cake if Virginia State had lost, but I'll take the W over the dogs any day. Regardless, I think it would have been tough for us to win in Tampa, after the emotionally-draining and physically-demanding nature of yesterday's game (not that we wouldn't but it'd be a tough task).
Josh Nesbitt = warrior. This guy only had 59 total yards, but what he did yesterday cannot be tallied on any stat sheet. On top of setting up all the offensive plays and making all the reads, he left the game for three plays after getting the win knocked out of him, only to come back and make the pitch on Roddy's 54-yard TD run. Keep in mind this guy has been playing with two hurt ankles for the past few weeks. Damn glad to have him as our QB.
UGA fan shows some class. On our way back to the car yesterday, Cody Wes and myself had a UGA fan intentionally come up to us to congratulate us on the win and tell us how impressed he was with our offense. By far the best display of class I've seen from any UGA fan. Why can't all UGA fans be like him? Whoever you are, and wherever you are, thank you, Mr. UGA fan.
Up next...bowl game. Won't find out where til next Monday, but it appears we're headed to one of a few places. CBS has us playing LSU in the Chick-Fil-A bowl (rematch of 2000 Peach Bowl, a 28-14 LSU win), ESPN has us in the Gator Bowl against Nebraska (rematch of 1990 de facto national championship game, which Tech won 45-21), and CFN has us in the Champs Sports Bowl against the Golden Gophers of Minnesota. I honestly don't see how we're gonna lose to anybody in our bowl game. We'll have at least four weeks to prepare for our opponent, get rested, and get healthy. There's a good chance that CPJ has a few more tricks up his sleeves for our bowl opponent as well.
Vote for the Pontiac Game-Changing Performance. Dwyer's 60-yard TD right after halftime is one of four plays up for this week's vote. Go here to vote for Dwyer and a chance at $5000 for the general GT fund.
This just in...Roddy Jones just scored again. :)

I'll leave yall with this picture I took while the team was loading the buses to head back to Tech. Roddy's smile tells the story. How wide was it? 214 yards wide :)

I'll also leave yall with this CBS postgame interview with CPJ and #20 himself:

Giving Thanks

2008-11-26T09:41:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow marks the celebration of all that we've been blessed with. As a nation, as individuals, as families, and as followers of Christ, we have all been given so much. Too often I hear people complaining about this, or complaining about that. Let us not forget all that we have. I also want to take this chance to thank the warriors in our Armed Forces, who many times pay the ultimate price so that we may enjoy the freedoms that we have. This Thanksgiving, take the opportunity to thank those around you, and to be thankful for the people in your life - the saying still holds, "you don't know what you have til you don't have it".

This should be my last post til I'm back on campus Saturday. I'm currently debating going to the game on Saturday, or spending that day with my family on what will be my last Thanksgiving Break as a student. If I do wind up in athens, the bunny won't be there. Sorry to disappoint :(

Here's to a great Thanksgiving and to hopefully beating the mutts in athens on Saturday!

Yesterday's answer: Neither went to UGAy!

Today's joke: What happened to the two UGA-fan hunters who were following a set of tracks?

Let's hope neither of these happen again...

2008-11-25T10:43:00.002-05:00

The last two versions of Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate have sadly been defined by very, very questionable calls by the officials. And of course, Tech has been on the receiving end of both these bad calls. Is this the year we get the breaks?

2007: The Pass Interference call...on the wrong team (and wrong guy)

Tech lost to the dogs last year for a number of reasons (JJ dropped TD on first play, Uno's fumble out of the endzone after recovering a fumble). But the biggest game-changer of all was this awful, awful pass interference call on Djay Jones (though he was nowhere near the play):

If anything, PI should've been called on UGA's Massaquoi (#1) for pulling Burnett out of the way to get to the ball. On what should've been a 4th down and a UGA FG, the first and goal allowed UGA to take a 17-14 lead into halftime.

2006: The Fumble and "recovery"

I don't even know where to start on this one. It started on a 3rd & 16 play for Tech in their own territory, and Reggie (like he does best) takes off too soon and leaves the ball hangin out like bait on a fishin line. But things quickly went from bad to awful when "no one" recovered the fumble after a few seconds of the ball being on the ground. Then magically, UGA LB Tony Taylor steps in and takes the ball from whoever had it on the ground, then runs it about 40 yards for the most bogus TD ever:

You can see a better, longer version of it here. Without this bogus TD, Tech wins a close win in Athens, ending the losing streak at five games.

Here's to quality officiating this weekend.

Monday's...err...yesterday's answer: Cause you can't find three wisemen and a virgin!

Today's UGAy joke: What do Tech fans and UGA fans have in common?

Key Stat: Tech vs. UGAy

2008-11-24T23:09:00.008-05:00

As it goes for almost any football team on any levels, turnovers can be costly, and likewise forcing turnovers can lead a team to victory. After some thinking (scary, I know), I figured that most of Tech's success and failure this year was based on giving the ball up via the fumble or interception. A quick analysis of our schedule confirmed by suspicion.

Overall, Tech is +4 on the year in turnover margin, with 27 takeaways and 23 giveaways. That's about 2.5 takeaways per game and about 2 giveaways per game. I'll provide a more in-depth turnover margin breakdown below:

Win/Loss Split

In 8 wins: +10
In 3 losses: -6

Home/Away Split

Home: +6
Away: -2

Result Splits

Tech wins by 10 or more (JSU, MSU, Duke, Miami): +7
Tech wins by less than 10 (BC, G-W, Clemson, FSU): +3
Tech loses by less than 10 (VPI, UVA): -3
Tech loses by 10 or more (UNC): -3

Out of all this, the most important thing to me is how many times we turn it over.

In Tech wins: 1.75 giveaways/game
In Tech losses: 3 giveaways/game

And now for the record breakdown:

Record by Giveaways

None: 1-0
One: 2-0
Two: 3-0
Three: 2-3

In my book, 2.5 is the key stat for Saturday. If Tech has over 2.5 giveaways, we lose. If less, we win. No other one statistic jumps out at me as much as much as this in terms of telling the story of Tech's season.

Dad 1, Bambi's mom 0

2008-11-24T13:28:00.004-05:00

Saturday morning my dad went hunting at our house and got this deer (pictured below with one of my dogs, Peaches), which will hopefully be the main event in our Thanksgiving meal come Thursday.

BTW, nice hat, Dad!

Today's UGAy joke: Why can't you have a nativity scene in Athens? (I'll post the answer tomorrow, along with another joke, but feel free to leave the answer in a comment)

To hell with georgia!

What a day, what a day...and wear can I get a UVA hat?

2008-11-22T23:33:00.003-05:00

Crazy day in the world of sports. Two days after Tech's 41-23 slashing of Thug U. (Whiteout turned into "Wipeout"), the ACC football landscape goes haywire. Coming into today, we needed UNC, VPI, and UVA to lose one more (each has one game left next weekend). The day started off great with a resurgent NC State team blowing out UNC at home, 41-10, followed by Clemson capitalizing on three UVA turnovers to beat the Cavs in Charlottesville 13-3. The trifecta was a near-miss, as Duke was a starting QB away from an unlikely win in Blacksburg, but VPI pulled it out 14-3 despite five first-half turnovers. Probably 110 D-I teams beat VPI today, as they played an awful game offensively. Fortunately, VPI has another chance to lose as they host the Cavs next weekend. Why couldn't we have faced this VPI team? :(

Another crazy game involved Tech's bball team, which traveled down to Macon for an early afternoon matchup with the Mercer Bears. Things started off bad for the Jackets, and continued to look bad, as we never led in regulation. Somehow, despite being down 18 w/ 12 minutes left, and despite missing 14 free throws, Tech tied it up with about 30 seconds and sent it to OT, where the Jackets won 82-76. This was nothing short of a huge win for the young and inexperienced Jackets against a Mercer team that has wins at Auburn and at Bama, along with a W in LA against OJ Mayo and USC last season. Tech could have easily given up at many different points, but they just kept chuggin and got a win as a result. Now Tech stands at 2-0, and will host Arkansas-Pine Bluff next Tuesday at the Thrillerdome.

Next weekend Tech travels down the road to face that other GA team at the community college in athens. I'll have a post or two on that, along with some thoughts on Thanksgiving and what it means to me, early next week. I'll leave yall with highlights of Tech's win over Miami this past Thursday.

Whiteout! (my last game as a student too...)

2008-11-20T14:06:00.004-05:00

Tonight's showdown between the Jackets and Canes (7:30, ESPN) at BDS marks my last time cheering on the boys in White and Gold as a student at this great school.

Instead of any sort of in-depth analysis, I'm just gonna post some links related to tonight's game, followed by a prediction and a snippet of my reasons.

Solid piece by Heather Dinich (ESPN's ACC blogger) about expectations for both teams coming into this season. No one really thought much of these two teams, but have gotten to the point where this is now a ACCCG-elimination game for both teams, who are a combined 14-6 (who'da thought?).

Apparently, Thug U isn't comfortable with the thought of cold temps, like what will be tonight at BDS. Miami freshman QB Robert Marve hasn't played in less than 57 degrees (earlier this year at Duke), so it should be interesting to see how their offense (which is currently 92nd in the nation in terms of total yards) fares in the ~30 degree weather. Granted, the bunny will be nice and warm while others are freezing :D

Our fan base needs to stop being stupid and suck it up and freakin wear white to the WHITEOUT. People like Tony Yetman of Kennesaw need to stop whining and start supporting our team. Seriously. This is just embarassing.

Lastly, great post by the guys over at TheLegacyx4 about the greatness of College Football. When you step back and look at the entire event of a college football game (not just the three hours of pigskin), it really is a thing of beauty. It's the second biggest thing I will miss about being a Tech student (the first being the people).

Prediction

Tech pulls out a win in the bunny's last appearance. I'm thinkin 20-14 good guys. Our D forces a few turnovers that Miami's offense can't overcome. We'll pull out a W regardless of who plays more at QB (though I hope Nesbitt doesn't overdo it so he's out of gas by next week's game at athens community college). The Whiteout helps too, making it tough for the Miami QBs to see our defensive players (they'll be in white too).

If you're attending tonight (or watching on tv, for that matter), be looking for a bunny in the student section! Not only is the suit white, but I'll have my Whiteout shirt on (which I picked up this morning). And last of all, WEAR WHITE!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'll leave yall with a video of what happened last time Thug U came into our house for some pigskin...

Flashback: College Gameday for GT vs. Notre Lame (9/2/06)

2008-11-18T12:43:00.011-05:00

I really don't wanna study, and I've got less than an hour til class anyway, so I'm gonna write about one of my favorite experiences as a Tech student, one that I'll remember for a long time.

It started back in the summer of 2006, when ESPN announced that it would hold it's first College Gameday broadcast of the season in Atlanta (Yellow Jacket park specifically) for Tech's game against then-#2 Notre Lame (with Brady "Dr." Quinn at QB). Our campus was gleaming with excitement those first two weeks leading up to our season opener.

A few of my friends and myself decided to make some signs, pictures of which are below:

This sign was a result of the genius of one of my friend's girlfriend who is actually a student at Samford (though she gladly roots for Tech). This was the most popular of the two signs we made; I can't tell you how many random people said something like "we just saw that on tv, great job guys!" on our way back from Gameday. We actually had a great spot for maximum TV coverage (the below video will show you what I mean). Now, over two years later, this amazing work of art sits comfortably in my room at our house in Hamilton.

Our second sign (still not sure whose idea this was, though it wasn't mine) showed our Tech roots. We didn't have a chance to show this one as much, mostly because our fellow Techies booed everytime we showed it. In the video though, you'll see the one time that we got a great shot of the sign. You'll see it below:

You can probably see why most of our fellow fans didn't want this sign up.

Now to the video...another friend of mine - who's in the pit in our band and was also involved in the production and display of these great signs - had his parents record the whole two hours of Gameday, and he put together a video a few months after the game in preparation for our game the following year in South Bend (a 33-3 Tech win, btw; we were in attendance for that one too).

Ironically, the band ended up showing this video at a pre-Notre Lame weekend pep rally (to the surprise of my friend who made the video).

That Saturday was one of the most amazing (and longest) days ever, despite our close 14-10 loss (thanks to a bogus helmet-to-helmet call on now-Indianapolis-Colts-LB Philip Wheeler for "hitting" Dr. Quinn on a big third down play late in the third quarter). I'll never forget those times the Friday night before making the signs, waking up early the next morning to get our spot up close for Gameday, and watching our signs on tv later in the fall. Not to mention, we got some online publicity from at least three blogs: Gump's Law, Golden Tornado, and Nueva Cantora.

That's all for the Gameday story. Sorry, no autographs please ;)

I'll have some pregame thoughts on GT-Thug U later this week. Until then, Go Jackets!

Coastal division tiebreaker update, Tech-UGAy gametime, etc.

2008-11-17T16:00:00.006-05:00

I've got a busy afternoon and night ahead, so I'm gonna have to keep this short.

So it appears I was a bit off on my analysis of the tiebreaker situation...it appears we will be on the losing end of any three- or four-way tie situation in the Coastal (probably due to our 1-3 division record, 2-3 if we beat Thug U). Thankfully, the good folks over at TheLegacyx4 cleared things up a bit. For us to win the Coastal, three things have to happen:

(1) We beat Miami on Thursday night.
(2) UNC loses to either NC State (11/22) OR Duke (11/29)
(3) VPI beats UVA, after losing to Duke OR UVA beats VPI, after losing to Clemson

If all this happens, it would put UNC, UVA, and VPI at 4-4 and Tech and Miami at 5-3. Since we would have the head-to-head win, we'd advance to play the Atlantic division (which is also a mess) winner in Tampa in ~3 weeks.

Tech-UGAy Gametime Announced

Looks like we got an early-bird special for the annual Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate game. CBS picked up the game for a noon telecast. Kinda lame, but at least the UGAy fans won't be so rowled up from drinking all day.

The Bunny Returns...one last time

So I've been semi-pressured into being the bunny again for our last home game (not to mention my last game as a student), so it looks like the bunny is gonna happen. It'll actually work out pretty well since a) it's the whiteout (though I'll have my whiteout shirt on) and b) it's supposed to be in the low-30s/upper-20s by gametime on Thursday (personal forecast based on Weather.com report). While all the other fans are freezing on Thursday, I'll be nice and cozy inside the inferno that is the bunny suit :) So if you're there or watchin on ESPN, look for a bunny. Tech is 1-2 all time with the bunny (1-0 this season), so hopefully Tech can come through and even up the bunny legend before it sees its end.

I probably won't be posting again til Thursday, as it looks to be a pretty full week. Until next time, Go Jackets!

GT's Checklist to Tampa

2008-11-15T19:07:00.005-05:00

Quick congrats to Tech hoops for getting the season off to a good start by beating the Rams from Winston-Salem State last night 92-47. Props to my man Cody for gettin us into Swarm even though Will, Mike, and myself aren't in it (yet).

So Maryland just beat UNC at College Park 17-15 after the Heels led most of the second half. That helps us out a ton if we still wanna go to Tampa for the ACCCG. A few cards still have to fall our way, which are listed below (starting from last week):

[x] Thug U beats VPI on Thurs., Nov. 13
[x] Maryland beats UNC today
[] We beat Thug U this Thurs., Nov. 20
[] UNC loses to either NC State (11/22) or @ Duke (11/29)

If all this happens, there would be a three-way tie for first in the Coastal between us, Miami, and the winner of VPI/UVA. The tie breaker rules are as follows:

1) head-to-head would be like this: we would have beaten Miami, they beat UVA and VPI, and both those teams beat us
2) the next one is divisional record. We would be at 2-3, Miami at 3-2, and UVA/VPI at 4-1 or 3-2
3) the last tie breaker is head-to-head against the team with the overall best conference or divisional record, which is unclear at this point (Miami, VPI, and UVA all have other conference games remaining)

Point is, Tech's still in it, and got a lot of help from the Twerps today. We just gotta keep takin care of our own business by beating Miami (and hopefully the pups, who woulda lost today had Auburn had any semblence of an offense).

Let's hope Christmas comes early this year for the Jackets :)

"United we stand"?

2008-11-12T16:23:00.004-05:00

“…‘Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.’” – Matthew 12:25

Let me first preface this note by saying that I’m not a big fan of now President-elect Obama because a) he’s about as qualified for president as I am to be a Division-I head football coach and b) his proposed policies don’t make much sense for our country. That being said, he will be *our* president in less than four months, as I am called as an American and a Christian to support him, and I will do so.

Let me also say that I am guilty of many of the divisive infractions (if only in thought) that I will (below) challenge us as a people to rid ourselves of. Too often have I judged the entire Democratic party, any even liberals as a whole as “self-serving and not having the interested of our country at heart”. Truth is, people on both sides of the aisle are self-serving and/or don’t have American interests at heart (which is why I consider myself an independent and don’t support a candidate based on a R or D in front of his or her name).

What I have witnessed over the last few years is a country truly divided. You name the issue, and people are up in arms and taking sides, even trampling each other to get there. People are divided over the War on Terror. Abortion. Guns. Universal health care. The role of the government. God. These are just a few. Whatever your position on these issues may be, I think we can all agree that our nation as a whole has become polarized in many (if not all) of these areas.

Where does this division come from, you ask? It starts with us as individuals. Since the founding of our nation, we have slowly drifted away from the values that we were originally founded upon. Values like individual freedom (speech, religion, assembly, etc.), respect for life and people in general, patience, trust, fighting for loved ones and values, courtesy, honesty, hospitality, kindness, and most importantly, personal responsibility (God knows we have a huge deficit in that department).

Out of this lack of individual effort and perseverance, our culture has developed into one that lacks many of these “American” values. Out of this culture we have bred selfish and power-hungry politicians, incompetent and agenda-driven reporters, and a political system more concerned about, for example, pushing for a college football playoff than say, fixing the drought (see: GA legislature circa January, after the BCS “debacle”).

Why is division so easy? I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll venture a guess. As humans, we want to find ways to make us think we are better than some person or group of people. We do this to make ourselves feel more important.

As of right now, our country is so, so far from being unified. A few examples:

-We cannot have unity in a country that votes for or against a candidate solely based on his or her skin color.

-We cannot have unity in a culture that values animals and trees over people and their needs.

-We cannot have unity when we blame the plight of the poor on the successes of the rich, then have a tax and welfare system which makes this gap even wider by removing incentive to be financially independent.

-We cannot have unity in a society that uses stereotypes such as “rednecks”, “hippies”, “blue-collar/white-collar”, “working class”, “less fortunate”, “greedy”, and “religious right”.

-Above all, we cannot have unity in a country where people can’t just be categorized as Americans, but have prefixes such as “African-American”, “White-American”, “Irish-American”, “Arab-American”, or “Latin-American”. Why can’t we all just be “Americans”?

My challenge to our President-elect is to truly desire and do what you can to create unity among all Americans. Not just the ones who voted for you, but for the ones who didn’t. Not just the Democrats, but the Republicans. Not just the liberals, but the conservatives. Not just the ones who don’t like firearms or religion, but the ones “clinging to their guns or religion”[1]. Not just your Anti-American pastor, but to the pastors around the US who tell their congregations of the great love that God has for each of us. I challenge you, Mr. Obama, to cross the aisle every now and then (at least more than 4% of the time [2]), and not side with your party just because it’s your party. Try to restore the unity that we once had as Americans.

My challenge to you (and myself) as a US citizen is to stand up for our country. Stand up for what you believe in. Stand up to the government who says that you are too incompetent to do things like take care of yourself on your own or defend yourself (see: most current social policies). Stand up to the politicians and others who think we should give up on a nation and culture who was under a cruel dictatorship and who still desperately needs our help. Stand up to those who marginalize our soldiers and call them invaders or crusaders. Stand up to those who have take taken for granted the freedoms that we constantly enjoy because men and women greater than them were willing to die for these freedoms. Stand up to the radical cultures that hate us because of the great things our country stands for, and the leaders of those cultures. Stand up to the politician(s) who care more about the interest group lobbyists than their country.

My worst fear is that it will take some terrible act for us to wake up and see this division that is so rampant among us. Will it take another September 11^th, 2001 for us to be united again? I certainly hope not. I would hope that we could be united as a nation as we were on September 12^th, 2001. How long must we go on as a divided nation before it’s too late?

That’s all I got for now. Apologies for the length, but I feel each part was crucial.

Sources:

1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTxXUufI3jA

2. http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/members/o000167/

Interesting, no?

2008-11-12T14:27:00.003-05:00

Below is a county-by-county map of last Tuesday's presidential election results. Draw whatever conclusions you wish (if any) from this, I just thought it was pretty cool.

All gave some, some gave all

2008-11-11T15:01:00.005-05:00

A much-deserved "thank you" to all of you servicemen and servicewomen who have served or are currently serving our great country. As American citizens, we all owe each and everyone of you a great deal of gratitude for the sacrifices that you've made and continue to make. I feel that we have become a nation of ungrateful people, and I want to do what I can to stop that, so again, thank you!

Great video of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Red, White, and Blue" below (audio's kinda rough, but stick with it). I wanted to post 3 Doors Down's live performance of "When I'm Gone" aboard the USS George Washington, but the embed was disabled...so here's the link instead.

"Thank you Mrs. Lady"

2008-11-09T17:44:00.004-05:00

Another great video (election-related).

Bad sports weekend, but otherwise great weekend. Not in the mood for any Tech postgame recap right now, maybe later this week.

GT-UNC Preview

2008-11-07T12:04:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow the 7-2 Jackets travel to Chapel Hill for a noon showdown with the 6-2 (2-2) Tar Heels of UNC. This game has huge implications for both teams, as the winner will be in prime position to win the Coastal (though the winner will also need another loss by VPI or UVA) and the loser will be all but eliminated from a trip to Tampa on Dec. 6th for a spot at the Orange Bowl.

Oh, line?

Tech's offensive line has been at the root of Tech's offensive success (or lack thereof) all season. This is the case with most teams, but it's importance is amplified because of the quick nature of the UCOBS. Now that Andrew Gardner is out for the year, Tech's o-line is hurting even more. Look for Austin Barrick (converted TE) and Nick Claytor to get lots of PT on Saturday. David Brown should taking over Gardner's LG position to protect Nesbitt's blind side.

Injury Update

Nesbitt should be up to 100% tomorrow after leaving the F$U game in the third quarter due to a sprained ankle. Senior CB Jahi Word-Daniels is still out from the hammy he pulled against Clemson on Oct. 18, but CB Dominique Reese should be back in action tomorrow. If not, CB Mike Peterson (who did a great job against one of the best WRs in the ACC, F$U's Greg Carr) should get some significant PT against a talented, albeit Brandon Tate-less UNC WR corp.

One man's strength is another man's weakness

Tomorrow's matchup features a tale of two different secondaries. UNC's back four lead the nation in interceptions, and while GT's secondary has been no slouches (just look at NCAA INT leader ROV Morgan Burnett), it hasn't really faced a great passing attack yet. The Jacket defense will be tested all day, and avoiding big plays is a key to leaving Kenan Stadium with a W.

On the flip side, UNC's secondary won't have much chance to prove their abilities against a team that passes very little (just six attempts against F$U). Tech's receivers have done a great job of getting open when we do pass, but they will have to be on the lookout against UNC's talented safeties.

Streak Stats

Tech comes in to Chapel Hill having won 8 of the last 9 against the Tar Heels. Tech is also 4-0 in noon kickoffs this year (@BC, Miss. State, Duke, @Clemson).

"This is ball coach..."

This game features a premiere matchup of today's college football coaching elite, in the form of Paul Johnson versus Butch Davis. Johnson has won 113 games in his 12 years as a coach, including two national titles in Statesboro in 1999 and 2000. Butch Davis has been no slouch either, winning 61 games in his career as a head coach, including going 11-1 at Thug U in 2000 (to be fair, they got jobbed by the BCS).

Keys to the Game

UNC wins if they pass for over 250 yards and don't turn the ball over. Tech is fourth in nation in takeaways (including six against Clemson) and it could be higher after two missed INT opportunities against the Criminoles. UNC's offense numbers haven't been pretty, but no giveaways make things a lot easier.

Tech wins if they have <2 turnovers and at least 175 yards on the ground. With Nesbitt in at QB last Saturday, Tech kept the ball off the ground. Hopefully they'll keep it up in a now hostile Kenan Stadium.

Prediction

I think Tech picks up a W in Chapel Hill this weekend, 24-16. Look for Tech's D-line to have a big day, along with Mr. Jonathan Dwyer. Tech's defense will come up with two or three takeaways that the Nesbitt-led offense will convert into points.

Bonus Material: Tigers-Sabans, Saints-Birds, Tech Hoops

#1 Bama travels down to Baton Rouge this weekend for Nick Saban's first game as Tide head coach at his old stadium, Death Valley. I really don't see how LSU can win this one, but you never know what can happen on a Saturday. Tigers win 20-17.

First matchup this season of the Saints and the Falcons is also goin on this weekend in the Georgia Dome. I expect the Falcons to be in letdown mode after handling the Raiders last weekend, 24-0. Look for Brees to have a big day against a relatively untested Falcon secondary.

Tech's first (and only) exhibition basketball game is also tonight, against LeMoyne College (somewhere in NY I think). Win or loss really doesn't matter here, though it will be cool to see Shumpert in his first game. Too bad I won't be able to make it, but I will be there to see Tech's first real game against Winston-Salem State next Friday.

Until next time, have a great weekend and go Jackets!

Oh expectations...

2008-11-06T23:45:00.001-05:00

Great post by the AJC's Mark Bradley (some may refer to him as Bark Madley due to his usual pro-UGAy stance) today about comparing Tech's 7-2 w/ UGAy's 7-2. Great read, and well done Mark.

The better 7-2 season? It’s Tech’s

By Mark Bradley | Thursday, November 6, 2008, 07:25 AM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Both Georgia and Georgia Tech are 7-2, but all 7-2’s aren’t created equal. Given a choice, you’d rather be the team:

That began the season ranked 80th by Sports Illustrated and is now No. 20 in the BCS standings, as opposed to starting No. 1 in the polls and slipping to No. 13 in the BCS.
That has a realistic chance to play for its conference title, as opposed to needing two major miracles.
That has done more with less, as opposed to doing less with more.
That has lost two games by a total of 10 points, as opposed to being beaten by an aggregate 50 points.
That entered the season with a new coach, a new offense, a new quarterback and a new feature back, as opposed to changing almost nothing.
That ranks 33rd among 119 Division I teams in fewest penalties, as opposed to ranking 119th.
That hasn’t once been embarrassed, as opposed to having twice been.
That has 26 sacks, as opposed to 16.
That ranks 16th in pass defense, as opposed to 75th.
That could call it a heartening season even if it loses every remaining game, as opposed to the one that won’t be deemed a success even if it wins the rest.

In sum, you’d rather be Tech. And if you should win in Athens on Nov. 29, you’d really rather be Tech.

(end)

Be back tomorrow after my 4803 test for some quick GT-UNC pregame stuff and a thought or two on LSU-Bama.

Cool video...take a look

2008-11-06T15:32:00.003-05:00

Saw this on a friend's status and decided to check it out...this one's pretty good, hopefully it'll make you think about the importance of people and relationships (shameless plug for my small group).

Post-Election thoughts and Tech football tidbits

2008-11-05T14:19:00.005-05:00

Gotta be honest, last night was one of the saddest nights of my life. It hurts to see our great country be in the hands of a man who won't even recite the Pledge of Allegiance or even wear an American Flag pin.

I'll put my thoughts in list form, because a) i like lists and b) i would go on forever if I had one paragraph per thought. Here it goes...

-First off, not supporting Obama does *not* make me a racist.
-I am disappointed in the American voting public as a whole for looking at the short-term rather than the big picture.
-I am disappointed that many people only supported Obama because they liked his personality. Or generally the ignorance of the voting public, as displayed by this audio clip recently played on the Howard Stern show (of all places).
-I am very thankful that my state (and home state of Louisiana) and my county (Harris) actually had enough sense to vote for the guy whose election won't result in an "international crisis", according to VP-elect Joe Biden.

Most of all, I'm thankful that no matter what had happened yesterday, God is still in control and still on the throne of the universe. In Romans 13, Paul tells us that "...there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God." This passage is very comforting in a time where true comfort is not easy to find.

Enough about the election, I'll move on to some good and bad news for Tech fans.

Gardner out for the year

Just a quick thank you to Tech offensive lineman Andrew Gardner. In his 5th year at Tech (he's a RS Senior), he has made more of an impact than any stat sheet will tell you (except that we didn't give up any sacks against F$U). He elected to have season-ending surgery tomorrow on a torn labrum in his left shoulder, which ends his NCAA-high active streak of games started at 48. This is without a doubt a huge blow to a Tech o-line that is already thin from injuries. At the end of the day though, he has to do what's best for him (he's a likely first-day draft pick), and I certainly think no less of him for making that decision. Thanks for all the blood and sweat you've poored into this team Mr. Gardner, and we wish you the best at the next level.

Recruit-apalooza

Tech has now directly benefitted from the windfall of Phil Fulmer's recent resignation as Vols head football coach. Offensive lineman Antonio Foster switched his commitment yesterday from UT to Tech, confirmed by the AJC yesterday afternoon. At 6-4 and 290, Foster will be a great addition to the most crucial part of the Tech UCOBS offense.

Tech also picked up two other recruits yesterday, Central HS (Phenix City, AL) RB Orwin Smith and Miller Grove HS (Lithonia, GA) WR Stephen Hill, considered one of the top three WR recruits in the state. On top of the three pickups from yesterday, Carver HS (Atlanta, GA) RB Demond Dennis committed earlier this morning. Both Smith and Dennis are expected to compete for an A-back spot.

In basketball news, Derrick Favors (nation's #1 bball prospect by most, but #2 by ESPN) still hasn't made a decision regarding his collegiate choice. Great breakdown from a writer on StingTalk about his possible choices. Below is a Favors highlight mix video from someone on youtube:

I'll be back on Friday to post some pregame thoughts about the Carolina game. Until then, God bless

The Day before "The Day"

2008-11-03T23:06:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow marks arguably the biggest presidential election day in our country's 232-year history. It will mark a historical election day, regardless of the result (either first black president or first female vice president).

The numbers show the unprecedented importance of this election. Record numbers of people have already voted. Voter enthusiasm has gotta be at an all-time high. Even my fellow college have been excited about this one for a while (granted a lot of that has unfortunately been directed to the campaign of Mr. Obama).

I encourage all of you who are 18 or older to go vote tomorrow, if you haven't already. Voting is one of the most fundamental rights we have as Americans, and one of the most powerful means of action as a citizen of a democracy/representative republic. Regardless of who you vote for, please vote. If you don't, you have no right to complain.

To be honest, tomorrow kinda scares me. Not saying that Obama's the Anti-Christ or anything, but I (along with his VP candidate, Joe Biden) feel that if he wins, our country will be closer to division and further decline, in all aspects. I'm honestly not a big McCain fan (tomorrow will be much more of a vote against Obama than for McCain), but it's really a matter of the lesser of two evils, IMO.

So here I am, typing 25 minutes before one of the biggest points in the great history of the US of A. Approximately 8 hours til I wake up and prepare for my first opportunity to vote for our nation's next president (and one of the US Senator spots from GA, among others). About 24 hours til the dust really settles and we have a new president (barring an electoral tie, of course).

So as you go to the polls tomorrow, keep in mind the best interests of our country and of its citizens. That's all I ask.

Regardless of tomorrow's result, know that God is still in control. Neither candidate will change God's desires or will. God will still love unconditionally and eternally. Jesus will still be mighty to save.

I'll be back here Wednesday for some post-election thoughts. God bless America, and may America bless God.

Good News for Tech fans

2008-11-03T16:04:00.003-05:00

This article is just in from Heather Dinich's ACC blog on ESPN.com:

Update on Georgia Tech's Nesbitt

November 3, 2008 4:00 PM

Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich

Georgia Tech quarterback Josh Nesbitt has a sprained right ankle and will be held out of practice Monday night, which is usually more like a walk-through anyway.

The staff hopes to have him back on Tuesday, at least in a limited capacity. The good news for the Jackets is that Nesbitt isn't listed on the Monday injury report, which only includes players who are out.

(end)

That's it for now. Glad Nesbitt's injury isn't serious, we'll need him for sure this Saturday at UNC (noon kickoff on Raycom). Gotta start studying for my 3104 test tomorrow. I'll have some pre-election words later tonight.

"The bunny is on the field!"

2008-11-02T22:45:00.006-05:00

Wow. Not sure what else today. Still jacked up on excitement from yesterday. I'm not gonna do any in-depth analysis of the game yesterday, I think that would take away from the hugeness of that win.

A quick recap of the awesomeness from yesterday:

-Tech beats F$U 31-28, GT's first win over Free Shoes U. since 1975, putting the Jackets at 7-2 (anybody called that 2 months ago?)
-UGAy gets demolished by the Gators 49-10 in a game that saw the pups turn it over four times to a revenge-minded Florida team. lol ugay
-Miami pulls off an improbable win in Charlottesville, beating the Cavs of UVA 24-17 in OT. Homecoming for the Cavs, no less, and the win by Thug U. helps us out a ton in the Coastal race (though we need to continue to take care of business)
-The Red Raiders of Texas Tech pull off a last-second (literally) 39-33 comeback win against TU in Lubbock. Texas Tech could have opted for a FG w/ only 8 seconds left, but instead, Mike Leach decided to go for it a la LSU-Auburn from last year. The gamble paid off big for Texas Tech, who is now #2 in the BCS.
-On top of all this, last night was the semiannual changing-of-the-clock, which resulted in an extra hour of sleep (except for Arizona?)

The best part about yesterday was being out on the field, celebrating with the rest of GT nation after a huge win for our program. Mad props to Billy and Robbie for putting me on their shoulders while we sang "White & Gold" and "Ramblin' Wreck".

GO JACKETS!!!!!!!

GT - F$U Analysis & Obama-ween

2008-10-31T15:01:00.006-04:00

First of all, Happy Halloween to all! Though I won't be doing anything today for it, I will be sporting the bunny suit at the game tomorrow, so be on the lookout for a bunny in a gold shirt!

But to football - tomorrow at 3:30, the Jackets take on the Criminoles from Free Shoes University (ABC on TV). A big game for both schools no doubt, as a win by either team will lock up a bowl bid.

Losing the Streak

FSU comes in having won 12 straight against Tech, the most recent being a 14-13 win in Tallahassee, in which the Jackets blew a 13-0 fourth-quarter lead. The last time Tech beat the Noles was a 30-0 win in 1975 in Atlanta. CPJ himself noted that he was a senior in HS the last time Tech notched a win against the Bowden-ators. Both teams are very different from the two teams that met in September of 03 (Reggie's freshman year along with Ernie Sims (Lions LB) for the Noles). Should FSU win tomorrow, Tech will have another chance to win next fall in Tallahassee (but let's just take of business tomorrow, ok?)

Win one for the Gipper?

In what very well could be Bobby Bowden's last year in Tallahassee, the Noles have compiled a very respectable 6-1 record up to this point (for reference's sake, they've finished 7-6, 7-6, and 8-5 in the last three years) and are currently ranked #15 in the BCS. A win in Atlanta would certainly be a huge "program" win, but would also be big for what might be Bowden's last year. With Clemson, BC, @Maryland, and UF left on the schedule, a Noles win would put them in a position to finish at least 9-3 and probably lock up a spot in Tampa to represent the ACC Atlantic.

No "W" in "Schedule", but there is only one "L"...

Splitting Tech's season into thirds, the Jackets clearly are in the toughest third of their schedule. The first and second thirds resulted in 3-1 records each, and a 3-1 record in this last third would be nothing short of incredible. FSU is definitely no doormat, but things only get worse from here, with a Thursday night game in mid-November sandwiched between road trips to Chapel Hill and Athens. I don't think Tech will lose them all, but to avoid that, Tech could use the confidence boost provided by a win this weekend.

QB Controversy: Part II?

All over campus this week, many emotionally-driven students have been calling for CPJ to play Shaw a lot more this week, some even saying that if he was in, we would've had a better shot to beat UVA. I respectfully disagree. Though the two fumbles on Saturday really hurt, Nesbitt has made plays all season that I'm not sure Jaybo makes. His athleticism essentially won us the game at BC in early September. CPJ has stated that Shaw might get one or two series in, but if Nesbitt is effective, expect him to play the whole game. Like they say, two qbs = no qb.

Injury Bug

Both teams have been hit with tough injuries. FSU could be without their top two RBs, who are still questionable. Tech is still without senior CB Jahi Word-Daniels, and backup CB Dominique Reese, who has had an INT in three straight, is also questionable after sustaining a head injury last week against the Cavs. The Noles will also be without their #2 WR, Corey Surrency, who has been suspended by Bowden for tomorrow's game.

Third down and...fourth

The Noles defense currently leads the nation in 3rd-down defense, allowing a measley 17.4% of their opponent's third downs to be converted successfully, which is first by around eight percentage points. On the flip side, Tech is converting a respectable 40% of their 3rd downs, good enough for 60th in D1. If Tech isn't able to get solid yardage on first and second down, it's gonna be a long day offensively for the Jackets.

Prediction

This one really is a toss-up. A very even matchup on paper. Two very good defenses, and two offenses still looking for week-to-week consistency. Nothing sticks out that says one team has a solid advantage over the other. But the home factor comes into play here. I don't think Tech loses two in a row at home, not under CPJ. He's been beating up the defense all week (who by the way missed a whopping 30 tackles last weekend) and I think they'll come out with an attitude tomorrow. I see Tech winning 23-21, with the bunny being the difference-maker.

Obama the Candyman?

Check out this audio-only video of Obama-nomics in action...Halloween style:

One of the funniest things ever...

2008-10-30T23:30:00.002-04:00

Just visit this website:

http://mingle2.com/dating/phases

I'll have a bit of pre-game GT-F$U analysis tomorrow, followed by some pre- and post-election words on Monday and Wednesday, respectively.

Enjoy.

This never gets old...

2008-10-28T00:07:00.001-04:00

This SNL clip was from early 2007 (i think?) and it's still as funny today as it was then. Enjoy.

The Power of Forgiveness

2008-10-26T23:41:00.006-04:00

This morning in church, Abby talked about forgiveness. The service was very powerful, one of those times you could feel God working in the hearts of everybody in the room.

I'm presenting to you a great story of forgiveness and the power of love over revenge in a very real sense. I'll be sharing this story later this school year with my small group, and though this is about six months old, it's impact could last for much much longer.

Tech QB deals with guilt, gratitude
Walk-on Bryce Dykes involved in fatal car accident one year ago

By CURTIS BUNN
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 04/21/08

In Georgia Tech's first intra-squad football scrimmage, walk-on quarterback Bryce Dykes escaped the pocket, got hit and lost his helmet. He plowed on nonetheless, gaining 15 yards and even more in respect from his peers.

It was one of the rare moments in the past year that Dykes was lost in something other than grief.

Recently, he was in a Gwinnett County courtroom, accepting two years' probation for his role in an auto crash that killed Linda Lin Zhu, 40.

Since that night, March 9, 2007, Dykes, 19, a National Honor Society student from Norcross, has suffered guilt, depression and doubts about his future — which brightened when the victim's husband forgave him during an emotional courtroom scene.

"At times, it's been really hard to get through," Dykes said after a recent Tech practice. "It's something that always will be there with me. I'm not going to just forget."

Swiftly, sadness shrouded his face. "But the Zhu family," Dykes said, looking away, "it's something they live with every day, too. More than me."

At the Gwinnett Arena last year, Dykes and a group of friends were among dozens of Norcross High School students who painted their faces blue and cheered wildly as their classmates captured their second straight AAAAA boys state basketball championship.

Not far away, at First Chinese Christian Church in Norcross, the Rev. Michael Zhu was wrapping up a service with his congregation.

Later, the Rev. Zhu, wife Linda and two other friends headed home; Dykes and two friends were en route to school for a post-championship celebration. At the intersection of Peachtree Industrial and South Berkeley Lake Road, they came together.

Forever.

Dykes' Jeep Cherokee struck the rear of the Rev. Zhu's Nissan Altima. Linda Zhu, who was riding in the back seat, was rushed to Atlanta Medical Center. She died.

"Two joyous evenings coming together in a horrible way," said Drew Findling, the lawyer representing Dykes. "Just minutes before, both parties were celebrating."

Dykes was charged on March 30, 2007, with homicide by vehicle in the second degree. There was no evidence of speeding, alcohol or drug use. An investigation determined he was following too closely. Dykes eventually pleaded guilty to reckless driving.

He and his family asked permission to attend the wake of Linda Lin Zhu. The Rev. Zhu agreed. At the viewing, the Rev. Zhu embraced Dykes, who wept.

The two men came together once more at the sentencing hearing.

Dykes, crying the entire time, addressed the Zhu family, apologizing for his actions while asking for forgiveness.

"It's the most emotional thing I've ever seen in 23 years of doing this," said Findling, the lawyer. "That one hour captured the emotions of everyone there: the judge, deputies ... It was draining for everyone."

The Rev. Zhu had already planned to ask the judge for leniency toward Dykes. "That is the attitude I have in this life," he said. "It's my philosophy on the way to live."

The Rev. Zhu said he was made aware by his lawyer and others that Dykes is "a good kid, good football player" and National Honors Society member. "And I saw that he was a good person because he didn't hit and run. And he was very honest," the Rev. Zhu said.

"When he spoke, he was crying. He was sincere. I knew it. He was very sorry and regretful. Also, as a parent of a 16-year-old [son], it was very easy for me to put myself in his parents' shoes.

"I told the judge: 'There should be a balance. We should keep the integrity of the law. But we also should teach.' "

Judge Randy Rich agreed. As part of the reckless driving plea, Dykes is on probation and is required to speak to youths about the necessity of being safe drivers.

The Rev. Zhu's kindness and mercy have astonished the Dykes household.

"An amazing man," said Darryl Dykes, Bryce's father. "I just can't imagine the excruciating pain he has been in, and yet he has allowed us and Bryce to express our regret and sorrow. As hard as it has been for us, I know it has by far been hardest on him and his family. And I just could not imagine being as gracious as he has been with us."

Said Bryce Dykes, whose parents are Tech graduates: "Their family was a lot more receptive than I would have been. They were gracious and merciful. It was surprising, but Reverend Zhu is a great man."

The Rev. Zhu said he is behaving the way he thinks his wife would want.

"Everybody makes mistakes," he said. "Hating doesn't help. Hating cannot bring Linda back to life. It's most important how you deal with it and provide a future for the living ones. My wife would do the same thing. If I meet her in heaven, she will say I did the right thing."

Forgiveness is one of the most difficult challenges we as humans face. After any amount of pain caused by another person, who really wants to say "it's ok that you messed up, and I will no longer hold that against you"? It's so easy to hold a grudge. So easy to hate. So easy to be bitter about someone else's wrong against you. Forgiving someone is what's not easy. It sucks. It takes a super-human love, something that only God can provide us. Saying "I forgive but I will not forget" is not enough. We must put our pain fully in God's hands. This is something He's been teaching me over the past month or so, and today, I was finally able to let go. I am so thankful to God that He gave me the strength to let go. Though the pain is still there, I know after some time it will pass away, and there God will be, loving me like He always has and will despite so many reasons on my behalf for Him not to.

I'll end this post with this verse, from Ephesians 4:32..."Be kind and compassionate to one another, just as in Christ God forgave you."

GT vs. Wa-who's?

2008-10-24T12:42:00.009-04:00

Tomorrow, the Yellow Jackets entertain the Cavaliers from Charlottesville at 3:30 on ESPU. Tech comes in having won 11 straight homecoming contests (including a 2003 victory over Philip Rivers and his NC State Wolfpack team), and is a 11.5-point favorite in this contest.

GT D-line vs. UVA O-line

Tech comes in leading the ACC in sacks, while UVA leads the ACC in fewest sacks allowed. Keep in mind too that the Jackets lead the nation in tackles-for-loss, and should they continue being successful in that department, it's gonna be a long day for the Virginia offense.

Solid article from the AJC about the anticipated matchup between two 1st-round NFL prospects in GT DE Michael Johnson and UVA OT Eugene Monroe, I would encourage everyone to check it out. Too many times we forget that the game of football is won on the lines. The old cliche "run the ball and stop the run" still holds true for consistent winning teams.

A different type of streaking...

Tech comes in having won four straight (Miss. State, Duke, Gardner-Webb, @Clemson), while the Cavs have won three straight (Maryland, East Carolina, UNC). Not sure how much of a role this will play for the Jackets, but I think UVA will have quite a bit of confidence coming in to tomorrow's game.

Home is where the [win] is

Despite low attendance numbers at BDS this year, Tech has enjoyed a perfect 4-0 record at the friendly confines of the Flats this season, by a combined score of 116-28. UVA however hasn't enjoyed any success on the road, losing their only two road games (@UConn, @Duke) by a combined 76-13. Extrapolating and averaging, Tech should win 29-7. Then again, games aren't played on paper.

Also kinda strange...the home team in this series has won every game since 1995, with the exception of a 30-10 UVA win in Atlanta in 2004. Home field advantage means almost everything in this series, and hopefully we'll see that continue on for at least this year.

3-4 = -1?

UVA is one of the few D1 teams to run the 3-4 defense (for the non-football-savvy of you out there, this means that they use three down lineman and four linebackers as their primary defensive setup; most teams, including Tech, use a 4-3 defense). Tech faced this scheme against Jax State and Miss State, and those games turned out pretty well for us. Hopefully this trend will continue tomorrow...

Revenge Factor?

Last year, Tech lost to the Wahoos 23-28 in Charlottesville that Tech could have (and probably should have) won. Luckily I was at Jekyll Island for our state BCM fall conference so I didn't have to watch us lose. But I imagine the guys who played for us last year have this memory fresh on their minds and are excited about the chance to redeem last year's game that slipped away.

Last Cavalier visit to Atlanta

The Cavs visited the Jackets for a Thursday night matchup two years ago, but I guess the UVA offense forgot to get on the bus. Tech won handily 24-7 (wasn't that close), with UVA's seven coming on a second-half, fourth-and-goal trash TD. CJ had a huge night, including the following long TD (his first of two):

Prediction
Frankly, this game kinda scares me. Everything, and I mean everything, says we should win this game. 11 straight homecoming victories, GT's perfect home record and UVA's winless road record, the 11.5 line set by the "experts", etc. On paper, we should win this 23890-0.
Despite the potential trap, I think Tech wins this one handily as well. UVA is frankly overmatched, and may slow us down for a half (similar to what Duke did), but CPJ will know what to adjust in order to win. We probably lose this one under Chan Gailey, but no more. Tech wins 27-13 thanks to 300+ yards on the ground and continues the homecoming streak.
Other Happenings
A...tricylce race?
Tonight is one of Tech's many annual homecoming traditions, the Mini-500. This race involves a team of four racers driving (if that's what you want to call it) a modded tricycle around Peters Parking Deck on Tech's East Campus. The race is 15 laps long for the guys, 10 for the ladies. Speaking from personal experience (I participated last year), this is one of the most grueling physical activities there is, as the race features a ~100 foot stretch up Freshman Hill. This is no race for pansies, believe me.
UGAy at LSU
The doggies travel to Baton Rouge tomorrow (3:30 on CBS). The losing team is basically out of the SEC race and the Nat'l Title race, while the winner is vaulted into serious contention for the big chalupa. LSU comes in after a less-than-desirable 1-1 road trip to Gainesville (21-51 L) and Columbia (24-17 W). Last time the pups visited BR resulted in a 17-10 win for the Tigers. I'm hoping the Tigers absolutely destroy the pups on their way to a 6-1 record. Even if the doggies win, they'll have to faced a pissed-off UF team next Saturday in Jacksonville.
VPI at Free Shoes U.
This rematch of the inaugural ACC championship has a lot riding on it, even outside of wins and losses. A win by VPI would put them on track to pretty much win the ACC Coastal division and lock up a spot to Tampa win only Maryland, Miami, Duke and UVA left after that. A win by the Criminoles, coupled with a Tech win over the Cavaliers, puts GT in the driver's seat in the Coastal division, though a tough road remains. Let's hope FSU can help us out and pull off a big win.
I hope a great weekend to all! Election Day is less than two weeks away, so get out there and register to vote (if you still can and have not already; whatever you do, don't vote for obama...)!

A Sad Day (Year) for Braves Fans...

2008-10-22T15:44:00.005-04:00

Earlier this year, the Braves broadcast team lost a legend in the form of Skip Caray, son of Harry Caray, in his sleep on the night of August 3rd. Today, the other man in the duo that told the tales of the greatest sports franchise, Pete Van Wieren, retired after 33 years of entertaining Braves audiences everywhere. Pete, you'll certainly be missed, and especially after the loss of one of the most iconic broadcasters ever. Here's to you, Pete.

GT - BCS Sleeper?

2008-10-21T13:08:00.002-04:00

This article from College Football News seems to think so. Their weekly Tuesday Question article is about possible BCS sleepers, and one of the writers lists Georgia Tech as one of these teams:

Q: The sleeper team to watch out for in the BCS race is …

A: Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets have gelled under first-year coach Paul Johnson much faster than anyone could have guessed. And since the team is still adjusting to a new offense and an entirely new staff, it’s safe to assume that its best football will be played in the second half. Josh Nesbitt has been a nice fit at quarterback in the option, and the defensive front is dominating opponents, making life easier on the back seven. In a wide-open ACC, 6-1 Tech has as good a chance as anyone to win the league and represent it in a BCS bowl game. Doesn’t it feel like a decade ago that Chan Gailey was perennially underachieving with this program?

Sarah Palin Rap - SNL

2008-10-20T23:08:00.002-04:00

If you missed SNL this past Saturday (like I did), I've posted the video here for your viewing pleasure.

GT-Clemson Breakdown

2008-10-20T14:33:00.005-04:00

Nothing short of a huge win for the Jackets this past Saturday, 21-17 over Clemson at "Death Valley". Some tidbits from the game:

The Bad

We're still turning the ball over way too much. Three fumbles overall, lost two of them. We can't continue to put the ball on the ground and expect to win. That being said, it says a lot about a team who can overcome turnovers (and a fourth-quarter deficit) and still find a way to win.

Tough luck for starting CB Jahi Word-Daniels. He pulled up on Clemson's first TD with a pulled hamstring, which unfortunately happened during the play and left him unable to make a play on the ball and possibly prevent the TD. JWD left the game and didn't return.

Dropped passes. The biggest one obviously was Thomas' dropped pass in the end zone. He made up for it though. IMO, the bigger drop was by Earls (#15) on a 3rd and long in the 3rd quarter. You can't afford to drop passes in big games like this, they'll come back to bite you eventually.

The Good

Defense was outstanding...again. Only 249 total yards allowed and they forced SIX turnovers, including two picks by Morgan Burnett and a pick-six by Dominique Reese for Tech's first TD. Can't say enough about the great job our d has been doin all year.

We finally caught a break w/ the penalties. Clemson had two questionable calls go against them at critical points in the game. The first was a running into the kicker call on a Scott Blair punt right before halftime. With what happened, the call had to be made, but it was probably just a good acting job. Nesbitt later scored on a QB keeper for Tech's 2nd TD. The second penalty was a holding call on 4th-and-13 late in the 4th quarter. Cullen Harper had just completed a 30-yard pass to give the Tigers a first down, but it was called back for the holding. Looking at the replay, it looks like Derrick Morgan just fell down, but from where the ref was standing it probably looked to him like a holding. Not that either of these penalties won the game for us, but they probably made a difference. Keep in mind that a game is not won or lost on two plays.

Great job by the whole team to make another 4th quarter comeback on the road. It's no easy task, especially at a place like Clemson. This team has a whole new attitude, and I gotta believe we woulda lost this one had Chan been at the helm.

Also can't say enough about HC Paul Johnson. It's clear that this team has a do-or-die, never-gonna-give-up attitude. He expects to win every game and so does this team.

MVP - K/P Scott Blair

Outstanding game by our kicker Scott Blair. He made two tackles on kickoffs, the second one being the biggest. With Clemson's Gilchrist running down the sideline on his way to an apparent return TD, Blair chases him down and gets the tackle around our 40. He put on the afterburners (if kickers have them) to make what might have been the game-saving tackle. Not to mention getting four of his seven punts inside the Clemson 20. His only mishap was a missed 50-yard FG; can't really blame him for that one.

Rankings & New Expectations

Yesterday was a day of firsts for this season. First time the Jackets enter the polls (#21 Coaches and AP). First BCS ratings of this season, in which the Jackets are a respectable #18.

My only issue with all of this is too-high expectations. At the beginning of the season, most people would have told you that we would win 4 or 5 games, or 6 at the absolute most. Now that we are 6-1 (some consider us the best in the ACC), a lot of our fan base is expecting us to win every game. Not that we shouldn't hope that we'll win out, but we need to face reality. We have an incredibly tough remaining schedule (UVA, FSU, @UNC, Miami, and @UGAy along with a possible ACCCG appearance), and it might be too much to ask of a young team w/ a new offense to win them all. The players should absolutely believe and expect to win every game, but we as fans cannot. If we do, when/if we lose we get upset and start to think "we shoula won this game". Well you know, you can't win em all. CPJ and the team will do all they can to win each game, but sometimes, the other team is just better.

Side Notes

Huge game for Calvin "the Freak" Johnson yesterday for the Lions in a losing effort to the Vikings. He had two catches--one for 58 yards and the other for a 96-yard TD. No, that wasn't a typo. NFL.com has a video of the catch, but it's not working for me (maybe it will for you). Maybe they should just line him up at QB, I'm sure he has a respectable arm. If not, then just trade him to a team that will allow him to flourish.

The boys in Chestnut Hill got a big win for us Saturday of VPI, 28-23 despite having a -4 TO margin for the game. That loss by VPI puts us in a much better situation to win the Coastal division. Assuming we win our remaining conference games, VPI only has to lose one more conference game for us to lock up our spot at Tampa. Just like us, VPI's road isn't easy at all, with remaining games @FSU, Maryland, @Duke, @Miami, and UVA.

Party in Tampa

2008-10-20T12:35:00.008-04:00

Quick word of congratulations to the Rays of Tampa Bay for winning game seven of the ALCS last night 3-1 over the Boston Red Sox. I'm not a fan of either team, but I've been rooting for the Rays throughout these playoffs. I will continue to do so as the Rays begin the Fall Classic against the phils starting this Wednesday in Tampa...err...St. Petersburg.

Side note: the GT homecoming shirts are pretty sweet. Got my first one since being a Techie (might as well considering it's my last year).

I'll have GT-Clemson break down later today, but for now, I have class (and hopefully we'll be getting our tests back).

Tech-Clemson Preview

2008-10-17T13:26:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow the Jackets travel up 85 to take on the Tigers of Clemson University at 12 (TV: ESPN, Radio: 790 the Zone). For those of you living in a cave for the past week, Clemson fired head coach Tommy Bowden on Monday (they say he "resigned", but that doesn't tell the whole story of how much pressure he's been under for underperforming).

At the least, tomorrow's game has a lot of meaning for both programs. Tech needs a win to stay in the Coastal division title hunt (along with two VPI conference losses). A win at Clemson would leave the Jackets one win away from their 12th straight bowl bid with UVA, Free Shoes U., @UNC, Thug U, and UGAy left. Clemson needs a win for respect and confirmation that they made the right move by ousting CTB. A win by Tech would put Clemson at 3-4, with @BC, @FSU, Duke, @UVA, and USC left.

The Offensive O-Line

So I have a class with one of our offensive lineman, Joseph Gilbert. Gotta be honest, the guy looks like a rhino, and I would not want to be lining up across the LOS from him. Unfortunately, like every aspect of football, the O-line isn't about one guy. It's about five guys working together to open up holes for Nesbitt, Dwyer, and the A-backs. I believe the line will be much improved after last week's poor effort (only 79 yards on the ground, 210 short of our season average). Then again, don't be surprised if Clemson's D is playing with passion tomorrow after the emotional turmoil this past week, which could make things worse for our O-line. Good article about our line and how they've had a tough time transitioning to the CPJ's new schemes (though you wouldn't know it considering we're 8th in the nation in rushing ypg).

Nesbitt Returns

Sophmore QB Josh Nesbitt will be making his first start in three weeks on Saturday after suffering a pulled hamstring in the first drive of the 38-7 win over Miss. State. He says he's mentally ready for the Clemson game, but it's hard for any player to get used to the speed of the game after a prolonged injury-induced layoff. Nesbitt might get off to a slow start cause of some rust, but expect him to be back to 100% mentally after the first drive (also--a slow Nesbitt is much better than Booker in at QB).

Clemson wins if...

They win the turnover battle. And Willy Korn has a near perfect game and throws no picks. And Davis rushes for over 100 yards. It will take a balanced attack by the Clemson offense to keep Tech's ferocious defense on its heels.

Tech wins if...

Any of the above three do not happen. After a tumultuous week like this for the Tigers, it's tough to ask a team of 18-22 year old guys to go out on the field and give all they have for their school. Not to mention Clemson will be without RB CJ Spiller, arguably their biggest playmaker. Clemson has also been making changes on their O-line, which is not a good recipe leading into a game against the team that leads the nation in tackles for loss. And that's just the beginning of the problems for the Tigers. Keep in mind that Tech is coming off a much-too-close 10-7 win against Gardner-Webb a week ago, and you can bet that CPJ has been roasting our guys all week. Don't expect another clunker by the Tech offense after what happened last Saturday. Don't forget about Nesbitt being back at the helm for Tech. He will bring a new dimension that was lacking with Booker under center.

Prediction

Tech wins 27-10. I don't see Clemson getting any more than 250 yards on offense. Expect Tech to force 2+ turnovers against an inexperienced QB in Willy Korn and to shutdown James Davis. Nebsitt has a solid day in his return.

A video to leave you with...

Turning point of last year's 13-3 Tech win over Clemson in ATL.

Disappointments, Pre-Clemson Video, Great Verse

2008-10-14T21:36:00.010-04:00

So last night's Heroes episode was pretty much terrible. Too many new characters, too many loose ends, it's actually becoming very much like Lost--started out awesome, then drastically dropped off. Heroes was actually one of the two shows I watched on a regular basis (the other one being the office). So it made me think of some other disappointments.

Number 1: The media. Especially during an election year, good grief. You'd never know that Obama had only ~140 days in office as a US Senator (compared to 21+ years for McCain). It also appears that the media has gone on a character-shooting spree, aimed at the voting public. If you are not voting for Obama, you are deemed a racist. It's sad that some people will choose to vote based solely on race, but it's even more sad that the media has turned any non-Obama voter into a monster.

Number 2: The general driving public. Seriously, when did driving become a secondary priority when behind the wheel of a car? It seems like people are either reading the newspaper, on the phone, texting, figuring out their GPS units (which, I believe have hurt the map-reading ability of most drivers), or some combination of these. While on this topic, I saw a car that had the GPS unit mounted on the windshield right in front of the driver! It wasn't offset to the middle of the windshield or anything, it was right smack in the way of the driver! How does one drive carefully like that?

Another thing...why do some people hang out in the left lane? Do people not know that the left lane is for passing or otherwise swift driving? If someone's passing you on the right while you're in the far left lane, something is wrong. Maybe that person is too busy watching their GPS tell them where to go...

Number 3: Myself. Ever since Confluence (annual GA State BCM Conference), I've been thinking about why I do the things that I do. God definitely spoke that weekend through David Platt about looking at ourselves and asking that question, and how glorifying God and expanding His kingdom should be our motivation for everything. But looking at my life, I did not see that. What I saw (and many times continue to see) is me doing things because I want to do them, or I'll make up some "Christian" justification for why I do something. I have been struggling with the things I do and say because I see that a lot of what I do is for me only. I know God has been disappointed in me because of this, but I'm trusting that He will continue to show me how to do things for Him. On top of this, things in my life have been kinda hitting me all at once the last month or so. Some may say I'm in the middle of a "valley of life". It's been difficult for me to be excited about life recently. A bunch of small things have added up at once, and I've taken a negative look at these things that may not be so negative. Enough about me though.

This weekend, the Yellow Jackets travel up to SC to take on Clemson at "Death Valley" (the real Death Valley is in Baton Rouge, otherwise known as Tiger Stadium) at 12 on ESPN. I'll have more pre-game analysis Friday, but for now I want to show yall this video from the Tech-Clemson game last year (a 13-3 win for GT).

And I'll leave yall with this verse, from Habakkuk 1:5..."Look at the nations and watch--and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told."

Tidbits - GT vs. Gardner-Webb, Flag Football, Interview, "The Ratio" (not necessarily in that order)

2008-10-10T14:57:00.009-04:00

So I got back last night from Boston after my interview yesterday with Mass. Electric. It went very well (at least I thought, and I have certainly been wrong before) and I have a feeling they'll be offering me a job very soon (2 weeks at the most for a yay or nay according to them). But I think things went pretty well for my first full-time job interview. In the end, I know God will put me where He wants me to be, and that is incredibly reassuring.

Tomorrow marks the sixth game of the Yellow Jackets' regular season against the Bulldogs of Gardner-Webb. I don't know enough about them for a solid pregame analysis, so I'll limit this to the following:

Key Questions for GT vs. Gardner-Webb

With possible injuries to Nebsitt and Shaw, who will be the starting quarterback for the Jackets?

It looks like Calvin Booker could get some quality PT against the Bulldogs this Saturday, but honestly it doesn't matter. Dakota Fanning could start for us at QB and we'd still win on defensive touchdowns. It'll be good for CB to get some snaps though, he's earned it.

Can the Bulldogs catch the Jackets looking ahead to Clemson next week?

No. CPJ would not allow that. But even if the Jackets were looking ahead to the showdown with the Tigers next week, Tech would still win by three TDs or more. The talent gap is just too much. In order for the Bulldogs to win, two things would have to happen: 1) Tech would have to be ripe for the upset and 2) GW would have to be used to winning (they are currently 2-3)

My prediction: Tech wins 49-3. Starters out at half, but the second and third teams keep the heat on. GW gets a late FG--Tech is definitely capable of the shutout but remember, it's very difficult to keep your opponent off the scoreboard at all in any sport, but nearly impossible to do it in two consecutive games.

The End of a Great Season...

The Big Cuddly Men's 2008 season came to an end this past Wednesday with a 26-18 loss to Backfield in Motion (CCF). I was in Boston at the time of the game, so I couldn't play, but I was still cheering my team on from 1000 miles away. From Jordan, our team captain, it apparently was a great game that came down to us not making a stop when we needed to and not converting a big 4th down. They say you can't win em all, and it's true, but I'm very proud of our guys to playing the best flag football team at Tech down to the wire. I suppose I am glad that we won the last game that I was in, but I am sad that I wasn't there to see our team play.

"The Ratio" - the GTGs

Swaff and D-Bay have done it again. The GTGs, as they call themselves, have put out their third music video, known as "The Ratio". For you non-Techies, the ratio refers to the high ratio of guys to girls at Georgia Tech, an anamoly among US public colleges. The video was released last night and is already a hit on YouTube. Great work guys and keep it up.

Interview & FF Playoffs - Second Round

2008-10-08T14:41:00.003-04:00

Big win by Big Cuddly Men (#8 seed) Monday night, 28-6 over Failed Abortions. Round two is tonight at 8:10 against CCF (#1 seed). Hopefully the rain will die down by tonight so the boys in blue can pick up a win. Some might call tonight's game the "Battle of God's favor". I'd like to think that God roots for both teams ;)

In other news, I'm about to head to the MARTA station so I can get to the airport for my flight to Boston. Tomorrow, I'll be interviewing with Massachusetts Electric Construction Co. (MEC for short). Not sure exactly what position it'd be, but I'm looking forward to it nonetheless. It's my first interview for a full-time job, so I'm really excited. Plus, I get to go to a place I've never been.

Have a great Wednesday, and I'll have Tech-GW pregame analysis on Friday!

Big Cuddly Men Flag Football Playoffs - First Round

2008-10-06T15:50:00.006-04:00

Tonight marks the first round of the Big Cuddly Men's chase for the school championship with a 9:15 start against Failed Abortions (really? @ team name) We're coming off a big 40-0 win against diversity last Wednesday and we're more than ready for our first game. We're the #8 seed, which wins when/if we win, we'll most likely be facing #1 seed Backfield in Motion (CCF).

Here is our group in the Independent bracket:

That's all for now, I have to be on duty at the BCM til game time.

GT-Duke Game Recap, As Promised

2008-10-05T16:09:00.004-04:00

Yesterday, the Yellow Jacket defense put on a show en route to a 27-0 win on the Flats over the Duke Blue Devils. Here are some (many) of my thoughts from the game.

The Good

Great D by the Yellow Jackets. A great example of individuals working as a team to stop the ACC's (formerly) second-best passing attack. Duke QB Thaddeus Lewis had little time all game to work under the heavy GT pressure.

The GT offense put on a show in the second half yesterday as well. 24 points (shoulda been 31 if they had called R.B.'s TD a catch) scored. Clearly CPJ made some adjustments in the locker room, and they paid off well.

Also, we were most likely one fumble and one missed TD call away from putting up 41 points. Not bad at all.

The Not-so-good

Shaw and Dwyer fumbled the exchange on a simple dive play midway through the first quarter on the Yellow Jacket's first drive. This may have not been such a big deal had it not been at the Blue Devils' 8-yard line. We can't pass up opportunities like that against the remaining teams in our schedule and expect to win.

If my memory serves me correctly, we had two false starts on 4th down tries yesterday. Penalties are never a good thing, but are especially killer on 4th down attempts.

Offensively, the first half was pretty much a nightmare. Three points and a costly fumble in the first quarter. Granted we had the lead, but with this offense 3-0 at half is underachieving.

Maybe this is nitpicking, but it appears we're still having a few problems on special teams. We can't get the punt return game going at all, though that may be a product of good punting and punt coverage by Duke.

Airing it out, the flip side

Duke came in the better passing team, and we came in 114th (out of 119) in the nation in passing ypg (~95). However when the final whistle blew, we had more passing yards (230) than rushing yards (224). Goes to show you that if you place too much effort on stopping the run, we can beat you through the air. Great game plan by CPJ.

QB Controversy?

True freshman Jaybo Shaw played very well in yesterday's win, building on a great performance two weeks earlier against Miss. State. Jaybo turned the ball over less than Nesbitt (granted, he's also played less). So does this now mean that Shaw is CPJ's man at QB? I don't think so. Nesbitt's still the better QB in terms of pure talent. There is a lot to be said for the way Jaybo has executed our offense, but it's not like he's played road games against Oklahoma and LSU. Nebsitt has that road experience and is great at making plays when the original play breaks down. I just hope his hamstring will continue to get better this week and that he will be able to get some quality snaps in against Gardner-Webb in preparation for Clemson in two weeks.

Player of the Game

Gotta go to B-Back Jonathan Dwyer. Had a career-high in rushing yards (159) and had a few big runs despite Duke's aggressive play at the LOS. More importantly, his running set up all the pass plays to Thomas (career-high 230 yds on 9 receptions, including an 88-yard TD) and set up all the toss sweeps to Roddy Jones (though they weren't as successful as some may have liked; he had 26 yds on 10 carries). He continues to be the workhorse for this offense and does a great job at running north and south. Honestly, why is this guy not getting more Heisman consideration?

Game ball goes to...

...the Georgia Tech defense. Lost in all the talk about the installment and resultant success of Paul Johnson's offense is the effective play of the defense. They came out with a chip on their shoulder after allowing 406 yards (although only 7 points) against Miss. State two weeks early. Duke had a measly 132 yards of total offense to go along with nine first down (to put in perspective--about two first downs per quarter). We also forced eight punts and gave up only 2.7 yards per play on defense. They say defense wins championships, and while this was only a regular season game, we sure did display some championship-caliber defense.

Credit where Credit is due

Give the Duke defense some credit. They came in hearing all week about how GT was gonna run over them and were able to force more negative plays than I've seen all year against our offense. They didn't miss many tackles and shut down the inside run (for the most part) after a few big runs up the middle early on.

Key Stat

How bout this: the Jackets had the ball for 38 minutes and 46 seconds yesterday (resulting in a 21:14 TOP for Duke). Teams not named Missouri will usually have trouble getting into any kind of offensive rhythm if they only have the ball for about 5 minutes a quarter

Prediction Results & Analysis

So I thought this would be much more of a shootout than it was, and I clearly underestimated our defense. Congrats to our guys for proving me wrong, and you can bet that I won't underestimate our D like that again.

Looking Ahead

Next Saturday the Bulldogs from Div. 1-AA Gardner-Webb come to the Flats for a 3:30 kickoff. In all likelihood, this should be a warmup game for the Jackets in preparation for the road game at Clemson on the 18th. The only chance the Bulldogs have of keeping this close is for us to be looking ahead to Clemson, which I don't think CPJ would allow. Don't be surprised if we hang 50+ on GW.

Gun Control Means Two Hands...

2008-10-04T21:19:00.008-04:00

What a great day today. Beautiful gameday weather for the Duke game (a 27-0 win by the Jackets, more on that tomorrow), got to hang out with the parents all day (whom, by the way, I am incredibly thankful for), and saw Vandy pull off the upset against the Tigers of Auburn University.

This past Friday's Technique (Tech's weekly student newspaper) had a pretty good article about the issue of guns and their role(s) in the upcoming election. Contained in this article was a simple chart explaining the recent gun-related bills in the GA Congress, including the recently-passed House Bill 89. The chart presented three arguments in favor of "gun control", which I will breakdown here:

Argument #1: "Georgians have the right to be safe from gun violence in their homes and in public, including schools, churches and places of work"

Fundamentally, this argument sounds legit. I mean, who doesn't wanna be safe from gun violence? But I'll take this argument further--who doesn't wanna be safe from any violence? Take cars, for instance--personally, I'd like to be safe from automobile-related violence (such as hit-and-run and vehicular homicide), but does that mean that I shouldn't drive or I should want to restrict others from driving? One may say that gun-related deaths are more common than vehicle-related ones, but the facts disagree. In 2004, there were 42,636 deaths caused by car crashes in the US, compared to 30,694 deaths caused by firearms in the US in 2005. Simply put, both vehicles and guns are tools whose purpose(s) are defined by the user. In the wrong hands, both can be killing machines. It is impossible for us as a people and as individuals to always be completely safe from any form of violence, but eliminating the respective tools from the picture is not only impractical, but only a solution for the symptoms, not the root problem.

Argument #2: "Only trained law enforcement should carry guns at certain public places like mental hospitals"

I'll agree with this one based on my limited (read: nonexistant) knowledge of the level of security at mental hospitals. My guess is that there is always some form of armed law enforcement at these hospitals, and clearly this is not an environment conducive to individuals carrying concealed weapons (for the same reason said carrying should not be allowed for prisoners). The respect and responsibility needed for a person to carry a fireman cannot be expected to come from the mentally-impaired.

Argument #3: "The availability of guns makes deaths or critical injury more likely in domestic violence, criminal activity, suicide attempts, and unintentional shootings"

First, let me make this clear--any unintentional shooting is a result of the respective gun owner exercising his or her irresponsibility. Now for the meat of the argument--on the surface, this is also seems like a solid point. But again, I'll counter with another example, that being arson. I would argue that the availability of fire-causing tools makes arson more possible and more dangerous. Any angsty teenager can go to Home Depot with a few bucks and come out with a propane torch, matches, and/or a stick lighter and start a forest fire or burn down someone's house. Should we then ban all sales of matches, ligthers, and torches? I imagine this would also be impractical and would not stop arsons from happening. This goes back again to trying to fix the symptom rather than the cause...any one with the ill will to cause physical or proprietary harm will do so, regardless of the availability (or lack thereof) of materials.

Argument #4: "It is possible to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by gun violence with reasonable legislation"

This arguments brings two dangerous results. First, how do we define "reasonable legislation"? Is this possible? Second, even if we are able to define "reasonable legislation", this legislation would only apply to the responsible and law-abiding gun owners (which makes up a huge majority of gun owners). As the saying goes, "if you outlaw guns, only outlaws will have guns". It may be old-fashioned, but it still holds true.

Conclusion

As these four arguments show, the backbone of gun control is either emotionally based or not looking at the big picture. Sure, it's easy to look at one situation of a child being killed by use of a gun and say "guns are bad". But too often we forget about the legal and responsible use of guns every day by law-abiding citizens. Apologies for the cliche, but remember this--guns don't kill, people do. The lack of presence of any type of firearm will not prevent people from hurting each other, as those intent on harming others will just find a way outside of just guns.

Duke Game Thoughts

2008-09-29T23:15:00.002-04:00

For those of you who don't know, I'm a huge football fan, 99% of that being the collegiate variety. Naturally, my team is the Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech. So from time to time, I'll have posts about our team. This is one of those posts. Now to the good stuff...

The Jackets welcome the 3-1 Dukies to the flats at 12 PM this Saturday (TV: ESPNU Radio:790 the Zone). Talk about a confident opponent. Duke is fresh off a 31-3 shelacking of UVA this past Saturday, which broke a 25-game conference losing streak.

Previous Exposure to the Option

Duke has already faced an option team this season in the form of the Naval Academy. Duke won 41-31, hardly a blowout, but was able to do enough on offense to pull out the W. The Midshipmen were able to grind out 207 rushing yards on the Duke D however, and with the better athletes, the Jackets should be able to grind out more. Tech is currently 5th in the nation in rushing yards per game (306.8)

Airing it out

Those of you who watched our last game (a 38-7 win against Mississippi State) might have noticed the success of the MSU passing game on our defense. We may never really know for sure if this was a showing of MSU's efficient passing game or a lax on our part after building a 21-0 halftime lead. Duke comes in 2nd in the ACC with 232.8 passing ypg. A large part of this is the combo of QB Thaddeus Lewis and WR Eron Riley, who have connected for 6 TDs this season. Look for the Blue Devils to throw it 40+ times this Saturday against a talented, but largely inexperienced Yellow Jacket secondary.

"A little bit of cat and mouse going on"

IMO, coaching plays a bigger role in College Football than in any other sport. This game will be a showdown between two coaches trying to make their teams great in year 1 with their respective teams. On one hand, Dave Cutcliffe, the current Blue Devils coach, spent time at Tennessee and Ole Miss developing two QBs you may have heard of, Peyton and Eli Manning. On the other, you have Paul Johnson, who has won a measely 109 games in 12 years as a head coach, using an offense some would call "historic", "old-fashioned", "primitive", and "incompetent" (for all one of you wondering, CPJ calls it the "under center option-based spread"; I like to call it UCOBS for short). It would appear that CPJ has the upper hand, but don't underestimate the guy who has won as many games in 4 games this season (3) as the last two years combined in Durham.

Speaking of under center...

Who will be the starter at QB this week? Should it be the now-tested true freshman Jaybo Shaw? The same Jaybo Shaw who absolutely lit up a strong MSU defense two Saturdays ago? Or should it be the day-to-day sophmore Josh Nesbitt, who won the game at BC with his shifty moves and powerful running? This one's a toughy. If Nesbitt is able to go, it appears he has the better physical skill set than Shaw. Still, Shaw looked really sharp against MSU and has played very well all season. My call - rest Nesbitt's hamstring one more week so he can have a tune-up game next week against Gardner-Webb in preparation for Clemson in three weeks.

Intangibles

Duke comes in riding high, and with a lot more talent than they've had in about 40 years. You can't quantify things like confidence. That's why they don't play the game on paper. The worst thing that Tech could do (though I doubt CPJ would allow this to happen) is to come in thinking that this is the "Duke game". Tech has just come off a big win, and could already be looking ahead to Clemson with the lowly GW Bulldogs coming into town next week.

Prediction

Don't be surprised if Duke scores a quick TD through the air early on. I think Duke will have a slim lead going into the half, but CPJ will make the necessary adjustments in the second half for Tech to come away with a solid win. Yellow Jackets take this one 34-21.

Ready, set, go!

2008-09-29T15:31:00.003-04:00

Hey yall! Welcome to the new blog of Patrick Brown! I figured it was about time to start one of these things (and I got bored). I hope you enjoy everything on here, as it will be a random collection of thoughts, opinions, and facts.

What you should know about me:

-I am a follower of Christ. I don't like to say "Christian" cause that focuses on religion. But following Christ isn't about religion, it's about a beautiful relationship.

-I am 21.

-I am an only child.

-I am a senior at Georgia Tech, graduating in May 2009.

-Three of my biggest passions are sports, music, and good discussions.

-I like lists.

That's all for now, I suppose. I'll be back with more tomorrow. I'll leave you with the link of the day.

Just one in a million faces

GT Football Twitterers - Top 10

Top Twenty Things Obama Doesn't Say/Hasn't Said

VPI Game Week Linkfest & Life Recap

On bookshelves tomorrow!

Wow, it's been a while...

Memo from the Boss

Are you a lumberjack?

Get out your wallets...

Caption Contest

Bye Kid, Hello Mr. Anderson

Braves' Huge Pick-up

New Link and Great Read

GT Recruiting Recap

25 Things...

Mmmmmmm Fried Sea Kittens...

Dodgeball - Week One

Today's Question

"Terrorists" Strike Al-Qaeda

Doin us a Favor

Flashback: Tech Hoopsters beat the Dukies, 74-63 (1/10/07)

Saturday links (no, not golf...)

Too good to pass up (plus some updates)

It's just a bad season for georgie fans...

2008 LOL Awards

Improv Everywhere - Food Court Musical

2008 College Football Predictions - A Look Back

One more go around the block...

Ouch.

Chick-Fil-A Bowl Preview & Prediction

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

What Christmas is all about

"Yetman" Strikes Again

Bowl Picks - Week of 12/21

TIME After TIME - Obama is POTY?

Mid-Week Updates

LSU Chimes in on CPJ's UCOBS

What Christmas is all about...Giving

Finals week...pshh

Dead Week Friday

Mid-Week Updates

The Streak is over, "the Drought" remains...45-42 Tech!

Giving Thanks

Let's hope neither of these happen again...

Key Stat: Tech vs. UGAy

Dad 1, Bambi's mom 0

What a day, what a day...and wear can I get a UVA hat?

Whiteout! (my last game as a student too...)

Flashback: College Gameday for GT vs. Notre Lame (9/2/06)

Coastal division tiebreaker update, Tech-UGAy gametime, etc.

GT's Checklist to Tampa

"United we stand"?

Interesting, no?

All gave some, some gave all

"Thank you Mrs. Lady"

GT-UNC Preview

Oh expectations...

The better 7-2 season? It’s Tech’s

Cool video...take a look

Post-Election thoughts and Tech football tidbits

The Day before "The Day"

Good News for Tech fans

"The bunny is on the field!"

GT - F$U Analysis & Obama-ween

One of the funniest things ever...

This never gets old...

The Power of Forgiveness

GT vs. Wa-who's?

A Sad Day (Year) for Braves Fans...

GT - BCS Sleeper?

Sarah Palin Rap - SNL

GT-Clemson Breakdown

Party in Tampa

Tech-Clemson Preview

Disappointments, Pre-Clemson Video, Great Verse

Tidbits - GT vs. Gardner-Webb, Flag Football, Interview, "The Ratio" (not necessarily in that order)

Interview & FF Playoffs - Second Round

Big Cuddly Men Flag Football Playoffs - First Round

GT-Duke Game Recap, As Promised

Gun Control Means *Two* Hands...

Gun Control Means Two Hands...