The Red and Black

Issue date: 11/14/07 Section: Sports

Bulldog emotion will carry over to Kentucky

After coming away with a pair of emotional wins over Florida and Auburn in its last two SEC games, the No. 8 Georgia football team doesn't expect to feel much of a hangover this weekend against No. 22 Kentucky.

"(Kentucky) beat us last year and they beat the No. 1 team in the country (LSU) this year," quarterback Matthew Stafford said.

"There's a ton on the line for us, and I don't see us having any problem getting emotionally ready to play."

In fact, head coach Mark Richt announced Tuesday that Saturday's Dawg Walk will take place at 10:45 a.m., giving fans a chance to get to the game as early as they did for Auburn last week.

"I know that sounds early, but I think we saw last Saturday what happens when everyone gets together and does it right," Richt said.

"The Dawg Walk was phenomenal and the students were up in the stands ready to go during pregame warm-ups. I don't think that has happened in my seven years here. By the time we came out of the tunnel next to that big bulldog the place was full and the fans were jacked."

Dogs improve ball handling, plays

Richt attributed some of the Bulldogs' newfound offensive prowess to the receiving corps' ability to hang on to the ball.

"We have had some pretty darn good catches in the last few games," he said.

"We aren't thinking 'gee, we are dropping a lot of balls right now.' Earlier in the year we missed a couple that could have made a difference, but we think they are doing pretty well right now."

"I think the consistency of knowing who the quarterback is this year through spring, summer and camp probably has helped, too."

Georgia has scored 40 or more points in three consecutive games for the first time since 1942.

Stafford, who has averaged better than 220 yards and two touchdowns in his last three games, echoed his coach's sentiments.

"I haven't had to answer a question about it in a long time. It's nice. They're making plays and doing a good job. This is the kind of play that they can come out and do every week. They are talented guys - they wouldn't be here if they weren't."


- Lawrence Conneff

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