Bulldawg 8, arkansas

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FROM THE EDITOR: VANCE LEAVY As college football fans, we all know how much things can change from one week to another. But normally the change comes down to whether your team won or lost that week’s game. However the Bulldog Nation’s world was turned upside down this past Thursday and it had nothing to do with a final outcome. Instead, news of the suspension of Todd Gurley spread like wildfire via social media and text messaging.

Naturally, my phone was blowing up with folks looking for answers. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to help that much other than to relate that the situation had to be serious as the word “indefinitely” implied.

As I write this on Sunday evening, it does appear resolution could be coming in a few days. I sure hope that is the case because Mark Richt and company deserve not to be in such a state of limbo for a second straight game. But then again, after our Bulldogs’ picture of beauty, 34-0 shutout of Missouri, limbo land may not be all that bad.

Like many folks who bleed red and black, I was blown away by the way our team flexed their muscles in the face of such adversity. Just before kickoff, I sent a tweet out wondering if the distraction would prove to be too great or whether it would work just the opposite. Thankfully, it was all Georgia, all day. Wow, what a win for our team and what an end to one helluva week.

However, as great as the W was, it’s time for everyone to turn the page,

which is why we went with the message, Don’t Get High on the Hog on our cover. Yes, the Missouri win was a great one, but it was also aided by everything going the Bulldogs’ way. How many of our own fumbles did we recover in the early going? And, didn’t it seem like our defensive backs had magnets for every ball Mizzou’s Matty Mauk threw.

And the story was completely opposite for Arkansas in their game versus the mighty, Crimson Tide. The Razorbacks played plenty well enough to get the victory, but in the end it just wasn’t in the cards. Boy, I was hoping the Hogs would win because to say they are due for an SEC victory is the understatement of the year. And low and behold, here come the Bulldogs after pitching a shutout.

This game is going to be tough folks, no doubt about it.

However, I’m hoping that the motivation that this 2014 team found on the way to Columbia is just the beginning of making the statement that football is a team game and good things happen when everyone buys into the importance of staying focused to get the job done.

One thing I know I can rely on is the fact that our fans will make themselves known in Little Rock, just as they did in Missouri. For those going to the game, I definitely encourage you to check out our insider’s guide to Little Rock on page 18. Special thanks must go to my fraternity brother, Trent

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Thacker and his wife Jill, who is a native of Little Rock. I look forward to exploring all their suggestions, particularly with Bulldog brethren.

Also for the Bulldog traveler out there, we have a couple of Q&As (page 14, 15) with former UGA, now professional, golfers Harris English and Brian Harman in hopes that it will inspire you to come to the Golden Isles during Georgia’s off-week for the fifth playing of the McGladrey Classic. It’s really simple, just take two weeks off from work and watch PGA golf one week and Georgia-Florida the next. I know that’s what I’m going to be doing.

Please enjoy this issue of BI. Our sports guys will get you ready for what must occur in order to take down Pig Sooie. And the fan photos in this issue are awesome thanks to the great job done by Ryan Scates and Rob Saye.

There’s nothing like capturing the Bulldog Nation after a 34-0 victory.

See you in Little Rock … the dream is still alive … #stayfocused … #beattherazorbacks … Go Dawgs!

• Editor : Vance Leavy • Creative Director: Cheri Leavy • Multimedia Director: Greg Poole • Sports Guru: Jeff Dantzler • Layout/Design: Cheri Leavy, Vance Leavy • Sales: Caroline Kinney, Nancy Kenerly • Sports: Jeff Dantzler, Murray Poole, John Frierson • Sports Intern: Logan Booker, Jordan James • Interns: Emory Kole, Frances Plunkett, Molly White • Cover Design: Boyd Martin • Sports Photography: Rob Saye • FanPhotography: Ryan Scates • Columnists: Carlton DeVooght, Rob Sherrell, Loran Smith • Delivery: Jack Abernathy, Will Hayes, Bear Jordan, Tim Roberts, Cullen Sewell, Thompson Sewell, Champ Vance Georgia-Arkansas, October 14, 2014

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LOGAN BOOKER

Nick Chubb ... a star in the making

By Logan Booker Bulldawg Illustrated

The Georgia Bulldogs traveled to Missouri this past weekend under the most somber of circumstances. As nearly 80 players boarded a plane in Atlanta, the biggest of them sat in Athens.

As news exploded upon Athens and the rest of the nation on Thursday that Todd Gurley would be sitting for the foreseen future, speculations of doom and gloom took Bulldog Nation by storm. Surely the boys didn’t have enough time to prepare for a seemingly tough Missouri team without the only reason anybody had picked them to win.

But a star was born on Saturday. And that star is named Nick Chubb.

But it wasn’t the numbers that were the most impressive thing about the young man’s day on the field.

The manner in which he took the game over under circumstances where everyone expected him and his team to fold under the negative spotlight was nothing short of spectacular.

Time and time again coach Richt and company called Chubb’s number to take on an unfathomable workload. And time and time again Chubb took a beating while collecting yard upon yard after initial contact.

And while he set up his team to score five times, the most appropriate moment of the game came with 7:46 left in the fourth quarter, when Chubb himself was able to muscle a 9-yard run into the Missouri end zone for his only score on the day, and Georgia’s last.

Throughout the season, the young freshman from Cedartown has run the ball under one of the biggest shadows in all the land cast by Gurley. And when he has gotten his chances he has impressed, twice being named SEC Freshman of the Week while lowering his shoulder and even running 50-yards with only one shoe. So when Richt asked him prior to this past Saturday how many times he got the ball each game in high school, and Chubb responded “about 35 times or so,” he was then informed that he would likely get at least that on this day.

38 carries, 143 yards and one touchdown later, Chubb silenced the millions of pundits nationwide who declared that the Bulldogs had no chance without Gurley.

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Instead of the projected embarrassment and long walk off the field that was expected by so many, this team in turn walked with their heads held high and their hands raised with three fingers in tribute to Gurley who sat back in Athens.

And while it is still unseen at the time of writing this article whether Gurley will rejoin the team any time soon, Georgia fans can certainly rest assured that if the timetable of the Heisman-worthy running back goes for any length of time, there is a viable option to punish opposing defenses in a similar manner.

photos by Rob Saye

GO DAWGS!

APPAREL

While the nation expected this team to show up in the Show Me State with their heads dangling towards the ground, they instead made an enormous statement while riding a true freshman that the CBS announcers dubbed “baby Gurley,” and for good reason.

And that option, as the infamous Larry Munson would say, is “My god, a freshman.”

J E F F DA N T Z L E R’ S G E O R G IA- A R K A N S A S P R E V I E W

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

Going to be tight in Little Rock

By Jeff Dantzler Bulldawg Illustrated

Less than 48 hours after one of the most disappointing days in Georgia football annals, the Bulldogs had to hit the road to take on Missouri, which was coming off an open date and was in search of a second consecutive win over the Dogs.

Minus Heisman Trophy front-running All-American tailback Todd Gurley, with a lot of questions and negativity surrounding the red and black, Georgia pulled together and rallied for a superlative 34-0 triumph over the Tigers, putting every piece together in one of the most satisfying victories of the Mark Richt era. It was a magic Saturday for the Bulldogs, who recorded the program’s first shutout over a ranked foe since the unforgettable 44-0 blasting of Florida by Georgia’s 1982 Southeastern Conference champions. But as is life in college football, especially in the brutally tough SEC, when a big win is recorded, the next game is even bigger.

Arkansas is seeking that breakthrough victory in the Bret Bielema era. The Razorbacks nearly had it on September 27, but had a late lead slip away in a 35-28 overtime loss to Texas A&M in Arlington. Then this past weekend, Arkansas had its chances against Alabama, coming up just short 14-13 in Fayetteville. The Razorbacks had an extra point blocked, botched a field goal attempt and fumbled into the Alabama end zone. It was a perfect indication of just how fine a line success is in the SEC. Alabama leads the country with just under 60 consecutive weeks in the top ten, while Arkansas has lost 15 straight SEC contests. But it was a one point game.

The Hogs are so hungry to break through, and with Georgia coming off an “A-Plus” performance at Mizzou, is in their crosshairs.

Georgia, too often over the last few years, has been the victim of signature triumphs, including the Razorbacks 3124 win in Athens in 2010 that helped spark Arkansas to a 10-win season under the watch of Bobby Petrino.

Since then, the Hogs have been on a roller coaster ride.

Following a highly successful campaign in 2011, Petrino was let go in light of a salacious scandal. John L. Smith stepped

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in as the interim coach and Arkansas fell to 4-8. Last season wasn’t much better, as Bielema, who led Wisconsin to three straight Rose Bowls, took over. Without a doubt, the Hogs are clicking this year – arguably the most improved team in all the land.

At Wisconsin, Bielema succeeded Barry Alvarez and engineered one of the country’s most powerful rushing attacks.

It took a year, but that strong running game is carrying the Razorbacks.

For Georgia to beat Arkansas, that is where it starts. The Bulldogs must slow down the Razorbacks running attack.

It is a multi-headed attack for the Razorbacks, featuring a quartet of players who have a touchdown run over 50 yards, three of whom have gone for scoring dashes of more than 80. Leading the way is sophomore standout Alex Collins, a blue chip recruit from South Florida who was an essential “get” for Bielema. Both Collins, averaging over 100 yards per game, and Jonathan Williams are amongst the most dangerous and physical running backs in the Southeastern Conference. The Bulldogs defense was incredible in the win over Missouri. It will be remembered as the first virtuoso performance for a Jeremy Pruitt defense at Georgia. While the Mizzou offense centered around quarterback Maty Mauk, the Hogs love to pound away and throw off of play-action. Georgia will have to have the chin straps buckled and pay great attention to detail. The Razorbacks are physical and tough up front, as are the backs. The Bulldogs can’t go light on the defensive front, which was so good at Missouri. Leonard Floyd, who was superb, and the Georgia pass-rushers won’t be going after the quarterback near as much. Arkansas will be on the attack. Georgia must answer the challenge of this big time running attack. The Bulldogs, when Arkansas does throw, must cash in and put the Razorbacks behind the chains by getting to quarterback Brandon Allen. That’s how the Bulldogs, who came up with five turnovers at Missouri, can create ball-hawking opportunities against Arkansas.

Offensively, the plan against Missouri was excellent, and Georgia figures to stay on the same page in Little Rock. The Bulldogs are going to run and go with a controlled passing

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game. The Bulldogs offensive line and backs will be put to the test. Arkansas’s rushing defense is outstanding. The Razorbacks held Alabama and its outstanding corps of running backs to one of its lowest totals since Nick Saban’s arrival in Tuscaloosa in 2007. That fullback will be an essential position for the Bulldogs to clean out the hole for Georgia’s outstanding tailbacks. Georgia has to get physical in the running game and take the fight to Arkansas. Alabama went with a lot of one back sets without much success. Remember, every day in practice, Arkansas’s defense practices against that tough Razorback running game. Their chin straps will be buckled.

In the kicking game, Georgia needs solid play, no special teams disasters and a jolt off a return. The Bulldogs are vastly improved on special teams, but there have still been some leaks. This one is going to be tight, and Georgia doesn’t need to gift the Razorbacks anything easy. That goes for the turnovers too.

As for the big picture, can Georgia bring the fight, focus and camaraderie that delivered an epic victory last week?

There is no margin for error for the Bulldogs to accomplish their lofty goals. Great teams deliver in successive weeks.

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Editors note tis mandator to include all sources that accompan this raphic when repurposin or editin it for publication.

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By Murray Poole Bulldawg Illustrated

ON THE FIELD

ALABAMA

THE BIG FIVE ARKANSAS

It’s a second consecutive trip west for the Georgia Bulldogs this weekend as they will be in Little Rock, Ark. Saturday to battle the Arkansas Razorbacks at War Memorial Stadium.

And when the Dawgs and Hogs take the field for the 4 p.m. kickoff (SEC TV), it will be a match-up FLORIDA of two teams who thrive on running the football.

In fact, entering this past weekend’s games with Alabama and Missouri, respectively, Arkansas and Georgia ranked 1-2 in the Southeastern Conference in rushing with the Razorbacks leading the way with 316.6 yards per game on the ground and the Bulldogs following in second place at 288.8 yards per contest. Of course, most of Georgia’s total was achieved by now suspended superstar, KENTUCKY Todd Gurley.

That said, both teams are also capable of doing some damage through the air lanes if the opposing defense sells out completely to stop the running game.

AUBURN had rumbled for 621 yards and six touchdowns, averaging a cool 7.2 yards per carry. And Collins, who was the SEC Freshman of the Year last season, has gotten plenty of help from junior Jonathan Williams (No. 32), a 6-0, 225-pounder who had totaled 486 yards, eight touchdowns and a 7.4 average per carry prior to going against the Crimson Tide. Stopping the run is the best part of Georgia’s defense but Arkansas will show these GEORGIA TECH Bulldogs the strongest ground attack they’ve seen to date. Make the most of that strength, Hogs.

2. Use the Allen-Hatcher passing combo to light up UGA secondary

The Razorbacks, good as they are running the football, certainly aren’t one-dimensional on offense. Junior quarterback Brandon Allen (10), 6-3, 215, had thrown for 751 yards and LSUnine touchdowns before facing the Crimson Tide secondary and his favorite receiver, Keon Hatcher (4), a 6-2, 210 junior, had snared 13 passes for 231 yards and a pair of touchdowns. So, in this game, with the Bulldogs’ defense primed to slow down Collins and Williams, the Hogs’ passing game can do some damage to Georgia’s young and still shaky secondary.

arkansasrazorbacks.com

4. Stymie any Bulldog comeback attempts

The Razorbacks like to jump on teams from the T here isn’t a lot of history between Georgia and opening whistle with their potent running attack Arkansas due to the Razorbacks being a membut unlike the earlier Texas A&M game when ber of the old Southwest Conference. In fact, the Aggies rallied from a two touchdown deficit Saturday’s game will be just the 14th meeting of and toppled Arkansas in overtime, the Razor3. Disrupt the Bulldogs’ running game OLE MISS MISSISSIPPI STATE the two teams down through the years with the backs need to keep the foot on the gas the entire It’s true that the Razorback defense has yielded Bulldogs owning a 9-4 advantage over the Hogs. game this time and not let the Bulldogs have any some big point totals this season but they have The last time the two teams played was in 2010 in thought of pulling the contest out at the end. several stalwarts on that side of the ball that Athens when Georgia fell to Arkansas, 31-24. are capable of causing trouble for the now Nick Most certainly, the Razorbacks have the tools to 5. Keep the home fans in the game Chubb-led Georgia ground attack. That starts topple the Bulldogs once again and here are the throughout with senior defensive end Trey Flowers (86), a Big Five factors Arkansas must hang its hat on The Razorbacks need to get out to a comfortable w6-4, 268-pounder who was All-SEC second to put another dent in Georgia’s SEC East title lead Saturday and thereby keep the heavily-parteam in 2013 when he led the team in tacklesTENNESSEE aspirations. tisan Arkansas crowd at War Memorial Stadium for-loss (13.5), forced three fumbles, intercepted SOUTH CAROLINA loud and boisterous from the start. With a capaca pass and broke up two others. There’s also 1. Hit the Dawgs with the two-pronged ity of 54,120, the Hogs’ faithful will be much less senior linebacker Martrell Spaight (47), a 6-0, 232 running force in number than if the game were being played on pounder who is the Hogs’ leading tackler this Arkansas can not only pummel a defense with campus in Fayetteville but I’ve heard the Arkanseason with 43 total stops entering the ‘Bama one outstanding tailback, but two! And like Gurley sas fans just as vocal when their team plays game. And in sophomore defensive tackle Taiwan NOTE: All helmets and logos are trademarked and are the property did for Georgia, a number 3 also leads the way for Johnson (94), Arkansas’of6-3, sack their263-pound respective college or university.in Little Rock. Bottom line, don’t let these visiting the Razorbacks. Entering the Alabama game this These areto reproduced editorial use only by APdo members.

Bulldogs something early on to make the staleader, the Hogs have just thelogos guy harassfor the past Saturday, sophomore Alex Collins (5-11, 216) Bulldogs’ first-year starting QB, Hutson Mason. dium grow silent.

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ON THE FIELD

THE BIG FIVE 2.

By Logan Booker Bulldawg Illustrated Very few expected the University of Georgia to travel home from Missouri with a win this past weekend. And even fewer expected the Bulldogs to go into hostile territory and shut out a team heralded for its spread offense and mobile gun slinging quarterback.

But indeed, the Bulldogs improved to 5-1 on the year and 3-1 in SEC play as the longest road trip in years got underway. But the tests have only just begun, as the boys now travel to Little Rock to face what many are calling the most improved team in college football, despite the fact the Razorbacks have yet to chalk up their first SEC win.

The Georgia defense will be tested in a big way this Saturday as Arkansas will, in all likelihood, attempt to run the ball down the Bulldogs’ throats.

And in order for this long trip to continue with all smiles, five key factors will have to take place.

1. Keep on rolling, Nick Chubb

Linebackers need to fill those holes

This past Saturday the defensive line and the linebackers had a good time chasing down Missouri quarterback Maty Mauk and forcing him to make bad decisions. But this week the Razorbacks will be running the ball, a lot, and testing the Georgia defense in a big way. This unit will need to stay back a bit and worry about what’s running at them this week, as opposed to what’s scrambling away from them.

3.

Keep rolling, Hutson Mason

Despite all the criticisms quarterback Hutson Mason has faced over the last several weeks, he managed to put together his most complete game against Missouri last week. While he will never be asked to be spectacular as long as this offense has a back that can run with a purpose, anything more than mediocre is a gift and a bonus for the team. If Mason can put up similar numbers to last week, the offense should be the least of concerns in Little Rock.

4.

Jeb Blazevich continues to improve

The freshman tight end has been a nice surprise for the offense this season. And in order to keep

The freshman running back was asked under impossible circumstances to carry the load for a run-first offense without its Heisman-worthy running back this past Saturday. But Chubb accepted and dominated the challenge by carrying the ball 38 times for 143 yards while making the Missouri defense wish he would take a break. On Saturday, he may be called upon again as the status of Gurley is still unknown at the time of writing this piece.

photos by Rob Saye

the Arkansas defense from selling out on whoever is going to be running the ball for Georgia, Blazevich needs to continue giving Hutson Mason the short pass option. It has been proven time and time again that this team will not be throwing many balls downfield, making the short game that much more vital.

5.

Once again, the road Dawgs!

Playing on the road is tough under any circumstance. But playing far, far away from home is even tougher. Since this game will be played in Little Rock as opposed to the Fayetteville campus, there will be tons of raucous Razorback fans that normally are not able to make the trip to the campus to watch their team. This makes you, the road Dawg fan, more important than ever. Georgia will need to feel the love on the field in likely the most hostile game of the year. Be loud, be proud and safe travels to each of you that fall into this category.

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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

JOHN FRIERSON’S PERSPECTIVE

College football keeps on delivering

By John Frierson Bulldawg Illustrated

For most of us, this football season began with watching Texas A&M drop the hammer on what everyone thought would be a good South Carolina team. It was a stunning start to what figured to be a wide-open season, the first to feature the four-team College Football Playoff.

The surprises have kept coming ever since.

As Georgia and many other programs cross the halfway mark in the season, let’s take a moment to appreciate some of what’s happened since the Aggies’ 52-28 beatdown on Aug. 28.

Let’s start with where we are now. The No. 1 team in the country is Mississippi State — and boy have the Other Dogs earned it. The No. 2 team is Florida State, winner of 22 straight games and otherwise quietly going about its business as long its star quarterback doesn’t do anything stupid. At No. 3 is Ole Miss, which like its in-state rival has looked as good as anyone the past two weeks.

As for Georgia, well, it’s been eventful. The Bulldogs have possibly the best player in the country in running back Todd Gurley, but of course he can’t play now because he might have taken money for signing memorabilia.

Gurley has been a joy to watch this season and I won’t let his alleged misdeeds cast a shadow over all the good I see in college football. And the Bulldogs sure didn’t let his absence slow them down at Missouri, throttling the overwhelmed-looking Tigers in one of last Saturday’s more surprising results.

The whole season, and especially the past few weeks, have served as a wonderful reminder of just how incredible,

delightful and interesting this sport can be. College football and all of the things in its orbit have many flaws, but the games and the storylines are mostly spectacular.

And now that a playoff is in place (one that ideally will expand to eight teams one day), it has never been better.

College football is fully loaded. There is unbelievable talent all over the field and the number of good to outstanding teams fills nearly every weekend with must-see games.

As of today, there are just six undefeated teams left in the FBS: Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Baylor, Florida State, Notre Dame and outlier Marshall. In a monster game, FSU and the Irish meet this week. This may be the Seminoles’ last quality opponent, while the Irish get a chance to show they are for real.

Regardless of how all this came together, we’re all lucky it did.

Look at the SEC West, which features four of the top seven teams in the country in this week’s Associated Press poll — the Mississippi schools and Alabama and Auburn. Who would have ever guessed that eight weeks ago?

In the Big 12 last week, two teams from Texas but not Texas — Baylor and TCU — played in a thrilling matchup of top 10 squads. There wasn’t an ounce of defense to be found but the offensive execution was incredible in the Bears’ 61-58 win.

photo by Rob Saye

in Mississippi this month: Ole Miss hosts ESPN’s College GameDay — and a spunky and spirited Katy Perry — in a delightful showcase of The Grove and Oxford; that was followed by a cowbell-filled GameDay visit to Starkville last week.

Time after time this season, the moment you think you know where things stand, the moment you think the pattern has been set and X, Y and Z are the teams to beat, everything gets shuffled. College football in 2014 is so outstanding because even now, halfway through the season, there appear to be about a dozen teams not only in play for one of the precious playoff spots, but potentially deserving of one.

And the Pac-12 has been generous enough to cap off nearly every Saturday night with a thrilling finish, including a pair of game-winning Hail Mary passes.

The SEC East, which the Dogs presently sit atop, might not have a powerhouse program this season — but someone will win the division and earn a trip to Atlanta. There, that team might just earn a playoff spot with a win over the West champ. This season, anything appears possible.

There’s no cheesy primetime drama that can hold a candle to college football right now. Consider Florida State and the Jameis Winston nonsense. Consider what has happened

This gift of the college football season has kept on giving for nearly two months now, and we’ve got a long, long way to go. I can’t wait.

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10 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Georgia 34 Mizzou 0

Marques Cook, Tevin Lee, Anthony Borders and Sedrick Cook

Kiel Scates and Jan and Bill Goodson

Rett Evans, Brooke Devore, Madeline Sims, Catherine Conner, Katie Lansing, Allison Mcelreath and Sarah Ellison

Isabelle McDonnell, Kacie McDonnell, Stephanie Murray and Denny and Lauren Murray

Greg Smith, Luc Bennett and Will Bennett

Sonny Hires and Edward Hires

Carole Kalman, John Crunkleton Barbara and Glenn Bell

Will Brown, Zach Davison and McCall Stiles Richard and Rhonda Ramey and Emily and Carey Williamson

Sammy Ozburn, Pete Carter and Steve Hays

OFFICIAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

Athens Regional Health System looks forward to every exciting football game and to providing unmatched care for the fans.

We’re the #1 fan of those we serve.

AthensHealth.org

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 11

OFF THE FIELD

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

Georgia 34 Mizzou 0

James Johnson, Ed Murdock, Jack Murdock and David Johnson

Jordan Jenkins and Leonard Floyd

Denny Murray, Mike Bobo and Aaron Murray

Captains of Missouri game: David Andrews, Damian Swann and Ray Drew

Dan Inman and Christian Robinson

Sherman Armstron and Malcolm Mitchell

Sanders Commings and Thomas Settles

Nick Chubb and Laci Shaw

12 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

Kelin Johnson and Scott Williams

(Front ) Rob Saye, Patricia Andrews, McKenzie Dempsey, Tiffany Houston and Lisa Long (Back) Tim Long, Jon Bennett, Jeff Andrews, Shane Houston, Jaicee Brewton, Shelley Kublanow and Beth Bennett

Joseph Buggs and Charlie Lumpkin

Al Whitworth and Perry Langston

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Spotlight on University of Georgia Graduates Every week, Cheri Leavy shares a Q&A with a Bulldog Belle on BulldawgIllustrated.com.

Describe Athens in three words:

A favorite shop in Athens:

Culture, Classic, Home

Cullen & Co :)

Share a favorite memory from your time at UGA:

One thing few people know about you:

Widespread Panic show downtown: “Panic in the Streets”, 1998

I failed my “0’s” times tables … twice! I hate going to sleep, but I love to sleep late. I broke my back saving my best friend in cheerleading. I’m the fourth “Cullen” in my family … not a Twilight vampire!

Band you heard while living in Athens: Blues Traveler, Packway Handle Band, REM, Drivin N’ Cryin, B52s, Dreams So Real, Widespread Panic, Dave Matthews. Anyone that graced the Georgia Theatre or 40 Watt!

Name: Cullen Albright O’Steen Hometown: Athens, GA Current Town: Athens, GA Years at UGA: 1994-1998 School: Lamar Dodd School of Art High School: Athens Academy Class of ’94 Family: Patrick O’Steen (husband), William Murphy (son), Sally O’Steen (step daughter) Profession: Interior Designer and owner of Cullen & Co Interior Design Studio & Shop in Bottleworks

A favorite restaurant in Athens: Heirloom Café, Taqueria del Sol (aka “the lunchroom”), DePalma’s Italian Cafe

Describe your typical Bulldog gameday: Tailgating behind Clark Howell and staying at the tailgate to socialize- I’m always bored after kickoff!

Share a tailgate recipe: “Spicy Gingerale”: 1/4 vodka 1/2 soda 1/4 Blenheim’s Spicy Gingerale (pink top)

BETWEEN THE HEDGES

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www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 13

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

ONE ON ONE WITH FORMER DAWG, BRIAN HARMAN - THE DEERE HUNTER

By Rob Sherrell Bulldawg Illustrated

Big year last year. You got your first win, finished 36th in the FedEx Cup, and got engaged. Can you reflect on that and let us know what your goals are for this year?

Well I think it all kind of goes hand in hand, getting engaged and having a really good year. I met a really nice girl and found a lot of peace within. That definitely helped with my golf. I’m just going to keep working on my golf game like I have the last couple of years and just try to get a little bit better at the things that I’m not as good as I think I should be. So I’m not trying to reinvent anything, but just trying to get a little bit better.

Speaking of your fiance (Kelly Van Slyke), I saw on twitter a picture of what it meant to be in love with Brian Harman.

Looked like it was around 5 a.m. and you two were wrapped up head to toe on camouflage doing a little hunting. How’d she like that?

Yeah, we were turkey hunting that morning. She’s from up north and this is kind of new to her. But she likes spending time with me and I like spending time in the woods. So we spend a lot of time in the woods together.

Well I know you love the outdoors and are a true sportsman. At this stage of your career, would you rather win a major or set the US record for largest largemouth bass?

Well, I think I’d go ahead and take a major. Having the US record for a largemouth would be pretty cool, but having my first major? I think I’d be ok.

Well, sticking with the outdoors, I saw when you won the John Deere this year, they gave you a Camo Gator. I know you liked that?

Yeah, we got it tricked out pretty good. It’ll go about anywhere. As far as winning my first tournament, I probably couldn’t have won a better one. It turned out real good.

Well, let’s talk about your UGA career. I’ve always heard the story that your freshman year in the SEC Tourney you had about a 60 footer for birdie to basically beat the Gators for the conference title. They say right after you hit the putt when the ball was about 40 feet out,you just raised the putter in the air and walked the ball in. Is that true or is there any embellishment?

Umm, that’s close. That’s close. We’ll go with that.

Well UGA is currently dominating the PGA Tour. I believe we had eight wins this year from six different golfers. Coach Haack obviously has the program cranking out pros. Can you speak to the competition between the UGA golfers on tour?

Well we all came back and had a little reunion at the Tennessee game. We got a real warm reception from the crowd. It’s just

nice to know they appreciate what we’re doing out there, but at the same time we’re still all really good friends. We’re all extremely close, but at the end of the day we’re competing against each other just like we were in college. But it’s been a real nice way to get to know the older guys and hopefully it’ll last a pretty long time.

Well you talk about how close you UGA guys are, let’s talk about golfers from other schools. Do you see many grudges that develop between guys in college carry over to the pros? Maybe a little smack talking in the locker room as well?

You know it’s really almost gone the other way. When we were in college, you know the Georgia/Florida rivalry or the Georgia/Georgia Tech rivalry would carry over to golf sometimes. A lot of these guys won’t even talk football anymore.

They don’t care about it like we do. But as we’ve all gotten on tour from different schools, most of us have become pretty good friends over the years. But it’s like anything else, we’re all competing and when you put 150 guys in a golf tournament, there’s going to be a few that don’t get along.

Let’s go back to your first PGA win at the John Deere this year. How’d you feel on the Wednesday of that week?

I played two tournaments prior and did not do well. I had missed two cuts in a row. I ended up coming home to the island (St. Simons) just to relax. So when I went up to John Deere I kind of had a new state of mind. I got off to a good start and kind of led the thing wire to wire. I just played well all week. I made some putts and hit the ball beautifully.

I hear announcers say all the time how far you hit the ball for your size. In my opinion you hit it a long way for anyone.

Are you sick of hearing people talk about your size and not just say that you can drive the hell out of a golf ball?

Frankly, I take that as a compliment. Obviously, I’ve never been a big fellow and I’ve had to hear about me not being a big guy for a long time. Yeah, it’s just one of those things. I’m as big as I am and I try to hit it as far as I can. And I hit it far enough to play so I don’t really care about it, you know?

People talk about the advances made in golf equipment all the time. A lot of the golf purists seem to hint that players are not as good as they used to be, but the equipment makes up for a lot of shortcomings. What’s your thought on that?

Well I believe golfers are better nowadays because there are so many more. When Bobby Jones won the Grand Slam of golf, 700 people applied to play in the US Open that year. This past year 40,000 people applied. It’s a world game now and with that many people playing, people can’t help but be better. Now the equipment is a lot better and you don’t have to be as precise as you use to have to be. But the golf courses are a lot harder now. They’re longer, the rough’s deeper and the greens are faster. All things being equal, I think the players are a little bit better.

GOLF & TAILGATE

If you had to play your last round of golf, who would round out your foursome?

Well, if it was the last round of golf I was ever going to play, I mean it’s going to be lame. It’s going to be my dad, my brother, and my old lady. And my dad and brother don’t even play golf. I just like to hang out with them.

Did you even get a response from Tebow when you asked him to take his damn hat off at Last Resort? (Please see Brian’s outstanding twitter feed if you’re not aware) No I did not. You know, that hurt me. If you’re going to claim to be this high and mighty fellow, then you ought to at least take your hat off inside. I didn’t like that at all. So no, I didn’t get a response, but I would’ve loved one.

Let’s talk a little Dawgs football. Your schedule is now a huge grind, especially with new the wrap-around season. You don’t have a lot of free time. Are you able to follow the Dawgs like you want to nowadays?

Yeah I do. I always watch all the games I can and try to make it to at least one game a year. I tell you, watching Todd Gurley play football, it’s hard to take your eyes off of the TV. That South Carolina game really hurt me. I really wanted Gurley to get it.

It’s Brunswick Stew Time Again!

~COME TO THE PARTY~ The McGladrey Classic and Davis Love III are celebrating 5 years hosting some of the PGA TOUR’s most elite golfers.

Join us in the Tailgate Club on #17 for great views and consessions.

Open to all. No upgraded ticket required.

Get your tickets online now.

2014

Join The Community For Some Stewbilee Fun! Saturday, October 18th 2014 October 20 - 26, 2014 • Sea Island Golf Club MCGLADREYCLASSIC.COM

14 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

There are many exciting activities this year at our 2014 Stewbilee, like: Pooch Parade, 5K Run, Classic Car Show, Live Entertainment, Stew Tasting Contest, Kids Station and so much more!

Visit www.stewbilee.com for more information.

We hope to see you there!

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

As a University of Georgia graduate and former Bulldog golfer, tell us what you love about Athens and UGA. Because I went to UGA for 4 years, I feel as though Athens is almost like a hometown to me.

I love coming back for game days and seeing college friends that I’ve stayed close with, especially in the golf community.

We had a huge support team in our Bulldog Tee Off Club and all of the former players try and come back for our big fundraiser event, the Bulldog Open. It’s really fun for us to hang out with Coach Haack and Douglas and with the many people who love and support Georgia golf.

I’m biased because I went to UGA, but I truly think Athens is the greatest college town in America.

Coming back for game days makes me feel lucky and proud that I can call UGA my alma mater.

Q&A WITH BULLD O G PGA GOLFER HARRIS ENGLISH Explain what makes your home course of TOP Sea Island so special.

Sea Island was an easy choice for me coming out of college. There are so many great reasons why Sea Island makes a good home for PGA Tour players. I am lucky to be surrounded by so many veterans on tour that live there, and it is great to be able to play golf with them while I’m home.

Sea Island really is one of the best resorts in America, and they are very generous to us PGA Tour players by letting us practice at the awesome facilities and use all the amenities that they have to offer.

What should every visitor to the Golden Isles make sure they do before they leave?

Make a few restaurant suggestions in the Golden Isles.

Bubba Garcia’s, Coastal Kitchen, Tramici, Halyard’s, Cafe Frederica, CJ’s Pizza

What do you order at Southern Soul Barbecue?

Either the pulled pork plate with collard greens and hoppin’ john, or the Philly soul sandwich with fries. Half sweet/unsweet tea. Everything I’ve tried is absolutely amazing.

What is the feedback on the Golden Isles area and the Seaside course from your fellow PGA players participating in the McGladrey Tournament?

Everyone that I’ve talked to on Tour loves playing the McGladrey Classic.

They all enjoy bringing their families and either staying at The Lodge or the Cloister. The Seaside course always gets great feedback from visitors.

Everyone who visits the Golden Isles area understands why many of us PGA tour players chose this area to be home. We are extremely lucky to live in such a beautiful place.

Go to East Beach, maybe paddle board a bit. Go fishing for redfish off Cumberland Island. Take a bike ride through the Village and walk on the pier. Play any one of the Sea Island courses.

What are some of your favorite characteristics of McGladrey host Davis Love, III? What has he meant to this area and golf?

Davis was always my idol growing up. I took lessons from Jack Lumpkin (Davis’ coach) growing up and would sit behind Davis and watch him hit balls. I have emulated my golf game after his.

He is just as great a person, as he is a golfer, and that’s what everyone loves about him. He has meant so much to the Sea Island area starting from his dad becoming head teaching pro when Davis was a boy. We all call him “Uncle Davis.” He is one of the main reasons why all of us PGA Tour players have come down to make Sea Island our home.

Davis Love, III and Harris English

Welcomes The Newest Addition To Our Family • Access to many Sea Island activities, including golf, dining and spa • Complimentary continental breakfast and wi-fi • Pool, workout room, evening restaurant and lounge • Located on St. Simons Island, GA

Rates begin at $185 per night

Book today at 855-382-8789 or seaisland.com

www.bulldawgillustrated.com • 15

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

OFF THE FIELD

Gerry Dickens and Paul Brown

Carl and Barbara Parks and Dick Vermeil

Jim Copelin, Scott Stricklin, Tim Keadle and Phil Blount

Loran Smith and Dick Vermeil

Athens Touchdown Club with speaker, Dick Vermeil

Steve Middlebrooks and Dick Vermeil

Tom Dean and Dick Vermeil

Bill and Kay McKinney and Dick Vermeil

Tom Steele and Dick Vermeil

Jimbo LaBoon and Dick Vermeil

Zippy Morocco and Dick Vermeil

Tom Stovall and Scott Strickllin

MEET THE CELEBS The 35th annual Georgia-Florida Golf Classic, scheduled for Oct. 29-31 at the Jekyll Island Golf Club prior to the Nov. 1 football collision between the Bulldogs and Gators, will include eight former Georgia players and eight former Florida players who will serve as the event’s celebrities.

In this question-and-answer with Bulldawg Illustrated, we get a quick insight into the participating players, guys that their respective fan base is sure to remember. To sign up for the tournament go to www.jekyllisland.com Georgia’s Dale Williams When did you play at Georgia and what was your position?

I played defensive back at Georgia from 1979 to 1981 under Coach Dooley. Of course, I was on the national championship team in 1980.

What was your biggest moment at Georgia?

My biggest moment, of course winning the national championship games stands out but also winning the Georgia-Florida game in 1980, the Lindsay (Scott) game, that also stands out. But you know one of the biggest things looking back on my career at Georgia, it was an honor and a privilege to play under Coach Erk Russell. Coach Dooley was the head coach but Coach Russell was really the guy. Offensive players, defensive players, he kept us together. I wish somebody back then could have been as media savvy as the media is today, to have been in some of those meetings and get some of those quotes and some of those sayings that Coach Russell would talk about. I mean, he was unbelievable!

What kind of golfer are you?

I am a terrible golfer but the competitor that I am, I can do some things good. I am great 100 yards in, using my pitching wedge and I love putting.

How does this golf tournament enhance the Georgia-Florida weekend?

This is my first one. I think the people there do a great job of really continuing on the tradition. The hoopla, the fanfare, you’ve got to have that kind of stuff. It really enhances the weekend and enhances the game and it also gives a lot of players an opportunity to go back to a Georgia-Florida game as a fan as opposed to as a player. This is definitely a different atmosphere.

16 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

Florida’s Doug Johnson When did you play at Florida and what was your position?

I played quarterback from 1996 to 1999 at Florida and played under Coach (Steve) Spurrier.

What was your biggest moment at Florida?

That’s a tough one. We had a bunch of great moments.

But probably the first big game I won as a sophomore against Tennessee was special. It was in Gainesville and was my first big game and enabled us to keep Tennessee and Peyton (Manning) oh and four against us. So that was pretty special.

What kind of golfer are you?

I’m probably a 10, 10 to 12 handicap. I played in this tournament three years ago. Of course, it seemed to be a lot more of a Georgia tournament than a Florida tournament.

There’s a whole lot more red and black than orange and blue.

In fact, when I got to the course, I thought it was a prank.

How does this golf tournament enhance the Georgia-Florida weekend?

I think it just kind of allows fans to rub shoulders with guys that have been on that field and played against one another. You get them enthused about the game to come and be able to ask questions and actually share stories. I was able to be inducted into the Georgia-Florida Hall of Fame and that’s a special place ... to be able to share my moments against the Bulldogs.

Georgia’s Keith Henderson When did you play at Georgia and what was your position?

I played at Georgia from 1985 to 1988. I played both fullback and halfback and Coach Dooley, of course, was my coach.

What was your biggest moment at Georgia?

My freshman year against Florida (1985, when the Gators were ranked No. 1 in the country and the Bulldogs stunned them, 24-3). I had 143 yards and a 78-yard touchdown run and Tim Worley had 120-something. They were ranked No. 1 and it was a great win for us.

What kind of golfer are you?

I’m not really a golfer. I just go down to the tournament and support.

How does this golf tournament enhance the Georgia-Florida weekend?

I think more so than anything it just brings guys back together and shows their support for their team, the Georgia players and also the Florida players. We get a lot out of it, just being around each other and enjoying each other’s company. But then again, it’s still competitive.

Compiled by Murray Poole

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

By Murray Poole Bulldawg Illustrated

P O O L E S H O T S - S TAT S T HAT M AT T E R :

GEORGIA

34

MIZZOU 0

Tigers could do absolutely nothing with it. And a 10-yard penalty for holding set the offense back a bit at the start of the fourth quarter but, undaunted, the Bulldogs then used Chubb’s running to drive 62 yards for their final touchdown. And how about this: Although the Dawgs coughed the ball up a couple of times, they fell on their own fumbles and Hutson Mason didn’t throw a pick all day. For the day, the Bulldogs were penalized just four times for 30 yards, the exact same penalty stat that Missouri finished with.

Loran Smith

In many football games, statistics don’t always tell the story but, boy, did they ever tell the tale in Georgia’s unexpected 34-0 mauling of the host Missouri Tigers, this past Saturday in Columbia, Mo. In a game that the Bulldogs played without superstar Todd Gurley and many national pundits thought Georgia didn’t have much chance of winning, Mark Richt’s team dominated the then Special teams Wins vs. Miscues 23rd-ranked Tigers from the opening Once again, Georgia had tremendous kick The Touchdown Club of Athens had whistle in to ain20-0 lead and never looking coverage, smothering the Missouri returners on itsbolting beginning 1946,halftime organized to supback. both kickoffs and punts. The Human Joystick, port Georgia football after World War II. Now, The yearthe '46challenge was a very becomes good year. even more formiIsaiah McKenzie, had a couple of punt returns dable as the Bulldogs prepare to of head back out Charley Trippi was in his final year that resulted in positive yardage. And junior west to Wallace meet aButts powerful known as eligibility, in his ground heyday asforce a place-kicker Marshall Morgan was perfect on the Arkansas Razorbacks. college coach, the master of the passing two field goals, from 47 and 29 yards to get the thing’s fortocertain: if Georgia tame.One What a season remember!

Geor- can come Bulldogs off to a 6-0 lead, as well as four-for-four anywhere close tochampionship emulating the showing it gia won the national with on extra-point kicks. UGA punters Collin Barber the Show-Me State, then good things and Adam Erickson only averaged 34.6 yards on anmanaged undefeatedinseason and a 20-10 victory should happen once again in Little over North Carolina in the Sugar Bowl Rock come five combined kicks but then Barber booted one photo by Rob Saye early Saturday evening.

New Year's day, 1947.

Trippi was chosen dead inside the 20 while Erickson twice pinned by the Maxwellfurther committee college foot-into the Stats Without ado,aslet’s swing the Tigers back inside their 20. ball's player.

Thatoutstanding Matter that produced the University of Not many touchdown and quarter-game in a num- Missed Tackles Turnovers (gained/lost) Georgia’s most complete football back flourish today. First of all, sitWhat a day for takeaways for these Bulldogs! ber clubs of years: Never was a Bulldog defense more sure tackling ting coaches won't take the time to travel Two interceptions by safety Quincy Mauger, one than it was on Saturday. Numerous times, the and speak.

Even withYards, the useoffense of an air-and defense pick each by Damian Swann and Dominick SandPlays of 20-Plus Georgia defensive front and linebackers nailed plane, it still take, that even is foreye a short ers and a fumble recovery by Sterling Bailey, This is onewould category popping. Despite the Missouri running backs and quarterback haul, three or more hours to to up a and down caused by Leonard Floyd ... that’s five turnovers the Bulldogs whipping thespeak Tigers Candler Meadors with in Gene Stallings Mauk their own backfield and that is reflected club withinonaoffense, couple defense hundred and miles. gained by Georgia and none at all gained by the field special teams, by the fact that the thusiastic Georgia football.

Bas-Tigers were limited to a meaCoaches make too have muchamoney Missouri. You’re not going to lose many games Georgia didn’t singletoday play to of 20 yards orfans ofsly 50 yards net rushing and 97 passing.

Indeed, ketball too. For years he has served on the make theagainst effort toMissouri. speak in the hinterlands with that kind of TO margin difference. more Nick Chubb, the freshman Jeremy Pruitt had his charges fueled up and statistician Bulldog basketball. for $1,500.00 or stepped less. tailback who into Gurley’s big shoes crew for ready to go in Columbia.

At the Since its inception, the Touchdown Red Zone (offense/defense) and rumbled for 143 yards on a workmanlike 38meetings of the club, he was the welcoming committee, reservation coClub of Athens, has had three secretaries: The Bulldogs scored five of six times when carries including a touchdown, came the closYards After Contact troubleshooter Harry Atwell, who was the first. He was ordinator, ticket dispenser, penetrating the Tigers’ 20-yard line, converting est with his 18-yard run in the second quarter.

Both Nick Chubb and Brendan Douglas bulled on eternal smile of goodfollowed by Jimmy Hayes who gave up the and greeter with an touchdowns on four of those occasions. Missouri Conversely, Tigers Meadors could manage onlyand one for extra yardage good cheer.

From his seat at after the taking the first hit from role in 1981. theCandler suc- will ... forget about it. The Tigers never got inside 20-plus gain, on a 24-yard Maty Mauk pass comMissouri defenders. always an attentive lis- Add up Chubb’s 143 on ceeded Hayes and is in his last year as ex- head table, he wasthe the Georgia 20 the day long against Pruitt’s pletion. the ground Douglas’ 65 ... that’s a Gurley-like always and asking enecutive secretary, having served in this tener to every speaker, gang-tackling defense.

208He yards folks! lovedrushing, being part capacity for 32 years. He will still be with thusiastic questions.

Untimely (turnovers, of theclock exciting atmosphere of the Touchus, however, Mistakes as Secretary Emeritus. penalties, Run/Pass Attempts management, miscues, etc.) char- down Club of Athens.

Candler who Harry Atwell was an interesting Third Down Conversions Chubb, then Douglas and a steady diet of pain In a game the name Bulldogs clearly joined dominated the club inThe 1958Bulldogs is one of the most acter, given towhere innocent dropping. converted on 12 of 21 third-down all day for the Missouri defense. Georgia ran the on both sides of the ball, nothing to really comYou can count on He had a mid-western background and senior members. opportunities andyour two-of-two fourth-down tries ball against the Tigers exactly twice as many plain about in Big thisTen category.

Outside left hand those who have been members was friendly with luminaries along linebacker while the Tigers came up empty on third downs, times as it threw it. There were 58 rushing plays Leonard Floyd was tagged for a late sideline hit He has been in a those situations. with personalities like Frank Leahy, Notre longer than Candler. going oh-for-seven for 210 net yards and 29 passes for 169 yards. on Mauk Missouri’s possessionmember but theof the board of directors for 53 Dame head on coach.

Hayes first ran McGregor Printing Co. for years and was a quiet, years and served as President of the club soft-spoken type who enjoyed the club so- in 1967.

As K a businessman, cials and particularly appreciated the wit BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED E V I N B U TheL was E R ’inS sales P L AY E R S O F T H E G A M E — G E O R G I A- M I Z Z O U and humor of well known coaching per- with Heyward Allen Motor Company for sonalities who often visited the club-- 26 years before taking over his own dealFrank Howard of Clemson, Peahead ership, Meadors Mercedes Benz, VolkKevin Butler, former University of Georgia legendary 147years.. yards total offense. swagen whichkicker he operated just for 12 Walker of Wake Forest and, of course, and a member the Georgia radio broadcastCandler, team, will Mauger whoeach grew up“Quincy in Atlanta, re- came away with two key interceptions in a Georgia's colorfulofcoach, Wallace Butts. week during the 2014 football season hishis offensive, only be won by Mizzou if they were succeived business degreegame from that UGAcould in Candler has served the club longer than select defensive and has special teams of the week for Bulldawg cessful through the air,” said Butler. “The sophomore safety 1951and served in the Air Force 1951-53. any officer and worked withplayers Georgia Illustrated. are Butts Butler’s selections reasons whyhefor became In high school, rode a street car tothe Boysleader of the secondary by example. Being in the coaches fromHere Wallace to Vince Doo- and the Bulldogs’ 34-0 win over Missouri Saturday right place at the right time sounds easy but it’s not. Quincy High where he played football and was ley to Mark Richt. was in position throughout the game and his impact was key voted "most athletic" by his senior class.

For years, Candler managed the opOFFENSE – Freshman tailback Nick Chubb, who started to the defense holding Mizzou to a low of 147 yards total of"We appreciate Candler's long erations the Touchdown Club, handling in placeofof the suspended Todd Gurley and responded with a fense.

Wetime will need that leadership in Little Rock Saturday.” loyalty to the and Touchdown Club and his all the administrative managing on career-high 143 yardschores, and a touchdown 38 carries also pick the most the checkbook, collecting supervis- love of the Bulldogs. If youSPECIAL four pass receptions fordues, 31 yards.

TEAMS – Junior place-kicker Marshall Morgan, the143 University ofgot Georgia, ing theone accounting for Nick years,Chubb in- loyal “The and onlywhich, freshman ... 38friend carriesoffor who the Bulldogs off to a 6-0 lead with field goals of 47 yards combined four catches proves thathave he isto give consideration and 29 yards would toand also was perfect on four extra point kicks. cluded a $50.00 with contribution to for the 31 you more than capable of replacing said For Butler.

“Marshall Morgan came through in two of the first three drives Candler. sure“In he loves the Dawgs," Georgia Athletic Association.

HeTodd woreGurley,” a performance UGA has notCoorseen from running back Georgia with field goals saysaGreg McGarity, athletic di- of 47 and 29 yards to put the Dawgs up 6-0 many hats within that the organization: since 2007, shouldered game with grace and in the first quarter,” said Butler. “While the offense may take a dinating the Nick meeting dates the withrunning the rector. power. Country The offensive is theout secret success of UGA’s fewcoach, seriessays, to get the feel of the game and the opponent, it’s Richt, Bulldog head Athens Club, line sending the to the Mark running game but for a freshman to produce like Nick did in key to capitalize Meadors. on all opportunities early in a game on the meeting notices, taking reservations, "We need more fans like Candler Mizzou, Chubb deserves the credit and is my offensive player road and Marshall did just that, connecting on his only two He is always loyal to our program and choosing the menu, facilitating the meetof the week.” attempts of is the game. Marshall’s ability to change the kickhand." with pin-point direction on his kicks is a great ings, corresponding with speakers, book- forever ready to extend a helping off coverage If those appreciate Candler's keeping, setting up meetings of Quincy the DEFENSE – Sophomore safety Mauger, whowho interadvantage with consistent coverage in pinning the opponents contributions to the Touchdown Club of officers of directors, ceptedand twoboard Maty Mauk passeskeeping and also had two solo tackles and limiting the return yards. He will play an important role in bellied up to the bar to toast the files in and being the to cheerful to help theorder Bulldogs’ defense its finestAthens, showing in several Little Rockhim and might just be the last player on the field in a forofhis years of team work, the bartender wouldfor the Dawgs.” seasons, only getting the shutout a ranked close victory face of thenot Touchdown Club offirst Athens. photo by Rob Saye onthe its while, home field in one UGAofhistory but alsohave limiting the Tigers to to fill the orders. to work overtime All he was the most en-

Athens TD club owes a lot to Candler Meadors

• • • • • •

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BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

I N S I D E R ’ S G U I D E 2 L I T T L E R O C K # U G AV S A R K G A M E

Compiled by: Jill Thacker

Little Rock is a mid-sized city with a small town feel. The River Market area is where it’s at if you are downtown, sprinkled with little shops, bars, and restaurants as well as the Clinton Presidential Library. On Saturday mornings, it hosts the Farmer’s Market where there is always something great to see and try. If you want to venture outside of downtown make sure you check out the Height’s (for Atlanta natives this area is similar to Virginia Highlands). In this area you will find quaint and eclectic shopping boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants that run along Kavanaugh and Cantrell Streets.

Where to Eat

Cotham’s - The original location in Scott, AR, just outside of Little Rock and has

been featured on the Food Network. Cotham’s is best known for their amazing, juice dripping down your fingers hubcap burgers. Or if you have a hankering for authentic, Southern cooking try the fried catfish and slow cooked veggies. If you don’t feel like making the short drive for a little, old general store on the farm atmosphere, you can always try Cotham’s in the City location downtown.

COTHAM’S Mercantile, 5301 Highway 161, Scott, AR, Hours: Mon-Thur 11:00am - 2:00pm, Fri-Sat 11:00am - 8:00pm; COTHAM’S In The City 1401 West 3rd Street, Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00am - 2:00pm

Bruno’s Little Italy - Bruno’s Little Italy is a Little Rock staple for fine Italian and delicious hand-tossed pizza since 1949. 310 Main Street

Flying Fish - If you don’t want to leave downtown and want to grab a quick bite, this place is great for catfish, oysters, shrimp, salmon, tilapia, snow crab, burgers, gumbo, chicken, beer and wine. Chosen by UrbanSpoon.com as one of America’s Top 100 Most Popular Cheap Eats. 511 President Clinton Avenue Capital Bar and Grill - Located in the Capitol Hotel, this is known to be where jazz is played and laws are made over delicious food and drinks. Listed in the 2012 Southern Foodie’s 100 Places to Eat in the South Before you Die; Named by Southern Living Magazine as one of the 100 best bars in the South (2014).

111 West Markham St

US Pizza - Great place to stop in for pizza, subs, salads and beer if you’re out shopping in the Height’s. 5524 Kavanaugh

Cajun’s Wharf - One of the city’s best known restaurants featuring great seafood and a fun, laidback atmosphere with good music on the deck overlooking the Arkansas River. 2400 Cantrell Rd Whole Hog Café - Arkansans love their BBQ and it’s hard to beat Whole Hog. I never leave Little Rock without bringing a couple of their sauces back to Atlanta.

2516 Cantrell Road

Nightlife

Flying Saucer - A fabulous gathering place for a good time and good drinks with great friends; 323 President Clinton Avenue

Sticky Fingerz - Features live music, ranging from hip-hop to bluegrass; 107 South Commerce

Willy D’s - If a piano wine bar is more up your alley, this should do the trick; 322 President Clinton Avenue

Capital Bar and Grill Cajun’s Wharf

Other things to do around Little Rock

Tailgating for the Game

If the Georgia/Arkansas game isn’t enough football for you then you might want to check out the Pulaski Academy Bruins in their game against Jacksonville on Friday October 17th.

Pulaski Academy football has been featured on ESPN and Fox News for their aggressive and wide open style of play. Pulaski Academy is known for their three state football championships, refusing to punt on 4th down (they always go for it) and frequent on-sides kicks. If you want to see a lot of points scored this is the place to be.

Remember that Little Rock is NOT the home of the University of Arkansas, so don’t plan on touring campus and checking out the college scene. The Razorbacks play two games a year in their home-away-from home, War Memorial Stadium. War Memorial Stadium is not your typical 80,000 – 100,000 seat SEC stadium, it’s much smaller at around 55,000 seats but Arkansas fans will tell you it is one of the loudest venues in the conference. If you want to be in the middle of the action then you will want to park on the public golf course just outside War Memorial Stadium. With a 3:00 p.m. kickoff, it will fill quickly with tailgaters, so grab your gear and your grub early and settle in with some new friends. Razorback fans are some of the most hospitable and friendliest in the SEC, so join in the fun.

If you are looking for outdoor activity that will allow you to enjoy the nice weather and also get some exercise you will want to check out Pinnacle Mountain just outside of Little Rock. Pinnacle Mountain tops out at over one thousand feet above the Big Maumelle and Little Maumelle Rivers and offers several trails to the summit that will allow you to enjoy spectacular views.

18 • www.bulldawgillustrated.com

BULLDAWGILLUSTRATED

JEFF DANTZLER

A View From ... Arkansas Chuck Barrett, the voice of the Razorbacks, is one of the top announcers and really good guys in the SEC. He takes the time to talk about the big showdown between Georgia and Arkansas in Little Rock.

Talk about your running attack.

It’s one they hang their hat on, it’s their identity, it’s what they recruit for. It’s what they’ve built from an offensive line standpoint from the minute Bret got here. When you look at what he’s done in the course of his career, everything has been predicated on a good, big offensive line and good running backs. That’s the identity of this team.

What has been the key to the turnaround this season?

I think the biggest thing is just the confidence that this team has. The confidence they gained even in defeat at the end of last year. I think about that LSU game last year, when it looked like it was won, but Arkansas hit the big play over the top. But I think in that game they gained confidence. I think they knew going into the offseason that they were better at the end of the year than they were at the beginning. Arkansas is more healthy also, and it’s the second year of a head coach and they are buying what he’s selling, and I think you are seeing that on the field.

After the turmoil of the previous two-three seasons, how good does it feel to again be playing high quality football?

I think for our fans it is fun to hear other people say positive things about your program. When you’re not winning and your program is in the news for things that aren’t good, nobody likes that, from administration to coaches to fans. Just from an overall perspective it is fun to be around the football program again. You feel like every week that there’s a real chance to win the game and that does make people feel good.

The playoff is going to change college football.

What would it mean to beat Georgia?

You are playing one of the storied programs in the league.

And right now this Razorback team is playing better, but they are still not winning. So winning an SEC game would be huge.

Whether it’s against Georgia or anybody, just winning a game is what’s paramount.

What is your take on Georgia?

Georgia is very efficient offensively and I think that was very evident against Missouri. They make their blocks, their running backs hang on to the football and they make you pay for your mistakes. Defensively they look really good, at least they did against Mizzou, and it looks like it’s a defense that is really coming together. Georgia’s solid and the win over Missouri was a big step for them and as good as they have looked all year.

What is your take on playing in Little Rock?

It’s an exciting place to play. Our players love playing there. One game this year, it’s going to be a tough ticket. The tailgaters love it. Arkansas has always played great in Little Rock. If you look at the history of the program, before we joined the SEC, the Little Rock stadium was bigger than the stadium on campus. So a lot of the bigger games were played in Little Rock at night. So it’s always been a real fun trip for our players, they’re always excited to be going down there and I expect it to be rocking on Saturday.

Do you think there will be any more major changes coming in the next couple of years in college football?

I think the playoff is going to grow. I think it will go from four to eight teams and I don’t think it’s a question of if, but when. I guess we are going to have to let the football playoff settle before we see if there is another round of realignment.

How have the Arkansas faithful taken to Bret Bielema?

I think they see progress, they see the method. People see this program is headed in the right direction. We’re not there yet, but I think they believe at what he’s selling and they’re seeing the fruits on the field. He is a likeable guy. The fans like him.

For a second straight week, college football delivered an incredible array of games. The mighty Southeastern Conference just continues to deliver and there has never been anything like that Baylor-TCU top ten showdown. With so many big games, the question for winners is whether they can deliver week to week? For the losers it is whether they can bounce back and avoid two straight setbacks? There are great races, especially in the SEC, PAC-12 and Big XII. In the PAC-12, 10 teams are either one – beaten or have two losses.

1. Mississippi State – Without a doubt, the Maroon Starkville Bulldogs have the most impressive resume in college football. Dan Mullen has done great work with MSU, and they have made history with three straight wins over top ten teams.

2. Ole Miss – Hugh Freeze has done an incredible job in a short period of time in Oxford. They answered the challenge of bouncing back from that enormous victory over Alabama with an equally impressive triumph over Texas A&M. Next up is Tennessee in Oxford. The Rebels defense is nasty.

3. Baylor – With under 11 minutes to go, Baylor trailed Texas Christian by 21 in Waco. What followed was an all-time great comeback in a top 10 vs. top 10 showdown – 24 unanswered to win 6158. Baylor could have its hands full at West Virginia this week.

4. Florida State – The Jameis Winston saga has not been a pretty sight for Florida State. But the Seminoles, though not nearly as good as last year, continue to win. Nick O’Leary is the best tight end in the country. It’s a hot ticket for the Fighting Irish.

5. Notre Dame – The Fighting Irish survived a scare from North Carolina, but turned on the offensive jets and won a shootout. Now comes their game of the year against Florida State, as the Irish try and channel some 1993.

6. Auburn – The Tigers fell behind 21-0 in Starkville and came fighting back, but came up short. Auburn is in the midst of a brutal stretch and happy to have an open date before South Carolina comes to town.

Athens

7. Alabama – After losing a heart-breaker in Oxford, the Crimson Tide were far from at their best at Arkansas, but found a way. The defense was tremendous in a 14-13 win over the Hogs. The gauntlet continues with Texas A&M coming to town.

8. TCU – It is going to be awfully tough for the Horned Frogs to bounce back from one of the most heart-breaking losses in school history. Oklahoma State, like TCU has just one loss and they are bound for Ft. Worth.

TOP 25 JEFF DANTZLER

13.Michigan State – Mark Dantonio’s team could be the best in the Big Ten. The offense has been impressive and the Spartans are always tough and physical.

Michigan State won at Purdue 45-31 and now heads to Indiana, which may not be easy.

20. Washington – The Huskies haven’t blown the doors off the opposition, but they are once-beaten, falling only by seven to Stanford. Chris Petersen is in search of a first-year signature victory on the road. Arizona has shown it can be done.

14. Oklahoma State – Since losing that 37-31 season-opener to Florida State in Dallas, the Cowboys have put together five consecutive wins. They catch TCU at a good time in Ft. Worth, as the Horned Frogs are coming off that heart-breaking loss to Baylor.

21. Southern Cal – The Trojans are the poster child for what has been going on in the PAC-12. They were fortunate to beat Stanford, then lost at Boston College. The heart-breaker to Arizona State was a killer. Then this past week, the Trojans edged Arizona. USC has an excellent defensive line.

9. Kansas State – The Wildcats are 4-1 and had this past Saturday off to sharpen the claws for a tip to Norman, Oklahoma. After the Sooners, Texas and Oklahoma State come to town.

Then there is a trip to TCU. Bill Snyder has worked magic in Manhattan.

15. Georgia – That was a big time quality win that Georgia got at Missouri, shutting out the Tigers 34-0 without Todd Gurley. Can the Bulldogs do it again, having to hit the road for a second straight week to play oh-so-close Arkansas in Little Rock?

10. Oklahoma – Boomer Sooner is in the midst of a huge stretch of games. After losing to TCU, Oklahoma bounced back to win the Red River Shootout. Now comes a mega-showdown with Kansas State in Norman.

Oklahoma has the offense cooking.

16. Texas A&M – The Aggies have run into a Magnolia State super storm. Following the loss to Mississippi State, Ole Miss rolled into College Station and knocked off the Aggies in impressive fashion. Now comes a trip to Alabama in this brutally tough SEC slate.

23.LSU – It wasn’t looking good for LSU, but the Fightin’ Tigers had some magic down in the swamp and delivered Les Miles his 100th win at the Bayou Bengal helm. Suddenly tough Kentucky comes to Baton Rouge Saturday.

11. Arizona – The Wildcats comeback attempt came up short, as they couldn’t convert the game-tying twopoint conversion against Southern Cal. Arizona has a really good shot to win its next three games and be in a great position to make a run at the PAC-12 Championship Game.

17. East Carolina – The Pirates are having a superb season. Things looked a bit scary against South Florida, but East Carolina fought back to dominate the second half 21-0. Here comes an open date and then lowly Connecticut for a Thursday night game.

24. Florida – It was a heart-breaking loss for the Gators, as the 30-27 setback to LSU dropped Florida to 3-2 and 2-2 in the SEC. Florida had the game in control, but LSU made the big plays.

Mizzou comes to the Swamp Saturday, then it’s an open date and then the Dogs in Jacksonville.

12. Oregon – After a heart-breaking nationally televised Thursday night loss in Eugene to Arizona, the Ducks badly needed a bounce back and they got it in style. The final score was Oregon-42, UCLA-30. It wasn’t that close.

It was 42-10 in the fourth quarter. It’s a big one with 5-1 Washington coming to town.

Watkinsville

18. Ohio State – The Buckeyes have a bizarre schedule. They have had two off weeks already, the last one coming off a big win at Maryland. Now they host Rutgers. Nothing says the Big Ten like Maryland and Rutgers. They look second to Michigan State on their side of the league.

19. Arizona State – In the muddled PAC12, Arizona State has as good a chance as anyone. The Sun Devils have gotten embarrassed by UCLA and they have also beaten Southern Cal on a hail mary.

When healthy at quarterback, ASU is as good as anyone in the PAC-12 South.

Auburn

22. Stanford – The Cardinal are asking “what if” for their two heart-breaking losses to Southern Cal and Notre Dame.

The red zone offense has been the biggest issue. But once again, Stanford has a tremendous defense.

25. Kentucky – Mark Stoops has the Wildcat faithful beaming about football.

Granted they haven’t played the toughest schedule yet, but they beat South Carolina and the lone loss was controversial in overtime at Florida. JoJo Kemp is an outstanding back. Kentucky is one of the most improved teams in the country.

26. Arkansas – The Razorbacks are one of the most improved team in the country. They came up just short against Bama, falling 14-13 in Fayetteville. Now they get Georgia in Little Rock, trying to break that SEC losing skid.

Lawrenceville

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