Less than 24 hours after the release of the USA Today coaches’ poll that named the Georgia Bulldogs college football’s preseason No. 1 team, and the feeling is still sinking in amongst Dawg fans across the country. The ranking may only be a ranking, but as of right now the Bulldogs have the top spot in one of only two polls that are a part of the BCS formula. Georgia fans had hoped this would be the case all summer, but just a week ago that seemed unlikely as the media picked Georgia to finish second in the SEC East behind Florida.Head coach Mark Richt, using the media’s SEC predictions as proof, even stated that he told others his Bulldogs would not be No. 1.
But this just further illustrates the difference between the media and the coaches. The media picked according to what they thought would happen, with Georgia’s arduous schedule likely scaring many off, while the coaches made their picks based upon what they see now. Apparently they feel the talent and cohesiveness the Bulldogs offer is enough for them to start the season as the No. 1 team in America.
The schedule, however, is shaping up to be as tough as the masses are predicting it to be. Conference foes Florida, LSU and Auburn are ranked fifth, sixth and 11th respectively. The Bulldogs visit both of the teams named Tigers, while also having their annual neutral site affair with the Gators. Georgia also travels to No. 16 Arizona State, while Eastern Division rival and No. 18 Tennessee come to Athens. Alabama and South Carolina got the highest number of votes of teams that are outside the Top 25. The Crimson Tide visits Georgia, while the Bulldogs will play at South Carolina this year. Two more Georgia opponents, Kentucky and Georgia Tech, also received votes.
Ultimately, the schedule combined with the No. 1 ranking can be as much of a benefit as it is a burden to the Bulldogs. Since Georgia is starting the season ranked No. 1, one can assume that they should not fall terribly far if they lose a game. This of course is barring any unforeseen losses, i.e. Georgia Southern and Central Michigan. The perceived toughness of their schedule makes this even more the case as there are not too many who see the Bulldogs finishing undefeated. If their loss is to the right team and no two BCS conference teams go undefeated, Georgia can benefit by being the perceived top team in the country and find themselves playing for a BCS Title. Much like LSU did last year.
Butler can be reached at jbutler@scoreatl.com.
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