Analyisis of the UGA - Louisiana-Lafayette Game Saturday Sept. 4

How much can Bulldog fans take from a victory over a "hyphen" team? Well, the fact that UGA soundly defeated a team they should walk over is a positive. In recent years the Bulldogs have often played down to their opponents abilities. I especially liked the killer instinct exhibited with the touchdown pass from backup QB Hutson Mason to Logan Gray. Fans have to take into account that there were more stars in the "police line-up" than the starting line-up - a discipline issue that could be the one thing holding the Bulldogs back from a possible BCS game. Here's the break down.

Offense:
Aaron Murray is a huge step-up from last year. While his numbers weren't mind blowing and he did make a few ill advised throws, he showed great poise and presence. He will have to be more judicious when breaking the pocket - he won't stay very healthy running head first into some of the big, fast linebackers of the SEC. He showed a nice touch on his passes and, most importantly, looked the defense off his intended target. The only ill-advised throw was a jump ball into the end zone. The running game was only average. Part of this was due to Ealey's absence and part due to the excellent field position the Bulldogs enjoyed. There was not much opportunity for long, grind it out drives. Caleb King looked good on his one TD jaunt and Carlton Thomas provides the scat back option Richt loves, but this area must show improvement. The receivers made some nice grabs, but also had some key misses. Logan Gray missed what may have been a touchdown and Kris Durham bobbled an easy catch that the defensive back then intercepted. Again, AJ Green's return should improve this area. The O-line play was steady, but several false start penalties (especially two at the end of the first half) marks a need for increased focus and more discipline. Game rating B+.

Defense:
Any time you hold a Division I team to under 150 yards and get 3 turnovers, you've had a successful defensive day. Coach Grantham's group was aggressive and energetic. The Bulldog defense dominated, with the exception of a brief lapse by Bacari Rambo that led to a big play score during the "twilight zone" period the Dawgs entered just before half. Many fans were concerned that the switch to the 3-4 would make Georgia vulnerable to the run, but La-Lafayette gained only 32 yards on the ground. Justin Houston will be a tough assignment for even the leagues top tackles, and I like the fact that Rajin Cajun offensive players were consistently driven backwards by Bulldog defenders. The biggest positive may have been the absence of defensive penalties - especially those dreaded "taunting" calls. I believe this defense may be the surprise of the SEC. Next week will surely tell. Grade - A-

Special Teams:
Drew Butler averaged about 48 yards per punt, Blair Walsh was perfect on field goal attempts (plus a 52 yard field goal), kick coverage was solid and the return team gave UGA excellent field position. Except for a 5 yard running-into-the-kicker penalty and a ball the coverage team let bounce into the end zone, this unit was nearly perfect. Brandon Boykin or Branden Smith is almost sure to break a long return this season - don't be surprised if both take one back this year. This unit is crucial for success in the SEC and must keep up the improved play. Grade A.

Coaching:
Mike Bobo put his quarterback in good situations with his play calling. He seems really in tune with Murray's strengths and game planned accordingly. Todd Grantham's defensive scheme was almost flawless. Mark Richt has assembled a strong staff and allowed the team to put the Rajin Cajuns away. If not for the disciplinary issues (which, of course are not totally the coaches fault) this grade would be higher. Grade B+.

Overall, UGA looked good in winning a game it was highly favored in. Next week will be a much tougher test, as South Carolina looked stronger than I had anticipated. If Aaron Murray can avoid being hypnotized by the swaying Williams-Brice Stadium stands and Akeem Dent and the Bulldog D continue their strong play, Georgia should be traveling back to Athens with win number 2.