Smelley to start against Ole Miss

I don't agree with this move, but Spurrier's the coach. And, when you think about it, there are some good reasons for this choice. This is an SEC road game, and while Garcia played well last week, we need to remember that playing well against UAB is not preparation for playing well against a good SEC team on the road. Smelley's been in those situations before, and Garcia hasn't (although Smelley hasn't exactly lit it up in those situations, obviously).

Still, Ole Miss's defensive front worries me, and I think Garcia's running abilities might help us against their pass rush. At least we know that Spurrier probably won't be shy to put Garcia in if need be. He's non-committal about Garcia playing, but I have trouble believing that we won't see Garcia if Smelley stinks up the field (pun intended). Actually, I think we'll probably see both anyways. Even if Smelley performs well, expect Garcia to come in for a number of plays as a change of pace.

about 1 year ago Gamecock Man 4 comments 0 recs |

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I like it

mainly for all the reasons you just said. I really think our offense could use a 2006 Florida wrinkle, using Chris ~~Leak~~ Smelley and ~~Tebow~~ Garcia in different situations as the game dictates. Couple other moves I like — Terrance Campbell over Heath Batchelor at RG, Jason Barnes starting, Kenny’s back, Bobby Wallace to get some work. And apparently we’re wearing all-white unis — and while fashionable, not as intimidating as say all garnet or all black (which id really like to see).

by kevinramsfan on Oct 3, 2008 9:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Kevin...

Actually, the more I think about it, the more I like the decision. I’m still a little partial to Garcia being our main QB, but truth be told, he still hasn’t done a whole lot, and now is probably not the time to put him to the test. Plus, I really think Smelley gets a bad rap sometimes; like Blake Mitchell, Smelley gets a lot of flack even though he’s not the only problem. When things come together, Smelley oftentimes plays well—see last year against MSU and Kentucky. And yeah, I like the platoon idea. I’ve been saying that all year. I’m not sure Spurrier is too into the idea, though; he seems content on just going with whoever seems to be playing best, rather than rotating Garcia in for special packages.

Go Cocks!

by Gamecock Man on Oct 3, 2008 10:50 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

While I’d like to see it, I think Spurrier is too stubborn to do that quite yet. In fact, I think that’s part of why he’s starting Smelley; he knows that right now Smelley’s a better passer (and more experienced), he’s not willing to take a chance on a very popular (but green) kid like Garcia who could have more overall talent.

You’re right, this situation is almost a mirror of two years ago. I vividly remember the student section chanting Smelley’s name when Blake was out there against Georgia, but Blake was clearly the better passer (more experienced too). We’ll see what happens. I think Chris will be fine, especially with Mike Davis back out there to catch all those dump-off passes as a safety valve.

by kevinramsfan on Oct 3, 2008 5:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah...

Heh. We’re always waiting for the next best thing, aren’t we? I kind of wonder what will happen after Garcia throws a couple of INTs. Who will we want next?

Go Cocks!

by Gamecock Man on Oct 3, 2008 8:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs