BUCK BELUE

680 THE FAN, ATLANTA – Let’s imagine there is a college football season. Yeah, let’s roll with that. Although, it does seem possible that we might not. But let’s say we do.
The new Georgia offense will be highly scrutinized. Todd Monken steps in as the new coordinator. Jamie Newman is expected to be the new quarterback. Just that new combination alone should bring a new look, which was needed. It was a good time to freshen things up. Go a little more modern.

Think Clemson offense. Spread the field. Sling it deep. Get the ball to the playmakers in space. Take advantage of a mobile QB. Really run the R-P-O. But don’t expect to see one of those pass-happy Air Raid attacks. The Bulldogs under Coach Kirby Smart will still run the ball.

It hurts Georgia’s offense to not have spring football practice. There is no getting around that. Coach Monken will have to push back the on-the-field install. Not a lot of time to rep it either.
Newman needs time with George Pickens on the field. And obviously right now, that’s not going to happen. Jamie is back home in North Carolina. Pickens is back in Alabama. The hope now is that they can connect quickly, when practice does start. The reps bring chemistry and confidence, which is critical for a QB & WR.

It’ll be interesting to see how Coach Monken handles his mobile quarterback. Newman ran it 180 times for Wake Forest last season. With the talent the ‘Dogs have at running back, I’d guess that Newman won’t run it that much this season. But Monken has so many ways he can turn Jamie Newman loose: he can keep it on the R-P-O, he can get him out on the corner off the run-action bootleg and call his number in the red zone with a lead blocker. Plus, Newman can be dangerous out of the pocket, extending plays.

Jamie Newman also throws a nice deep ball. He gives his receivers an opportunity to win some 50/50 balls down the field. The video I’ve seen shows him being able to identify the best match-up too. Dude can play ball. His rep says he can lead effectively too. His experience gives them a chance to win big.

In spite of the limited prep time, much is expected from Monken & Newman. Can’t wait to see it!

Listen to Buck on “Buck & Kincade,” weekdays Noon to 3pm on 680 The Fan!