University of Georgia vs. Georgia Southern

Saturday, August 30, 2008 – Athens, Georgia

Final: 45-21

1 Georgia began play as the (#1) ranked team in the country. This is the first time the Bulldogs have been the pre-season #1, and although his team handled the pressure just fine, head coach Mark Richt said, “I’d just as soon not go through it again, to be honest with you. It did get pretty tiresome.”

38 The Bulldogs scored the first (38) points of the game. The outcome of this game was never in doubt, but the offensive unit made sure new mascot Uga VII got to enjoy this one stress-free. The Eagles did not get on the board until less than five minutes were left in the third quarter.

59 Knowshon Moreno ran the ball eight times for (59) yards and three touchdowns. He said after the game, “It feels good and exciting to get back out there. We got to prove some things to ourselves.” Moreno also caught two passes for 53 yards.

61 Kris Durham made a (61) yard touchdown reception that was the longest of the game. He caught three passes for a total of 74 yards.

95 Freshman tailback Caleb King led the Bulldogs with (95) yards on the ground. He ran the ball 12 times.

275 Matt Stafford was 13 of 31 passing for (275) yards. He did not throw an interception and his yardage total represents a career high. The Georgia offense amassed 535 total yards, which Stafford called “a testament to our offensive line.”

Game Notes: Stafford and Moreno are clearly Heisman candidates. Georgia suffered a key injury. Senior defensive tackle Jeff Owens injured his right knee in the first quarter and did not return. Coach Richt said, “I doubt he’ll be playing anytime soon.” Michael Adams (UGA President) and Damon Evans (UGA Athletic Director) presided over a pregame ceremony introducing Uga VII. Adams said, “It’s a job where you are always second to a dog.”

Up Next: Georgia vs. Central Michigan (September 6)