And some of the Bulldogs say they already have their eyes on the polls -- which played such a crucial part in last season's campaign.
The polls and BCS rankings were crucial at the end of last season as Richt lobbied unsuccessfully for a spot in the national championship game. The Bulldogs instead made the best of their Sugar Bowl berth, where a 41-10 rout of Hawaii led to a final Number Two ranking.
Georgia returns 15 starters, including junior quarterback Matthew Stafford, from the 11-2 team and is expected to be ranked at or near the top of the preseason polls.
Stafford says all that matters is the Bulldogs open the year somewhere near Number One.
The high preseason ranking will bring more attention to the Bulldogs, including Stafford and tailback Knowshon Moreno.
Richt says his top concern is replacing kicker Brandon Coutu. The favorite is freshman Blair Walsh, who arrives in the summer. Richt also must replace offensive linemen Fernando Velasco and Chester Adams and wide receiver Sean Bailey.
The defense lost safety Kelin Johnson and defensive end Marcus Howard.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/3/207595