Entering the 2011 season, Georgia fans salivated at the thought of what was being billed as "the dream team."
Leading the highly touted recruiting class was the nation's top running back Isaiah Crowell, of Columbus. Bulldogs fans were eager for the dynamic, powerful runner to wear the red and black, awaiting every report, story, text and Twitter post about the 18-year-old athlete's decision.
The dreams of the red and black clad Bulldogs' supporters came true when Crowell lifted a bulldog puppy out from under a table at his signing day and claimed his spot as a pigskin-carrying savior of a program in need of some help in the win column.
In his first year, Crowell didn't disappoint on the field, rushing for 850 yards and five touchdowns as a true freshman.
However, as he was ready to enter his second season at Georgia, talent turned to stupidity.
The youngster already had his share of trouble, being suspended for the first quarter of the Vanderbilt game on Oct. 15 and then for the entire game on Nov. 5 against New Mexico State after, reportedly, failing a drug test.
Now, on Friday morning Crowell found himself on a whole new level of trouble. He was arrested on three weapons charges, including two felonies. He was booked at 3:37 a.m. on charges of possessing a concealed weapon, having a weapon in a school zone and having an altered ID mark on the weapon.
For Georgia and its football coach Mark Richt, that was the last straw - and rightfully so. Crowell, who is so talented and was so promising, pushed it too far.
In a sports' world where too far seems to constantly be moving further away, it's nice that the Bulldogs said enough.
They not only told an athlete that his shenanigans were too much, but told it to THE athlete - the guy that made fans eager for a revitalization to believe. Crowell not only did that but was pivotal in helping UGA reach the 2011 SEC Championship.
The move is not only refreshing but a good sign to send to future recruits and younger football players.
You can be a football player, a good football player or an even a great football player and still be held responsible for your actions.
Even at the high school level players are regarded as indispensable commodities toward a championship. Every Friday, fans will root for an Alcovy, Newton or Eastside star running back, quarterback, wide receiver or linebacker.
The temptation to think all those fans cheering for you make you infallible is great. Well now Mark Richt, one of the faces that would go on the Mount Rushmore of football in the state of Georgia declared that that is not the case.
Players suiting up on Fridays were given another notice to keep their toes in line. Granted there is not an overwhelming number of young football players touting an arsenal in their vehicle, but regardless of the crime the notice has been issued.
While Georgia football has had its off-the-field issues, another reminder to youngsters to straighten up and fly right is a good thing, not for UGA football but for all the prospective players and fans of both the game and decent young men.
