GEORGIA VS. MISSOURI
MISSOURI
Porous pass defense
When Missouri breaks from its huddle and trots up to the line of scrimmage, there's no telling what formation it will use—the regular T, split-T, wing T or slot T. For this reason the Tigers are called a multiple-offense team, which suits them fine. On New Year's Day they may even try a few plays from the single wing, as they did on occasion during the season, just to test their effect on Georgia. Perhaps Missouri's most unorthodox and successful maneuver this season was the quick kick, executed by second-string Quarterback Bob Haas from the left-halfback position, taking the ball on a direct snap from center. The Missouri line is big and not easily run through. It can, however, be passed over and around. Because Missouri is a slow team, its pass defense is poor. To guard against long touchdown passes, the secondary makes itself vulnerable to the shorties. Missouri encountered three fine passers this season, Richie Lucas, Don Meredith and Gale Weidner, and each had a lovely time passing Missouri to defeat. Unless the Missouri line can keep Georgia's quarterbacks under constant pressure, Missouri's defensive backfield can expect a busy day.
GEORGIA
Victory through air power
Any time, anyplace, no matter what the score, chances are that Georgia will pass. Never mind the quick kick or the third-down punt. Just give them that football and let them throw. Coach Wally Butts has devised an intricate array of pass patterns, and he is fortunate to have two men who are adept at hitting the zigzagging receivers. One is Francis Tarkenton, a junior with the professional habit of waiting until a receiver is open before throwing. Although Tarkenton tosses a long one now and then, he is better at the short pass. Charley Britt takes care of the long-distance numbers. Georgia passes so often that opposing secondaries play back, thereby making things easier for Georgia's runners. It isn't really a good running attack that Georgia has, but it's the only one it has. When Georgia is forced to punt, it punts in style with Bobby Walden, a good one. The line is quick and tough and eager to get the initial charge. The pass defense, especially on the deep ones, is tight. The Orange Bowl, then, brings together an interesting combination: a team that has had trouble stopping passes and a team that can pass. It should be fun for Georgia.
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ILLUSTRATION
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MEL WEST: FLEET OUTSIDE RUNNER
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PAT DYE: HARD-HITTING TACKLER