Despite no Southeastern Conference match-ups and a slew of cupcake opponents on this week’s slate, a few intriguing story lines still dot the SEC landscape as the 2011 season arrives this weekend.
 
BULLDOGS TAKE ON BOISE STATE IN ATLANTA
While much of the hype throughout the offseason has focused on the LSU-Oregon showdown in Dallas, another neutral site battle on Saturday could also have some national title implications.
Coming off a 6-7 season in 2010, the No. 19 Georgia Bulldogs will look to reestablish the program’s relevance in a non-conference matchup with the No. 5 Boise State Broncos at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.
Georgia coach Mark Richt is believed to be on the hot seat after consecutive disappointing seasons, and a win against the Broncos could give the Bulldogs a valuable momentum boost with a manageable schedule going forward.
Georgia kick returner Brandon Boykins recently made headlines when he challenged Boise’s special teams in a tweet.
“Dear [Boise State] Coach [Chris] Peterson, I DARE you to Kick to me. …Sincerely, Me and my #game.”
 
MUSCHAMP SET FOR GATOR DEBUT
New Florida coach Will Muschamp will make his head coaching debut when the Gators take the field Saturday against Florida Atlantic in the Swamp.
Muschamp, who has been a defensive coordinator for Auburn, LSU and Texas in the last decade, said he has not changed his game preparations as a head coach.
“You just have to prepare the same,” Mushchamp said. “Getting over to the offense and seeing the special teams, it means there’s a little bit more on your plate for sure. I plan on being emotional for the first game — that’s kind of me — but you can’t let it cloud your judgement on game him.”
 
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Contact Chris Abshire at [email protected]