Earlier quoted context omitted.
For starters: What is the #1 reason to visit a project page? To download the source. Does the #2 reason come even close? No. So why in the world is the repo URL not on the front page, and easy for me to copy/paste into a terminal? Why? Github even has a button that will copy it to the clipboard for you!
Meh. The term 'Project' embodies much much more than just 'code'. A Project is made of its many components: team, community, bug trackers, documentation, resources, news feed and code (I've certainly omitted several other things). Only after looking at these elements can you get a picture of the project which will tell you a lot about it. How is the support? Do developers even care? Are they serious at issues handlin…
The front page of a Google Project gives you no indication if the project is being maintained.
When I go to a project on Github this is my flow:
1) When was the last check in? 18 months ago? Pass. Recent? Yes, please.
2) Usage examples? No? Maybe if I really need you. Yes? I'll at least give you shot.
3) Copy git url to the clipboard and then clone it.
Google Code doesn't do a good job of any of these!