G-Day 2011

FOOTBALL

Aaron Murray threw for 122 yards and a touchdown as the Black team defeated the Red team 18-11 in the annual Georgia G-Day spring football game Saturday. The announced attendance of 43,117 set a G-Day record.

Although the Red team compiled more offensive yardage — 266 to the Black's 225 -- four turnovers (three fumbles and an interception) cost them the win.

"Today was a great day with beautiful weather," said head coach Mark Richt. "We managed to make it out without any injuries and I felt both sides played extremely well."

At halftime, the Red team held a 5-3 lead after it picked up an early safety and both teams traded field goals.

In the second half, both teams picked up a rushing touchdown, but a 28-yard screen pass from Aaron Murray to Branden Smith gave the Black team the only passing touchdown of the day and proved to be the difference in the game.

"We made some great plays on offense and our running game was outstanding," said Murray. "I think we moved the ball really well today. We all fell positive about who we are, what we are about and what we can do this fall."

Murray completed 12 of 17 passes for 122 yards with a touchdown. Hutson Mason of the Red team recorded 109 yards through the air with an interception.

The Red team's Carlton Thomas led all rushers with 48 yards on 13 carries and a touchdown. Ken Malcome paced the Black squad with 39 yards on 7 carries and also recorded a touchdown.

Defensively, Chase Vasser and Alec Ogletree both made seven tackles each to lead the Black and Red teams, respectively.

Reuben Faloughi added three sacks for the Black team and Derrick Lott had two for the Red including a sack of Murray in the end zone for a safety.

The rosters for each team was selected by two team captains in a draft earlier this week. Murray and Brandon Boykin (who sat out the game with injury) represented the Black team, while Ben Jones and Christian Robinson picked for the Red.

"I think the draft brought a lot of excitement to the game," said Jones. "It was interesting to try something different and I think it worked out well."

Jones has switched jerseys this spring, he has worn 61 the past three years and will wear number 60 this season to honor his father.