Malcome, Hall Are Surprise Starters For Georgia

ATHENS, Ga. (AP) – Georgia is opening its season with a backfield combination no one could have predicted a year ago.

Tailback Ken Malcome and fullback Merritt Hall are the surprise picks to line up behind quarterback Aaron Murray when No. 6 Georgia plays Buffalo on Saturday.

One year ago, Malcome quit the team for one day because he believed he had no chance to play.

Hall spent 2011 as an obscure walk-on and scout team player.

Malcome says he is glad he stayed at Georgia. He is leading a tailback committee that also includes freshmen Todd Gurley and Keith Marshall.

Hall caught coach Mark Richt’s eye with his physical blocking in spring practice. He was awarded a scholarship this summer and will start ahead of senior Richard Samuel.