Georgia: Cox helps Georgia’s new QBs

ATHENS, Ga. — Tuesday’s first day of spring football practice went about as expected for Georgia’s four scholarship quarterbacks.

Fifth-year senior Joe Cox and redshirt sophomore Logan Gray handled the calls, snaps and plays better than early enrollees Aaron Murray and Zach Mettenberger.

“We had typical true freshmen who were a little nervous and had a hard time hitting their targets and not being real good with their footwork,” coach Mark Richt said. “They were still learning how to call a play in the huddle and still learning the cadence.”

Said Cox: “I was laughing today watching those guys, because I was the exact same way. I told them to hang in there, because they will be just fine.”

Cox spent time answering questions from the new quarterbacks, which he said he enjoyed. It’s all part of being the new starter.

“I was hoping one day this would come, and finally it’s here,” Cox said. “It’s a great feeling. I wouldn’t take anything back or make any changes as far as what I’ve done.”

Richt praised Gray, who will not be involved in special teams this spring so he can focus on quarterback. Gray returned six punts for 72 yards last season.

King’s first step

Richt said redshirt sophomore tailback Caleb King has a great chance to display his talents this spring and got off to a good start. King believes he is making quicker cuts as a 210-pounder after playing last season

“I need to become a better all-around player,” King said. “I believe my blocking skills have to improve some. That was pretty much my downfall last year.”

Odds and ends

Redshirt freshman Jeremy Longo missed practice with an illness, leaving Georgia with only three scholarship defensive ends. ... Richt said his son, former Clemson quarterback Jon Richt, will transfer to a Division I-AA or Division II school. ... Senior receiver Kris Durham of Calhoun turned 21 Tuesday. ... Richt and former Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy will hold a joint news conference today to announce the expansion of the national fatherhood program, All Pro Dad, into college football.