Gurley, Marshall Looking to Continue Impressive Season in Capital One Bowl
In July, all Georgia fans knew was the uncertainty facing the Bulldogs’ rushing attack following the dismissal of then-starter and former 5-star recruit, Isaiah Crowell.
In August, a pair of freshman running backs, unproven in the SEC, became Georgia’s go-to guys to carry the rock. Now, in December, those two running backs have combined for nearly 2000 yards rushing this season and have simply astounded the Dawg Nation. Those two backs are Todd Gurley and Keith Marshall.
Gurley rushed for 1260 yards, leading the SEC, and scored 16 touchdowns this season, while Marshall rushed for 723 yards and eight touchdowns. Both highly rated coming out of high school, the duo has been one of the most impressive running backs tandems this season.
“It’s been great,” Marshall said about his freshman season.“Coming in as a freshman you hope to be able to contribute a lot, and I’ve been able to do so, so it’s just been a blessing so far.”
Gurley agreed when asked about his freshman season.
“It’s great,” Gurley said. “Just coming in and doing a lot of things I wasn’t expecting to do.”
While this season has been special for both Gurley and Marshall, they know that they are both at the beginning of their college careers and are striving to improve their game everyday.
“Keep working hard,” Marshall said. “Every off-season, every practice I’m trying to get better. I’m not focusing on what the media says or anything like that. I’m just making sure I’m doing the best I can do everyday.”
Gurley and Marshall not only share carries on the field, they also share a dorm room. While both were used to being the main ball-carrier on their high school teams, the transition to splitting time on the field this season has been smoother than expected.
“It’s been an easy transition,” Marshall said. “I think we get along so good. We’re pretty much best friends. We just try to help each other out. “
Gurley and Marshall have not only gained the approval of the fans, but also their fellow teammates. Gurley has already earned the approval of Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray
“ is unbelievable,” Murray said. “To be only a freshman and to have the season he’s had is unreal. He’s a hardworking kid,he’s a humble kid. He came in from day one, got his nose in the playbook, asking me questions, asking the older running backs questions. Making sure he knew what he was doing.”
“He’s unbelievable. I’ve never really seen a kid like that.”
Murray has been equally impressed with how well Marshall has performed this season
“Keith is just a little speedster,” Murray said. “Everything I said about Todd, it’s the same with Keith. A great kid, hardworking, a very smart kid. “
“He’s just a big play guy. You get him in open space and I don’t think there’s anyone in college football that could catch him.”
Although Gurley and Marshall are happy to earn Murray’s praise, they are happier to have earned his trust.
“I trust them with everything,” Murray said. “With protection, when it comes to their routes, making sure they have the right footwork.”
“They know what they’re doing. They’ve done a great job of learning everything.”
Gurley and Marshall are not done yet and hope to make an impact in the Capital One Bowl against Nebraska. The duo said there are a couple things to watch for from them in the Capital One bowl.
“A lot of heart and determination,” Gurley said. “Anything I can do to help will my team to a victory.”
“I’m going to try and help my team win,” Marshall said. “Do what I’ve been trying to do all season and run the ball hard.”