As Aaron Murray climbed toward the top in several statistical categories last season, it became easy to overlook something that should be very encouraging.
Murray still has half of his college career to play. Logically speaking, it should be the better half.
“I think he can be better, there’s no doubt,” said Georgia coach Mark Richt.
“Quarterbacks are measured, to a certain degree, by the number of wins and championships, things of that nature, so he’s got some room to grow in that area. Just from a statistical point of view, his touchdown to interception ratio (59-22 for his career) is pretty good, but I think he could be even better. I think he can protect the ball and make even better decisions than he made a year ago.
“I think his deep ball accuracy improved a lot, but I think it can get better. Not taking anything away from the guy because I think he’s a great player and a great leader, but I think he realizes there’s still room to grow and improve.”
As a sophomore, Murray set the school record with 35 touchdowns passes. He needs just nine TD throws to pass Eric Zeier for second place in school history and 14 to break Matthew Stafford’s school record. His 3,149 passing yards ranks tops by a sophomore. He’s on pace to break David Greene’s SEC record of 11,270 yards of total offense.
Yet, Murray felt even more confident going through his fourth spring practice.
“I could see the difference the first day of practice,” Murray said. “I know the offense. I’m not worried about my footwork or my progressions. All of that is second nature now.”
As an upperclassman, Murray is the undisputed leader of the offense.
“I definitely think my role as a leader has grown every year,” Murray said. “I’m pretty much one of the older guys on the team now.”
“Quarterback position just by nature is a leadership position,” Richt said. “But when you have some credibility that goes along with that positional title, it goes a long way.”
Murray is only 6-1, so naturally, he studies New Orleans Saints star Drew Brees, who’s about the same height.
“He’s always in a good position to throw the ball,” Murray said. “You’re not throwing over people; you’re throwing through passing lanes. It’s all about balance. It’s something I’ve got to keep working on.”