By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Athens, GA

Georgia coach Mark Richt has relieved quarterback Aaron Murray of interview duties this week as the No. 3 Bulldogs prepare for their blockbuster showdown against No. 2 Alabama in the SEC championship game.

According to Claude Felton, Georgia's director of sports communications, Richt has approved Murray's request that he be relieved of interview duties this week.

"He told somebody he just wanted to hook up with his family," Richt said. "I don't know if his family was going to try to drive home after the game because it was not a late game or what. I think he wanted to get out and spend some time with his family before they took off."

Murray became the first player in SEC history to pass for more than 3,000 yards passing in three consecutive seasons. He comes into the SEC game with 3,201 yards with 30 touchdowns and 7 interceptions, which gives him 9,399 yards, 89 and 29 for his career.

Against Georgia Tech, Murray went 14-of-17 for 215 yards and two touchdowns. Since the fourth quarter of the Florida game, Murray has thrown for 14 TDs and no interceptions.

For its part, , Alabama comes into Saturday's game ranked No. 1 in the nation in total defense (233.67 yards per game) and scoring defense (9.25 points per game), No. 2 in rush defense (77 yards per game) and No. 3 in pass defense (156.67 yards per game).

Senior linebacker Christian Robinson, one of Murray's roommates and best friends, defended the quarterback's decision.

"I don't think it has anything to do with the media," said Robinson "I don't think he's trying to send a message. I just think he's so dedicated this week to being prepared. He wasn't at the house (Sunday); he was here studying film all day."

"He works his tail off every day and people don't see that. He just wants to be completely ready and not have any distractions. He's just trying to prepare and I don't think it's bigger than that," Robinson added.

 

Georgia QB Murray Shuns Media Ahead Of Showdown vs Alabama