About halfway through preseason practices, there’s not a lot of separation among the top four players competing at tailback, according to coach Mark Richt.

“I think they’re all pretty good backs,” Richt said. “I think they’re all going to get their opportunity to play throughout the year. Who’s going to be the starter? I don’t know. We’ll be anxious to see all of them really. I will be.”

Redshirt sophomore Ken Malcome, who entered the preseason in the No. 1 spot, has been diligent to make sure he understands everything about his job, Richt said.

“I like the way he runs the ball; he’s got good vision,” Richt said. “He finishes, runs extremely well. He’s just got a good body lean when he runs the ball. He protects the ball well and is a must-improved pass protector.”

Freshmen Todd Gurley and Keith Marshall and senior Richard Samuel are competing with Malcome in the backfield.