Dec. 8, 2003

LAS VEGAS - UNLV senior running back Larry Croom got an early Christmas present when he was extended an invitation to play in the Blue-Gray All-Star Classic, event organizers announced Monday.

After taking a one-year hiatus, the postseason all-star game is back in 2003 at a new venue, on the campus of Troy State University. Kickoff is set for Christmas Day at noon PT live on ESPN2 from Movie Gallery Veterans Stadium in Troy, Ala.

"It's definitely an honor that such a prestigious game has selected me to play," Croom said. "I'm excited to be part of something with such a long tradition and it will give me another chance to show what I can do."

Croom, a former transfer from the University of Arizona who took over as the starting tailback in 2003, overcame an early-season injury to rush for 932 yards and three touchdowns this fall. His 84.7 YPG ranked fourth in the Mountain West Conference and 47th nationally. The native of Long Beach, Calif., turned in three 100-yard rushing performances this fall, including a season-high 146 yards on just 20 carries in UNLV's season-ending victory at Wyoming. He also was third on the Rebel squad with 21 receptions for 118 yards.

Croom is only the fourth Rebel to be invited to the Blue-Gray. He joins former UNLV free safety and current Denver Bronco Sam Brandon, who starred in the 2001 game, and a pair of defensive tackles: Tiger Townes (1993) and Aaron Moog (1984). This marks the fourth straight year at least one Rebel was invited to a major postseason game.

The Blue-Gray Classic, which began in 1939, is the first postseason all-star game each year. The Blue Gray Association, which operates the game, is wholly owned by the Montgomery Lions Club. Proceeds benefit sight conservation projects and youth charities.