The Georgia Bulldogs used their first day in full pads to engage in a scrimmage-like workout on Monday, and coach Mark Richt says he liked what he saw.

For two hours the 2011 edition of Bulldogs participated in what Richt called a “competition day” in which the offense took on the defense.

While the coach released no statistics, he said the edge went to Todd Grantham’s defensive unit.

“I thought it was a pretty darn good first day in pads,” Richt said. “In full pads, you’re able to compete. The defense won a close, spirited competition.”

Competition days involve scorekeeping by the coaching staff, and points are assigned to each drill.

“There were some plays made,” Richt said. “When you compete, you get after it and try to win. And that’s OK because it gets the blood flowing.”

UGA defensive end DeAngelo Tyson said he was glad the first day in pads was an intense one.

“We have a good defense and good players on defense,” Tyson said. “I thought it was a good practice today on both sides of the ball. When you keep score like that, it makes it more exciting and you’ve got even more motivation and focus.

“I was pleased with the energy today. I saw guys on defense running to the ball and making plays.”

Even the freshmen were happy to step things up at practice.

After four days working out in helmets and shorts, there was some excitement in getting to dress out in full combat year.

“I overheard one of the freshman say, ‘We get to wear the silver britches today,’ ” Richt said. “I thought that was kind of neat.”

Today the Bulldogs will begin two-a-day practices at the Woodruff practice fields.

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