University of Kentucky wide receiver Kio Sanford has acceptedan invitation to play in the Kelly Tires Blue-Gray Classic onThursday, Dec. 25, in Montgomery, Ala.

The Blue-Gray Classic, a game between collegiate all-starteams, will begin at noon EST on Christmas Day and will betelevised by ABC. This is the third straight year that at leastone Wildcat has played in the Blue-Gray. Defensive back VanHiles and defensive end Chris Ward participated last year.Sanford also will play in the Senior Bowl all-star game on Jan.17.

Sanford’s best year as a wide receiver came during his seniorseason. He caught 36 passes for 526 yards and five TDs in the1997 campaign, despite being fully healthy for only five gamesbecause of a sprained ankle. Sanford caught six passes for 120yards vs. Louisville, including an 80-yard touchdown that isthe fifth-longest pass play in school history. He caught ninepasses for 147 yards in the season finale vs. Tennessee,including an 87-yard touchdown that is the second-longest passplay in school history.

Sanford is also an accomplished kickoff and punt returner. Heholds four Southeastern Conference and 10 University ofKentucky records for kickoff and punt returns.

Sanford, who came to UK from Lexington’s Bryan Station HighSchool, has completed his bachelor’s degree in social work andis working on his master’s in the same field of study.