Camp Opens: March 14
Spring Game: April 7
Probably the best way to describe Will Muschamp’s first year is he survived. After a solid start, the Gators struggled to a 7-6 season. However, it did include a win over Ohio State in the
It might not take Florida long to get back into the SEC race, though. The Gators have 18 returning starters and Muschamp brought in some nice recruits.
Stability Factor (1 = chaos; 5 = rock solid): 2.5
The Gators have endured two sub-par seasons – at least by Florida standards. It’s not like we need to put UF on alert, but another seven- or eight-win season may not go over too well.
Right now, Florida is not the dominant football program we all became accustomed to watching under Urban Meyer.
Under the Microscope: Quarterbacks
With John Brantley gone, Florida will wage a three-way race for quarterback this spring between Jacoby Brissett, Jeff Driskel and Tyler Murphy.
Driskel and Brissett each saw some considerable playing time last year, but Murphy will get a fair shot.
Locked and Loaded: Linebackers
Florida runs a hybrid defense that allows the Gators to line up in a 3-4 and a 4-3, and this is possible because of the play at linebacker.
The main three starters – Jon Bostic (MLB), Jelani Jenkins (WILL) and Lerentee McCray (SAM) – are back. The unit also has Darrin Kitchens back after a neck injury against Florida State.
Jockeying for Position: Running Back
With the departure of Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps, it is time for Mike Gillislee and Mack Brown to see who will get more carries this spring. Then there is former quarterback Trey Burton, who is sort of a fullback and sort of an H-back.
Name to Know: Andre Debose
Debose is the Gators’ top receiver and he has the speed and athleticism to be an All-American (or at least All-SEC). Of course, Debose’s success is contingent on the quarterback play, but Muschamp will likely figure out ways to get the ball in his hands.
Spring will be a success if…: the Gators get their swagger back
It’s not like Florida ever had 1980s’style Miami swagger, but the Gators used to play with a level of confidence that hasn’t been present the past two seasons. Florida needs an infusion of arrogance this spring.
