Grading the Gators at the midway point -
offense edition
Quarterbacks: A
Tim Tebow has exceeded all the lofty
expectations placed upon him at the beginning of the season. The
only downside is his record, which has two blemishes. All of his
interceptions so far can be legitimately blamed on his receivers,
and he has carried the offense at times. Tebow's dominance has
overshadowed the lack of progress made by Cameron Newton, who
doesn't seem likely to play again until the Florida Atlantic
game.
Running backs: C
Kestahn Moore looked on his way to
regaining his early season form at LSU, and then he fumbled.
Against Mississippi and Auburn, coaches decided to forget about
Moore and let Tebow carry the rushing load. Moore has had more of a
roller-coaster season than any player on the team. Brandon James
has established himself as the clear No. 2 option, but his lack of
carries given Moore's struggles means that he might not be big
enough to receive consistent action yet.
Wide receivers: B
All of UF's top wideouts have shown
glimpses of greatness, except for one. Andre Caldwell, slowed by an
MCL sprain, has not gotten on track this season. Riley Cooper had
122 receiving yards and two scores against Western Kentucky.
Cornelius Ingram and Louis Murphy combined for 13 catches and 183
yards versus Troy. Percy Harvin had three-straight 100-yard games
against Tennessee, Mississippi and Auburn. But Tebow only completed
12 passes versus LSU, meaning the wideouts didn't do their
jobs.
Offensive line: A
The line has adapted well to losing
their top two starters from a year ago - center Steve Rissler to
graduation and left tackle Phil Trautwein to injury. Drew Miller
smoothly fit into Rissler's shoes leading the line, which has given
up just four sacks in six games. Guard Maurkice Pouncey could be a
freshman All-American.
