The three-man quarterback rotation received a lot of hype heading into the South Carolina game, but it didn’t live up to expectations.
Freshmen Jordan Reed and Trey Burton combined for only 23 rushing yards on nine carries and completed four passes against the Gamecocks. Instead, starter John Brantley stayed in for most of the game and threw 31 times.
Coach Urban Meyer said he panicked when the Gators fell behind early and ignored the game plan to get all three players involved. But Meyer is making sure not to make the same mistake against Appalachian State on Saturday.
On Thursday, he said he expects Burton and Reed to be more involved in the offense this week. However, the pace of the game will dictate those plans.
“A lot of it is based on flow,” Meyer said. “But we script a few series and we get those guys in the game. A lot of it is how they are playing and how we are moving the ball.”
Injuries: Same thing, different week for running back Jeff Demps.
Demps (foot) will be available to play Saturday, but he will be limited. The junior has played sparingly since he was injured against Tennessee on Sept. 18. Demps has carried the ball 16 times in the last five games.
“He’s out there, but he’s not practicing,” Meyer said.
“He hasn’t practiced in the last six or seven weeks. I mean he kind of goes through the motions because he’s a tough kid. But Jeff Demps is one of those guys that goes 40 yards every time he touches the ball — devastating.”
Defensive tackle Jaye Howard will also play against Appalachian State.However, linebacker A.J. Jones will miss the home finale with a hamstring injury.
Meyer to return next season: On Monday, Meyer said he could not guarantee his return as UF’s coach next season.
But he clarified those comments Thursday, when he said nothing will get in the way of his return. He put the possibility of coaching the Gators for a seventh season at 100 percent.
