In the second week of September, South Florida went into a hostile Southeastern Conference environment and emerged with a win.
Week by week, the margin for error is shrinking.
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The centerpiece of Florida’s defense has been downsized by about 60 pounds and half a foot.
Gators defensive line coach Dan McCarney was proud of his front four after the group held Miami (Ohio) to four rushing yards last Saturday. But he knows the Florida defense faces a much tougher ground attack this week against South Florida.
Mike Blakely doesn’t know yet where he wants to play next season, but the Bradenton Manatee High running back has an idea of how coaches would like to utilize him at the college level.
There were miscues aplenty in the Gators’ season-opening win against Miami (Ohio) on Saturday, but the most lasting image of UF’s struggles is the mishandled and errant snaps between center Mike Pouncey and quarterback John Brantley.
Nobody expected the RedHawks to keep up with the Gators.
Nobody expected the RedHawks to keep up with the Gators.
Nobody expected the RedHawks to keep up with the Gators.
Fortunately for the Gators, there’s no center-quarterback exchange on defense.
John Brantley was asked this preseason if he had ever been interviewed without hearing the name “Tebow.”
The departure of Tim Tebow has raised some doubts about the Gators’ offense.
Jaye Howard expects to get his hands on ball carriers more often this season, thanks to the leadership of first-year defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, .
Mike Haywood knows how difficult it is to play in Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
Andre Debose never wanted to be “the next Percy Harvin.”
Many unproven players will take on prominent roles for the Gators this season, but perhaps no position will need to replace as much production as defensive end.
Florida’s offensive schemes will remain a bit of a mystery until the season gets underway this weekend, but count left guard Carl Johnson among those who want to see a bruising running game.
As the season creeps closer, questions are beginning to be answered.
Florida will likely be without three key players for its season opener against Miami (Ohio) next weekend.
Solutions by The State News
