GatorZone.com will be in New York on Wednesday to cover Nike's release of a Gator-themed Pro Combat uniform that will be worn for at least one game during the 2010 season. Florida is one of the 10 college football programs that have been selected to wear the uniquely-designed Nike uniforms this fall. The dates of the games will be announced at the unveiling of the uniforms on Wednesday at 10 a.m. and interested fans can watch live streaming video of the press conference below.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Florida Gators football notes from Tuesday
Prior to today’s practice, a handful of Gators players and coaches spoke to the media in the visitor’s locker at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
Florida will have its toughest practice of the week this afternoon in preparation for Miami (Ohio).
Here are some notes from what was said this morning:
– Defensive line coach Dan McCarney said the team plans to red-shirt freshmen DEs Lynden Trail and Leon Orr. Florida does not have to designate them as red-shirts and can wait through the season to see if injuries force those two to play. “They’re not ready to play in the SEC, not ready to play winning football,” McCarney said.
– WR Andre Debose’s move from slot to X-receiver might not be permanent. Debose said the coaching staff did not tell him either way and offensive coordinator Steve Addazio said they are doing it to make Debose more versatile.
– Debose has been going against CB Janoris Jenkins in practices. “I got him a couple times, but he always gets the upper hand,” Debose said. “He’s older.”
– RB Emmanuel Moody said he expects a huge year from Chris Rainey, who will play slot receiver and line up in the backfield. Rainey is supposed play a Percy Harvin-type roll, but Moody thinks he will exceed Harvin’s production. “He might have a little more YAC than Percy,” Moody said, referring to yards after contact.
– Moody believes there is “a chance” of Florida having two 1,000-yard rushers this year.
– Moody made some interesting comments about his upbringing in Coppell, Texas. He said as early as Pee Wee football he heard people say “only black running backs make it.”
– DT Brandon Marsh was added as a sixth captain on this year’s team.
Compliments of Gator Bytes
Florida will have its toughest practice of the week this afternoon in preparation for Miami (Ohio).
Here are some notes from what was said this morning:
– Defensive line coach Dan McCarney said the team plans to red-shirt freshmen DEs Lynden Trail and Leon Orr. Florida does not have to designate them as red-shirts and can wait through the season to see if injuries force those two to play. “They’re not ready to play in the SEC, not ready to play winning football,” McCarney said.
– WR Andre Debose’s move from slot to X-receiver might not be permanent. Debose said the coaching staff did not tell him either way and offensive coordinator Steve Addazio said they are doing it to make Debose more versatile.
– Debose has been going against CB Janoris Jenkins in practices. “I got him a couple times, but he always gets the upper hand,” Debose said. “He’s older.”
– RB Emmanuel Moody said he expects a huge year from Chris Rainey, who will play slot receiver and line up in the backfield. Rainey is supposed play a Percy Harvin-type roll, but Moody thinks he will exceed Harvin’s production. “He might have a little more YAC than Percy,” Moody said, referring to yards after contact.
– Moody believes there is “a chance” of Florida having two 1,000-yard rushers this year.
– Moody made some interesting comments about his upbringing in Coppell, Texas. He said as early as Pee Wee football he heard people say “only black running backs make it.”
– DT Brandon Marsh was added as a sixth captain on this year’s team.
Compliments of Gator Bytes
Gators add a Sixth Football Captain
Five Florida football players – redshirt senior linebacker A.J. Jones and seniors safety Ahmad Black, center Mike Pouncey, defensive end Justin Trattou and DE Duke Lemmens – were voted as captains by their teammates Saturday, according to head coach Urban Meyer. On Tuesday, Meyer said that redshirt senior defensive tackle Lawrence Marsh has been added, giving the Gators six captains this year.
Gators Redshirt 2 Football Players
Freshmen defensive end Lynden Trail and defensive tackle Leon Orr will both be redshirted for the 2010-11 season, according to assistant head coach and defensive line coach Dan McCarney. “They’re not ready to play in the SEC, not ready to play winning football,” McCarney said, according to the Palm Beach Post‘s Jason Lieser.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Gators shuffle their offensive line
With offensive tackles Xavier Nixon (knee) and Matt Patchan (wrist) both out for the opener, Florida coach Urban Meyer said senior Marcus Gilbert would move from right tackle to left tackle this Saturday.
There was some talk about Mike Pouncey possibly moving out to tackle from center, but Meyer wanted to keep Pouncey at center, particularly with John Brantley making his first start at quarterback.
The Gators will have four senior starters in their offensive line in the opener. Maurice Hurt will move into the starting lineup at right tackle. Carl Johnson will stay at left guard, and the only non-senior starting will be junior James Wilson at right guard.
In other injury news, Meyer said defensive tackle Terron Sanders probably won't play this weekend because of a sprained knee. Redshirt freshman tight end Jordan Reed is questionable with a knee bruise.
And in personnel moves, Meyer said redshirt freshman Andre Debose has moved from the inside slot position to the outside receiver position behind Deonte Thompson. The Gators have been pleased with what they've gotten out of Chris Rainey in the slot position this preseason.
The Gators also released their depth chart Monday, and as many as 16 true freshmen have a chance to play this season. Safety Matt Elam is the likely starter at the nickel position when Florida goes to five defensive backs.
Compliments of Chris Low of ESPN
There was some talk about Mike Pouncey possibly moving out to tackle from center, but Meyer wanted to keep Pouncey at center, particularly with John Brantley making his first start at quarterback.
The Gators will have four senior starters in their offensive line in the opener. Maurice Hurt will move into the starting lineup at right tackle. Carl Johnson will stay at left guard, and the only non-senior starting will be junior James Wilson at right guard.
In other injury news, Meyer said defensive tackle Terron Sanders probably won't play this weekend because of a sprained knee. Redshirt freshman tight end Jordan Reed is questionable with a knee bruise.
And in personnel moves, Meyer said redshirt freshman Andre Debose has moved from the inside slot position to the outside receiver position behind Deonte Thompson. The Gators have been pleased with what they've gotten out of Chris Rainey in the slot position this preseason.
The Gators also released their depth chart Monday, and as many as 16 true freshmen have a chance to play this season. Safety Matt Elam is the likely starter at the nickel position when Florida goes to five defensive backs.
Compliments of Chris Low of ESPN
Kelly Murphy Named SEC Offensive Player of the Week
Junior Florida right-side/setter Kelly Murphy (Wilmington, Ill.) has been named the Southeastern Conference’s Offensive Player of the Week for her stellar performance at the Runza/AVCA Showcase this past weekend, the league offices in Birmingham, Ala., announced on Monday afternoon.
Murphy helped lead the Gators to a pair of wins against top-10 teams, as Florida defeated No. 9 Iowa State and No. 2 Nebraska. She was named to the all-tournament team, averaging 3.00 kills per set on .400 hitting with 5.44 assists per set, 2.00 digs per set and 0.56 blocks per set over the course of the weekend for an average of 3.50 points per set.
Murphy was nearly unstoppable in the Gators’ upset of second-ranked Nebraska. She turned in her 16th career triple-double on Sunday, tying her career high with 20 kills on .514 hitting with 23 assists, 10 digs and three blocks for 22.5 total points.
Against ninth-ranked Iowa State, Murphy posted seven kills, 26 assists, eight digs and two block solos. She played every point of every rotation for the Gators during their nine sets this past weekend, setting and attacking in a 6-2 offensive scheme.
The honor is the third of Murphy’s career, also being named SEC Offensive Player of the Week on Sept. 29, 2008 and Oct. 19, 2009.
Florida returns to action on Friday when it plays host to the Campus USA Credit Union Invitational. The Gators first face Albany at 12:30 p.m. ET in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. The match will be carried live on GatorZone.com with Cory Stephens.
SEC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK (AUG. 30, 2010)
SEC Offensive Player of the Week: Kelly Murphy, Florida
SEC Defensive Player of the Week: Hannah Lawing, South Carolina
SEC Freshman of the Week: Paris Perret, Mississippi State
Murphy helped lead the Gators to a pair of wins against top-10 teams, as Florida defeated No. 9 Iowa State and No. 2 Nebraska. She was named to the all-tournament team, averaging 3.00 kills per set on .400 hitting with 5.44 assists per set, 2.00 digs per set and 0.56 blocks per set over the course of the weekend for an average of 3.50 points per set.
Murphy was nearly unstoppable in the Gators’ upset of second-ranked Nebraska. She turned in her 16th career triple-double on Sunday, tying her career high with 20 kills on .514 hitting with 23 assists, 10 digs and three blocks for 22.5 total points.
Against ninth-ranked Iowa State, Murphy posted seven kills, 26 assists, eight digs and two block solos. She played every point of every rotation for the Gators during their nine sets this past weekend, setting and attacking in a 6-2 offensive scheme.
The honor is the third of Murphy’s career, also being named SEC Offensive Player of the Week on Sept. 29, 2008 and Oct. 19, 2009.
Florida returns to action on Friday when it plays host to the Campus USA Credit Union Invitational. The Gators first face Albany at 12:30 p.m. ET in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. The match will be carried live on GatorZone.com with Cory Stephens.
SEC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK (AUG. 30, 2010)
SEC Offensive Player of the Week: Kelly Murphy, Florida
SEC Defensive Player of the Week: Hannah Lawing, South Carolina
SEC Freshman of the Week: Paris Perret, Mississippi State
Florida's McKenzie Barney is SEC Offensive Soccer Player of the Week
University of Florida's McKenzie Barney (Sammamish, Wash./Skyline H.S.) is the Southeastern Conference’s Offensive Soccer Player of the week, the league office announced on Monday. Other award winners this week include Kentucky senior Sydney Hiance (SEC Defensive Player of the Week) and Georgia freshman Alexa Newfield (SEC Freshman of the Week).
This is the second consecutive SEC Offensive Player of the Week honor for the Gator program as junior Tahnai Annis received the award following the season’s opening weekend.
Barney scored her first goal of the weekend four minutes in against Florida Atlantic on Friday night in a 3-0 win. Annis back heeled a ball to Taylor Travis, who threaded the needle through two defenders on a pass to Barney who nailed it in from seven yards out.
On Sunday afternoon’s victory over San Diego State, Barney scored the only goal of the match 40 seconds into the second half. The goal was set up by Ashlee Elliott’s pass to Erika Tymrak, who then dribbled through the defense and attracted the attention of Barney’s defender, freeing her up for the game-winning goal.
The two goals on the weekend extended Barney’s home scoring streak, which is now up to six consecutive home appearances with a goal. On the season Barney is tied for the team lead in goals (3), with Annis, and assists (2), with Tymrak. She is the lone team leader in points (8) and game-winning goals (2).
Florida makes its only home appearance for the month of September next Friday when Jacksonville (2-2, 0-0 Atlantic Sun) visits Pressly Stadium. Match time is set for 7 p.m. The match can be heard on WRUF AM 850, by simulcast on Cox Channel 946 (Gainesville/Ocala) or on www.GatorZone.com, with Adam Schick and Matthew Stubbington covering the action. Live, streaming video of the match is available on GatorVision Online – check out the GatorVision on www.GatorZone.com for complete information.
The first 1,000 fans will receive a free 2010 Gator Soccer replica jersey t-shirt courtesy of Gatorade. Also, the first 200 youth soccer players Friday will receive orange pompoms. Throughout the match Youth Soccer Month T-Shirts will be tossed throughout the crowd.
Outspoken Mike Pouncey backs off criticisms of teammates
Pouncey, Florida’s center and one of five team captains, made some brash comments about his teammates during training camp. Now that the season is about to begin, he is changing his tune (not that that’s a bad thing).
Here are two examples from today’s press conference:
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– Aug. 18: “You’ll see on Saturdays who are the guys that toughed it out through camp and didn’t fake an injury. There’s a lot, man, but those guys ain’t going to play.”
Today: “It was just a joke. It was a message trying to get those guys to come back to practice because we’re going to need everybody on this team this year to be successful.”
*************************************************************************
– Aug. 24: “The freshmen need to shut their mouths and just come play. They haven’t done nothing on Saturday and most of the fans don’t even know who they are. Until they prove themselves, they just need to sit back and let the older guys play. That whole recruiting class is cocky. I hate when guys come in and talk too much and don’t show nothing on the field. But with this great recruiting class that we have, all of them played good, but it’s time for them to shut up.”
Today: “We came here as Gators and we’re going to leave as Gators. I didn’t mean to separate them. I know it came out that way, but I love all those guys. I’m going to respect them and they’re going to respect me.”
*************************************************************************
It makes an observer wonder which one he really meant. Was there some truth to Pouncey’s initial comments or did his mouth just run away from him in front of the cameras? Either way, it’s all peace and love and unity from here on out.
Here are two examples from today’s press conference:
*************************************************************************
– Aug. 18: “You’ll see on Saturdays who are the guys that toughed it out through camp and didn’t fake an injury. There’s a lot, man, but those guys ain’t going to play.”
Today: “It was just a joke. It was a message trying to get those guys to come back to practice because we’re going to need everybody on this team this year to be successful.”
*************************************************************************
– Aug. 24: “The freshmen need to shut their mouths and just come play. They haven’t done nothing on Saturday and most of the fans don’t even know who they are. Until they prove themselves, they just need to sit back and let the older guys play. That whole recruiting class is cocky. I hate when guys come in and talk too much and don’t show nothing on the field. But with this great recruiting class that we have, all of them played good, but it’s time for them to shut up.”
Today: “We came here as Gators and we’re going to leave as Gators. I didn’t mean to separate them. I know it came out that way, but I love all those guys. I’m going to respect them and they’re going to respect me.”
*************************************************************************
It makes an observer wonder which one he really meant. Was there some truth to Pouncey’s initial comments or did his mouth just run away from him in front of the cameras? Either way, it’s all peace and love and unity from here on out.
Brantley era, life after Tebow begin for Florida
Don't expect Florida quarterback John Brantley to take a victory lap.
Don't expect him to scream in the huddle, run up and down the sideline or lower a shoulder into defenders. Don't expect him to wear bible verses under his eyes, go on mission trips or make any promises. Don't expect him to be Florida's short-yardage specialist or the team's emotional leader.
Don't expect him to be Tim Tebow.
"I'm just a regular dude from Ocala," Brantley said.
A laid-back guy with a southern drawl and a haircut straight from the pages of a teen magazines, Brantley will make his first career start Saturday when the fourth-ranked Gators open the season against Miami (Ohio). His goal is to "keep this ball rolling." He also wants to be himself, which is nothing like Tebow.
That might help him emerge from Tebow's long and illustrious shadow.
"Waited three years, so I'm very excited for this one moment to come," Brantley said Monday. "I'm just going to try to go out there and play my own game. ... Just be myself. I don't have to be anyone I'm not. That's what I'm going to do. I'm going to go out there and play my own game."
Florida coach Urban Meyer applauded Brantley's approach. Meyer even sent a text to Brantley's father the other day that read, "Enjoy the ride. Your son is growing up to be a man."
"I hope I get that same text someday from someone because that's really cool," Meyer said. "What he's done here in the last year is exactly what we needed to have happen. He's growing up. He's the leader of this team, and he's Johnny Brantley. That's good enough for us."
Brantley, a 6-foot-3 junior, spent three years waiting for this opportunity. He came to Florida a year after Tebow, knowing he might have to sit behind the bulky left-hander. He certainly could have transferred and might even have become a star elsewhere.
But Brantley didn't leave _ not after Tebow became the first sophomore to win the Heisman in 2007 and not after Tebow decided to return for his senior year in 2009.
Instead, he simply served as Tebow's long-standing understudy.
"I've grown up a lot," Brantley said. "Taking those three years helped me mature and grow up and learn this game, and I got to learn from one of the best quarterbacks that'll ever play."
Not only is Brantley trying to replace one of college football's all-time greats, he also has Florida lineage.
Brantley grew up in nearby Ocala rooting for the Gators and wanting to follow in the footsteps of his dad and uncle. His father, John Brantley III, threw for 1,334 yards and 11 touchdowns in 1978. His uncle, Scot Brantley, was a two-time All-Southeastern Conference linebacker for the Gators (1978-79).
The latest Brantley could be the best of the bunch.
"I think the way John Brantley plays is going to surprise a lot of people," guard Carl Johnson said.
Meyer and offensive coordinator Steve Addazio tweaked the spread offense to tailor Brantley's strengths, putting him under center more and eliminating many designed quarterback runs.
It's not that Brantley is slow, though. He's fairly mobile, but with freshmen behind him, the Gators don't want to expose their starter to extra hits.
Plus, Brantley's best attributes are arm strength, accuracy and anticipation.
Appearing mostly in mop-up duty as Tebow's backup, Brantley completed 75 percent of his passes for 410 yards and seven touchdowns last season.
This certainly will be different.
No one really knows what to expect, either. Larry Rentz replaced 1966 Heisman Trophy winner Steve Spurrier and lost four games. Doug Johnson replaced 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel and lost two games.
Brantley's teammates have been overly positive about the transition. Why?
"It's kind of like going into a battle with a general that you really don't like and you really don't trust," Carl Johnson said. "If you do that, then everyone's going to die. No one will have great success. We have to be behind him 100 percent, up or down. He's ready to go."
Brantley has gotten tips from several former Florida quarterbacks, including his father, Tebow, Chris Leak, Doug Johnson, Shane Matthews and Kerwin Bell. They all told him the same thing.
"I keep reiterating to him to be yourself," said Bell, Brantley's high school coach who's now the head coach at Jacksonville University. "Understand your strengths, understand what will make you successful and play to those. Don't try to be like Tebow. Don't try to run over people. Don't try to do some of the stuff that Tebow was so good at because there's not many like Tim Tebow. Right off the bat, he said, 'Coach, believe me, I know.'
"If he continues that mindset, he's going to have a fantastic year."
Don't expect him to scream in the huddle, run up and down the sideline or lower a shoulder into defenders. Don't expect him to wear bible verses under his eyes, go on mission trips or make any promises. Don't expect him to be Florida's short-yardage specialist or the team's emotional leader.
Don't expect him to be Tim Tebow.
"I'm just a regular dude from Ocala," Brantley said.
A laid-back guy with a southern drawl and a haircut straight from the pages of a teen magazines, Brantley will make his first career start Saturday when the fourth-ranked Gators open the season against Miami (Ohio). His goal is to "keep this ball rolling." He also wants to be himself, which is nothing like Tebow.
That might help him emerge from Tebow's long and illustrious shadow.
"Waited three years, so I'm very excited for this one moment to come," Brantley said Monday. "I'm just going to try to go out there and play my own game. ... Just be myself. I don't have to be anyone I'm not. That's what I'm going to do. I'm going to go out there and play my own game."
Florida coach Urban Meyer applauded Brantley's approach. Meyer even sent a text to Brantley's father the other day that read, "Enjoy the ride. Your son is growing up to be a man."
"I hope I get that same text someday from someone because that's really cool," Meyer said. "What he's done here in the last year is exactly what we needed to have happen. He's growing up. He's the leader of this team, and he's Johnny Brantley. That's good enough for us."
Brantley, a 6-foot-3 junior, spent three years waiting for this opportunity. He came to Florida a year after Tebow, knowing he might have to sit behind the bulky left-hander. He certainly could have transferred and might even have become a star elsewhere.
But Brantley didn't leave _ not after Tebow became the first sophomore to win the Heisman in 2007 and not after Tebow decided to return for his senior year in 2009.
Instead, he simply served as Tebow's long-standing understudy.
"I've grown up a lot," Brantley said. "Taking those three years helped me mature and grow up and learn this game, and I got to learn from one of the best quarterbacks that'll ever play."
Not only is Brantley trying to replace one of college football's all-time greats, he also has Florida lineage.
Brantley grew up in nearby Ocala rooting for the Gators and wanting to follow in the footsteps of his dad and uncle. His father, John Brantley III, threw for 1,334 yards and 11 touchdowns in 1978. His uncle, Scot Brantley, was a two-time All-Southeastern Conference linebacker for the Gators (1978-79).
The latest Brantley could be the best of the bunch.
"I think the way John Brantley plays is going to surprise a lot of people," guard Carl Johnson said.
Meyer and offensive coordinator Steve Addazio tweaked the spread offense to tailor Brantley's strengths, putting him under center more and eliminating many designed quarterback runs.
It's not that Brantley is slow, though. He's fairly mobile, but with freshmen behind him, the Gators don't want to expose their starter to extra hits.
Plus, Brantley's best attributes are arm strength, accuracy and anticipation.
Appearing mostly in mop-up duty as Tebow's backup, Brantley completed 75 percent of his passes for 410 yards and seven touchdowns last season.
This certainly will be different.
No one really knows what to expect, either. Larry Rentz replaced 1966 Heisman Trophy winner Steve Spurrier and lost four games. Doug Johnson replaced 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel and lost two games.
Brantley's teammates have been overly positive about the transition. Why?
"It's kind of like going into a battle with a general that you really don't like and you really don't trust," Carl Johnson said. "If you do that, then everyone's going to die. No one will have great success. We have to be behind him 100 percent, up or down. He's ready to go."
Brantley has gotten tips from several former Florida quarterbacks, including his father, Tebow, Chris Leak, Doug Johnson, Shane Matthews and Kerwin Bell. They all told him the same thing.
"I keep reiterating to him to be yourself," said Bell, Brantley's high school coach who's now the head coach at Jacksonville University. "Understand your strengths, understand what will make you successful and play to those. Don't try to be like Tebow. Don't try to run over people. Don't try to do some of the stuff that Tebow was so good at because there's not many like Tim Tebow. Right off the bat, he said, 'Coach, believe me, I know.'
"If he continues that mindset, he's going to have a fantastic year."
Notebook: UF swimmers continue to shine at meets
It was a whirlwind summer for the Gator swimming and diving programs.
Head coach Greg Troy just returned from leading the U.S. men’s team to the championship of the biggest international meet of the year, the 2010 Pan-Pacific Championships, in Irvine, Calif., where seven current and former Gator athletes competed.
In addition, several current and ex-Gator swimmers took part in other international meets, bringing home a total of 19 gold, five silver and six bronze medals.
“We obviously had a great end to the year last year,” Troy said. “Both the men and the women were outstanding at the NCAA meet and our championship season was great. The team actually took that to a new level this summer. We had quite a few athletes compete internationally, both as part of the U.S. team as well as several other foreign countries.
“We sent people all over the globe. It was a great situation, and hopefully we can take some of that summer enthusiasm and build on it through the year.”
Florida: Jordan Reed Could Miss Week 1
Update:
Reed's status for Week 1 is in question due to a deep knee bruise, according to the Miami Herald.
Recommendation:
Though Reed may miss the opener, head coach Urban Meyer said he avoided a potentially more serious injury. "We thought we lost (Reed), but he only has a deep knee bruise," Meyer said. "That's a pain tolerance thing, so we don't know when we'll get him back." Reed is a popular breakout candidate this season, but even if he suits up for the opener against Miami (OH), he may be limited by the injury. If Reed is unable to go, receiver Omarius Hines and quarterback Trey Burton will see action in the Gators' hybrid role.
Reed's status for Week 1 is in question due to a deep knee bruise, according to the Miami Herald.
Recommendation:
Though Reed may miss the opener, head coach Urban Meyer said he avoided a potentially more serious injury. "We thought we lost (Reed), but he only has a deep knee bruise," Meyer said. "That's a pain tolerance thing, so we don't know when we'll get him back." Reed is a popular breakout candidate this season, but even if he suits up for the opener against Miami (OH), he may be limited by the injury. If Reed is unable to go, receiver Omarius Hines and quarterback Trey Burton will see action in the Gators' hybrid role.
Florida Gators football notes from Monday
http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/gatorbytes/2010/08/30/florida-gators-football-notes-from-monday/
Florida is preparing for it’s opener against Miami (Ohio) this week with a reconstructed offensive line and a lot of players who are getting their first chance to be full-time starters.
Tim Tebow and eight other NFL draft picks are gone, so this week’s game marks the beginning of a new era for the Gators.
Florida coach Urban Meyer and some players held press conferences this morning. Here are some notes from what they said:
– Meyer said A.J. Jones will start at strong-side linebacker. Two of the following three players will take the middle and weak-side spots: Jon Bostic, Brandon Hicks, Jelani Jenkins. The other two starters will be determined by who has the best week in practice, but there will be a rotation in the game and Meyer expects all four linebackers to get the same number of defensive snaps.
– DE Justin Trattou said the entire defensive line is “pretty healthy” and intact for this week’s game.
– Injuries: OTs Matt Patchan (right wrist) and Xavier Nixon (right knee) are definitely out. DT Terron Sanders (knee) is probably out. TE Jordan Reed (right knee) is questionable. WR Stephen Alli (groin) is probable but hasn’t practiced in a week.
– Asked a few times about his health and changes he might make this week as opposed to previous game weeks, Meyer declined to give specifics and said his health is fine.
– Meyer said Florida moved WR Andre Debose to the X position, meaning he will be line up out wide. Chris Rainey and Robert Clark will be inside.
– LG Carl Johnson, on the Gators 2010 offense: “We have weapons. You’ve got to pretty much pick your poison. Do you want us to throw it in on you? Jump-fade it in on you? Do you want us to run it in on you? Or do you just want to lay down and take it? You’re going to get it one way or another.”
– C Mike “the freshmen need to shut up” Pouncey said the team resolved any issues that occurred last week when freshmen DE Ronald Powell and DT Dominique Easley missed part of Tuesday’s practice.
– Pouncey believes Meyer has gained “about 20 pounds” since the end of last season.
Florida is preparing for it’s opener against Miami (Ohio) this week with a reconstructed offensive line and a lot of players who are getting their first chance to be full-time starters.
Tim Tebow and eight other NFL draft picks are gone, so this week’s game marks the beginning of a new era for the Gators.
Florida coach Urban Meyer and some players held press conferences this morning. Here are some notes from what they said:
– Meyer said A.J. Jones will start at strong-side linebacker. Two of the following three players will take the middle and weak-side spots: Jon Bostic, Brandon Hicks, Jelani Jenkins. The other two starters will be determined by who has the best week in practice, but there will be a rotation in the game and Meyer expects all four linebackers to get the same number of defensive snaps.
– DE Justin Trattou said the entire defensive line is “pretty healthy” and intact for this week’s game.
– Injuries: OTs Matt Patchan (right wrist) and Xavier Nixon (right knee) are definitely out. DT Terron Sanders (knee) is probably out. TE Jordan Reed (right knee) is questionable. WR Stephen Alli (groin) is probable but hasn’t practiced in a week.
– Asked a few times about his health and changes he might make this week as opposed to previous game weeks, Meyer declined to give specifics and said his health is fine.
– Meyer said Florida moved WR Andre Debose to the X position, meaning he will be line up out wide. Chris Rainey and Robert Clark will be inside.
– LG Carl Johnson, on the Gators 2010 offense: “We have weapons. You’ve got to pretty much pick your poison. Do you want us to throw it in on you? Jump-fade it in on you? Do you want us to run it in on you? Or do you just want to lay down and take it? You’re going to get it one way or another.”
– C Mike “the freshmen need to shut up” Pouncey said the team resolved any issues that occurred last week when freshmen DE Ronald Powell and DT Dominique Easley missed part of Tuesday’s practice.
– Pouncey believes Meyer has gained “about 20 pounds” since the end of last season.
Florida Gators' Jelani Jenkins impresses with his speed
GAINESVILLE -- Jelani Jenkins' size has spawned plenty of doubts that he can be an effective middle linebacker, but defensive coordinator Teryl Austin doesn't have any.
A 6-1, 223-pound redshirt freshman, Jenkins has played himself into a position battle with Jon Bostic, who carries 15 more pounds and more closely resembles the prototypical middle linebacker.
Austin still hasn't settled on who will start, but Jenkins has impressed with his speed.
``I don't care what they think,'' Austin said. ``I know what he does for us.''
You can count freshman Neiron Ball as another linebacker on his coach's good side. Austin said Saturday that Ball would see plenty of playing time.
``He's got a chance to be a dynamic player with a little seasoning and stuff, but he's one of the young guys that stood out during camp,'' Austin said.
A 6-1, 223-pound redshirt freshman, Jenkins has played himself into a position battle with Jon Bostic, who carries 15 more pounds and more closely resembles the prototypical middle linebacker.
Austin still hasn't settled on who will start, but Jenkins has impressed with his speed.
``I don't care what they think,'' Austin said. ``I know what he does for us.''
You can count freshman Neiron Ball as another linebacker on his coach's good side. Austin said Saturday that Ball would see plenty of playing time.
``He's got a chance to be a dynamic player with a little seasoning and stuff, but he's one of the young guys that stood out during camp,'' Austin said.
Gators deserve high preseason ranking in 2010
If the national college football experts have it right, the 104th season of University of Florida football is going to be another very good year for Gator fans.
Take an average of all of the preseason prognostications and you’ll find that Florida is ranked anywhere from number 2 (CompughterRatings.com, which admittedly has a track record dating back only to 2007) to number 8 (Gold Sheet, which on its website claims to have been around for 5 decades and I’m guessing at one time may have been on Art Schlichter’s speed dial).
Read the rest of the story here!
Take an average of all of the preseason prognostications and you’ll find that Florida is ranked anywhere from number 2 (CompughterRatings.com, which admittedly has a track record dating back only to 2007) to number 8 (Gold Sheet, which on its website claims to have been around for 5 decades and I’m guessing at one time may have been on Art Schlichter’s speed dial).
Read the rest of the story here!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Elite Cornerback Recruit Valdez Showers Commits to Florida
Valdez Showers, the No. 9 ranked cornerback by Scout, committed to Florida on Wednesday, selecting the Gators over other offers from Michigan and Michigan State.
The 4-star cornerback is a great all-around athlete who's shown the potential to play at several positions, from cornerback, safety, and linebacker, to wide receiver and possibly even running back.
He may not have too much experience as a cornerback, but that's where scouts project him to play the best at the next level, and he's got the size and speed combination you love to see at the position.
The 4-star cornerback is a great all-around athlete who's shown the potential to play at several positions, from cornerback, safety, and linebacker, to wide receiver and possibly even running back.
He may not have too much experience as a cornerback, but that's where scouts project him to play the best at the next level, and he's got the size and speed combination you love to see at the position.
College football Countdown: No. 5 Florida
Last year: 13-1, 8-0 SEC (beat Cincinnati in Sugar Bowl)
2010 projected record: 10-2, 6-2 SEC
Why we know we're right: Of course it's asking too much for new QB John Brantley to replace Tim Tebow. But maybe even more daunting: the back-to-back 13-win seasons Tebow spearheaded. Brantley still hasn't played in critical situations, still hasn't played on the road in SEC games when facing adversity and still hasn't had to respond to defenses adjusting weekly and game-planning his tendencies. "Just when you think you've got it all figured out in this league," said Ole Miss coach Houston Nutt, "the other guy zigs when you think he's going to zag, and you're in a world of trouble. We all go through it." With Brantley and all the talent around him, Florida has enough to win the SEC East Division and play Alabama again in the in the SEC championship game. A few other factors—leadership, impact of the nation's No.1 freshman class—will determine if the Gators reach 13 wins again.
Why we might be wrong: When you're loaded with talent, intangibles become critical. At the top of the list for Florida: leadership. Tebow, Brandon Spikes and Jermaine Cunningham are all gone, and the task of steering—and at times, policing—a young and talented group (more than half the players on the roster are freshmen or sophomores) falls on guys who may not be ready or able to lead. There already has been a brush-up in fall camp, when heralded freshmen DLs Ronald Powell and Dominique Easley apparently took offense to senior C Mike Pouncey's declaration that the freshmen "shut up and play."
Our confidence level in this pick: Iffy. The Gators have enough talent to beat any team on the schedule, but there are too many questions that could swing the season either way. Florida is just about a lock to reach the SEC championship game for the third straight year, and the possibility of more depends on two critical areas on the defense: Can one or two ends create pressure (maybe even Powell), and does redshirt freshman MLB (and former mega recruit) Jelani Jenkins make an impact and continue the stout play of the past from the position (Spikes, Brandon Siler, Channing Crowder)?
Judgment day: Oct. 2 at Alabama. The first of what will likely be two games between the teams this fall. The last time Florida traveled to Tuscaloosa in 2005, the Tide handed Florida coach Urban Meyer the worst beating (31-3) of his career. Then came last year's loss to the Tide (32-13) in the SEC championship game. The Gators will be motivated, but it's asking a lot to expect Brantley—and other young players—to play at a high level in such at tough environment.
Coach's job security: Strong. So far so good with Meyer's comeback from health issues that finally caught up to him at the end of last season. In five seasons in Gainesville, Meyer has done (and won) more than anyone could've imagined. He'll coach Florida until he decides to leave—and make a boatload of cash (and win a lot of games) in the process.
Grading the positions: QB (B+), RB (A-), WR/TE (B+), OL (A), DL (B+), LB (B+), DB (A-), ST (A).
2010 projected record: 10-2, 6-2 SEC
Why we know we're right: Of course it's asking too much for new QB John Brantley to replace Tim Tebow. But maybe even more daunting: the back-to-back 13-win seasons Tebow spearheaded. Brantley still hasn't played in critical situations, still hasn't played on the road in SEC games when facing adversity and still hasn't had to respond to defenses adjusting weekly and game-planning his tendencies. "Just when you think you've got it all figured out in this league," said Ole Miss coach Houston Nutt, "the other guy zigs when you think he's going to zag, and you're in a world of trouble. We all go through it." With Brantley and all the talent around him, Florida has enough to win the SEC East Division and play Alabama again in the in the SEC championship game. A few other factors—leadership, impact of the nation's No.1 freshman class—will determine if the Gators reach 13 wins again.
Why we might be wrong: When you're loaded with talent, intangibles become critical. At the top of the list for Florida: leadership. Tebow, Brandon Spikes and Jermaine Cunningham are all gone, and the task of steering—and at times, policing—a young and talented group (more than half the players on the roster are freshmen or sophomores) falls on guys who may not be ready or able to lead. There already has been a brush-up in fall camp, when heralded freshmen DLs Ronald Powell and Dominique Easley apparently took offense to senior C Mike Pouncey's declaration that the freshmen "shut up and play."
Our confidence level in this pick: Iffy. The Gators have enough talent to beat any team on the schedule, but there are too many questions that could swing the season either way. Florida is just about a lock to reach the SEC championship game for the third straight year, and the possibility of more depends on two critical areas on the defense: Can one or two ends create pressure (maybe even Powell), and does redshirt freshman MLB (and former mega recruit) Jelani Jenkins make an impact and continue the stout play of the past from the position (Spikes, Brandon Siler, Channing Crowder)?
Judgment day: Oct. 2 at Alabama. The first of what will likely be two games between the teams this fall. The last time Florida traveled to Tuscaloosa in 2005, the Tide handed Florida coach Urban Meyer the worst beating (31-3) of his career. Then came last year's loss to the Tide (32-13) in the SEC championship game. The Gators will be motivated, but it's asking a lot to expect Brantley—and other young players—to play at a high level in such at tough environment.
Coach's job security: Strong. So far so good with Meyer's comeback from health issues that finally caught up to him at the end of last season. In five seasons in Gainesville, Meyer has done (and won) more than anyone could've imagined. He'll coach Florida until he decides to leave—and make a boatload of cash (and win a lot of games) in the process.
Grading the positions: QB (B+), RB (A-), WR/TE (B+), OL (A), DL (B+), LB (B+), DB (A-), ST (A).
Florida Gators' offensive line stacked with experience
GAINESVILLE -- The Gators' skill players might lack experience heading into the season opener against Miami (Ohio), but UF's starting offensive line does not. Collectively, the starting offensive line Saturday will feature 23 seasons of experience in Florida's system.
From left to right, the Gators' offensive line for Saturday's opener will be: redshirt senior Marcus Gilbert, tackle; redshirt senior Carl Johnson, guard; senior Mike Pouncey, center; redshirt junior James Wilson, guard; and redshirt senior Maurice Hurt, tackle. The offensive line could change after the opener when sophomore tackle Xavier Nixon (knee) and junior tackle Matt Patchan (wrist) are cleared to play. Nixon and Patchan are left tackles. Nixon made five starts at the position last season and was first string entering fall camp.
From left to right, the Gators' offensive line for Saturday's opener will be: redshirt senior Marcus Gilbert, tackle; redshirt senior Carl Johnson, guard; senior Mike Pouncey, center; redshirt junior James Wilson, guard; and redshirt senior Maurice Hurt, tackle. The offensive line could change after the opener when sophomore tackle Xavier Nixon (knee) and junior tackle Matt Patchan (wrist) are cleared to play. Nixon and Patchan are left tackles. Nixon made five starts at the position last season and was first string entering fall camp.
Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/08/29/1797111/florida-gators-offensive-line.html#ixzz0y3F6F1k5
Harvin hopes he has handle on headaches
MINNEAPOLIS — Percy Harvin’s migraine headaches have been a riddle that no one has been able to solve.
After another battery of tests last week, and a promising 2010 preseason debut, Harvin, a star at the University of Florida, hopes he is getting closer to figuring out a debilitating medical condition that has plagued him for most of his life.
No. 9 Gator Soccer Defeats San Diego State 1-0
Playing their first opponent from outside of the Sunshine State, the No. 9-ranked Gator soccer team notched the lone goal once the sun shined to start the second half. Florida (4-0, 0-0 Southeastern Conference) played host to San Diego State Sunday and used a McKenzie Barney goal 40 seconds into the second half to take a 1-0 victory.
“That game was like work and our games before this have been much more free flowing,” coach Becky Burleigh said. It was the first day appearance this season since UF’s only other Sunday match had a rare evening start time. The midday heat took its toll, especially once the clouds parted in the second period. “We have to be prepared, Sundays are going to come throughout the whole season,” Burleigh said.
“That game was like work and our games before this have been much more free flowing,” coach Becky Burleigh said. It was the first day appearance this season since UF’s only other Sunday match had a rare evening start time. The midday heat took its toll, especially once the clouds parted in the second period. “We have to be prepared, Sundays are going to come throughout the whole season,” Burleigh said.
Both teams’ defenses bended but didn’t break in the first half. UF had five shots on goal in the first period, all from different players. In the 15th minute, junior Tahnai Annis couldn’t get enough leg behind her shot and the ball rolled harmlessly to Aztec goalkeeper Aubree Southwick.
SDSU also had a couple of good looks at a goal, but failed to convert on any of its opportunities.
Southwick, a senior, did make an experienced save on a Florida free kick from Nicky Kit in the 33rd minute. Junior forward Lindsay Thompson was fouled right outside of the penalty box and Kit rocketed an on-target kick that curved left, but Southwick dove and halted it.
Florida’s own goal keeper, senior Katie Fraine, also made a save on SDSU freshman Soledad Gomez’s 1v1 opportunity in the 41st minute.
“We let them determine the pace of the game,” Fraine said. “If we come out every game like this, it’s not gonna happen for us.”
The Gators made sure to come out more aggressive in the second half and tripled their shots on goal in the latter 45 minutes. Their aggression paid off on the defensive end as well as UF kept the Aztecs on their heels and limited them to only four shots on goal after halftime.
“I like the first five minutes but then we kind of just went back to same old, same old,” Burleigh said.
In the 46th minute, Barney put the Gators on the board with a lightning-fast goal from seven yards out. Senior Ashlee Elliott and sophomore Ericka Tymrak were credited with assists on the goal. Tymrak dribbled through the defense and attracted the attention of Barney’s defender, freeing her up for the game-winning goal.
“The first half was not acceptable and we definitely made that clear at halftime,” Barney said. “Everyone finally turned their brains on in the second half. I should have put at least two more in the net. We had a lot more opportunities that we wish we would’ve put in the back of the net, but we got away with a win.”
The goal extended Barney’s on-going streak — she’s now up to six consecutive home appearances with a goal.
Florida makes its only home appearance for the month of September next Friday when Jacksonville (2-2, 0-0 Atlantic Sun) visits Pressly Stadium. Match time is set for 7 p.m. The match can be heard on WRUF AM 850, by simulcast on Cox Channel 946 (Gainesville/Ocala) or on www.GatorZone.com with Adam Schick and Matthew Stubbington covering the action. Live, streaming video of the match is available on GatorVision Online – check out the GatorVision on www.GatorZone.com for complete information.
The first 1,000 fans will receive a free 2010 Gator Soccer replica jersey t-shirt courtesy of Gatorade. Also, the first 200 youth soccer players Friday will receive orange pompoms. Throughout the match Youth Soccer Month T-Shirts will be tossed throughout the crowd.
No. 13 Gators Win Five-Set Thriller Against Second-Ranked Nebraska
Junior Florida right-side/setter Kelly Murphy (Wilmington, Ill.) was nearly unstoppable on Sunday, turning in her 16th career triple-double to lead the No. 13 Gators to a 3-2 (25-22, 25-22, 29-31, 13-25, 15-12) upset of No. 2 Nebraska at the prestigious Runza/AVCA Showcase in the Qwest Center.
The Gators (2-0) posted their first victory against a top-two ranked team since defeating No. 2 Hawaii in the 2003 NCAA Championship Semifinals. With the win, Florida closes the weekend with two wins against top-10 squads, after knocking off No. 9 Iowa State on Saturday afternoon.
“The AVCA Showcase delivered,” Florida head coach Mary Wise said. “It has a history of great matches, and hopefully this one today will go down in that group. We felt like to beat Nebraska in this state, we would have to match the intensity level of not only the six players on the court, but also of the Husker fans. This team really did a great job of that today.”
Murphy tied her career high with 20 kills on .514 hitting with 23 assists, 10 digs and three blocks. Junior outside hitter Kristy Jaeckel (Littleton, Colo.) charted her first double-double of the 2010 season with 12 kills and a career-high 15 digs to go along with five blocks. Senior outside hitter Callie Rivers (Winter Park, Fla.) added 12 kills on .300 hitting with three service aces and seven digs.
“I think we did a really good job of staying calm and not getting wrapped up in the atmosphere,” Murphy said. “We knew that we had a chance to work hard if we worked hard and stayed focused.”
Freshman setter Chanel Brown (Tempe, Ariz.) dished out a career-high 31 assists, while sophomore right-side Tangerine Wiggs (Seattle, Wash.) added seven kills and four blocks. Senior middle blocker Lauren Bledsoe (Long Beach, Calif.) chipped in six kills and seven blocks, while junior middle blocker Cassandra Anderson (Bakersfield, Calif.) also had six kills with five blocks.
Bledsoe, Murphy and Rivers all were named to the AVCA Showcase All-Tournament Team.
The Gators raced out to a quick 5-0 lead to open the first set, using four kills and a Fleming ace to stake to that advantage. Three kills on the next four plays by Nebraska cut Florida’s lead to three, 6-3. The two teams traded points until the Gators ran off three in a row, powered by a block solo from Jaeckel and a Murphy ace to extend Florida’s advantage to five, 11-6. The Gators kept rolling to a 15-9 edge following a Jaeckel kill and an attack error by the Huskers. Nebraska ended UF’s scoring spree with two consecutive points before a resounding block on the right by Anderson and Wiggs sent the Gators into a timeout up 16-11.
With Florida ahead 17-13, a kill by Murphy and two consecutive aces from Rivers widened the Gators’ margin to seven, 20-13. Three kills in a row by the Huskers brought them within four, 21-16, forcing Wise to burn a timeout. From there, Nebraska scored three of the next four points to come as close as three, 22-19. After trading points, back-to-back put-downs by Nebraska’s Lindsey Licht and Brooke Delano brought the Huskers within two, 23-21. A kill by Jaeckel on the outside brought UF to set point at 24-21 before a Wiggs kill gave the Gators a 25-22 opening-set win. Florida hit .353 in the opening set, recording four service aces and three total team blocks.
Nebraska scored the first three points of the second set before three consecutive Florida kills, including two from Anderson, knotted the score at 3-all. The Huskers responded with three kills in a row before Florida used a 5-0 run to jump in front 8-6. Out of a timeout, Nebraska ran off five consecutive points to reclaim the lead at 11-8 after a block solo by Licht. Murphy registered a kill and then teamed with Bledsoe on the next play for a block to bring the Gators within one, 11-10. After the squads traded points, a block by Bledsoe and Wiggs on the right side tied the score at 12-12. Following another tie at 13, Jaeckel rocketed an ace down the middle of the court to give Florida back the lead at 14-13.
Rivers and Bledsoe followed suit with back-to-back kills to put the Gators up 16-13. Up 16-14, Florida ran off three points in a row, including two blocks and a Wiggs kill to go ahead 18-14. The squads exchanged points before back-to-back kills by Delano and Licht cut Nebraska’s deficit to three, 21-18, heading into a UF timeout. Out of the break, a Tara Mueller kill sparked a 3-0 run by the Huskers to tie the score at 21-21. Two kills in three plays by Murphy, coupled with a Nebraska attack error brought the Gators to set point at 24-22. A kill by Wiggs off the block on the right side gave Florida a 25-22 second-set victory. The Gators had six blocks in the second frame.
Florida and Nebraska battled evenly to begin the third set before the Huskers took a 5-3 advantage after a kill by Allison McNeal and Murphy’s first attack error of the match. With the Gators trailing 6-3, Florida used a 4-0 run aided by three Nebraska attack errors, to take a 7-6 lead that forced Huskers head coach John Cook to burn a timeout. Following eight ties, a Murphy service error and a kill by the Huskers’ Morgan Broekhuis gave Nebraska a 16-14 edge. The Huskers kept rolling to an 18-15 lead before a Bledsoe kill and an attack error from the Huskers brought UF within one, 18-17. The Gators were able to knot the score at 19-all following a block by Anderson and Rivers. Two kills in a row by Nebraska sent the Huskers ahead 21-19, causing Wise to burn a timeout. Out of the break, a Rivers kill on the outside and a back-row blocking call against the Huskers tied the score at 21-all.
From there, Nebraska ran off two kills in a row to go up 23-21. A resounding Murphy kill and a four-hits call on the Huskers tied the score at 23. Bledsoe and Jaeckel posted a block to bring UF to match point, but Nebraska staved off that attempt and again knotted the score, this time at 24-all. A Murphy attack error gave Nebraska a set point at 25-24 before a Jaeckel kill tied the score at 25. Another Jaeckel kill, this one off the block, put Florida ahead 26-25, but the Huskers staved off another attempt at the match. The two teams continued battling but Nebraska broke a 29-all tie with two consecutive points, including a set-winning kill by Mueller on the outside to take a 31-29 third-set victory.
The two squads battled closely to start the fourth set before Nebraska took an early 8-4 advantage heading into a timeout. With Florida behind 9-4, Bledsoe and Wiggs recorded back-to-back kills to spark a 3-0 run and bring the Gators within two, 9-7. From there, behind the strong serving of Mueller, Nebraska ran off seven consecutive points to take a 16-7 lead into a timeout. The Huskers lead 18-7 before a Rivers kill stopped Nebraska’s scoring spree. Nebraska had little trouble in closing out a 25-13 fourth-set win.
The Huskers scored the first three points of the deciding fifth set before the Gators rallied to knot the score at 3-3, including two put-downs from Jaeckel during that stretch. A kill by Nebraska’s Hannah Werth and an illegal rotation call against Florida allowed the Huskers to reclaim the lead at 5-3. The two teams began trading points before a Wiggs kill and an attack error by NU’s Licht knotted the score at 7-all. Three Nebraska kills allowed the Huskers to go up 10-7 heading into a timeout by the Gators. With Florida down, 11-7, Rivers charted back-to-back kills to bring UF within 11-9, forcing Cook to use a timeout. Three consecutive Nebraska attack errors allowed the Gators to claim their first lead of the set at 12-11. With Florida up 13-12, Murphy recorded a kill and then the Gators closed out the match with by Anderson and Murphy.
Nebraska (1-1) was led by 18 kills on .464 hitting by Lindsey Licht.
Florida returns to action on Friday when it plays host to the Campus USA Credit Union Invitational. The Gators will face Albany at 12:30 p.m. ET in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center and the match will be carried live on GatorZone.com with Cory Stephens.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Gator Schedule for Sunday, August 29
| Team | Event/Opponent | Site | Coverage | Time | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday, August 29 | |||||
| Volleyball | Runza/AVCA Showcase (Omaha, NE) | ||||
| Soccer | San Diego State | Gainesville, FL | GatorVision | AM850 | 1:30 pm |
| Volleyball | Nebraska | Omaha, NE | CBSCS | AM850 | 5:30 pm |
Volleyball Knocks Off No. 9 Iowa State
The No. 13 University of Florida volleyball team benefited from a total-team effort, using a number of key individual contributions and posting 11 team blocks to knock off No. 9 Iowa State, 3-1 (25-22, 25-21, 10-25, 25-20) Saturday in the opening match of the 2010 season at the prestigious Runza/AVCA Showcase in the Qwest Center.
More at Gatorzone
More at Gatorzone
Offensive Line set for Opening Game
With injuries keeping left tackles Xavier Nixon (knee) and Matt Patchan (wrist) out of Florida's season opener, offensive coordinator Steve Addazio revealed the team's plans on the offensive line.
The offensive line will feature seniors Marcus Gilbert (LT), Maurice Hurt (RT), Carl Johnson (LG), James Wilson (RG) and Mike Pouncey (C).
"I like the experience, and that's where we are right now for a lot of reasons," Addazio said. "It's worked out great, we're excited about it."
The offensive line will feature seniors Marcus Gilbert (LT), Maurice Hurt (RT), Carl Johnson (LG), James Wilson (RG) and Mike Pouncey (C).
"I like the experience, and that's where we are right now for a lot of reasons," Addazio said. "It's worked out great, we're excited about it."
Gator Football names 5 Captains!
The 2010 Florida Gators will have five captains leading the football team out of the South End Zone tunnel a week from today prior to the season opener with Miami (Ohio).
The No. 4 Gators kick off the 2010 campaign Sept. 4 against Miami at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at noon in front of the national cameras of ESPN.
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Gator Volleyball Opens 2010 Season at AVCA Showcase
The University of Florida volleyball team will open its 2010 campaign at the prestigious Runza/AVCA Showcase this weekend at the Qwest Center in Omaha, Neb. The Gators will face a pair of Big 12 foes in No. 9 Iowa State (Saturday, 3 p.m. ET) and No. 2 Nebraska (Sunday, 5:30 p.m. ET).
more at Gatorzone.com!
more at Gatorzone.com!
QUICK NOTES
- The Gators are 36-14 all-time vs. members in the current alignment of the Big 12 Conference, including a 32-9 mark under the direction of head coach Mary Wise. Iowa State will be first Big 12 team that Florida will face since defeating Colorado, 3-0, on Aug. 29, 2009.
- The 2010 campaign will mark the 27th season of Florida volleyball (beginning 1984). The Gators are 759-167 (.820) all-time in program history and 18-8 all-time in season openers.
- Florida’s 603 wins since 1991 are the most of any team in the nation during that time period.
- Junior right-side/setter Kelly Murphy has recorded 15 career triple-doubles, which goes down as the most in Florida school history. She also currently ranks 10th all-time in school history in career assists with 1,370, an impressive feat considering she has spent most of her career splitting time in the setter role as part of a 6-2 offensive scheme.
- Murphy and junior outside hitter Kristy Jaeckel each were named to the SEC Preseason Team. Both were first-team All-SEC selections in 2009.
- Senior Erin Fleming will assume the libero position in 2010. Fleming will look to fill the shoes of the SEC’s all-time career digs leader, Elyse Cusack (2,138 digs), who completed her eligibility last year.
Gator Sports Daily: No. 9 Gator Soccer Defeats Florida Atlantic 3-0
Gator Sports Daily: No. 9 Gator Soccer Defeats Florida Atlantic 3-0: "The calm, steady stream of rain before the match wasn’t enough to slow down the No. 9 Florida soccer team. The Gators (3-0, 0-0 Southeastern..."
No. 9 Gator Soccer Defeats Florida Atlantic 3-0
The calm, steady stream of rain before the match wasn’t enough to slow down the No. 9 Florida soccer team. The Gators (3-0, 0-0 Southeastern Conference) defeated their third straight intrastate opponent 3-0 in front of 1,439 fans on an overcast day. Florida Atlantic (0-2, 0-0 Sun Belt) had no answer for UF’s speed and versatility on offense. Three different Gators scored in the first 14 minutes and the Owls were so busy defending, they could only muster two shots on goal in the first half compared to the 11 shots on goal Florida had.....
from GatorZone
from GatorZone
Friday, August 27, 2010
Tickets available for Gator Opener next Saturday!
Tickets still available for next week's opener at The Swamp. Get 'em now! http://bit.ly/cowVvm or 1-800-34-GATOR
Earlier this summer, Matt Elam and Solomon Patton arrested for possesion of alcohol!
Miami Herald report that Gator freshmen Matt Elam and Solomon Patton were arrested for possession of alcohol. This happened earlier this summer and both cases were misdemeanors. More details at the Miami Herald.
Mike Pouncey Named to Rimington Trophy Watch List
GatorZone has reported that senior center Mike Pouncey (Lakeland, Fla.) was named to the 2010 Rimington Trophy Watch List, as announced on Thursday. The Rimington Trophy is presented annually to the Most Outstanding Center in NCAA Division I-A College Football.
Men's Basketball Announces SEC Schedule
The Southeastern Conference officially announced the Florida Gators basketball team’s 2010-11 conference schedule on Thursday.
Jan. 8 vs. Ole Miss (CSS)
Jan. 11 at Tennessee (ESPN)
Jan. 15 vs. South Carolina (SEC Network)
Jan. 20 at Auburn (ESPN/ESPN2)
Jan. 22 vs. Arkansas (FSN)
Jan. 25 at Georgia (ESPN/ESPN2)
Jan. 29 at Mississippi State (CBS)
Feb. 1 vs. Vanderbilt (ESPN)
Feb. 5 vs. Kentucky (ESPN)
Feb. 9 at South Carolina (SEC Network)
Feb. 12 vs. Tennessee (ESPN/ESPN2)
Feb. 20 at LSU (ESPN/ESPN2)
Feb. 24 vs. Georgia (ESPN/ESPN2)
Feb. 26 at Kentucky (CBS)
Mar. 1 vs. Alabama (ESPNU)
Mar. 5 at Vanderbilt (ESPN)
Mar. 10-13 – SEC Tournament (Atlanta, GA)
» And here is the out-of-conference slate:
Oct. 28 vs. Florida Tech (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 3 vs. Georgetown College (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 12 vs. UNC-Wilmington (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 16 vs. Ohio State (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 18 vs. North Carolina A&T (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 21 vs. Morehead State (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 23 vs. Florida Atlantic (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 28 at Florida State (Tallahassee, FL)
Dec. 1 vs. Central Florida (Orlando, FL – Amway Center)
Dec. 5 vs. American (Washington, D.C.)
Dec. 9 vs. Kent State (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 18 vs. Kansas State (Sunrise, FL – BankAtlantic Center)
Dec. 20 vs. Jacksonville (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 22 vs. Radford (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 28 vs. Fairfield (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 31 vs. Xavier (Cincinnati, OH)
Jan 3 vs. Rhode Island (Gainesville, FL)
Jan. 8 vs. Ole Miss (CSS)
Jan. 11 at Tennessee (ESPN)
Jan. 15 vs. South Carolina (SEC Network)
Jan. 20 at Auburn (ESPN/ESPN2)
Jan. 22 vs. Arkansas (FSN)
Jan. 25 at Georgia (ESPN/ESPN2)
Jan. 29 at Mississippi State (CBS)
Feb. 1 vs. Vanderbilt (ESPN)
Feb. 5 vs. Kentucky (ESPN)
Feb. 9 at South Carolina (SEC Network)
Feb. 12 vs. Tennessee (ESPN/ESPN2)
Feb. 20 at LSU (ESPN/ESPN2)
Feb. 24 vs. Georgia (ESPN/ESPN2)
Feb. 26 at Kentucky (CBS)
Mar. 1 vs. Alabama (ESPNU)
Mar. 5 at Vanderbilt (ESPN)
Mar. 10-13 – SEC Tournament (Atlanta, GA)
» And here is the out-of-conference slate:
Oct. 28 vs. Florida Tech (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 3 vs. Georgetown College (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 12 vs. UNC-Wilmington (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 16 vs. Ohio State (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 18 vs. North Carolina A&T (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 21 vs. Morehead State (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 23 vs. Florida Atlantic (Gainesville, FL)
Nov. 28 at Florida State (Tallahassee, FL)
Dec. 1 vs. Central Florida (Orlando, FL – Amway Center)
Dec. 5 vs. American (Washington, D.C.)
Dec. 9 vs. Kent State (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 18 vs. Kansas State (Sunrise, FL – BankAtlantic Center)
Dec. 20 vs. Jacksonville (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 22 vs. Radford (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 28 vs. Fairfield (Gainesville, FL)
Dec. 31 vs. Xavier (Cincinnati, OH)
Jan 3 vs. Rhode Island (Gainesville, FL)
7 days 20 hours until Kickoff for the Gators!
The Florida Gators kick off a week from tomorrow at 12 noon against Miami Ohio.
This marks the beginning of the John Brantley era and it looks like more passing is in the Gator's future. But the running game will still be prominent with names like Jeff Demps, Emmanuel Moody and Mack Brown. Not to mention the possibility of Andre Dubose and Chris Rainey.
But fans will be closely watching the passing game of John Brantley. Chris Rainey moves to receiver to join Deonte Thomson, and Carl Moore. Add redshirt freshman Andre Debose, Frankie Hammond Jr., Omarius Hines, and Stephen Alli, along with some promising incoming freshmen Quinton Dunbar and Chris Dunkley to the mix, and fans will be looking to see which receivers step up to become the team leaders at that position.
Barring injury, the offensive line has depth and should be a strength. The defensive line is also young but shows a lot of promise, anchored in the middle by Omar Hunter. The linebacker, defensive back and safety positions also feature a lot of young talent with the linebackers possessing a lot of quickness and speed.
The opening two games will not show a lot, although the South Florida game, the second Saturday in September should be the better matchup of the first two. Then the Gators opoen SEC play on the road at Tennessee.
So check-in here at Gator Sports Daily for the latest news regarding all the Gator Sports Teams!
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