Notes from Florida coach Urban Meyer’s Wednesday Conference call:
– Meyer said the team is “very cautious” about wearing down RB Jeff Demps in practice. Meyer called Demps’ durability the No. 1 or No. 2 concern of the coaching staff. Demps is only 190 pounds (that’s the listed weight, could be less) and will be the primary running back and kick returner. They have backed off on “non-essential running” for Demps in practice.
“Hopefully we don’t return many kicks,” Meyer said. “In practice I’m very cautious because he only knows one speed. He goes 40 yards every time he touches it at warp speed.”
– Gators still don’t have a No. 2 starting cornerback. Jeremy Brown and Moses Jenkins are both in that spot. Pahokee’s Janoris Jenkins is the No. 1 corner.
– Asked to name new faces that will impress Gators fans Saturday against Miami (Ohio), Meyer said, “I think Trey Burton’s one. Matt Elam’s going to get some playing time. Jelani Jenkins and (Jon) Bostic — those aren’t exactly household names.”
– Burton, who is listed at quarterback on the roster and QB/TE on the depth chart, will play multiple positions Saturday, Meyer said. TE Jordan Reed is out with a bruised right knee, but also could see time at quarterback this year.
– Fueling speculation that WR Chris Rainey is the team’s key playmaker, Meyer said, “It’s his year. He’s got to perform. He’s up to 178 (pounds). He’s stronger than he’s ever been. He’s now focused on a position that his body’s trained to be. He has to give us the home run shot and he’s got the ability. He’s either 1 or 2 on our list of guys who can go the distance.”
