GAINESVILLE — Janoris Jenkins' dependability at cornerback has never been an issue in his three years at Florida, but coach Urban Meyer may go in a different direction on punt returns Saturday against South Carolina.
The Gators lost Brandon James, who had returned punts and kicks for the last four years, and Jenkins took over the punt return duties at the beginning of the season.
At times, it has been an adventure for Jenkins, who almost muffed his second punt of the season against Vanderbilt last week. The junior has also looked uneasy at times on when to make fair catch calls.
Meyer said Chris Rainey and Andre Debose, who has been used on kickoff returns this season, could see some punt return reps.
"They're getting better," Meyer said of his alternative options. "We need to have a steady guy."
Jenkins has averaged 7.7 yards per punt return this season on 14 tries while Rainey has averaged 11.2 on five returns, and Debose's only attempt went for four yards.
Meyer said he is reluctant to use Rainey as the return man because he is UF's best punt blocker coming off the edge.
Rainey blocked two punts against Vanderbilt and is tied for the school record for career punt blocks (four).
There has also been concern about putting too much on Rainey's plate, as he has been the starting running back since returning from suspension in addition to his responsibilities on kickoff return and punt block.
Injury notes: UF running back Jeff Demps was available last week against Vanderbilt but Meyer elected not to use the speedster because the game was out of hand from early in the second quarter.
It's unlikely the same situation will present itself against the Gamecocks on Saturday, and Meyer expects Demps to play in a limited role.
"He'll play. He won't play the whole game," Meyer said.
Defensive tackle Jaye Howard is in a similar situation, as Meyer expects him to play but said his reps will be limited.
Debose was used in a limited role against the Commodores, but Meyer said he is close to 100 percent.
Senior cornerback Moses Jenkins will play for the first time since injuring his elbow during UF's season opener against Miami (Ohio) on Sept. 4. He will be used only on kickoff coverage.
Meyer said Jenkins, who missed much of last season after suffering a concussion against Kentucky, has been granted a fifth year of eligibility for medical reasons.
