Bye Week Ideally Timed For Gators
Matthew Katz
10/15/08
Coming off the crushing win over LSU, many might think it would be ideal for the purpose of momentum to see the Gators suit right back up this Saturday to take on Kentucky. I would disagree with such a thought. The week to heal up for players like Emmanuel Moody, Chris Rainey, Dustin Doe and others is well times for the second half stretch run of the season. It would also be a week where Florida would have to be wary of a major letdown after the total team effort that it took to dominate LSU the way they did.
Now Florida gets to enjoy the win a little, rest some and begin preparation for the next SEC foe. Even without Woodson at quarterback anymore, the Wildcats can no longer be taken lightly on the gridiron. This is the same team that a couple of weeks ago nearly gave Alabama its first loss. That, too, was a road game for UK. Do not expect them to back down or even to be intimidated by going on the road.
Much like against LSU, you will probably see Florida look to take away the run first in that game. Kentucky is still looking for someone to take over the quarterback position and run with the job. With a lack of identity in their passing game, they have to be able to chew up yards on the ground. Putting the game on the shoulders of the rotating quarterback position and getting after them could be the one real opportunity to rattle the Cats on defense.
On offense, while UK is statistically looking strong against the pass, they have yet to really deal with a team that wanted to spread them out and throw on them a lot. Especially against an offense with the weapons Florida has. The return of Moody will also add some diversity to the Florida ground game. While Rainey and Jeff Demps have proven they can run between the tackles and break tackles, they are also still the homerun hitters always capable of breaking the big run. Moody will add the big back component that might make the outside option even more dangerous. Teams would have to respect the threat of giving it to Moody right up the middle and Tebow pulling it back to option out to Demps or Rainey or Percy Harvin is just another poison teams will have to pick between the rest of the season with Moody back.
As long as the Gators can harness that intensity they brought against LSU the entire game and continue to play with that same passion and desire the rest of the year, good things should be ahead. For now, though, it’s a time to heal some wounds and begin focusing on the second half of the season … starting with the Wildcats of Kentucky.
Florida Romps LSU, Answers Challenge
Matthew Katz
10/13/08
Where to start when rejoicing in the domination that was Florida’s 51-21 dismantling of the previously undefeated LSU Tigers? I think, in fairness, one has to start by giving Dan Mullen the proverbial pat on the back. His game plan for the LSU defense was nothing short of brilliant. The Gators attacked the LSU defense, pounding right up the middle with gashing run after gashing run. Then the Gators went around the Tigers using the option to get to the perimeter. There was also misdirection plays with Percy faking the reverse and counter plays designed to get the aggressive LSU defense starting the wrong way. In the passing game, the Gators used some misdirection by showing motion into quick swing passes only to have Tebow find a receiver down the field. Mullen also attacked deep right from the start, dialing up a 70 yard touchdown from Tebow to Harvin. It was also a shot down the field in the 3rd quarter, a play to Louis Murphy that helped Florida take back momentum and control of this one when the Tigers had made it a game at 20-14. The game plan was everything one could hope for.
The execution was also finally there. The offensive line, which in effect was also called out by no show Ricky Jean Francois, dominated his line mates who did have the backbone to play in one of the SEC’s elite games every year. Florida’s line pushed LSU’s defensive line around, opening holes that allowed Florida to net 265 yards on the ground. They also kept Tim Tebow clean most of the night as he picked apart the suspect part of the Tiger defense, the secondary that lost so much after last year. Mullen and Tebow called the numbers of playmakers all over the field and to a man, they all stepped up and made plays. Deonte Thompson, Riley Cooper, Louis Murphy, Percy Harvin, Chris Rainey, Jeff Demps, play after play, someone was stepping up to make a play. The unsung heroes like Tate Casey and David Nelson continued to give the blocks that freed their teammates for extra yards. It was as complete a team effort for the full game as the Gators have displayed in a long time and its something that will hopefully be used to build on going forward this season.
Defensively, the Florida Gators smacked LSU on the chin pretty much from start to finish. Charles Scott gained 35 yards on the ground, around half of which came on the game’s final play. Florida’s defense made him a non factor. Time after time, the defensive line pushed the lauded LSU offensive line backwards. A couple of the guys responsible for pressure, deserve a welcome back. Torrey Davis and Brandon Antwine were on the field and making positive impacts. It was Davis that looked like he was about to crush Scott when Scott fumbled the ball in the first half. Not having the ball bought him no mercy from the big hit that was delivered anyway, though. Nobody delivered more big hits, though, than safety Major Wright who repeatedly made LSU receivers and tight ends sorry they came into his neighborhood, with devastating hits. Spikes made two athletic plays to pull down interceptions, returning one for a touchdown that effectively put the game away. The defense did what none of the analysts thought they could do. They were more physical than the meaty LSU offense. They took the fight directly to them and won again and again. Less the garbage time touchdown, Florida controlled the 4 quarters.
Brandon James go in the act too, even though LSU was committed to limiting his chances to electrify the Swamp Saturday night. His big punt return on LSU’s second punt put the Gators in position to grab the quick 3 score lead. Later in the game, when fielding another rugby style kick, he showed how elusive he can be even in a relatively enclosed space. With no way to get outside of the containment, he danced around 3 LSU Tigers and a 4th grabbed on from behind after James had made him look silly going by. The return only went for 6 or 7 yards, but even in that short span James is so much fun to watch.
Despite the dominant effort and final score, the team cannot allow the praise that follows to go to their heads. They have to continue to harness the motivation of the Ole Miss loss the way the 2006 Gators did the Auburn loss that year. That loss, that feeling, has to drive this team. They now firmly control their destiny in the East, tied for first with only East opponents left on their conference schedule. They also sit in the top 5 of the AP poll and 7 in the Coaches Poll, which means they are in a solid position to earn their way in to the National Title picture again. That will only be possible, though, if they continue to make good on Tebow’s promise to be the team that nobody will outwork or play harder than. As Tebow said following the game, everything is again in front of the team. They have to want it bad enough to take it, one game and one play at a time.
Parting Shots On Ole Miss Loss
Matthew Katz
10/2/08
This week I have been noticeably silent after the loss. It is not because I am a fair-weather blogger. I would not have been writing much either way with Rosh Hashanah and family in town. The upside is it allowed me to cool off and maybe avoid saying some of the more harsh things I had in mind immediately following the game. That said, it has not altered my underlying feelings on the factors that led to the unacceptable loss to Mississippi.
Dan Mullen, from the 2006 SEC Championship Game, through the entire season last year, had really turned the offense loose and the results were there most games. I don’t know if it is fear of getting Tebow hurt or fear of losing games for the improved defense with mistakes, but if Florida is to realize its potential this year going forward he will need to find his creativity and aggression again. You cannot coach scared and you cannot play scared. The lack of willingness to attack defenses combined with allowing the media to dictate how Tim Tebow is used because of criticism of hits he took last year has paralyzed Mullen’s play calling. That has trickled down to the play of Tebow himself. You can see it in the tentative way he makes decisions, especially on read option plays. That lack of precise and resolute decision making led to a couple of turnovers where Tebow never quite got the ball to the running back, not sure if he should keep it. I think you also saw it on the early 3rd and one where Tebow gave the ball to Rainey instead of keeping it and running the option outside with Riley Cooper. Tim Tebow can’t play his game if he is tentative and that’s exactly what he has been this year.
Add to that the lack of commitment to getting him into a rhythm throwing the ball early in games and it’s decreased his ability to make the offense run the way its capable of. Florida’s offense has moved the ball best in the 4th quarter against Miami and in the final minutes against Mississippi and the common thread there is the offense being allowed to throw the ball around and take the play to the defenses. That said the players also have to take responsibility in this game. When Tebow was in rhythm late, he overthrew two receivers on back-to-back plays that either one would have been the go ahead touchdown. Louis Murphy has not been the sure handed receiver he has been in past years. He has had too many drops. Riley Cooper has still failed to elevate his game to the level of his talent. He has had drops and gave up on a long pass in the first quarter that would have been a touchdown if he’d been running the whole way. Percy Harvin and Aaron Hernandez are Tebow’s two best targets and both can’t fumble in a game.
Arkansas should provide Florida a feel good game where they get things back on track, but it’s only a first step. With Moody out, Florida has to find different running backs to step up. Of course that also means giving players a chance to succeed. Rainey can’t get two touches and be forgotten. Demps has to see the field. And if there is such determination to run slow developing read options, you cannot try to block 7 or 8 with 5. TJ Pridemore or someone has to step up at fullback too, so that Hernandez does not have to have his ability to be a playmaker limited so much by the necessity of his use as a blocker. Pridemore and Kestahn Moore seem like good options for extra blockers in passing situations.
Then there is the offensive line. Marcus Gilbert has been a major disappointment to date. There is no way around the fact that most of the breakdowns seem to come from him when he is in and when either Jim Tartt or Carl Johnson have been in, well the whole line has played much better. It’s also time for Phil Trautwein to step up and lead this group better. Lead with smart play on the field, lead however is necessary. His drive killing personal foul against Miami and a false start that gave back the 5 yards from an offside penalty against Ole Miss are not mistakes characteristic of a 5th year senior. Florida can still do big things this season. It all starts in the trenches, though. Right now the offensive line is leaving much it be desired.
Some other random thoughts and ideas. Get Deonte Thompson more involved and more often. He is as explosive of a receiver as Florida has outside of Harvin and there is no reason for him to be such a non factor in the scheme. He can spell Harvin some out of the backfield and can stretch the field with his speed. Without Ingram, Florida should be looking to Carl Moore to create mismatches. Instead, he was out of sight and out of mind after a drop on Saturday. Does not seem equitable considering Murphy’s drops and continued chances. This is another weapon going to waste. More play fakes off of the read option look to take advantage of the aggressive way teams are attacking that play. What happened to the option reverse? This was a play that was so successful for Florida early in Meyer’s tenure. Why is it forgotten now? Imagine running the option one way with Rainey or Harvin and the reverse going back against the grain on the defense with speed of someone like Thompson or Demps.
The talent is there. The execution, the aggression and the desire has not. This starts at the top and Mullen needs to find whatever it is that inspired him to open it up last year. Unleash Tim Tebow. Unleash the weapons around him. Play the whole game in hurry up, which is when Florida has its best success. That is when the offense is playing on instinct, you don’t see the over thinking of every decision. Florida is still sitting in the top 15 with most of the teams ahead having to play each other or at least with tough games left. Florida also has statement games with LSU and Georgia left… and even Vanderbilt. Yeah, Vanderbilt, I said it. And in the SEC, the opportunity is there. Division play is where it can be won. Everything is still there for the winning. Now is the time to play to win before its all lost.
Florida v Ole Miss Prediction
Matthew Katz
9/26/08
Gator offense v Ole Miss defense.
Florida should attack the Mississippi defense running right at them up the middle early in the game and use quick passes to slow down the Ole Miss rush. Establishing the run early and then stretching the field would be a good way to soften up and wear down the Rebel defense. Look for a lot of Emmanuel Moody and Percy Harvin early and often. Stretching the field, this should be the game where Louis Murphy and Deonte Thompson really get going. That should leave the middle available for Aaron Hernandez, who is a matchup nightmare.
Gator defense v Ole Miss offense.
Jevan Snead is very adept at moving around the pocket to avoid pressure and by time for his receivers or to make a play with his legs. Florida will have to show different looks to create pressure and confuse Snead, who for all of his talent has limited game experience in college. At the same time, maintaining containment will be key so that he can’t escape and make plays out of broken, scramble situations. On the flip side, this will be the fastest defense Snead has had to contend with. He might find times when he thinks he can escape, where he gets chased down by the Gators swarming defense.
Special teams battle.
Urban Meyer should again force the choice of kick it to Percy, the most electrifying skill player in America, or kick it to Brandon James, the best return man in the country. It’s a decision that will put a lot of pressure on the Mississippi punter and their coverage unit. Florida’s return units and kicking game could again prove to be a huge edge for the Gators.
PREDICTION:
Florida 42 – Mississippi 13
5 Keys for Florida v Mississippi
Matthew Katz
9/25/08
Pressure and Contain Snead
One of the things that makes Snead so difficult is his ability to elude pressure and move around to make plays either with his legs or by buying time for a receiver to get open. Florida’s defense has to get penetration and hit Snead to avoid him building a comfort level on Saturday. At the same time they can not have breakdowns in containment that would allow him to generate positive yards on broken plays.
Unleash the Offense
Florida, to date, has done little to unleash the offense. Whether it‘s been by plan or the lack of necessity, Florida has been ultra conservative on offense. The need might not have been there yet, but Ole Miss is better than their 2-2 record. And with LSU looming large in a couple of weeks, Florida has to have rhythm and confidence on offense. Finding balance with the passing game, stretching the field, and running the ball with consistent success.
Limiting Penalties
Seems like a weekly focus. But the Gators still have to get better at avoiding poorly timed penalties. Florida cannot afford to continue to kill its drives and aid the opponent’s drives with cheap penalties. This week against Ole Miss is the time to fix this recurring issue.
Continue to Force Punts to James
It was a stroke of brilliance to put Percy Harvin back with Brandon James, forcing Tennessee to put the ball back in his hands. With special teams being such an integral part of Meyer’s plan to win, this is a strategy that should be repeated against Mississippi. It’s a win-win situation for the Gators. Punt to James and the game’s best return man gets his chances to electrify the crowd and create points or excellent field position. Kick it to Harvin and you’re kicking to arguably the best skill player in America… and give him a chance to create in space.
Winning the Turnover Battle
Florida is +9 this year in turnover margin, forcing 9 and giving up 0. This is something the Gators must contend in this one. At home and with arguably the better talent depth, Florida has to avoid helping Ole Miss by making the kind of mistakes that beats itself.
According to Ole Miss fans, the Swamp “Means Nothing”
Matthew Katz
9/24/08
I was doing some browsing of message boards today and apparently the sentiment from the Ole Miss contingent, at least in part, is the Swamp means nothing. Urban Meyer must have missed the memo, as he has only lost once in the Swamp, achieving his goal to re-establish Gator dominance in the Swamp. Maybe Spurrier should have consulted these Ole Miss fans before dubbing Florida Field as the Swamp, saying only the Gators get out alive. Sure Spurrier backed it up, allowing only a hand full of losses during his entire tenure in Gainesville to occur at home. Yeah there is that. But apparently it means nothing.
Yeah, yeah. I know what you’re thinking. Florida has one of the best home records since 1990. And yeah sure, Florida has arguably the loudest stadium in America, even though other stadiums pack in as many as 10 or 20 thousand more fans than the Swamp does. Sure there is no better site than We Are the Boys with the crowd swaying or everyone at once doing the chomp … ok maybe I am a little bias there. Many a player has come out taunting, defiant in the face of over 90,000 screaming Gator fans. Sure, the vast majority leaves humbled. There is that. But after it all, apparently there are those from Ole Miss that the Swamp means nothing.
So here, Gator Nation, is my challenge to you. Be loud. Be very loud. Make sure they can hear you in Oxford without their televisions or radios on to the game. Lets make this the most raucous environment they will ever face. Maybe, just maybe, then the Swamp will mean something.
A Case of the Mondays
Matthew Katz
9/22/08
Florida is coming off of a blowout win over rival Tennessee, which has finally tied the all time series up. If Urban Meyer and Florida can best Tennessee for a 5th straight year next year, the Gators will finally move ahead for the first time in the head to head with Rocky Top. On the flip side, Phil Fulmer fell to 5-12 during his tenure against the Gators. He has certainly had a lot of success in Knoxville, but he remains property of Florida with a record like that. While the Gator fans chanted “Urban Meyer” over and over after the game, Volunteer fans booed Fulmer mercilessly and are again calling for his firing. Tennessee fans are so tired of seeing Steve Spurrier and Urban Meyer dominate their football program on the field that they are now calling for Spurrier to be wooed away from South Carolina to give them hope again. Funny how things work out. After all it wasn’t that long ago that the Volunteer fans despised the Ol’ Ball Coach and his one liners like “you can’t spell Citrus without UT”.
I digress, though. The real story of the game for Florida had to be the emergence of a true tailback in Emmanuel Moody. Moody looked as good as advertised. No, with limited carries, he did not get 100 yards. What he did do was establish a running game between the tackles without the use of Tim Tebow or Percy Harvin. He also showed a very instinctive ability to slide, cut and find the right hole to run through. Moody also demonstrated for the Gator Nation that he is a very tough runner that will keep his legs moving to push for that extra yard or two. This is the running back Florida expected and has been missing. Meyer had said this would be Moody’s game to get going and Moody backed up those words with his play. The offensive line also answered the challenge to play to their capability. The return of senior Jim Tartt certainly did not hurt, but the whole line seemed to play with more purpose and better technique. They were able to give the Gator running backs clean holes to run through and Tebow time to throw on the few occasions where Florida decided to put the ball in the air. If the offensive line and Emmanuel Moody and continue to build success on the success of the Tennessee game, it will be a big boost for the Gators.
Looking ahead to Ole Miss, it will be interesting to see how Jeavan Snead handles his first trip to the Swamp. The former Gator commitment, who signed with Texas before transferring to Ole Miss is finally actually on the brink of taking a live snap in Gainesville. The unexpected route, though, has him lining up on the other side for the Rebels. Ole Miss comes in off of a couple of losses to Wake Forest and Vanderbilt, so they will be desperate for a win. Snead will be looking to prove himself too. After all, he could have a championship ring right now had he not decommitted from Florida. Now Florida is poised with championship expectations again. But it is one game at a time and the next faces of Tim Tebow and Snead for the first time since the two competed at a summer camp in Gainesville a few years back.
Florida 30 – Tennessee 6
Matthew Katz
9/21/08
The evolution of Florida’s football team was as evident in beating Tennessee by 24 on the road as it has been all year. Heisman winner Tim Tebow did not even have to throw for 100 yards yet Florida dominated the game from start to finish. Brandon James opened the game with a kick return to the 45 of Tennessee. Janoris Jenkins set up the offense’s second series by forcing a fumble that the Gator defense recovered. Then Brandon James returned another punt for a touchdown against the Volunteers, this one going for 78 yards. Before you blinked and before Superman even donned his cape, Florida was up 17-0 and there was no looking back.
On offense the story of the day was the play of the offensive line and running back Emmanuel Moody. Moody, who entered the season with high expectations before seeing limited action in the first two games, was given a chance to get some rhythm going in this one. He carried the ball 9 times for 55 yards for a solid average of better than 6 yards per carry. With the limited number of plays that the offense gets this year with the new clock rules you may never see Moody get 20 carries, but its good to see his ability to establish a strong running game between the tackles. That is a necessary facet for continued success in bigger games down the road. The offensive line, to their credit, also did a lot to facilitate that. After being maligned for poor play against Miami, the line dominated the trenches against the Tennessee defensive line. Boosted by the return of starting guard Jim Tartt, Florida pushed the Volunteers around all day … opening holes and providing a clean pocket to pass from. The group seemed to get their cohesion back and played with the kind of mean streak that they need to have. A great sign for the season ahead.
The defense was, again, nothing short of dominating. They controlled the line of scrimmage with great line play. The linebackers and safeties swarmed to the ball. The defense was always flying to the ball. sensation Janoris Jenkins forced a fumble to set up a field goal and then picked off a pass to save a touchdown. Fellow freshmen Will Hill provided some big hits as well. Joe Haden once again spent more time around the ball than the quarterback did. The growth and maturity of the Gator defense has led to the realization of their talent and promise. The speed, the power, the tenacity has this group on the brink of being one of the top defenses in the country, led by Brandon Spikes. The best thing about the defense is the true team effort. One play it will be Ahmad Black with a deflection. The next play it is Janoris Jenkins with an interception. Another play will be Justin Trattou or Carlos Dunlap on a pass deflection. On another it was Spikes who shot through the gap to make a stop for a loss. There is so much talent and every guy is playing for the one on either side of him.
When it comes to Brandon James, what can even be said anymore? How many superlatives can one tick off when it comes to watching the electrifying, thrilling, exciting, elusive… oh you get the idea. Once again he returned a punt for a touchdown against Tennessee. I am going to go out on the limb and predict that if Tennessee is still willing to kick to him next year, he will do it again. As great as James is, its only half the story when discussing the success of the Gator return game. The blocking was again phenomenal. It says everything about this team when a star like Percy Harvin is sprinting down the field to get the lead block that frees James to score. It is a thing of beauty to watch the way the Gators hustled and block for little number 25. James puts the crowd on the edge of their seat when the ball comes down in his hands, but it’s the team effort in front of him that allows him scintillate, amaze, awe. One cannot talk about the special teams contribution, though, without also praising senior Jonathan Phillips. He went 3-for-3 on field goals, all down the middle and true. After a long road to get to this point, it is a great story to see him stepping up and being a valuable scoring weapon for the Gator football team. Counting the field goal against Miami, sorry Randy, Phillips is now 4-for-4 on the year.
The story of the day might be Neyland Stadium emptying in the third quarter. It was a statement of Florida’s recent dominance in the series when they not only cleared out the Volunteer crowd before the end of the game, but even before the singing of We Are the Boys. Maybe the Tennessee fans just wanted to give the Florida fans more room to sway. Maybe.
Florida v Tennessee Prediction
Matthew Katz
9/20/08
It is game day in Knoxville for Florida so lets get right down to it.
Gator offense v Tennessee defense.
The key, as I have noted for over a week now, is the offensive line play for Florida. And in general their interior run and pass blocking success. You know Tennessee will see what Miami and last year Georgia did to come right after Florida and they will try to replicate that. Florida cannot afford similar blocking miscues against an aggressive and talented Volunteer defense. If Florida is able to give Tebow time to operate, the real interesting match up is Florida’s talented receivers v Tennessee’s loaded secondary. I think edge goes to UF here because of depth. UT’s 4th or 5th corner might have issues if left one on one with one of the Gator receivers. But still it will be a battle.
Gator defense v Tennessee offense.
The Tennessee offense loves to run the ball and with an inexperienced QB who is still looking to find his rhythm, they might be finding it even more imperative to establish the run. Florida, under Meyer and Strong, has been very good against the run. And with the improved defensive tackle play that is especially true this year. Miami’s talented duo of running backs did not even approach 100 yards combined. Still, you can’t be content to watch for the run against Tennessee. Crompton is talented and so are their receivers. Plus you can expect a trick or two involving either Gerald Jones or Eric Berry, maybe both. Still, it’s a basic game of take away the running game and make Tennessee try to beat you with the passing game and trick formations and plays like the Gerald Jones package.
Special teams battle.
Brandon James always seems to elevate himself to another level against Tennessee. He performs well against the Volunteers, returning a kick for a touchdown in each of his first two games in this series. Granted the one two years ago was called back, but it took nothing away from the return itself. Last year James got the Gators ahead early with his big play ability on special teams. Another facet of special teams to keep an eye on is Florida’s kick block unit. The Gators have been really good, under Meyer, at blocking kicks. Tennessee, in their opener against UCLA, gave up a touchdown on a punt block. Something to keep an eye on at the very least.
PREDICTION:
Florida 35 – Tennessee 23
5 Keys for Florida v Tennessee
Matthew Katz
9/17/08
Offensive Line Play
To date the offensive line play for Florida has been nothing short of atrocious. For Florida’s offense to reach its full potential and for Tim Tebow to have a cleaner uniform, the group has to step up starting this Saturday in Knoxville. Too often against Miami one lineman released a defensive player untouched while blocking nobody or doubling someone already accounted for. That is simply unacceptable and the kind of mental breakdowns that can’t happen in the SEC, on the road especially. Improvement is not enough at this point, because average is a step up from where they have been. They have to play well in this game.
Stopping the Run
Tennessee, for the changes in offensive coordinators in recent years, remains a run first team. They have stayed true to their roots. Their offense is predicated on establishing the run and playing off of that. Florida has to continue to defend the run like they did against Miami, making Tennessee pass first and pass often. Put the game on the shoulders of Crompton and the receivers to carry their offense.
Eliminating Careless Penalties
The worst of the mental breakdowns in terms of penalties against Miami was redshirt senior Phil Trautwein’s late hit penalty that effectively killed Florida’s second drive. To that point Miami was reacting to what Florida was doing. Putting Florida in an “and long” situation allowed Miami’s young defense to attack. After that they never stopped coming hard after the Gators. Florida, on the road, cannot have that sort of breakdown. It is tough enough to win at Tennessee without helping them.
Forget UCLA
Yes Tennessee lost to UCLA. Yes UCLA lost 59-0 to BYU. End of story. It is irrelevant. Fulmer teams are always better at home. And they are a team that traditionally gets stronger as the season goes. The team should act as if it has amnesia regarding Tennessee’s season opener and pretend it never happened. They might also want to forget last year’s game where the Volunteers quit late. That won’t happen again. They will have to be ready to battle for 60 minutes and more if need be.
Running Backs Must Produce
The ability to keep Tennessee honest without putting the burden solely on Tim Tebow running the ball is critical to winning. Emmanuel Moody, Jeff Demps, Chris Rainey and Kestahn Moore have got to come together to be a very productive group and this Saturday is when they have to answer that call. They showed the ability v Hawaii but as a group were a non factor against Miami. A similar disappearing act would be a big blow to the Gators this weekend. The ability is there and other than Demps they have all been in the system over a year, or more. They should get it and be ready to go full speed and be the impact players Gator fans believe and know they can be. The boost of having Harvin’s dynamic abilities back there should help.
Offensive Line, Running Backs Must Step Up Against Volunteers
Matthew Katz
9/16/08
Superman did it alone. Tim Tebow has done it alone. Does that make Tebow Florida’s Superman? Maybe. But this is the SEC and it takes team play to win games and championships. Florida’s offensive line is facing a gut check time. Through two games, this unit which was considered preseason to be a strength of the team, has been abused and manhandled with disturbing regularity. Subsequently there has been much hand wringing amongst the Gator faithful about why what was supposed to be the most explosive offense in America is struggling mightily.
It’s a rule of football that is time honored and proven true time and again, the team that wins in the trenches will win the game. Urban Meyer certainly agreed with this when he made a point of recruiting some of the best offensive linemen in America. Its time for those talented young men to not only make good on their promise but to gel as a unit and give a major boost to the Gator offense. If Florida is to realize its potential offensively and as a team this season, it will begin up front. And that must begin this Saturday in Knoxville against the Tennessee Volunteers. Tebow needs a clean pocket. And the running backs need some holes which to run through.
Which brings me to the other group which disappeared during the Miami game, the running backs. As explosive as Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps looked against Hawaii, they were for the most part a non factor on offense against Miami. Though Demps did make his impact felt with a punt block in the second quarter, Touted transfer Emmanuel Moody did not see the field for a single play during the entire game. The trio of new comers, which Florida is looking to as the group that would take the burden off of Tebow as a runner, simply cannot afford to be so ineffective in big games.
One spark that should help relieve the burden on Tebow is the return of Percy Harvin, fully functional and ready to be unleashed. For the first time during his Gator career Harvin is truly 100% healthy. He is also bigger, stronger and faster than ever before. It bodes well for him to see a high number of touches in the Tennessee game. He is the x-factor that is so tough to game plan for. Plus Harvin is as good as anyone at elevating his level of play for the big games, when the spotlight shines the brightest. Hopefully a lesson that rubs off on the young Gator playmakers.
Memorable Battles Between Gators and Vols
Matthew Katz
9/12/08
It is not quite Tennessee week, this week. But with little else new to say about Criami, thought it would be a good time to reflect on some memorable games in a REAL rivalry. I’ll leave overgrown babies like Warren Sapp to cry about the Gators not showing mercy on them. Apparently when they do it, its ok. They just like to cry when the tables are turned. And they wonder why they have sunk to mediocrity and now a national punch line …
Anyway, before I stray too far from the point, here is my list of the top 5 games in the series since it’s become an annual game with a lot of meaning in the division standings.
5. 1998; Tennessee wins 20-17 in Knoxville.
Florida made a lot of mistakes in this game but was able to hang around for a lot of the game and take it to overtime. In overtime Tennessee was able to make their field goal, Florida was not. It ended a long streak of futility for the Vols and Phil Fulmer against the Gators. See, I can play nice and throw a bone to Tennessee fans.
4. 1997; Florida wins 33-20 in Gainesville.
This is the game that graduated Peyton Manning 0-4 v Florida and was probably one of the biggest factors in him not winning the Heisman. The highlight of the game was Tony George picking off Manning and returning it for a touchdown.
3. 2000; Florida wins 27-23 in Knoxville.
Tennessee had control of this game, most of the game with their physical running game. They were able to control the line of scrimmage and really control the time of possession and tempo of the game. Inexplicably, with the chance to run the clock out late, the Volunteers decided to toss sweep wide and the Gator defense ate it up. The game winning touchdown catch by Jabar Gaffney continues to be one of the hottest debates in the history of the rivalry.
2. 2006; Florida wins 21-20 in Knoxville.
This was a very tough call between number 1 and number 2, In this game Florida battled back from behind with a pair of touchdowns including Dallas Baker’s game winning touchdown catch. Florida also survived near disaster when what might have been a game icing interception for a touchdown by Tennessee was called back on penalty. This was also the breakout party for Brandon James. Even though the return was called back, he gave Gator fans a glimpse of his explosiveness with the return for a touchdown.
1. 1995; Florida wins 62-37 in Gainesville.
To the casual reader, this might seem like an odd pick. I mean passing up a one point comeback win over Tennessee for a 25 point blowout? What such a reader might need some educating on is the fact that this was not your ordinary 25 point blowout. Florida had to rally from 23 points down to win by 25. The Gators finished the game scoring 48 unanswered against the Peyton Manning led Volunteers. This game also featured one of the most famous hits in Gator history when Lawrence Wright delivered a crushing blow to Tennessee receiver Joey Kent.
Moody Blues
Matthew Katz
9/10/08
Since Emmanuel Moody’s arrival in Gainesville, he has been the focus of a great deal of speculation, high expectations and now some mystery. Moody was deemed fully functional and on the cusp of a breakout season at Florida by Urban Meyer in the final week of fall practice. A mild ankle sprain and some apparent regression in his understanding of the offense have left him sidelined through the majority of the first two games. So now the question is buzzing, what is the situation with Moody? The young man who shouldered the burden of being the running back that was supposed to reestablish the position in the Gator offense for more than a year now seems to be facing a point of no return. It is his time to really step up this week during the bye week and show Meyer and the offensive staff whatever it is they need to see from him. It is his time to establish himself as a player than simply cannot be kept off the field.
Moody is one of the most talented backs in the entire nation and he is surrounded by the sort of talent that should allow him to succeed. He has clearly come along way in his understanding of the things that are being asked of him. Now is the time for him to put it all together and elevate his play going into SEC play. The Tennessee game, which is always the focus of national media attention and will be broadcasted to the nation on CBS, is the kind of spotlight game where a primetime talent should emerge. Moody has all the ability to be that primetime talent.
Yeah there have been setbacks. But setbacks and other such adversity builds character. That is the positive that can be taken from all of this, for Emmanuel Moody. He can take the lessons he has learned and become a better back and stronger young man for it. Look for Moody to breakout against the Volunteers and make the Gator offense that much more dangerous.
A Case of the Mondays
Matthew Katz
9/8/08
It’s Monday and there is no football this weekend. OK there is football but there is no Gator football so it only counts a little bit. With that in mind, there is no look ahead to the next game this week. Instead, just this once, this will be a Monday look back at the Miami game only. And since we don’t have anything to look forward to this weekend, we can just have some more fun with the University of Moral Victories.
So what was Randy Shannon thinking when he decided to run off at the mouth about Urban Meyer’s decision to score late in the game? Well he was not thinking about the late field goal he kicked against Texas A&M last year, running up that score. Nor was he thinking about running up the score on Little Blind Sisters School For the Poor last week … or Charleston Southern. Whoever it is they were playing. He also must have memory loss issues pertaining to Howard Schnellenberger doing the exact same thing to Florida back in the 80’s with a late field goal.
Hypocrisy, party of one. Hypocrisy, party of one. Just to be clear, Randy, your table is ready. We called in the world’s finest tiny violin player to play the world’s smallest violin just for you while you sip on your whine. Who doesn’t love some false indignation from someone who does not like it when he gets some of his own medicine? I guess when you lose by 23 and have to find some way to explain away the fact that your team only plays 45 of the 60 minutes, you reach for whatever you can.
With that in mind, Shannon offered a heartfelt plea to the recruits around the state of Florida. Yeah, they are our daddy, Urban is my daddy… but… but… he is a meanie head. You don’t want to play for a meanie head. You know, maybe this is just part of Randy Shannon’s master plan to get people talking about this so we forget that he called his players “butt buddies” last year. Don’t worry, Randy, no matter what you say going forward, that gem will live on forever.
Cunningham Honored
Recognized for his efforts against Miami, Jermaine Cunningham was awarded the SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week by the SEC for Week 2. Cunningham recorded 9 tackles and a sack against the Hurricanes. His ability to put pressure on Marve and Harris was a big part of the Gator defense dominating the game. His biggest competition for the honor may have come from teammate Carlos Dunlap, who recorded 2 sacks against Miami. Dunlap was also all over the place creating pressure.
Replay Got It Right
The Miami contingent, all ten of them, may be disputing the replay reversal of Carl Moore’s catch, but the replay official got it right. The combination of replay angles shows definitively that Moore got control of the ball in the air and got his elbow down inbounds. That makes it a catch, plain and simply. I called it after the first replay and could not believe how long it took the announcers to figure it out about his elbow. Just glad the replay official got it right.
University of Moral Victories
Matthew Katz
9/7/09
This one will be short and sweet. When did the M in UM start standing for moral victory? I dialed up some old friends whose misguided loyalty is with the Hurricanes this morning, to discuss the final score of last night’s game with them. The unexpected happened … ok it was not really unexpected. They claimed moral victory because they hung with the mighty Gators for 3 quarters. Remember when Miami fans were completely arrogant … ok that has not changed. What has is their view of success against Florida. In one night they went from talking about how Florida had not beat them in a while to accepting imminent defeat and finding solace in hanging in there for a while.
Recruits around the state might consider taking note. Florida is so head and shoulders above the rest of the state, it’s apparently a moral victory to even stay close for a while. I suppose a moral victory is alright when you can’t get a real victory. I guess whatever helps Hurricane fans sleep better at night. And this week they can rest their heads on their pillows and have sweet dreams about a close game that got ugly and ended in loss. But in your dreams, I suppose we can let it end at 9-3. That is something… I suppose.
P.S. A note to Cane fans. By the time we play again in 2013, it will not only be almost a decade without Miami beating Florida, but it will be almost a decade without Miami even scoring a touchdown against Florida. Oh the irony.
Florida 26 – Miami 3
Matthew Katz
9/7/08
Defense wins championships. If that old adage holds true this year, the omen is positive for Florida in 2008. The Gator defense showed its collective muscle on Saturday night, dominating the Miami offense from start to finish. Other than one lengthy drive that led to the Hurricane’s only field goal score of the game, it was all Gators defense, all the time. The Florida defense limited Miami to a mere 140 yards from scrimmage and a meager 3 points. Robert Marve, who looked cocky and arrogant early in the game ended the game looking frustrated and rattled.
While the Gator defense controlled the game on their side, the offensive line was not having the same sort of success. The offense struggled most of the first 3 quarters because of poor offensive line play. It started with a careless personal foul for a late hit on senior tackle Phil Trautwein but it was just the beginning of the troubles for the group. That said, without that drive killing penalty, the game might have been out of reach before Miami got any confidence in its ability to hang around. Missed blocks were the theme of the night, a constant plague.
Still, it was not all bad on offense. The much awaited return of Percy Harvin was a successful one. Percy looked fast and strong, no rust from the time off and showed no signs of ill effects from being hit again. Tim Tebow was again Tim Tebow. He showed when push comes to shove; he will put the offense on his back and carry the load. Then there was Aaron Hernandez, who caught one touchdown and might have had the play of the night when he broke a short drag route into a 38 yard catch and run.
As always, the special teams battle went to Florida. Urban Meyer believes in the impact of special teams on a game and the Gators buy into that, which translates into success in games. Brandon James showed his explosion and game changing ability. Jeff Demps, in his first big game of his career, changed the complexion of the game late in the second quarter with a punt block for a safety. That was set up by a perfect coffin corner punt by Chas Henry. That is to say nothing of the contributing efforts of Matt Patchan to free Demps for the block or the blocking for James on his returns. As always, it was a complete team effort.
There was some ugly moments on Saturday night. That cannot be denied. And for a while, Miami played very tough and hung around. Unfortunately for Miami, it’s a 4 quarter game. As the game entered its final quarter the Gators got stronger while the Hurricanes wore down. From there the Gators put the foot down on the gas and quickly pulled away, putting away their rivals from south Florida. In doing so, Florida made a statement. That statement is there is a clear cut best team in Florida and the Gators are it. 3 straight over FSU and the definitive win of Miami has established as much. In the state of Florida, you are either a Gator or Gator Bait!
Florida v Miami Prediction
Matthew Katz
9/6/08
It ‘twas the night before Miami and time to stare into the crystal ball once again to see what is to come.
Gator offense v Miami defense.
I have said before and will say again that Miami’s defense reminds me a lot of last year’s Gator defense, young and full of talent. Certainly capable of playing beyond its years at times but just as capable of being exposed for its lack of experience. Florida’s offense is a complex scheme and will demand a lot of discipline from Miami if they want to try to keep the Florida offense in check. Florida’s offense will have to be ready for a very aggressive style. I see Miami going after Florida instead of sitting back and waiting for the Gators offense to strike. Florida’s best bet might be a quick strike and misdirection early. Try to take advantage of overaggressive play that can lead to over pursuing plays. Talent wise, Miami can probably hang with anyone. Experience could be a key edge for the Gators.
Gator defense v Miami offense.
Miami will be starting a redshirt freshman who has never taken a snap before in college. After sitting out last week with suspension, Robert Marve might be even more hard pressed to control his emotions early in the game. The Hurricanes have a strong running game with James and Cooper. Look for the Canes to try to establish the running game to take pressure off of their young quarterback. Would watch for quick screens and short passes too, especially early. To counter, Florida will probably play to stop the run early. I would not be surprised to see Major Wright move up to put 8 in the box and challenge Marve to put the game on his shoulders. The Gator pass rush will need to get more hits than they did last week against Hawaii’s quick pass offense. Hitting and potentially rattling the first time starter has to be a big part of the Gator defensive game plan.
Special teams battle.
Florida usually has the edge going into a game in special teams because of the presence of return man Brandon James. The kickoffs will have to be better than last week, though, or Miami could have good field position a lot of the game.
PREDICTION:
Florida 38 – Miami 19
5 Keys for Florida v Miami
Matthew Katz
9/4/08
Defending the Run
While Miami has young talent at quarterback and receiver, the key to their offense is their ability to run the ball. The tailbacks have a lot of experience and are as talented as any players on the team. Getting Cooper and James going would also allow Miami to play keep away from Florida’s offense. The Gator defense must make the Hurricanes’ quarterback, whether it is Marve or Harris, with his arm and not allow them to chew up a lot of clock.
No Mental Mistakes (i.e. careless penalties)
Florida was whistled for too many penalties in the season opener against Hawaii. Giving away first downs on offside penalties and setting back the offense on motion penalties are the kind of mistakes that cannot be afforded against teams with Miami’s talent. These are not effort penalties, but simply a lack of concentration and discipline. Emotions will be high when this game kicks off and it will be imperative for the Gator players to keep their focus and tune everything else out.
Offensive Line Play
One thing you’re guaranteed when you play a Miami defense is they will come after you. There may be a lot of youth on that side of the ball for the Hurricanes, but there is also a lot of speed and talent. I am sure they will not sit back and wait for the Gators to pick them apart. So the line will have to open holes for the backs and give Tebow time to make plays happen in the passing game. If Miami commits to heavy blitzing some misdirection against a young and perhaps overly aggressive defense could assist the offensive line by slowing down the rush.
Playmakers Making Big Plays
The offense can give the defense a big assist in stopping the running game of Miami. Florida showed quick strike ability against Hawaii putting up 42 points in what amounted to a roughly 18 minute stretch of game action. If the Gators can use big plays to all of the speedy playmakers to get ahead of the Hurricanes, its less likely that the Miami staff will be able to stay with the run as much as they would like. Getting ahead and playing ahead is a bigger key than usual in this one because it could change the Miami game plan considerably.
Let the Scoreboard Do the Talking
Miami teams are infamous for talking trash. Florida needs to let Miami do the running of their mouths. Florida, if it wants to make its statement, needs to do it on the scoreboard. A win here will do all the talking that needs to be done. This is a real opportunity to make a statement in the state of Florida but that is not done with trash talk, that is done with a win.
Harvin Healing, GameDay Hosting, Tebow v Marve
Matthew Katz
9/3/08
Harvin Update
“We have the technology, he can be rebuilt.” That comes to mind when reading about Percy’s recovery process. He is now over 200 pounds and is stronger than ever. Percy recently talked about how he benches around 400 lbs. He is bigger and stronger and that is, if you can believe it, apparently translating into even more speed from one of college football’s fastest players. Opposing defenses cannot like the sound of that.
As long as he is feeling good after today’s practice, Percy will start Saturday night in the Swamp when Florida hosts instate rival Miami. Just picture this, a speed package where Florida puts Percy Harvin, Chris Rainey, Jeff Demps, Louis Murphy and Brandon James on the field together. The Gators could run all drag routs, fly routs, post routs all on the same play and wherever there is a hole in the defense, and you turn that speedster loose on the defense. There are just so many options for Dan Mullen and Urban Meyer with so many ways to use the speed and skill of all of those weapons. Spread out a defense and then give it to one of them out of the back field is just another of the many ways to use such a group on the field at the same time. Plus defenses would still have to account for Tebow in any scenario.
GameDay in Gainesville
As everyone already knows, college GameDay will broadcast live from Gainesville on Saturday. This will be the show’s 28th broadcast live from a Gator football game. That leads all college programs by a solid margin. Ohio State, Florida State and Michigan are 6 and 7 back respectively. With ESPN’s new financial and broadcast commitment to the SEC and with so many big games in the SEC week after week, Florida could widen that margin in the near future. Now if we could just get Corso to slip on an Ibis head…
Tebow v Marve
Tim Tebow set a lot of state records in high school. Robert Marve broke a bunch of those records. Now the two will square off in the Swamp, starting against each other. Tebow comes in as the reigning Heisman winner while Marve will be taking his first collegiate snap. Despite the difference in experience, both have plenty of talent. It should be interesting to see which quarterback is able to one up the other this time around. One thing is for certain, we should see more of Tebow being Tebow this week opposed to the Tim Tebow that was content to avoid the hits against Hawaii since Florida had the game in hands.
A Case of the Mondays
Matthew Katz
9/1/08
It is Monday, the first one of the season. We’re stuck somewhere in the limbo after the weekend of the game and still a full work week away from the next game. We’re torn between jubilation of victory and breaking down the next match up. So I am going to offer a little of both up on an orange and blue platter. Will cover some final thoughts on Hawaii and begin the look ahead to Miami.
Team Concept
Last year the team was reliant on its stars to make plays. On offense it was the Tim Tebow and Percy Harvin show. When either was hurt, the impact on the offense was clearly noticeable. On the defensive side of the ball, the plays usually came from Derrick Harvey, Jermaine Cunningham or Brandon Spikes. Spikes led the way with tackles, while QB pressure was Harvey, Cunningham or bust. The win over Hawaii, while yes it is still just Hawaii, illustrated the growth of the team. Tim Tebow threw barely more than a dozen passes and ran for a mere 37 yards, accounting for just one touchdown. Percy Harvin watched from the sidelines. Florida racked up 56 points with only six coming from their dynamic duo. Instead, Louis Murphy, Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey made the plays on offense. With Cornelius Ingram out for the year and Aaron Hernandez apparently suspended for the opener, Tate Casey made the plays out of the tight end position. Players were stepping up all over the field to make plays and show that this is an offense that can hurt you in so many ways.
Defensively, Hervey is a newly minted NFL millionaire and no longer stalking quarterbacks for the Gators. Brandon Spikes was watching the Gator defense chomp on the Hawaii offense from the sidelines. Yeah, there was still Jermaine Cunningham, who record 1.5 sacks on the day. But he wasn’t doing it alone. He did not even lead the line in sacks that distinction belonged to Lawrence Marsh with 2 sacks. In Spikes absence, Dustin Doe and AJ Jones were constantly around the ball and his replacement at starting middle linebacker, Ryan Stamper, recovered a fumble despite breaking his thumb early in the game. The secondary really took over the game, though. While Hawaii rarely dared to test the defense down the field, they usually paid for the times they tried. Florida picked off 4 passes and returned 2 for touchdowns. Another interception ended a scoring threat on a pass into the end zone. Those three plays respectively came from Ahmad Black twice and Major Wright once. Wright followed up his pick 6 with a devastating hit that sent the starting running back for Hawaii to the sideline feeling woozy. Cornerback Joe Haden had a hand in 2 fumbles. He forced the one that Stamper recovered and recovered another him self. It was a feeding frenzy on defense and nobody seemed willing to be left out.
Weekend Forecast
A blowout victory overly lowly Charleston Southern has reinvigorated the Miami faithful. And yes, I am aware that Miami faithful is an oxymoron. They believe their program has been again upgraded from a tropical depression to Hurricane status again. That remains to be seen. One win over a team that got manhandled last year by the likes of Citadel is not going to reestablish dominance. Without going into full breakdown mode yet, there are some interesting things to note about this coming week’s opponent.
Miami appears to have a quarterback controversy on its hands. Robert Marve was slated to start before being issued a one game suspension, however belatedly by Randy Shannon. Jacory Harris got the start and the Miami fan favorite made good on it. He tore apart the CSU defense and put on a show in front of his hometown fans. Now Shannon is saying Marve is the starter coming into the Swamp. As little experience as the true freshman Harris has from his one start, Marve has even less. He is a redshirt freshman that has never taken a collegiate snap. The young Miami quarterback, whichever is taking the snap at a given time, will be tasked with reading a complex blitz scheme and making decisions quickly. While Florida kept its defense pretty vanilla against Hawaii, you know Charlie Strong and company have some tricks up their sleeve for the Hurricanes.
Another interesting aspect to keep an eye on is their young defense. Their defense actually reminds me of the situation Florida found itself in last year. There is talent all over the field but it is extremely young and inexperienced. They will get maybe as tough of a test as they will ever get in college with the Florida offense and they will have to face it in the second game of their respective careers for many new faces. With Percy Harvin, Aaron Hernandez and Jim Tartt expected to return to the Gator offense this week, for the game, that makes the task in front of the Miami defense that much more difficult. How they respond and play will go a long way to determining Miami’s fate this Saturday.
A final point of interest … for now … is recruiting implications. Meyer has targeted this weekend as a major recruiting weekend. Florida’s desire to get into Miami in recruiting is well documented and a win this weekend would certainly help. Under Meyer, Florida has shown an ability to land star players from Broward and Palm Beach counties. Still Miami has been an elusive gem. If Florida could win this game decisively, it might send a message to recruits down there that the road to championships goes through Gainesville and not Coral Gables, now. And you thought this game didn’t have enough riding on it from a pure rivalry standpoint.
So there ya go, a look back and a look ahead. Check in every Monday, when I will offer a similar cure for the weekly case of the Mondays.
Random Thoughts on Hawaii Win
Matthew Katz
8/31/08
*Speed kills. Speed Killed Hawaii. Even without Harvin on the field, Florida probably could have fielded an Olympic 4 x 100 relay team with Jeff Demps, Chris Rainey, Brandon James and Louis Murphy. Hawaii players looked like they were moving in slow motion as the Gator speedsters ran by them again and again.
*”Short” yardage backs. Short was the operative word in short yardage when Meyer and company turned to Rainey and James on a number of occasions where short yardage was needed. Size clearly does not matter, just ask the Hawaii linebacker who had a considerable amount of size on Rainey. Yet it was the Hawaii linebacker who did not get up from the collision while Rainey popper right back up, ready to go for another play.
*Blitzkrieg bop. Florida struggled often last season when it came to generating consistent pressure on the opposing quarterback. In the opener v Hawaii, Florida used a number of well designed and well executed blitzes from all different places on the field to rattle the Hawaii quarterbacks and force them into a lot of mistakes. That is not to say that the defensive line did not do its part. The 3 and 4 down linemen were consistently pushing around Hawaii’s offensive line, which opened up the gaps for the blitzes.
*Marsh land. It’s fitting that a man with a last name that’s a synonym for Swamp would assert himself as a rising star on the defense. Marsh has received praise from the coaches leading up to the season as the guy who really separated himself at defensive tackle. His play carried over into the opener where he recorded 2 sacks, which was a team high.
*Second(ary) to none. Combining to account for 6 turnovers and two touchdowns, the young secondary would be second to nobody on this day. Major Wright’s interception return for a touchdown knocked the wind right out of the Hawaii team. Ahmad Black’s second INT, which he returned 80 yards for a touchdown, put a cap on a game that was all Gator.
*Shocked and awed. Hawaii played a strong first 15 minutes and had to feel good that they were in the game playing right there with the Gators in the Swamp. The next 20 minutes and 30 seconds put a definitive end to any Hawaiian dreams of an upset. In that short time, Florida piled up 42 points in an overwhelming display of speed, skill and desire. After a scoreless first quarter, Florida raced to a 42-0 lead just 5-plus minutes into the third.
*Harvin, Spikes, Tartt and Hernandez. Despite the outstanding showing, beyond the win the best news of the day was the indication that 4 of Florida’s best players would most likely be ready to return for the Miami game. Harvin, arguably the best skill player in America, adds even more speed and playmaking ability to the offense. Spikes, the leading tackler last year, looks poised to be even better this year. Hernandez showed his flashes last year of what he can do and with Ingram down this year, he will be the match up nightmare over the middle and running down the seem of the defense. Tartt is a mainstay on the offensive line. He brings talented leadership and the kind of mean streak on the field that’s needed to be a quality offensive lineman.
Florida 56 – Hawaii 10
Matthew Katz
8/30/08
Florida’s 2008 debut was nothing short of an overwhelming success. The Gators won the game in all 3 phases, scoring in all 3 phases. Florida was able to pressure the QB with 3 man rushes and creative blitz schemes. The relentless attacking defense delivered one big play after another. On offense the story that carried the day was what Tim Tebow did not have to do, that was carry the burden on his shoulders. Running backs Chris Rainey, Brandon James, Jeff Demps and Kestahn Moore showed that the commitment and ability to produce on the ground from the running back position is there. Tebow demonstrated patience, using his legs to buy time to find open receivers instead of committing to running the ball when a play broke down. One thing that has been a constant over the few years in Gainesville is the explosive spark that Brandon James provides in the return game. He electrified the Swamp with his punt return for a touchdown. Even when he returns it for 15 yards, his ability to make people miss en masse is enough to get you on the edge of your seat. He is always a threat to break it for a touchdown.
Throughout the spring, summer and fall, there was much fanfare about what was to come from an improved defensive line that was stronger and more experienced. On Saturday afternoon, Gator Nation got a glimpse of the marked improvement. Florida was repeatedly able to generate pressure and penetration with 3 and 4 man rushes. This was augmented with a creative series of blitz packages that had players coming from all over the field and getting to the Hawaii quarterbacks. The ability to generate pressure translated into turnovers. Oft maligned last year, the secondary looked opportunistic today. Safety Ahmad Black snatched two interceptions, one of which ended a scoring threat and the other he returned for a touchdown. His fellow safety, Major Wright, followed the Gators first touchdown of the day with an interception return for a touchdown that really knocked the wind out of the Hawaii offense. Corner Joe Haden fell on a fumble on an attempted shovel pass that was resultant of a quarterback that felt the pressure coming again. Corner Jacques Rickerson capped the turnover parade with an athletic interception where he had to fully extend to bring the ball down at its highest point. Against one of the best passing offenses in the country, the Gator secondary not only shut them down after the first quarter, but they were also the ones making the big plays. Not to be lost in all of this was a very nice day from the Gator linebackers. Missing their leader, Brandon Spikes, did not stop them from being very productive. AJ Jones and Dustin Doe were constantly around the ball and Jones looked more than capable in the blitz schemes.
On offense the story had to be Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps. The Rain Man cometh, indeed. Gator fans knew, the Gator coaches knew, even their teammates knew what those two could do. Now everyone else is starting to get a taste. To quote one Georgia fan after Rainey’s rushing touchdown, “Rainey is really, really fast. Damn”. Pretty well sums it up, not to mention his natural ability to make people miss. The most impressive display of speed, though, had to be Jeff Demps on his touchdown run. When he broke free and had one man to beat, as fast as he is, I thought for sure that safety had enough yardage and angle to catch or slow Demps. In the blink of an eye Demps found a gear few people could even dream of and then he was gone, leaving defenders in his wake. The vision and the burst both Rainey and Demps possess is simply fun to watch. Louis Murphy did not get a lot of opportunities to catch the ball today with the focus being on the run game. However he had the catch and run of the day on his touchdown. He showed nice hands and concentration as he reached to bring the pass in while going right into a quick spin move to free him self of the safety who had the coverage and after that it was all over as Murphy cruised to the end zone. The really amazing thing about the opener was the fact that Florida lit up the scoreboard for 56 points and talented players like Carl Moore, Emmanuel Moody and Deonte Thompson barely touched the ball today. That is to say nothing of the fact that Percy Harvin and Aaron Hernandez did not even play.
Special teams were once again special. Brandon James can always be counted on to put on a show. And put on a show he did today. He has such elusiveness with excellent vision and once he finds a little space to turn up field through he is just gone. The player whose effort may be lost in James’ exploits is true freshman Janoris Jenkins. Jenkins made several nice blocks in the return game, including the block that sprang Brandon James on the touchdown. Also of note, Jonathan Phillips made good on his starting opportunity at place kicker by going 8 for 8 on point after attempts.
Yeah, there is always the ‘it’s just Hawaii’ mindset and yes it is just one game. That mantra will be the one you will hear this week by those who anoint them selves responsible for tempering the enthusiasm of the Gator Nation. It is just one game. It is just Hawaii. And the Gators did exactly what they had to do to make it a successful one game against Hawaii. The showed their ability to produce in all three phases without showing much of the playbook. It is still just one game but what a one game it was. Gator football is finally back. Enjoy the ride.
Hawaii Prediction
Matthew Katz
8/29/08
On the eve of the opener, its time to look into the crystal ball and see what is to come.
Gators offense v Hawaii defense.
As overmatched as the Hawaii defense looked against Georgia in January, I think Hawaii could be in even more trouble against the high powered Gator offense tomorrow. Hawaii will be stretched vertically and horizontally and the Gators will use that space and their talent advantage to move the ball early and often and score a lot of points.
Hawaii offense v Gator defense.
The Georgia game should offer a great blueprint for what to do to Hawaii’s offense. Hitting them on the chin and playing them physically is the way to go. Don’t give them the time or opportunity to play their finesse style. Look for Florida to attack Hawaii early. For a QB who played 8 on 8 football in high school, the speed and power of the Gator’s front 7 should be culture shock and that’s to say nothing of the noise he will contend with in the Swamp.
Special teams battle.
When you have a return man like Brandon James, you always have the edge in special teams play. Add to that a kickoff specialist that can put it in the end zone at will and speed all over the place to cover kicks and the edge here is significant for Florida.
PREDICTION:
Florida 59 – Hawaii 10
Pick Your Poison
Matthew Katz
8/28/08
Despite the very unfortunate loss of Cornelius Ingram for the 2008 season, Florida’s high powered offense will force opponents to pick their poison. When you look at the skill players in the offense, of course it all starts with Heisman trophy QB Tim Tebow. Tebow is the most dynamic talent in the entire country. His ability to create positive plays running the ball, pick defenses apart through the air and outmuscle defenders for critical short yardage makes him a player unlike any other. The other tangible impact Tebow has on a defense is they cannot defend 10 with 11. The need to commit one man, and at times more than one, to attempting to slow down Tebow opens up more opportunities for the other dangerous weapons at the disposal of Dan Mullen and Urban Meyer.
Running back which had, for the last few years, been a weakness for the Florida Gators has become a strength with the s of transfer Emmanuel Moody and true freshman Jeff Demps along with the recovery of Mon Williams and Chris Rainey from injuries. The stable of talented backs is led by senior Kestahn Moore, who brings leadership and experience to the group. Moody is the closest thing Florida has had to Fred Taylor since Taylor left Florida in the late 90’s. His combination of power and speed means he can grind out the tough yards and explode for the homeruns. He showed flashes of brilliance in the spring game but now, according to Meyer is much improved from even then. Moody will have an excellent opportunity to be the first 1000 yard rusher in Gainesville since Ciatrick Fason. In Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps, the Gators have two dynamic players that can break off a big play at any time. Their vision, cutting ability and speed make them perfect for the spread offense, which is predicated on getting the ball to playmakers in space. One missed tackle and you will be chasing Demps or Rainey from behind … and you do not catch those guys once they are in front of you. Mon Williams brings a tough minded running style to the mix. While he can certainly get into the secondary and make a big play, his tough running between tackles is what his biggest asset is in my opinion. Look for him to help alleviate the burden that Tebow carried last year in short yardage and goal line scenarios.
In the passing game, the choices are even more numerous. Percy Harvin and Brandon James will play a lot of the “Percy Harvin” position this year, switching between receiver and running back and generally moving around to find soft spots in the defense. There is little that needs to be said about Harvin at this point. We all know what he brings to the table. He is the best skill player in the country and the sooner he gets healthy, the better. James to date has been best known for his kick return abilities but I believe that is the tip of the iceberg with what he brings to the team. That same shiftiness in space will become a problem when he causes missed tackles. And he is another guy you simply do not catch from behind. When you look at Riley Cooper and Carl Moore, Florida has a pair of physical receivers with the ability to stretch the field. Both came in with great expectations. Cooper has been slowed by injuries and Moore took a few months to get up to speed on the offense. Now both appear poised to reach their potential on the field for Florida. Good news for the Gators and bad news for everyone else. Aaron Hernandez is a great possession receiver from tight end with the size of a tight end and the skills of a receiver. He is a match up nightmare for defenses and should benefit over the middle with defenses stretched thin trying to defend everyone else. Luis Murphy is another guy who needs no introduction for Gator fans, who know well his capabilities. It has been quite the rise for a young man who came from off the radar out of high school and is now a star at Florida. The list of talented receivers goes on and on. All everything Deonte Thompson and former Army All American David Nelson are also part of the receiver group that is insanely deep and talented.
So what is a defense to do? Do you key on Tebow and leave someone open? Do you crowd the box and leave your defensive backs one on one with all of those quality receivers? Do you play back to avoid the big play but risk the Gators picking you apart with the run and the short passes? What it, in the end, comes down to is defenses will have to pick their poison with this offense.
Musings about the Olympics
Matthew Katz
8/25/08
I know its opening week for Gator football but as I sat here and thought about the recently completed Olympics, I felt I needed to take a quick detour from that coverage and discuss some thoughts on the Beijing games.
To me the biggest story from Beijing is not Michael Phelps. I know, I know and personally I was as captivated as anyone else out there by his success. However, before I get to that there is a story that I found even more compelling. You have got to tip your hat to the way Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson overcame the adversity of the absolute travesty that was the judging during their routines. At times you could see in the face of Shawn Johnson that she knew what was coming as soon as her score was posted. It was just a matter of time until they passed her up in the standings. What words could you even use to console a teenage girl who, after so many years of hard work, is simply robbed of a gold medal that she earned? And through it all, Nastia and Shawn were poised and mature. They were the embodiment of the Olympic spirit, demonstrating class and sportsmanship even as you know deep down they knew they were getting robbed repeatedly. One thing all the corrupt judges in the world cannot take from these two is that it apparent to anyone watching that Nastia and Shawn are the two best gymnasts in the world. After them, there is a considerable gap. Perhaps the best moment of the entire Olympic games was when Shawn Johnson finally won her gold and seeing her parents react with so much pride and joy that it was clearly overwhelming to them.
Of course Michael Phelps did steal the show. He was the most dominating athlete in the history of the Olympics. When you win 8 gold medals and on your way to doing it you set 8 Olympic records and 7 world records there comes a point where superlatives are no longer necessary. Just listing the accomplishments more than suffices. Less indeed is more where that is concerned. All I know is this was as captivated as I have been by a series of singular sporting events as I can ever remember. Each race, each step closer to history and destiny just made it that much harder not to watch. When the relay team won his 8th gold, it was a chance to glimpse perfection. Even in the sports world that is such a rarity. Now we will all remember where we were when Phelps won number 8.
As much as women’s gymnastics and Phelps dominated the headlines, there were some other interesting happenings worth noting. Dara Torres represented the Gator Nation and America so well. At 41, to win 3 silvers and miss gold by .01 is incredible. She is such a testament to work ethic and determination. … Oh the bitter irony that the IOC would dump softball because of the American dominance and then our team loses perhaps the final gold medal game for the sport. Hopefully they get a shot at redemption in 2016. … Speaking of redemption, how about the Redeem Team? It was great to see those guys put their egos on the backburner and play for the 3 letters on the front of the jersey. … Gator athletes won 14 medals, which tied for 18th amongst the participating countries. Only 13 countries had more gold medals than Gator athletes. Impressive stats for the University of Florida.
Its Game Week!
Matthew Katz
8/24/08
That is right Gator Nation, it is finally game week! This Saturday the Gators kick off the 2008 football season with Hawai’i. Primed for championship contention and a possible Heisman milestone, plenty is riding on this football season. But there is plenty of time to hash and rehash all of that. Now is the time to simply savor the fact that we are days, not weeks and not months, from the opening kickoff. All of those long months of trolling the internet for any scrap of information on how the team was progressing during practices and workouts are over. Watching replays of classic Gator games because you need a fix to avoid withdrawals while waiting for the next season is all but over.
It is time to renew the hallowed game day superstitions that you know so well. Hopefully you have prepared your voice so that you are in game shape to yell without losing your voice until the next day. Fall Saturdays in the Swamp with old traditions that we know and love like “We Are the Boys”, the Chomp and “Heeeeeeeeeeeere Come the Gators!” are back. They bring with them some of the newer ones like the Gator Walk and singing the Alma Mater. It’s an experience like no other and that says nothing of the gridiron greatness we will be treated to for 12 (hopefully 13) Saturdays this fall.
It is that wonderful time when late summer turns into fall in Gainesville. Time, again, for the Gator to growl. This is Gator country, where only the Gators get out alive! Go Gators!
Will Reduced Carries Keep Tebow From Heisman Repeat?
Matthew Katz
8/22/08
Tim Tebow’s Heisman victory last year was an incredible accomplishment not only because he was the first sophomore in history to win it but also because the Gators were only a 9 win team. I don’t mean that as to say winning 9 games equates to a bad season. Where I am going with that is Heisman winners usually come from National Title contenders. So for a young man to buck both traditions of upperclassmen winners and the best player on the best team winners, well it’s understandable why Superman is sporting Tebow pajamas to bed. It was a legendary type of season where he assaulted record books through the air and on the ground.
So we fast forward to the 2008 season. With the arrivals of transfer Emmanuel Moody and true freshman Jeff Demps to go along with Chris Rainey and Mon Williams healing up and all of a sudden the Gator ground game is not reliant on Tebow and all-world athlete Percy Harvin to do the lion’s share. In addition to the cavalry arriving, there is an obvious interest from the coaching staff to reduce the physical toll all of the hits initiated by Tebow or otherwise took. The culmination of that was the Georgia game where it’s hard to imagine Tebow was much more than 50%, if that, from watching how tentatively he played. There is even talk that back up quarterback Cameron Newton will play the Tim Tebow to Tebow’s Chris Leak circa 2006 so that Tebow can remain healthy for the 2008 season. After all, the Gators have the firepower to contend for the National Title and that means they need Tebow at full capacity.
What does all of this mean for the Gator QB who can become only the second player ever to win two Heisman trophies? Honestly, probably not much. It’s clear that he would prefer rings to statues, team goals to personal accomplishments. So I will do the pondering for Tim. It probably means he will not approach a repeat of his 20/20 mark from last year. But he may very well get back near the 55 touchdown mark overall by picking defenses apart through the air. While stats may go down as he shares the touches, what should go up is the win total. Florida has the schedule and the team to make it to Atlanta and contend for the big prize down in Miami. Should the Gators make good on that promise, even a reduction in stats would not be able to keep Tebow from telling Archie to move over because he has company.
Breakout Performers for '08
Matthew Katz
8/20/08
Every year the football team benefits from breakout performances from players with star potential. Last year players such as Luis Murphy, Tim Tebow, Brandon Spikes and Jermaine Cunningham elevated their games with their expanded roles to be key performers for Florida. There are also kids who are able to come in as true freshmen and offer immediate contributions. With the season nearing, it’s a good time to project who might step up for this year’s team.
BREAKOUT PERFORMERS:
Offense-
Chris Rainey. Rainey, who played limited minutes last season before injury cut his season short, looks poised to have an outstanding season. Bulked up and as fast as ever he is the closest thing to the next Percy Harvin you can hope to find. The move he put on Ahmad Black in the spring game showed just how dangerous he can be in space. His explosive speed means nobody will be catching him from behind. He is the perfect weapon for the Urban Meyer offense and has the kind of competitive drive that is key in reaching one’s potential.
Honorable Mention(s)-
Deonte Thompson, Aaron Hernandez and Emmanuel Moody- Thompson redshirt last year but he was so good in practice that the coaches had a difficult time keeping him off the field. Still it was the right call not to use a year of his eligibility. From all reports, it looks like the Caldwell receiver spot is in very capable hands. Hernandez showed flashes last year of his ability to excel with a nice combination of power, athleticism and sure hands. With Cornelius Ingram out for the year (here is to a full and speedy recovery for CI), Hernandez will have more opportunities to catch the ball and makes plays. Look for Hernandez to create numerous match-up problems for defenses. Emmanuel Moody is a former freshman of the year in the Pac 10. He has power and speed to go with the ability to make defenders miss. A lot is expected of the young man who transferred in from Southern Cal and sat out last year. I believe he will deliver on these expectations and make defending Florida that much more difficult.
Defense-
Carlos Dunlap. Dunlap looks nothing short of unblockable (yeah I know it’s not a word, you have to invent them to describe him coming off the edge) and that is going against one of the best offensive lines in the country. He has incredible quickness and athleticism for a young man his size. The power that he brings will also allow him to move inside for speed rush situation on third and long. It looks like Florida’s growing tradition of developing top notch defensive end talent is intact with Dunlap. Look for him to have a big season getting to the quarterback and making plays from his end spot.
Honorable Mention(s)-
The list could be lengthy on defense, to be honest. The expectation has to be for considerable growth from Wondy Pierre-Louis and Joe Haden under the tutelage of Vance Bedford. Lawrence Marsh looks like he is set to establish himself as the player he was expected to be out of high school. Per the coaching staff, he has separated himself from the other quality depth stockpiled at tackle. Major Wright, as good as he was as a true freshman, should be even better this year. And these are just a few of the players I could list here.
IMPACT FRESHMEN:
Will Hill. With the injuries at safety, it pushes the time table up for this young man with all the talent in the world. He has the size, speed, range and instincts to be a special player at free safety. He will have to play key minutes. This combination of talent and necessity gives Hill ample opportunity to make positive contribution this year.
Caleb Sturgis. With the opening at kicker, the door is open for Sturgis to be a big asset to the team. He has a huge leg and great accuracy. His ability to convert long field goals makes coaching decisions easier for Meyer. Just another weapon at his disposal.
Jeff Demps. Demps should see immediate playing time returning kickoffs with Brandon James. His speed and return ability will mean teams will have to pick a poison. Do you kick to James? You know how dangerous that is. Kicking away, though, will mean putting the ball in Demps hands. He will always be a threat to break long returns.
And Then There Was One
Matthew Katz
8/19/08
It’s a trend that began the moment the University of Florida announced Urban Meyer, one of the hottest young coaches in America, as its new head coach. Florida was priming to separate itself from the rest of the pack in the state of Florida. Year after year, over the last 3 years (what to date is the Urban Meyer in Gainesville), Florida has been gradually turning the big 3 into the big 1. Since Miami, Florida and FSU raised the level of their football programs in the 80’s and 90’s there has never been a point where one clearly stood alone atop the others. That time may be approaching fast.
Consider the numbers. Miami has gone a combined 21-16 over the last 3 seasons. Perhaps an even more startling statistic that shows how far the mighty have fallen in Coral Gables is the fact that over the last 2 years Miami opponents have outscored the Hurricanes by 11 points. You read that correctly. In 2006, Miami struggled to outscore its opponents by 54 points. During the failure that was Randy Shannon’s first season at the helm, they were 2 games under .500 and were outscored by 65 points. Shannon is currently enjoying a honeymoon period on the job despite such a meager performance in year one. Still, it’s clear heading into their showdown in the Swamp on September 6; these Hurricanes are little more than a tropical depression.
Things have not been much better for Florida State over that period. The Seminoles, who are anything but “unconquered”, have limped to a mediocre 22-17 total. The Seminoles are coming off of back to back 6-loss seasons and managed to outscore their opponents last year by a mere 5 points. For those scoring at home, that is a +.38 average point margin for 2007. As if the on the field disappointment were not enough, FSU is also mired in scandal that will likely carry with it heavy penalties from the NCAA. In my best obnoxious television announcer voice I have to also add, BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE! The Seminoles inability to exile their defunct emperor has led to one of the more comical coaching controversies you will ever see. One coach does not know he is too old with the game having long since passed him by. The second coach is already under contract but rendered impotent by the presence of the first coach. When will Bowden go? Will Fisher be the savior they need him to be? Just a couple of the questions they have to answer before they can hope to start a long, slow climb back out of mediocrity.
This all is in a stark contrast to the successes of the University of Florida’s football program. During Meyer’s tenure, the Gators are 31-8. In addition to boasting by far the best record of the three, Florida has claimed a National Title and made history with the first ever sophomore Heisman winner, Tim Tebow. Where Miami has gone through a coaching change and Florida State is waiting to oust Bowden, Florida has made Meyer one of the highest paid coaches in the country as reward for his success. Florida is also poised for SEC and National Title contention again in 2008. In 3 full recruiting cycles, Meyer has landed 3 top 3 recruiting classes. The coaching staff, top to bottom, is recognized as one of the best in the country. Everything in Gainesville is on course and heading up. Something you cannot say for either of the other two members of the big 3.
This season presents Florida with a unique opportunity to turn separation into the kind of gaping margin that Michael Phelps would be proud of. On September 6, Miami visits the Swamp. Likely starting quarterback, Robert Marve, would be making only his second career start. Factor in a very young defense for Miami matched up against Florida’s offense and you see the uphill battle Miami will have trying to pull this one out. November 29th is the day Florida returns to Ron Zook Field, where it holds a 2 game winning streak. Under Meyer, the Gators have outscored the Seminoles 100-33 in 3 games. Should Florida take care of business at home v Miami and graduate (using the term loosely given the academic fraud that goes on there) Florida State’s senior class winless against the Gators then the Gators will have established them selves on the field as the dominant Florida program.
The ramifications of a Gator sweep of the Hurricanes and Seminoles would be numerous. The obvious would be that for the first time in a few decades, there would be one established program that is head and shoulders above the other two. Doubtless you would also see this manifest on the recruiting trail. Players want to play for the best and win championships. Then there are the bragging rights. And yes, Florida still has the best academics. What was once a punch line is now salt in the wounds.
Lost In Phelps' Shadow
Matthew Katz
8/17/08
Count me amongst the tens of millions of people who made it a part of my nightly regimen, this week, to check out the latest exploits of Michael Phelps at “The Cube” in Beijing. Phelps did not only give us greatness, he gave us a rare glimpse at perfection. 8 events. 8 gold medals. 8 Olympic records. 7 world records. Like the Visa commercial said, you will need invent new adjectives to properly praise the legend that is Phelps.
Lost in all of this is America’s second best men’s swimmer at the Olympics, Ryan Lochte. The Daytona native will bring home with him 4 medals, 2 gold and 2 bronze. And both of his bronzes were made all the more impressive because of the circumstances he overcame to medal. On August 9th, Lochte swam 400 meters worth of medley with a stomach bug and finished a very solid 3rd. On the 14th, Lochte was just over 20 minutes off of his gold medal in the 200 meter backstroke when he swam against fresh competition in the 200 meter medley. Even then he came within .01 seconds of a silver medal. Granted such circumstances might not register with a Michael Phelps, as he overcame such quick turnarounds just to set more world records. However, for the mortals that walk amongst us, the task is significant and Lochte showed he was equal to the task.
In winning his first individual gold, Lochte defeated the best swimmer in the event in the world, Aaron Peirsol, en route to a new world record. The moment was a crowning achievement as Lochte could hold his head high as an individual Olympic champion. On the heels of defeating Peirsol in the same event in the 2007 World Championships, it is safe to say America has a new greatest 200 m backstroke swimmer… and his name is Ryan Lochte. He also swam with Phelps in the 4 x 200 m free style relay. In that race, Phelps opened up a huge lead for the Americans. Instead of cruising along, maintaining that cushion, Lochte swam next and opened the lead up to almost double what Phelps had given the American team.
While Phelps is deservedly the golden boy of this Olympics, its important to note another budding star in the water. Lochte showed desire, drive, determination and plenty of skill of his own in Beijing. As good as he was in the 29th Olympiad; you can also tell the best is still to come. It will be fun to watch and see what he does in London in 2012.
Wilson's Reinstatement Was Right Move
Matthew Katz
8/16/08
The national media is busy blasting Urban Meyer for allowing Ronnie Wilson to walk on to the team a year after being kicked off of it; I feel it is much ado about nothing. To read the false indignation that is spewing forth from keyboards near and far, you’d think Ronnie Wilson was rewarded with a starting spot and designation as team captain. From where I am sitting, that could not be farther from the truth. For his actions, Wilson has already been sentenced a year of exile. That alone is more than he would have gotten at a lot of programs. Now Wilson is tasked with earning his way all the way back from scratch. It’s hard to imagine on the depth chart, he is much (if at all) more than practice squad at this point.
Wilson, who has never played a down of college defensive tackle and who has been out of football shape for a year, is looking up at a talented and suddenly deep group. With the likes of John Brown, Torrey Davis, Lawrence Marsh, Terron Sanders, Omar Hunter and Matt Patchan vying for playing time ahead of him, it seems uncertain that he will ever see significant playing time. What Meyer is giving Wilson, is an opportunity to avoid becoming a tragedy story of a brief life gone wrong and so much promise never met. A story the Gator Nation is all too familiar with because the wounds are still fresh from the loss of Avery Atkins. The end goal here, to me, is not Ronnie Wilson in the NFL. Rather it is Ronnie Wilson walking across the stage and holding a Florida diploma up proudly. A moment that would signify success in this project that Urban Meyer and the Florida staff have undertaken.
If anything, the Gator head coach should be lauded for taking a step back from their focus on the upcoming season that is laden with championship expectations. When most coaches are football 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in preparation for the upcoming season, Urban Meyer has put the reclamation of a young man’s life on the front burner. Giving Wilson this chance is likely the difference between the young man ending up a statistic and him having a chance to be a productive person with a bright future. Even sans scholarship, he will have a chance to immerse him self in the team and have that support structure as he works on staying clean.
Some counter with if he does not stay clean, this will blow up in Meyer’s face. Luckily Urban is a strong enough person to not let fear over such things dictate his willingness to reach out to a troubled young man. If that means the talking heads make Gator bashing their cause of the day, oh well. In a couple of days they will forget and move on. And that memory lapse will be most apparent should Wilson graduate from Florida. The silence will be deafening. You’ll only hear about this again if it goes wrong. Would not hold your breath for the media to revisit this as a success story.