Quick Hits: Florida

[BlueRattie_rivals]

Writer's Note: This is Part One of Eight quick looks at UK's SEC opponents. Each mini-article will follow a format similar to this one.

Part I: Florida
Part II: South Carolina
Part III: Alabama
Part IV: Vanderbilt
Part V: Mississippi State
Part VI: Missouri
Part VII: Georgia
Part VIII: Tennessee
_____________________

Last Year: Despite being smoked by MSU in the Citrus Bowl, Florida defied expectations and finished with ten wins despite having an offense that vacillated from pedestrian to terrible. The Gator's defense was a swarming, menacing presence that was bested only by Alabama's in conference. What was a pretty good season was marred by the suspension and eventual transfer of Will Grier, who looked like the Gators' future at QB. Critics wondered whether or now new coach Jim McElwain could replicate his success so quickly; he got the last laugh by winning SEC Coach of the Year.

5 Strengths:

1. The Gators' secondary is the real deal, even with the loss of Hargreaves. Safety Marcus Maye and CB Jalen Tabor return to head of an opportunistic group.
2. Florida's DL was very good last year--and very young. There's no reason to believe they won't get even better this year.
3. McElwain looks like the real deal. Organized, detail-oriented, and disciplined, he ran a tight ship his first year.
4. For the second year in a row, they dodge Alabama on the schedule.
5. For the first time in a long time, Florida has continuity on the offensive coaching staff. The revolving doors at OC seem to at an end.

5 Weaknesses:

1. There is no clear cut starter in the QB race. The two leading candidates are transfers.
2. The OL was truly terrible, one of the worst in SEC history, surrendering a staggering 45 sacks last year. That group returns "intact" this year.
3. Florida got little production out of the RB position; they are still looking for that workhorse back.
4. McElwain's inventive schemes took many teams by surprise last year. That will not be the case his second time through the league.
5. It is undeniably clear now that a rather large talent gap between Florida and the elites of the SEC.

5: Big Questions:

1. Can Florida continue to be a winner in the SEC with an offense that is mediocre at best?
2. Who will Florida turn to at QB?
3. Can Florida's young OL improve faster enough to keep their skill players productive and healthy?
4. Is McElwain ready for a second act? Are there some new tricks up his sleeve?
5. Is good coaching enough to bridge the talent gap and return Florida where it "belongs"?

 

[jauk11]

Del Rio only had one incompletioonn in the spring game. But then Towles was 14 for 15 the first half against Mizzou AND was UK's leading rusher, and almost any fan on here can tell you how terrible he was, lol.

Similar to the WR coach UK had in 07.

 

[Adolph Rollingover]

UF DLine very good. #90 and #93 are quick and strong on the inside.

 

[anon_7tbtqcx308nxh]

UF's defense will be nasty again this year. My question: if the offense doesn't get better, and 8 starters from the D leave (grad and early departures), will UK be favored over UF in Lex in 2017?

 

[Dakota25]

Can UK just go on and forfeit. Seriously 30 years now. Would rather just take a bye week and not risk any injuries.

 

[EastLansingCat]

Can UK just go on and forfeit. Seriously 30 years now. Would rather just take a bye week and not risk any injuries.

Gtfo and root for another team then. I hate fans like you.

 

[NoviG8r]

A reasonable observation, from afar. A couple of minor errors, such as Florida's opponent in the Citrus Bowl. It was Michigan, not Michigan State.

Florida's biggest question marks are definitely on offense, but I think some of last season's problems will be much better, even if not totally resolved. The roster issues can be laid 100% at the feet of Will Muschamp.

QB - After Grier was ruled ineligible last year, there was only one option. Treon Harris at 5'11" who was not a pocket-passer, often held the ball too long, didn't look his WR's off, even if he was a game competitor. He has been moved to WR. Luke Del Rio transferred from Alabama to 0regon State, but left after 1 year when the head coach, Mike Riley, took the Nebraska job. He redshirted and appears to be the answer, if the 0-Line produces. Austin Appleby, a transfer from Purdue with plenty of starts, will be backup, as will a true freshman from Texas, Kyle Trask, who impressed in the spring as an early entrant. Elite 11 QB Felipe Franks will redshirt.

0L - Florida started THREE TRUE FRESHMEN on the offensive line last year, and did not even have enough linemen to hold a 2015 spring game. Thanks again, Will Muschamp. This group now has numbers and experience, and the starters averaging 6'6" 320. It will likely be improved, but how much is still up for debate.

RB - UF added the nation's #1 JUC0 running back, Mark Thompson, who runs a legit 4.5 forty and is 6-2 240 pounds. A pair of true sophomores return, Jordan Cronkrite and Jordan Scarlet, both over 200 pounds. Look for Cronkrite to start the season, with all 3 playing. Perhaps an All-SEC player, but certainly a solid group which should be improved if the line is even reasonably better than last year.

WR - The Gators added four 4-star recruits at wide receiver, 3 of which will play. Cleveland, Swain, and Hammond along with JUC0 All-American Dre Massey. Brandon Powell and Antonio Calloway return along with role players. Look for UF to be much improved, and deeper, at this position.

K - Yes, kicker. Florida's place-kicker was abysmal last year. Extra points and FG's were missed almost routinely. Enter JUC0 soccer player Eddie Piniero, a late flip from Alabama. who consistently kicked field goals from 50-70 yards during the spring.

The offense will almost certainly be better, probably considerably better, but exactly how much depends mainly on the improvement of the offensive line play.

As the article noted, the defense should be roughly the same as last year, but the proof will be on the field. Defensive line, both DT & DE are relatively deep and experienced. The defensive backfield, especially the CB's, could be as good as last year. The linebackers are the weak point, if there is one, particularly with respect to depth. Andre Davis returns, thankfully, and is almost a lock for All-SEC, whether 1st or 2nd-team.

It is not likely, imo, that Florida will again win the SEC-East, but I expect the Gators to play a role. If UF can manage to beat the Vols for the 12th-straight year, although in Knoxville, it could win the East again, I'm predicting an 8-4 or 9-3 regular season, with the possible losses coming from games @ FSU, @ Tennessee, @ Arkansas, LSU at home, or UGA in JAX.

 

[STUCKNBIG10]

I think Florida is going to tank this year. I am not predicting a UK win, but I wouldn't be totally shocked if it happened (finally). I think Mcelwain is competent, but I don't think he's a superstar on the recruiting trail and it's difficult to compete at the top of the SEC when you're not that.

Florida has a very difficult schedule. I see potential losses to LSU, Arkansas, Tennessee, Georgia, Free Shoes U, and throw in a surprise or two with Candy / UK / Mizzou jumping up and biting them.

I would not be totally surprised if it's a 7-5 or 6-6 season in gainesville.

 

[ukalum1988]

A reasonable observation, from afar. A couple of minor errors, such as Florida's opponent in the Citrus Bowl. It was Michigan, not Michigan State.

Florida's biggest question marks are definitely on offense, but I think some of last season's problems will be much better, even if not totally resolved. The roster issues can be laid 100% at the feet of Will Muschamp.

QB - After Grier was ruled ineligible last year, there was only one option. Treon Harris at 5'11" who was not a pocket-passer, often held the ball too long, didn't look his WR's off, even if he was a game competitor. He has been moved to WR. Luke Del Rio transferred from Alabama to 0regon State, but left after 1 year when the head coach, Mike Riley, took the Nebraska job. He redshirted and appears to be the answer, if the 0-Line produces. Austin Appleby, a transfer from Purdue with plenty of starts, will be backup, as will a true freshman from Texas, Kyle Trask, who impressed in the spring as an early entrant. Elite 11 QB Felipe Franks will redshirt.

0L - Florida started THREE TRUE FRESHMEN on the offensive line last year, and did not even have enough linemen to hold a 2015 spring game. Thanks again, Will Muschamp. This group now has numbers and experience, and the starters averaging 6'6" 320. It will likely be improved, but how much is still up for debate.

RB - UF added the nation's #1 JUC0 running back, Mark Thompson, who runs a legit 4.5 forty and is 6-2 240 pounds. A pair of true sophomores return, Jordan Cronkrite and Jordan Scarlet, both over 200 pounds. Look for Cronkrite to start the season, with all 3 playing. Perhaps an All-SEC player, but certainly a solid group which should be improved if the line is even reasonably better than last year.

WR - The Gators added four 4-star recruits at wide receiver, 3 of which will play. Cleveland, Swain, and Hammond along with JUC0 All-American Dre Massey. Brandon Powell and Antonio Calloway return along with role players. Look for UF to be much improved, and deeper, at this position.

K - Yes, kicker. Florida's place-kicker was abysmal last year. Extra points and FG's were missed almost routinely. Enter JUC0 soccer player Eddie Piniero, a late flip from Alabama. who consistently kicked field goals from 50-70 yards during the spring.

The offense will almost certainly be better, probably considerably better, but exactly how much depends mainly on the improvement of the offensive line play.

As the article noted, the defense should be roughly the same as last year, but the proof will be on the field. Defensive line, both DT & DE are relatively deep and experienced. The defensive backfield, especially the CB's, could be as good as last year. The linebackers are the weak point, if there is one, particularly with respect to depth. Andre Davis returns, thankfully, and is almost a lock for All-SEC, whether 1st or 2nd-team.

It is not likely, imo, that Florida will again win the SEC-East, but I expect the Gators to play a role. If UF can manage to beat the Vols for the 12th-straight year, although in Knoxville, it could win the East again, I'm predicting an 8-4 or 9-3 regular season, with the possible losses coming from games @ FSU, @ Tennessee, @ Arkansas, LSU at home, or UGA in JAX.

Anytime the Vols get beat is a good day. I just wish we could beat them and you guys a little more often.

 

[rjrockcocks_rivals19905]

Florida will be good on defense this year but not as good. Still the secondary should be top 4 and the front 7 top 5 in the conference. They look good at WR and RB but young. Florida's downfall is QB and offensive line. And im sorry but those are easily the most important positions on the field for an offense. When you have to bring in 2 transfers from Oregon state and Purdue you are in trouble. I say 7-5 or 8-4 but once will muschamps players are gone -which most will be after this year- don't expect Florida to be anywhere near what they've been on defense

 

[katonic]

NoviG8r, that was a solid rundown. I can't disagree with any of that.

 

[BlueRattie_rivals]

A reasonable observation, from afar. A couple of minor errors, such as Florida's opponent in the Citrus Bowl. It was Michigan, not Michigan State.

Florida's biggest question marks are definitely on offense, but I think some of last season's problems will be much better, even if not totally resolved. The roster issues can be laid 100% at the feet of Will Muschamp.

QB - After Grier was ruled ineligible last year, there was only one option. Treon Harris at 5'11" who was not a pocket-passer, often held the ball too long, didn't look his WR's off, even if he was a game competitor. He has been moved to WR. Luke Del Rio transferred from Alabama to 0regon State, but left after 1 year when the head coach, Mike Riley, took the Nebraska job. He redshirted and appears to be the answer, if the 0-Line produces. Austin Appleby, a transfer from Purdue with plenty of starts, will be backup, as will a true freshman from Texas, Kyle Trask, who impressed in the spring as an early entrant. Elite 11 QB Felipe Franks will redshirt.

0L - Florida started THREE TRUE FRESHMEN on the offensive line last year, and did not even have enough linemen to hold a 2015 spring game. Thanks again, Will Muschamp. This group now has numbers and experience, and the starters averaging 6'6" 320. It will likely be improved, but how much is still up for debate.

RB - UF added the nation's #1 JUC0 running back, Mark Thompson, who runs a legit 4.5 forty and is 6-2 240 pounds. A pair of true sophomores return, Jordan Cronkrite and Jordan Scarlet, both over 200 pounds. Look for Cronkrite to start the season, with all 3 playing. Perhaps an All-SEC player, but certainly a solid group which should be improved if the line is even reasonably better than last year.

WR - The Gators added four 4-star recruits at wide receiver, 3 of which will play. Cleveland, Swain, and Hammond along with JUC0 All-American Dre Massey. Brandon Powell and Antonio Calloway return along with role players. Look for UF to be much improved, and deeper, at this position.

K - Yes, kicker. Florida's place-kicker was abysmal last year. Extra points and FG's were missed almost routinely. Enter JUC0 soccer player Eddie Piniero, a late flip from Alabama. who consistently kicked field goals from 50-70 yards during the spring.

The offense will almost certainly be better, probably considerably better, but exactly how much depends mainly on the improvement of the offensive line play.

As the article noted, the defense should be roughly the same as last year, but the proof will be on the field. Defensive line, both DT & DE are relatively deep and experienced. The defensive backfield, especially the CB's, could be as good as last year. The linebackers are the weak point, if there is one, particularly with respect to depth. Andre Davis returns, thankfully, and is almost a lock for All-SEC, whether 1st or 2nd-team.

It is not likely, imo, that Florida will again win the SEC-East, but I expect the Gators to play a role. If UF can manage to beat the Vols for the 12th-straight year, although in Knoxville, it could win the East again, I'm predicting an 8-4 or 9-3 regular season, with the possible losses coming from games @ FSU, @ Tennessee, @ Arkansas, LSU at home, or UGA in JAX.

By and large, I agree with you. I do think, though, you are guilty of a little sunshine-pumping in some areas:

• QB: They're depending on two transfers with little experience who couldn't stick at lesser schools in lesser conferences. That should scare the hell out of FLA fans.
• OL: I'm not sure it's safe to assume that the OL will improve simply by being a year older. I think there's a 50/50 chance that they weren't good last year simply because they aren't all that talented. If that's the case, then prepare for another year of getting overwhelmed at the point of attack.
• RB: Again, your savior is a JC Transfer with no SEC experience. How many JC transfers walk into the SEC and start, much less dominate?

 

[WildCard]

I think Florida is going to tank this year. I am not predicting a UK win, but I wouldn't be totally shocked if it happened (finally). I think Mcelwain is competent, but I don't think he's a superstar on the recruiting trail and it's difficult to compete at the top of the SEC when you're not that.

Florida has a very difficult schedule. I see potential losses to LSU, Arkansas, Tennessee, Georgia, Free Shoes U, and throw in a surprise or two with Candy / UK / Mizzou jumping up and biting them.

I would not be totally surprised if it's a 7-5 or 6-6 season in gainesville.

Well, I would. [laughing]

FWIW, Steel ranks UF's schedule #55...hardly a minefield. But that number is unquestionably dragged down by 3 embarrassingly weak OOC opponents (#125 Massachusetts, #126 North Texas and FCS Presbyterian). Right now they look like TD+ 'dawgs @FSU, @TN and to LSU, maybe a 3 point 'dawg to GA. I would have to say NoviG8r's perspective looks pretty reasonable. Obviously they have to figure out their QB situation but are probably "OK" at the other spots...after all, it is FL.

Yeah, they finished on a 3 game losing streak last season. But lost to FSU, AL and MI. Their recruiting classes over the past 4 years were ranked #4, #8, #23 and #14 so if he finds a serviceable QB I believe the SEC C.O.T.Y. is "good enough" to work with that! [winking]

Peace

 

[*Bleedingblue*]

UF DLine very good. #90 and #93 are quick and strong on the inside.

They had 6 sacks against us and by your video clip it wasn't the OT giving it up. We on the other hand only had 2 sacks against a line starting 3 freshmen and very very thin.
Now why does an experienced line only get 2 sacks against such a green group?

 

[NoviG8r]

By and large, I agree with you. I do think, though, you are guilty of a little sunshine-pumping in some areas:

• QB: They're depending on two transfers with little experience who couldn't stick at lesser schools in lesser conferences. That should scare the hell out of FLA fans.
• OL: I'm not sure it's safe to assume that the OL will improve simply by being a year older. I think there's a 50/50 chance that they weren't good last year simply because they aren't all that talented. If that's the case, then prepare for another year of getting overwhelmed at the point of attack.
• RB: Again, your savior is a JC Transfer with no SEC experience. How many JC transfers walk into the SEC and start, much less dominate?

I'm sure I could be guilty of a little "sunshine-pumping", yet I think I was mostly objective. Allow me to address 2 points, both which are very reasonable.

QB -
Austin Appleby was the starter at Purdue last year. He graduated early, and like others, took advantage of the NCAA rule allowing him a 5th-year of eligibility if he transferred. He has game experience in a Power 5 Conference.

Luke Del Rio would likely have been the starter at QB going into last season, but was required to redshirt. He initially signed with Alabama, red-shirted his freshman year, then transferred to 0regon State, where he was again required to sit out a year. So, he has had to sit out 2 of his 5 in which he can play 4. After playing his first year at 0SU, his head coach took the Nebraska job, which is why he transferred to Florida. McElwain actually had a relationship with him during his recruitment to Alabama, and has had an entire year + spring to work with him.

It is true that the proof is in the pucding, so to speak, and only time will tell, but I feel that he can be a very serviceable QB and leader, even if he doesn't become a star. I'm not suggesting the QB position isn't a question mark, only that given the situation during the last half of the 2015 season, it is impossible ..... yes, impossible to be any wnrse.

0L -
You're correct that how much improvement will be the big question. Again, UF started 3 true freshmen last season, and none of the others had ever started a game at UF. That was 5 new starters in 2015, There was also little depth, exacerbating injury problems which saw starters out during the SECCG and Bowl game. UF had a total of 9 offensive linemen for the entire 2015 season, but will have at least 13 this season, not including true freshmen who likely will redshirt, Again, we shall see, but all 5 starters having a year under their collective belts and working together, along with sufficient depth to hopefully give them some rest, just might see some improvement to a level of being perhaps "acceptable".

Thanks for the reasoned criticism.