Billy Napier clarifies who UF's backup QB is after Jack Miller returns

On3 imageby:Zach Abolverdi•10/13/22•

ZachAbolverdi

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida’s depth chart shakeup at running back isn’t the only notable change in the UF backfield this week. Quarterback Jack Miller III is no longer listed on the injury report after being sidelined for the first six games.

Despite his recovery from a thumb injury and the Gators’ initial depth chart for Week 7, Miller isn’t ready for game action just yet. At first, he was listed Wednesday as the No. 2 QB behind starter Anthony Richardson.

Florida coach Billy Napier, who asked about Miller being the backup again, clarified that’s not the case.

“I don’t know that he’s back at No. 2 but he’s available,” he said. “I don’t know who’s putting that together.”

Every Wednesday after practice UF releases an updated depth chart, which is approved by Napier before it gets sent out. This week, however, Miller was mistakenly listed as the backup.

The Gators emailed a corrected depth chart after Napier’s press conference that has the Ohio State transfer as the third-string quarterback.

“Jack is cleared to participate,” Napier said. “In an emergency, he could go out there and play but he hasn’t been able to take reps. He’s very much still there in ramping him up so he’s used to the volume. He took another step there. It’s good. It’s really good.” 

Jalen Kitna still the backup for now

Redshirt freshman quarterback Jalen Kitna is still the No. 2 quarterback for the time being, but Miller’s return is positive development regarding depth at the position.

His injury in preseason camp and the subsequent time missed left Florida without a proven backup, which has likely contributed to Richardson’s lack of usage in the run game. With Miller coming along, perhaps UF won’t have to restrict Richardson as much moving forward.

Fortunately for Napier, Kitna made him feel better about the QB situation with his performance against Eastern Washington. In his collegiate debut, Kitna uncorked a 62-yard touchdown pass to Caleb Douglas and finished with 152 yards on 8 of 12 passing.

“He did a great job,” Napier said of Kitna. “I would say in the last couple of weeks, I’ve become more comfortable with him as a player. I’m seeing him grow upon a practice setting, because you get a million reps as a 2 the way we do it. He’s a smart kid and he takes a lot of pride in his role.”

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