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Ricky Pearsall shines in debut with Gators

Untitled_design__8_-removebg-previewby: Pat O'Donnell09/05/22patodonnell22_
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Photo courtesy of UAA Communications

Ricky Pearsall was one of the many bright spots in the Florida Gators’ 29-26 victory over No. 7 Utah.

His impact on the game had been in question for nearly a month after he suffered a foot injury early on in Florida’s fall camp.

He ended up getting the start in Saturday’s game in the slot and made the most of his opportunity.

“Having Ricky miss a few practices, I feel like it was a great opportunity for other guys to step in and show coach Nap what they could do,” UF quarterback Anthony Richardson told Gators Online and others on Wednesday. “It kind of hurt not having him during the practices because it kind of through off our chemistry just a little bit but the other day in practice, we stayed after practice to work on some things, work on things that we missed over the few weeks. 

“Having him, he talks to the receivers, talks to me about what to expect from their corners. He’s an older guy, too, so just having him just communicate with us and show us what he knows, it helped us.”

However, Pearsall’s injury didn’t seem to be an issue on Saturday night against the Utes. 

His debut in the coveted No. 1

The Arizona State wide receiver transfer put on quite a show on Saturday night with four receptions for 67 yards. He led the Gators in receiving and each of his receptions went for first downs.

The foot injury seemed to be no problem for Pearsall and the Gators passing attack.

“[Pearsall] definitely makes it easier for me,” Richardson said following Florida’s win. “He knows how to get open and knows how to run good routes. I’m glad he can catch the ball. The way he does things is going to help get other guys. I’m glad Ricky was able to do what he did today. I’m looking forward to more games with him.”

Stay tuned to Gators Online.

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