Please Read: Welcome to the new-look Inside the Gators
- Notebook: Depth chart released
- Former Florida Football Player Roundtable I
- Post-Fall Camp Ranking of Florida position-by-position
- Notebook: Philo named starting quarterback
- Updated Fall Football Roster
- Tulane player goes in-depth on Sumrall
Here are five Florida Gators who are in the spotlight, and on the spot, to perform this week against Florida Atlantic.
AARON PHILO
The quarterback battle was the story of the offseason. Philo transferred in from Georgia Tech following the hiring of offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner. It seemed to have been a very competitive battle. The portion of the fan base who favored Tramell Jones Jr. for the starting position is going to criticize Philo’s every move, and if he doesn’t have a good showing against FAU, the knives will come out. He needs to be on his game so the Gators can start the season off on the right foot.
DALLAS WILSON
After an outstanding showing against Texas last season, fans have not stopped talking about the potential of the young former five-star. Unfortunately, his freshman campaign was riddled with injuries, playing in just four games. This will be his first game back since suffering an injury vs Georgia last season. All eyes will be on the young receiver to see if he lives up to high expectations.
LJ MCCRAY
The former five-star prospect is looking to make a huge impact on the defensive line this season. In 2024, McCray had a solid freshman season, logging the second most quarterback hurries on the team. McCray suffered an injury in week two vs South Florida last season, only playing four snaps all year. Both Coach Sumrall and his teammates have spoken very highly of him during fall camp. McCray is locked and loaded for this season. Fans are excited to see him get the ball rolling on Saturday.
JAYDEN WOODS
Out of everyone on defense, Woods enters the season saddled with the most expectations. He had an outstanding true freshman campaign, co-leading the Gators in sacks. He was named to multiple preseason awards lists. Woods said himself in an earlier media availability that he has a sack goal of 12 1/2. Florida is expected to have an elite pass rush with Woods and McCray leading the charge. We will see how they start the season against the FAU offensive line.
BEN HANKS III
One of the biggest surprises of the offseason has been the rise of Ben Hanks III. He only appeared in three games last season, recording his first career interception against in the season finale against Florida State. Much like LJ McCray, Coach Sumrall and his teammates could not stop talking about him during fall camp. On the opening depth chart, he was listed as a starting cornerback alongside Cormani McClain/J’Vari Flowers, beating out senior corner Dijon Johnson. All eyes will be on #12 this weekend.
Prediction
Alvis: 38-10 Florida
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