Florida Gators head coach Jim McElwain spoke with the media on Thursday and gave updates on suspensions, injuries, and talked more about how Dre Massey’s versatility will be used this season. Gator Country brings a notebook of what he said.
Practice
- Today is the Gators’ first practice preparing a game plan for UMass.
- Tuesday’s practice was crisp, Wednesday’s practice started out sloppy and finished well.
Injuries
- Kavaris Harkless, Andrew Mike, and Jordan Cronkrite are back at practice.
- CJ Worton is still being held out with a high ankle sprain.
Defense
- McElwain said Jordan Sherit has great discipline and game knowledge, which sets him apart from everyone else.
- Marcell Harris is getting better and giving the Gators flexibility.
- Alex Anzalone’s strength level is better than ever and there are no limitations on him.
- “He’s going to do a lot for us,” McElwain said on Duke Dawson.
- McElwain said Jefferson will be more effective at defensive tackle against some offenses than others and is a good pass rusher from the inside and outside.
- Bryan Cox and Caleb Brantley are the best pass rushers on the team according to McElwain.
Offense
- Freddie Swain has had some big catches in practices, he’s still working on consistency.
- Tyrie Cleveland and Rick Wells are still going through some things but will be back.
- Dre Massey will throw the ball and could punt some this year.
Suspensions
- “We talked about it as a family and our expectations,” McElwain said on Teez Tabor and C’yontai Lewis returning.
- “We’re still working through some things,” McElwain said on Antonio Callaway.
- There was no indication whether Callaway will be back for game one or not.