Florida Gators head coach Jim McElwain addressed the media at his weekly press conference on Monday. He discussed injuries, suspensions and preparations for the Kentucky game this week.
Here’s what he had to say:
- Duke Dawson is highly questionable this week after a head injury against Tennessee. He will not practice on Monday.
- Kylan Johnson is at about 75 percent health. He is still doubtful.
- James Robinson will see a specialist this week for his heart condition.
- CJ Henderson will have to step up even more if Dawson cannot go this week.
- Brad Stewart will also get more playing time without Dawson.
- There are still no updates on suspended players. “I promise you guys, when we do, I’ll let you know.”
- McElwain took responsibility for the poor time management at the end of the Tennessee game.
- He said he did not take over play calling in the fourth quarter.
- McElwain on Feleipe Franks: “The biggest thing is, he’s got confidence in himself. He’s got confidence in the guys around him.”
- Tyrie Cleveland has worked on his body and learned how to practice, which has given him more confidence in games.
- “We’ve gotta win on third downs. It’s not gonna be easy, especially in that environment.”
- McElwain on fumbling issues in the first two games: “The biggest thing is to know that the play is never over.”
- Kadarius Toney’s role will continue to expand, but McElwain said he doesn’t want to overload him to early since wide receiver is still a new position for him.
- McElwain said pass protection has to improve at the running back position.
- “Late in the game, we didn’t tackle worth a hill of beans.”
- On Chauncey Gardner’s missed tackles: “You saw what I saw.”
- Jachai Polite was named one of the defensive players of the game.