Marcus Gilbert has made 14 consecutive starts at right tackle for the Florida Gators. He returns for his senior season as part of an offensive line that should be one of the best in the entire nation. Gator Country caught up with him for a few questions after Wednesday’s practice.
Question: Is it different for the offensive line, being the veterans guys this spring?
Answer: No, we felt like we were the veteran guys last year. We are gonna try and put the team on our back this season.
Q: Without Tebow, what’s the identity of the team this season?
A: It hurt us, but Brantley is well-coached. He is gonna be just fine.
Q: Is Brantley taking more of a leadership role this spring? Has he done any bonding with the offensive line, taking you guys out or anything?
A: We hang out outside (practice), but we haven’t all hung out as a group. I think that’s gonna come.
Q: How are practices coming along? Are you improving as a team?
A: Today was one of our best practices. We had a lot of guys coming back from injury, and a lot of guys are busting their butts. Through the second week, the guys are picking up the game, especially the younger guys.
Q: Does Brantley have to earn your respect, or did he already have it?
A: He already had it. We’re a family. We respect him. We have faith in him to get the job done.
Q: Does he have to be fiery leader like Tebow, or can he do it his own way?
A: He’s gonna have to bring the energy like Tebow. He hasn’t gotten to that point yet, but he’s becoming more of a vocal leader.
Q: It’s the first hot day out here. Is it harder to come out in the heat?
A: It reminds me of two-a-days, but we have to do it. We have to do it, so we might as well get used to it. … The coaches throw us in the fire out here. I guess that’s how they challenge us. They throw a lot of plays at us, keep us out here a little bit longer.
Q: What’s the next step in your development?
A: Just taking my game to the next level. I have to be a better overall player, working in all the areas of my game—pass game, run game, being a better leader. I wanna be the best tackle in the SEC.
Q: What’s the difference in pass blocking with Brantley versus Tebow?
A: With Tebow, you know, he was a veteran quarterback. He stood back there, knowing what he needs to do to get the job done. For Brantley, this is my first time really getting back there and blocking for him. It’s not any new challenge.
Q: What’s the difference in their presence in the huddle?
A: Obviously, he doesn’t bring the same energy as Tim, but he’s getting there. He’s the same kinda guy, but you know, he’s bringing it along because he’s new. He has a big challenge.
Q: With so many seniors along the offensive line, what do you use spring for?
A: Once we get all the pieces together—we have a couple of more holes to fill—we have to carry the team. We have to be the leaders and put the team on our backs.
Q: How much does playing together mean?
A: It means a lot. I’m fortunate to be playing with guys like Mike Pouncey every day. We push each other. We have the kind of relationship where we can all hold onto each other.