The Florida Gators are heading to Dallas on Monday to continue preparation for the Cotton Bowl but they will travel without their top three receivers.
Receivers Kadarius Toney and Trevon Grimes as well AP All-American Kyle Pitts have decided to not play in the game, as they will start their NFL draft preparations.
That means the Gators will rely on several others to help man this offense that has been very pass-heavy this season.
The bowl game is always a good time to look into the future and see what you have returning and GatorCountry looks at five guys we want to see play a lot on Wednesday.
In Part Two of this series, we will look at five guys on defense that we want to see play more in the Cotton Bowl.
Offense
Receiver Xzavier Henderson– Henderson has played in 10 games but has only seen limited time but he has caught 8 passes for 136 yards and a touchdown so far. Henderson is the big receiver at 6-4 that could step up to take Grimes’ role next season. Henderson has shown his ability to get behind defenses this year with his speed.
Receiver Jaquavion Fraziars– Fraziars has played in five games this year but hasn’t recorded any stats as he’s mostly been in the game in late run situations. Fraziars is another tall receiver with good speed and he’s a guy that could play outside or inside in this Gators offense. Look for Fraziars and Jacob Copeland to both get some playing time inside at the slot going forward.
Offensive lineman Joshua Braun– Braun played in 10 games this year at right guard this year and was arguably the most physical lineman that played this year. Braun is a guy that’s really good in pull blocks but holds his own in the passing game as well. Braun is the likely start at guard next year and had he had a regular offseason last year, he would’ve played more this year.
OL Michael Tarquin– Tarquin has played in all 11 games this year at right tackle and when he’s been in the game he has held his own. Not having an offseason last year really hurt Tarquin’s chances of starting this year but since he’s back healthy he has shown he’s the guy that many thought he would be coming out of high school.
TE Keon Zipperer– Zipperer played in all 11 games this year and had 7 catches for 107 yards and two touchdowns. Zipperer isn’t the same type of player as Kyle Pitts is but Zipperer can still create mismatches with his size and athleticism at the position. Zipperer is still improving his in-line play but he’s still well above average blocking.