Jim McElwain press conference 8-25-16: Florida Gators notebook

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.
Bailiegh Carlton
A lifelong sports fan, Bailiegh Carlton knew from a young age that she wanted to work in sports in some capacity. Before transferring to the University of Florida to study journalism, she played softball at Gulf Coast State College. She then interned for Gator Country for three years as she worked toward her degree. After graduation, Bailiegh decided to explore other opportunities in the world of sports, but all roads led her right back here. In her time away, she and her husband welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world. When she isn't working, she can almost always be found snuggled up with sweet baby Ridley, Cody and her four fur babies.