One of the pleasant surprises four practices into spring football is early entree freshman wide receiver Solomon Patton, who has shown speed, elusiveness and playmaking ability in the passing game. Gator Country caught up with Patton after Monday’s practice for a few questions.
Q: “How have practices been going for you?”
A: “It’s been going good. I’m trying to get down the plays so I’m in the books every day, trying to get in the plays with the older guys. We’re all working with a fresh new group. We’re all trying to show Gator Nation what we’re going to do this year.”
Q: “Is that slot receiver spot wide open?”
A: “Yeah, it is. We’ve got me, Chris Rainey and Robert Clark. They moved Frankie Hammond to slot too for the spring. It’s wide open right now. We’re all fighting our butts off every day. Somebody has to come out on top. I’m hoping to be one of the guys.”
Q: “How big is this spring with the slot receiver spot wide open?”
A: “It’s real big. Graduating early and being able to come in early and learn from people like DT (Deonte Thompson) and Frankie Hammond, to be a better athlete. I think it’s real good that I’m able to fight for that position right now. (I’ll get) at least some playing time next year. It’s sounding real good if I can just keep working hard and stay healthy.”
Q: “What was the 40-time you ran when you got here?”
A: “I clocked at 4.39.”
Q: “Do you feel like you’re picking everything up well?”
A: “I’m getting it day-by-day. It’s going a little slow, but every chance I get, I’m looking at my playbook and trying to pick things up. At the end of spring, I feel like it’s all going to work out.”
Q: “How close have you and Robert Clark got in your time on campus since you’re both at the same position?”
A: “We’ve gotten real close since we’ve been here in January. We’re looking at the playbooks together. He’ll teach me stuff and I teach him stuff.”
Q: “Who is faster?”
A: “I’m faster. He’ll agree.”