OFFENSE DEFENSE

Florida hasn’t had three consecutive losing seasons since the 1950s. For that not to happen in 2023, the Gators’ offense must develop some young/unproven players quickly. The portal certainly has played a role in rebuilding this side of the ball. Quarterback Graham Mertz comes from Wisconsin and fans expect the upgrade in receiving talent around him (compared to Wisconsin) will translate into a big season. The receiving corps depth was depleted by the portal, but the group returning is certainly talented. Ricky Pearsall led the team with 33 catches for 661 yards, averaging 20 yards a pop. Caleb Douglas and Marcus Burke were used sparingly, but are SEC talents. Montrell Johnson Jr. and Trevor Etienne combined for 1,560 yards and 16 touchdowns. Cam Carroll from Tulane joins that pair. The offensive line could be the downfall if youngsters don’t develop rapidly.

Florida coaches knew that the defense had depth issues entering last season, and the unit wore down late in the season. This season, the line shouldn’t have depth issues. There’s tremendous size upfront beginning with Cam Jackson and Desmond Watson clogging the middle. Chris McClellan, Caleb Banks and Tyreak Sapp fill out the impressive rotation. Their play in the middle provides opportunities for Princely Umanmielen to roam free on the outside and Teradja Mitchell, a transfer from Ohio State, freedom in the middle. Corner Jason Marshall Jr. is really special in coverage. He will likely hear his name called early on the first day of the 2024 NFL Draft. The secondary has similar depth as the defensive line, both at corner and safety, with help on the way from freshmen. Expect Kamari Wilson to have a productive breakout season.

Special Teams

2023 Schedule

Special Teams

Newcomers

Knijeah Harris, OL — Harris was tabbed the No. 1 center in the nation by ESPN and had his choice of pretty much any school in the nation.

Jordan Castell, DB — Considered the No. 10 safety nationally, Castell enrolled early and worked his way into the rotation.

Kelby Collins, Edge — With few big-time playmakers off the edge behind Princely Umanmielen, Collins could play this fall.

Ja’Keem Jackson, DB — Talented enough to play immediately.

GEORGIA Athens, GA

HEAD COACH: Kirby Smart

OC: Mike Bobo

DC: Will Muschamp & Glenn Schumann

2022 RECORD: 15-0 (8-0)

FOUNDED: 1785

STADIUM: Sanford (92,746)