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Gators’ QBs Philo, Jones ‘questionable’ for Georgia game, WR Brown ‘probable’
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- Gators’ QBs Philo, Jones ‘questionable’ for Georgia game, WR Brown ‘probable’
(Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel/TNS)
GAINESVILLE — Florida's quarterback decision between Aaron Philo and Tramell Jones Jr. could hinge on their health after both were listed as questionable on the SEC's initial availability report Wednesday night.
Coach Jon Sumrall said on Wednesday's SEC teleconference whoever handles the first snap No. 17 Florida faces the No. 3 Georgia Saturday in Atlanta will hinge on "health and availability," adding, "Are both guys capable of being close to their best health-wise?"
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Jones stepped in and led the Gators to a 27-24 upset Oct. 17 at Texas after Philo injured his shoulder during a 38-19 loss to South Carolina a week earlier in the Swamp.
Jones rallied Florida from a 17-3 deficit at Texas while making pivotal plays with his arm and legs. But after making his first collegiate start, the 6-foot, 196-pound sophomore had experienced "a couple of bumps and bruises," Sumrall said on Monday.
Philo practiced Monday, but Sumrall said he was not prepared to name a starter until the week unfolded. Ideally, he aimed for a decision by Thursday in order to give more first-team snaps to the starter.
"As we get to Thursday, Friday, it's not going to be 50-50 reps," Sumrall said.
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Whoever gets the starting nod will likely have one of the Gators' key offensive weapons available.
After missing the past three games with a knee injury, star receiver Vernell Brown III is listed as probable. The 5-foot-11, 178-pound sophomore can turn a screen passes into scores, creates separation in coverage and has scored twice this season as a punt returner.
Sophomore tailback Duke Clark also is listed as questionable after he didn't play at Texas. He rushed for 126 yards and a touchdown during a 52-28 win against Ole Miss on Sept. 26 in the Swamp, but sustained a left ankle injury Oct. 10 against South Carolina.
The Gators are likely to be without senior receiver Bailey Stockton. He is listed as doubtful after he injured his left ankle at Texas but returned to the game.
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Senior linebacker Jaden Robinson also is listed as doubtful, providing more opportunity for sophomore Ty Jackson . Despite playing just 14 snaps, Jackson registered a sack, while forcing a fumble, and forced a turnover on downs with a tackle for loss during a pivotal series at Texas.
Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com
