For once, it’s not Florida with the quarterback controversy heading into Week 1 of the regular season. Instead, it’s the Gators’ season-opening opponent, Utah, that’s dealing with issues under center with less than a week until kickoff.
Utes quarterback Cameron Rising tore his ACL at the Rose Bowl in January and is still working his way back. Rising hasn’t fully participated in practice, but he’s working to be ready for the season. Further complicating things for Utah, backup quarterback Brandon Rose was injured during a scrimmage recently.
It’s very possible Utah is down its top two signal callers come Thursday evening.
“We’re preparing for all of the above,” Napier said when asked about Utah’s quarterback situation. “I do think they have very capable players. We got to see Cam live and in person. Certainly, we know Cam, his family, and have a ton of respect for him as a person, but (also as) a competitor, leader, football player; he’s a real quarterback. So, we’re doing all the homework we can.”
Behind Rising and Rose is Bryson Barnes, a former walk-on who has played in 13 games over the past three seasons, starting one of them. Florida’s defense would be at a huge advantage if Barnes drew the start, but Rising is going to do all he can to play.
“There’s really some unique players at quarterback that they have on the roster that cause you to really evaluate all the scenarios that could happen,” Napier continued. “I know our defensive staff has been working on that.”
Rising’s health will be the main focus over the next week. If he gets the start, there’s no guarantee he’ll finish the game.
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