Florida’s offensive line is beginning to take shape with the season opener less than two weeks away.

Bryce Lovett has emerged as the projected starter at left tackle after making the transition during fall camp. 

Lovett was one of two players highlighted by Florida coach Jon Sumrall for his performance during Saturday night’s scrimmage. Sumrall told the media Monday that Lovett responded to the coaching staff’s challenge last week and played at a high level during the scrimmage’s opening drive on Saturday night.

“Bryce Lovett was the second best player on the field the whole drive,” Sumrall said. “I’m like, ‘He’s bringing it.’”

Lovett’s emergence at left tackle has been one of the more notable developments along the offensive line, Sumrall said. The junior has experience at guard but has transitioned to left tackle during fall camp, putting himself in position to start at a new spot.

The projected starting offensive line currently consists of Lovett at left tackle, Knijeah Harris at left guard, Harrison Moore at center, TJ Shanahan at right guard and Emeka Ugorji at right tackle. 

The development of the offensive line comes as Florida also settles on its starting quarterback, with Sumrall naming Aaron Philo the starter for the Gators’ opener against FAU on Sept. 5. Sumrall said Philo’s ability to operate the full offensive package at a higher efficiency ultimately separated him from Tramell Jones Jr.

Sumrall emphasized the cohesion of the first five as the unit continues to work together and develop its combination-blocking ability. Lovett’s move to tackle also gives Florida another option along the line while allowing the coaching staff to keep its projected starting group together.

For Lovett, the transition seems more about learning a new position. Sumrall said the junior is beginning to play with the edge and confidence needed to succeed. 

“Bryce Lovett can be as good as he wants to be and good as he chooses to be,” Sumrall said.