Gator Football: McElwain on Win Over Vandy, LSU and Injuries

While it certainly wasn’t pretty, head coach Jim McElwain and the rest of the Florida Gator Football team did notch another one in the win column after Saturday’s 13-6 victory over Vanderbilt.

While only racking up 236 total yards of total offense in the win—29 fewer yards than the Commodores—McElwain said it felt great to pick up the win on the road.

Noon Kickoff

Being able to pick up a road victory in the SEC is always a difficult thing to do—especially with an early noon start time. That was a concern for some heading into the game. McElwain was pleased with the way his team prepared for the noon kickoff. He says the preparation for this Saturday’s noon kickoff in the Swamp will be similar.

Home Field Advantage

McElwain also made it quite clear that he is glad to be back in the friendly confines of Steve Spurrier-Florida Field for Saturday’s matchup against the Tigers. He admitted he will be looking forward to seeing what the atmosphere will be like at in the Swamp. McElwain calls the Swamp the best place in college football to play a home game in. Although the game being at noon may affect the crowd, the traditionally intense LSU-Florida rivalry should still provide McElwain and the Gators with a crowd that ensures they will enjoy the all-important home-field advantage.

There's no place like home! #TheSwamp https://t.co/C0qBs5ASMt

— Gators Football (@UF365Gameday) September 28, 2016

One thing to look for in the game against the Tigers will be the role that sophomore defensive lineman Cece Jefferson plays. Jefferson totaled four tackles in the game against Vandy, and McElwain heavily praised his overall performance.

Injuries

The big injury news is that QB Luke Del Rio could be ready to return in time to start Saturday. Del Rio has missed the last two games due to a sprained right knee. The plan is for Del Rio to become more involved in practice throughout the week. He will be re-evaluated before a decision is made. According to McElwain, Del Rio’s mindset is that he will play. Austin Appleby is currently 1-1 in his place.

Redshirt junior defensive lineman Caleb Brantley, suffering from a hurt finger and a separate illness, is questionable. WRs Chris Thompson (strain) and Brandon Powell (ankle) as well as OL David Sharpe (shoulder) also picked up injuries.